In Elk Grove we have three libraries and they are all very different. Most of us go to the one closest to our homes, but there are some benefits to checking out other locations! Below are three libraries with their pros and cons.
Elk Grove Library
Elk Grove Library is located on Elk Grove Blvd near downtown. This location will eventually be moved to the old Rite Aid building off of Waterman and Elk Grove Blvd. (But that will be years to come) Our family loves this location! They always have the best book selection, theres a ton of space to sit and computers with educational games. This library seems to have the most new books out of all locations. There is a spot to purchase donated books and story time for ages 0-5 years on Thursdays at 10:30am. The only thing that bugs me is the adult section is upstairs! So when I want to get a book I have to drag my kids up with me.
Franklin Library
Franklin library is located off of Whitelock Ave between Toby Johnson Middle School and Franklin High School. When you walk in you have to sign in because both schools use this library. Students may be there during your visit and you will hear the occasional bell ring. Another thing to note is what time school is out. Traffic may get a little crazy so go between pick up times. We love this location because it’s one story and I can search for my books while still keeping an eye on my kids. There is a great space to play with little toys and great seating to read. There is always a good selection of movies, books and even video games. Storytime ages 0-5 years is on Fridays at 10:00am and Explore and Learn on Saturdays for all ages at 10:00-11:00am.
Valley Hi-North Library
Valley Hi-North Library is off of Bruceville Rd near the Consumnes Community College. This library has beautiful windows that bring in light and is one story. The children’s area is very small and not many books compared to other locations. I can imagine the library has many college student there during the day. We went on a weekend so we didn’t see any at the time. There was little seating and no toddler area. They run Explore and Play for ages 0-5 on Wednesday at 10:00am.
Notes for all libraries
*Make sure you are utilizing the placing on hold system. It’s so easy to go online and the books will be placed on hold for you.
*Every library has an early math program where kids can play with blocks, cars and balls.
*You have access to audiobooks through Hoopla with your Sacramento Library card. My 6th grader loves to listen to audiobooks when you goes to bed.
*You can find STEM kits at each library location. These kits can be microscopes, marble runs, magnets and models.
*You can check out read together kits that have a themes to them. For example, gardening, animals or space. If your kid is into a certain theme these are great to grab and go.
*Each library has book clubs for both adults and teens. The most recent one I have seen is the graphic novel teen book club.
For more details on these three libraries check out their website: HERE
Elk Grove Families 