Children's Library
Hours & Information
Please note this location is temporarily closed for upgrades. Read more about our planned improvements for 2025!
Closed
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1276 Harriet Street
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Built in 1940, the Children's Library was the first freestanding library in the United States intended solely for children. The Children's Library serves children from birth through 5th grade in a fun and inviting garden setting.…
Holidays and Closures
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Temporary Closure for UpgradesSunday, February 16, 2025 - Saturday, May 31, 2025Closed All Day
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Memorial DayMonday, May 26, 2025Closed All Day
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Independence DayFriday, July 4, 2025Closed All Day
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Labor DayMonday, September 1, 2025Closed All Day
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Indigenous Peoples' DayMonday, October 13, 2025Closed All Day
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Veteran’s DayTuesday, November 11, 2025Closed All Day
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Day Before ThanksgivingWednesday, November 26, 2025Closes early: 5:00pm
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ThanksgivingThursday, November 27, 2025 - Friday, November 28, 2025Closed All Day
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Winter Holiday - Children's, College Terrace, and Downtown LibrariesWednesday, December 24, 2025 - Thursday, January 1, 2026Closed All Day
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Christmas DayThursday, December 25, 2025Closed All Day
Featured Services
Secret Garden & Wishing Well
Discover a magical space behind the children's library where you can relax, read, and enjoy time with family. Don't forget to make a wish while you're there!
The Library Fairy
The Library Fairy is currently on extended holiday in the Fairy Realm. She will return soon.
Unique History
Come in to study in front of the historic fireplace and learn more about Lucy Stern and the library's unique history.
About Children's Library
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- Bike Racks
- Computers & Wi-fi
- Parking Lot
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On-street parking in front of the library on Harriet Street or in the parking lot shared by the Junior Museum & Zoo and the Children's Theater between Hopkins Street and Middlefield Road.
Map
New & Available at Rinconada
New & Available at Rinconada
News & Blogs
Featured Spaces
Share Your Story Through Nature Journaling!
Get curious about the world around you and put it down on paper! Learn more about how to get started with nature journaling.
Children's Library: Temporary Closure for Upgrades
The Children’s Library is temporarily closed for upgrades.
Reopening Mondays at Rinconada Library
We're excited to announce that starting February 12, Rinconada Library will be open on Mondays again!
Reopening Mondays at Mitchell Park Library
Starting Monday, November 27, Mitchell Park Library will be opening on Mondays!
Share Your Story Through Nature Journaling!
Get curious about the world around you and put it down on paper! Learn more about how to get started with nature journaling.
Children's Library: Temporary Closure for Upgrades
The Children’s Library is temporarily closed for upgrades.
Reopening Mondays at Rinconada Library
We're excited to announce that starting February 12, Rinconada Library will be open on Mondays again!
Reopening Mondays at Mitchell Park Library
Starting Monday, November 27, Mitchell Park Library will be opening on Mondays!