Delray Beach Public Library

Telephone:
561-266-0194

Mon - Wed: 9AM - 8PM
Thu - Sat: 9AM - 5PM
Sun: 1PM - 5PM (SEPT-MAY)

Get your virtual library card here to access our great digital resources.


The library will be closed on Monday, October 14, 2024 for the Federal Holiday.


Children’s Services

Children’s Classes & Programs

Register for our upcoming children’s programs

Children’s Resources

Children’s Services

Children’s services include children from birth to Age 13 and their parents and caregivers. The library offers free classes, early literacy storytimes, activities and special programs throughout the year to instill a joy of reading and learning. Our starting point is each child’s curiosity, creativity and infinite potential.

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Early Literacy

Early Literacy (ages 0-4): includes children’s experiences with language, song, books, scribbling and playing before they learn to read and write. A library card insures a good supply of books in the home leading to a good start in school. When children attend a library storytime they are immersed in an active reading and socializing experience, while caregivers pick up tips they can use at home.

Independent Literacy (ages 5-13):  Library online resources, print materials, knowledgeable staff and free tutors help your child succeed academically and gain confidence. Special after school programs and STEM classes are centered on a child’s interests. Our resources provide an informal and relaxed way to learn, collaborate and socialize.

TALK | SING | READ | WRITE | PLAY

TALK

When you talk to your children they learn language by listening. Talk to your child throughout the day, pointing out objects, shapes and things of interest. Respond to your child’s words and “babbles” with sentences that add to what they “say.” Discuss their day as you tuck them in to bed.

SING

When you sing to your child it slows down the language and allows them to hear the small sounds that make up the larger words. Enjoy A, B, C songs, silly songs, rhyming songs and clap to the beat! This helps children recognize syllables and the rhythm of the language.

READ

When you let your baby handle board books or help you open a book this is building book knowledge. When you point to things on the pages it brings awareness to words and pictures. Look for new words to increase vocabulary. Talk about the pictures. Reading is bonding. Don’t worry if you don’t finish a book!

WRITE

When children scribble and draw it is the precursor to writing. Words are symbols that represent language. As your children draw shapes they are learning letters, as they draw pictures they are telling a story. This helps them develop eye-hand coordination. Reading and writing go hand in hand.

PLAY

When children play with dolls, toys and props they make up stories. This helps them think symbolically and they learn that spoken and written words stand for real objects. Play teaches them that stories have a beginning, middle and end. As they express themselves through play they remember their own experiences, or imagine new.

Direct Lines to Services
ADMINISTRATION
561-266-9488

Adult Services
561-266-9490

Business Services
561-334-6428

Childrens Services
561-266-0197

Circulation
561-266-0194

Development
561-266-0798

Material Renewal Line
561-266-0195

Meeting Room Rentals
561-266-0799

Information Services
561-266-0196

Study Room Reservations
561-266-0196

Teen Services
561-819-6405

Volunteer Services
561-266-9490