Children's Library
Hours & Information
Closed until 10:00am today
MondayÂ
10:00AM - 6:00PM
TuesdayÂ
10:00AM - 6:00PM
WednesdayÂ
10:00AM - 6:00PM
ThursdayÂ
10:00AM - 6:00PM
FridayÂ
10:00AM - 6:00PM
SaturdayÂ
10:00AM - 6:00PM
SundayÂ
Closed
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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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 of about 63 spaces not including the EV charging stations or designated Car Pool Parking shared by the Junior Museum & Zoo and the Children's Theater between Hopkins Street and Middlefield Road. Bike racks are available in front of the library and also in the shared parking lot.
Map
New & Available at Children's Library
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.
Introducing the Palo Alto City Library App
Download our free app to explore everything the library offers from your device!
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!
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.
Introducing the Palo Alto City Library App
Download our free app to explore everything the library offers from your device!
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!