Libraries are more than just books! The best kid-friendly libraries near Cincinnati and Dayton offer interactive children’s areas, storytimes, educational programs, and family-friendly events — all free or low-cost. Below are the top picks with addresses and hours so you can plan your next visit.
Cincinnati Area Libraries with Great Children’s Sections
Anderson Branch Library
Address: 7450 State Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45230
Hours: Typically open 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Mon–Sat); closed Sundays.
A welcoming neighborhood branch with a cozy children’s section and regular storytimes and activities.
Madeira Branch Library
Address: 7200 Miami Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45243
Hours: Open roughly 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Mon–Thu), 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Fri–Sat); closed Sundays.
Loved by families for its playful children’s area, themed reading events, and community programming.
Price Hill Branch Library
Address: 970 Purcell Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45205
Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Mon–Sat); closed Sundays.
This branch has a strong children’s book collection and frequent storytimes and family activities.
Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library (Downtown Main)
Address: 800 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Mon–Wed), 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Thu–Sat), 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Sun)
The system’s main hub often hosts special kids’ programs, family events, and seasonal activities alongside its large children’s collection.
Other Cincinnati Branches Worth a Visit
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Hyde Park Branch Library – 2747 Erie Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208, great smaller children’s area.
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Northside Branch Library – 4219 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223, friendly local space.
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Delhi Township Branch Library – 5095 Foley Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45238, neighborhood favorite.
(Hours for these are generally daytime during weekdays and Saturdays; check local branch listings before visiting.)
Dayton Area Libraries with Excellent Children’s Areas
The Dayton Metro Library system has several branches with kid-approved spaces and storytimes. General system hours are roughly: Mon 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tue/Wed/Fri/Sat 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Thu 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Main Library opens Sundays 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (varies by location).
Dayton Metro Library – Main Library
Address: 215 E. Third St, Dayton, OH 45402
Hours: Mon 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tue/Wed/Fri/Sat 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Thu 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sun 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
The flagship Dayton library offers a large children’s collection and frequent storytimes and family events.
Wilmington-Stroop Branch
Address: 3980 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH 45429
Hours: Mon 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tue/Sat 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Thu 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; closed Sundays.
A popular branch with welcoming children’s programming and early literacy events.
Miami Township Branch
Address: 2718 Lyons Rd, Miamisburg, OH 45342
Hours: Mon 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tue/Sat 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Thu 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; closed Sundays.
This location offers family-friendly events, storytimes, and a comfortable kids’ area.
Trotwood Branch
Address: 855 E Main St, Trotwood, OH 45426
Hours: Mon 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tue/Sat 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Thu 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; closed Sundays.
A community favorite with kids’ activities and reading programs.
Northmont Branch
Address: 700 W. National Rd, Englewood, OH 45322
Hours: Mon 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tue/Sat 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Thu 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; closed Sundays.
Great for storytimes and family visits within the Metro Library system.
Northwest Branch
Address: 2410 Philadelphia Dr, Dayton, OH 45406
Hours: Mon 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tue/Sat 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Thu 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; closed Sundays.
Offers children’s programming alongside tech and homework resources for older kids.
Tips for Visiting Libraries with Kids
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Check calendars before you go — most branches have updated storytime schedules online.
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Bring a library card to borrow books, movies, and educational kits.
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Pair your visit with a nearby park, café, or play space for a full day out with kids.
