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
2026 Youth Summer Reading Shin-Dig Registration Opens!
Thursday, May 14 - Sunday, June 14
Embark on a journey to the past...with a few twists! Sign up to receive your “field journal” and a sticker: then earn small prizes all summer whenever you log 140 minutes of reading. Read beyond that, attend programs, and visit the library for the chance to win some of our grand prizes!
Age groups: 0 - 6; 7 - 12; 13- 18
Register here!
STEM Stations: Solar Science
Monday, May 18 from 2 - 4:30 PM
Explore interactive and hands-on STEM stations for ages 4 - 10 all about sun-based science! This free program is in collaboration with the Greene County libraries and Greene County Extension.
Homeschool Summertime Celebration
Thursday, May 28 from 2 - 4 PM
Enjoy snacks, music, crafts, and community as we get ready to welcome the start of summer! Please rsvp by calling the library at 515-386-2835 or emailing the Youth Department at jplstaff2@gmail.com.
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.
