Explore

The Kids Library is so much more than just books. We have lots to see and do, and we encourage kids to play! Play is the very important work of children.

Why play is important

Regular active play helps babies and children to develop a lifelong habit of daily exercise and life skills such as:

  • Communication and social skills
  • An understanding of social rules
  • Making friends
  • Teamwork

Play is closely tied to the development of cognitive, social-emotional, and physical behaviors. | earlychildhoodnews.com

Play in the Community

Check out a Kansas Children’s Discovery Center Passport from the library to play at a fun, hands-on children’s attraction with emphasis on science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Kansas Children’s Discovery Center Passport

See what other fun awaits families and children throughout Topeka with these suggestions from Visit Topeka.

Play in Topeka

Play at the library

Book Bins
Book bins for child-led browsing
Arranged by subject, our picture books are easy for little ones to claim for their very own.
Play area in Kids Library
Toys and pretend play
Spaces optimal for exploration and play.
Programs for kids
Programs for kids
Events that promote play and learning rolled into one.
Child with balloon animal in a reading spot
Reading spots
Curl up with a good book in many fun spots in the Kids Library.
kids gathered around the aquarium looking at the fish
Aquarium
You’ll love visiting the library fish family.
Kids playing in the Story Zone
The Story Zone
The Story Zone is often full of music, stories, activities and dancing!

Learn and Play Bus
The Learn and Play Bus
Babies, toddlers and preschoolers can climb aboard and dig into play that cultivates pre-reading skills. Check the schedule for a time and place near you.

Kids Library Donors

Kids Library Concept Art, drawings of the kids library75th Anniversary Gift to the Community by the Junior League of Topeka
Estate of Patricia “Pat” Bump
David J’s Mom
Topeka Active 20-30 Club
Doug Sheafor and AlBo Glass
Friends of the Library
The Library Foundation

The Kids Library began with the generous support of these major donors:
Capitol Federal
Susan and Kent Garlinghouse
Tim and Jett Elmer
Robert M. and Hazel F. Lingo
Security Benefit
Eldon and Harriet Sloan