Books open pint-sized minds to wonder and imagination, while reading gives kids (and adults) a window to the world. The feeling of going places and doing things they dream of — all while never leaving the room (and it doesn’t hurt that we get a little peace and quiet ourselves). Put down the laptops, iPads and smart phones and teach your little beansprouts the pleasure of reading a good book at these awesome reading rooms around town.
Photo Credit: M. Walsh
San Diego Central Library
Future engineers will love the awesome architecture, glass elevators, and exciting escalators of this beautiful building (nine stories in all). Truly an adventure and bookishly fun. Head for the colorful Dr. Seuss-themed kids library on the first floor. Your little ones will make a beeline for the colorful elephant stools. Story time and play area (56,000 books). Moms will love the nursing room, stroller parking and family bathrooms within easy reach. There’s also free, well-lit underground parking. Get your two-hour validation at the front desk.
330 Park Blvd.
San Diego, Ca 92101
619-236-5800
Online: sandiego/library.org
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Photo Credit: M. Walsh
Mission Valley Library
This space is new and nice looking with plenty of parking). Kid-sized readers will love the Mission Valley Library. The facility sports a colorful kid’s reading room with little nooks to snuggle into a good book. Make a day of it with a short walk to Ikea. Grab some food and burn some kid-sized energy at the playland inside.
2123 Fenton Parkway
San Diego, Ca 92108
858-573-5007
Online: sandiego/library.org
Hours: Mon., Thurs.-Sat., 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Tues. & Wed., 11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun., 12:30 – 5 p.m
Photo Credit: M. Walsh
Encinitas Branch Library
A relaxed vibe (and beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean) will inspire your little bookworm to sit and read. Well-labeled book carts help early readers find books. An ocean-inspired reading room lends its comfy seats for quiet reading. Several toys to play with for the toddler set. Grab a cup of great coffee from the local coffee spots on your way in. There’s also clean bathrooms, plenty of parking and a great park across the street.
540 Cornish Dr.
Encinitas, Ca 92024
760-753-7376
Online: sdcl.org/encinitas
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 9:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun., 12-5 p.m.
Photo Credit: M. Walsh
Ships Ahoy! Point Loma/Hervey Branch Library
Your little sea captains will love the nautical theme that includes a ship’s hull with working periscope. Kids can play inside or just quietly read. Your little sailor can grab a few books and snuggle up in the compass nook. The library features a bright reading room and great book selection. It’s a small, but cozy little ship-shaped treat!
3701 Voltaire St.
San Diego, Ca 92107
619-531-1539
Online: sandiego/library.org
Hours: Mon. & Thurs.-Sat., 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Tues. & Wed., 11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun., 12:30-5 p.m.
Photo Credit: Point Loma/Harvey Library Facebook page
Otay Ranch Branch of the Chula Vista Public Library
Located in the upscale Otay Mesa Mall, this little library gets plenty of tiny foot traffic. The location has made it much more accessible to families who live close by. Vibrant and cool with a decent selection of books and nice multi-use room that has story time six days a week. Stop by and check out this expanding little jewel then let your little ones play in the pop fountain or stop by the Farmers Market for a fresh bite to eat.
2015 Birch Rd.
Chula Vista, Ca 91915
619-397-5840
Online: sandiego/library.org
Hours: Mon. – Thurs. 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Fri. & Sat., 12 – 6 p.m.
Do you have a favorite spot to read with the kiddos? What libraries are we missing?
— Monique Walsh
