Explore, Learn, and Grow

children working together

The Children’s Library is a place of adventure, learning, growing, and exploring for curious little minds. A staple in early literacy in Grand Forks, we take pride in the recurring programming we offer.

Collection

The Children’s Department maintains a collection of print, audio/visual, and electronic resources for parents, guardians, teachers, homeschoolers, and children through grade six.

Storytime

There is nothing like storytime anywhere else in Grand Forks! Storytime includes picture books, puppet shows, music, and activities geared for different age groups. Each storytime lasts about 25 minutes. 

We have three Storytimes per week, including:

  • Preschool Storytime: Tuesdays @ 10-10:30 a.m.
  • Baby Storytime: Wednesdays @ 10-10:30 a.m.
  • Toddler Storytime: Thursdays @ 10-10:30 a.m. 

Recommended age for Baby Storytime is 0-18 months; Toddler Storytime is 18 months - 3 years; and Preschool Storytime is ages 4+. 

Chess Club

Does your child want to learn how to play chess? Play and learn with other kids to improve their game and build friendships in the process.

Garden Club

The Garden Club is open to all ages. The club is meant to spark interest in gardening, nutrition, and the environment. The club is a wonderful hands-on learning opportunity, plus we get to dig in the dirt!

READ Dogs

The Reading Educational Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) program at the Grand Forks Public Library started in May of 2008. The program provides opportunities for young readers to experience the support and encouragement of a R.E.A.D. dog. The R.E.A.D. program targets children up to grade five who are struggling or reluctant readers. Reading to a dog allows for a relaxed, non-threatening environment and is shown to boost confidence and self-esteem.

STEM @ My Library

STEM @ My Library events are done in partnership with the Dakota Science Center. They run for about an hour and are focused on a central theme. Educators, university students, faculty, and volunteers share STEM education with children. Hands-on activities and a topic-related handout and book/DVD list are provided. The activities are parent-directed so that parents can do the activities with their children. Volunteers are available to help inspire children to take interest in STEM fields.

NASA @ My Library

The NASA @ My Library initiative engages public audiences nationwide in informal and lifelong learning with the excitement of NASA exploration and discovery. The Grand Forks Public Children’s Library has partnered with the Dakota Science Center to bring these activities to our community. The events usually run about an hour and are aligned with the Grand Forks Public School Early Out Wednesdays.

Summer & Winter Reading Programs

We offer both summer and winter reading programs. Designed to encourage a love of reading for all ages, these programs are generously sponsored by local businesses and organizations.