Visit Us

Children's Services offers books, movies, music, downloadable materials, and video games for children from birth through 5th grade. Staff members with expertise in early literacy, child development, and children's literature are always available to help you find just the right book, program, or information.

The Children’s Room on the first floor of the Main Library features an open playroom and activity table, internet and preschool game computers, an Art Alcove, homework rooms, a play ship--and a gerbil mascot named Ramona!

Is your child visiting the Library for the first time, or could they need a refresher on our space and rules? This social story uses photographs and simple sentences to help children feel comfortable visiting the Main Library and know what to expect while here.

Tours, storytimes and group visits may be scheduled for school classes, scout groups, daycares, and parent groups. To schedule a visit, please call 708.452.3420 at least two weeks in advance.

Children 8 and older may visit the Library alone. More details can be found in our Unattended Child Policy (PDF).

Borrowing Materials

Children under 18 need a parent to sign the library card application. Children may use their library cards to borrow all circulating items at the Oak Park Public Library. It is parents' responsibility to guide children's borrowing. All materials are free to borrow.

Computers

Children through 5th grade may use a computer in the Children's Room.
Children younger than 8 years old must have a responsible caregiver with them at the computer.
Adults may use Children's computers if they are attended by children. However, children are given priority for these computers.
Two guest computers are available for children who do not have an Oak Park Public Library card.
Only two children may use a computer at one time.
Children wishing to save files may purchase a flash drive at the Circulation Desk or use their own.
Children may purchase a print card or put money on their library cards to pay for printing.