Children’s Services

  • Bilingual Story Time (Hora del Cuento Bilingüe) The third Monday of every month (Tercer lunes del mes). 10 A.M. Youth (Ages 0+), Jovenes (singles 0+). Free (Gratis). Mattoon Public Library Second Floor (Segundo piso).
    All are welcome to bilingual story-time! ¡Todos sois bienvenidos a la hora del cuento bilingüe!

About The Children's Space

The Children’s Department, located on the second floor of the library, offers materials in many formats for children of all ages. This space is always buzzing with activities and lively engagement. The department features a child-friendly space and organization of titles suitable for any age group. It includes interactive play sets and structures such as 'Grocery Cashier', 'Food Truck', and train tables. Educational resources are available, including 'Homework Help' during the school year. The department also boasts fun collections like Legos, Marble Run, Puppet Theatre, board games, and more. Additionally, there is a programming/meeting space for community groups and organizations.

Programs and Offerings

The Children’s Department offers regularly scheduled programs and other special events or activities throughout the year, including:

    • Story-time and Bilingual Story-time ('Hora del Cuento')
    • Kids Chess Club (grades 2-12)
    • Family Library Night
    • 'Homework Help' Family Literacy Program Activities
    • Regularly scheduled field trips and visits (to plan your group visit, contact abby@mattoonlibrary.org)
    • Reading Challenges, such as '1000 Books Before Kindergarten' and 'Summer Reading'
    • Parenting Class (Birth-3) Program
    • Interactive play sets and toys

Online Resources

Check out our Children's Homework Help list for help finding useful and fun websites for your child to learn with.

Parents, please stay with your children while they are visiting the Children’s Department. For more information, please consult the Unattended Children Policy.

New Children’s Titles