Our Youth Department aims to instill a love of reading, education, and curiosity in every patron ages 0 - 18. Whether it's promoting early literacy through Toddler Storytime or encouraging creativity through our weekly craft programs, the Youth Department provides a safe and welcoming space for children and their caregivers. Browse our new in-library and digital titles, get homework help, and stay up to date on programs and events for kids from birth to 6th grade.
Looking for information about our programs for grades 7 and up? Check out our Teen page.
Upcoming Events for Kids & Families
National Library Week (Month): Find Your Joy
April 1 - 30
We’re so happy you’re here! The 2026 National Library Week theme invites “people of all backgrounds to explore and discover what sparks joy in them at the library”.
Our library will be celebrating all month long, with an interactive mural for patrons to share their library joy, reading contests, special book displays, treats, and more!
Peep Diorama Contest
April 1 - 22
Show off your imagination and create a scene from your favorite book, videogame, or movie using Peeps! Visit the Youth Department to sign up and pick up your starter kit.
Age Group: Ages 5 - 18
By Its Color Reading Contest
April 1 - 22
You know the saying...now do it anyway! Visit the Children's and Teen Departments to see the week's featured colors, check out and read a book whose cover is that color, then return your book and fill out a drawing slip with your name and the book title to enter our prize drawing. Two entries per patron per week.
Craft Night: Joy Rocks
Thursday, April 16 from 4 - 7 PM
In the spirit of National Library Month, we're making joy rocks! All materials will be provided. This is a free come-and-go craft available in the Adult Department for all ages.
Toddler Fest
Saturday, April 25 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Join us for a day of early literacy, play, snacks, prizes, and more. This program is sponsored by the Greene County Librarians Association and the Greene County Board of Supervisors.
Age Group: Ages 2 - 5
Where: Greene County Community Center (204 W Harrison St, Jefferson, IA 50129)
Explore Your Library
Puzzles, games, audiobooks, videogames, and more: you never know what you're going to find when you're in the Youth Department! Check out some of our in-library resources.
AfterMouse Play Touch Table
Our touch table features 13 educational and recreational games for families with children ages 5 and up. Play with up to three friends or play solo.
AWE Learning Stations
These two touch-screen, interactive computers are pre-loaded with fun, entertaining and safe games to introduce early learning and literacy skills to kids.
Innovation Station
In this area, patrons in grades 5 and up can let their creativity loose with our 3-D pen, drawing tablet, button maker, paints, hot glue guns, LEGOS, Cri-Cut, and more.
Nintendo Switch & WiiU Gaming Systems
Children ages 7 and up can play our gaming systems, featuring everything from classic titles like Wii Sports to new games like Super Mario Party.
Homeschool Resource Center
Are you a homeschool educator or engaged in other non-traditional learning? Learn more about our in-library and digital resources for your family, including literacy kits, support titles, non-fiction titles for kids and teens, and more.
