As the weather warms up and families flock to outdoor events, it’s easy to forget about the unsung hero of summer…the library! I know I tend to forget about the library until I get a newsletter in the mail listing all the AMAZING activities they have going on.
A reminder about why we love the library in the summer:
- It’s an air-conditioned oasis that tends to be even a little cooler than the norm for the purpose of preserving books.
- It encourages inside voices (a nice break from outside voices!)
- It’s really hard to go to the library and NOT take home a book!
- The smell of books! (said to be caused by Lignin, a compound present in all wood-based paper, that has a smell closely related to vanilla)
- The endless benefits of reading of course, but also having kids participate in activities such as storytime, which encourages brain development at an early age.
Even if one of the library’s featured is a town over/one you’ve never been to before, it might be the perfect opportunity to take the kids somewhere new. Or as we call them in my family, “special missions” (AKA somewhere special you’ve never been before).
Paramus Public Library
116 E Century Rd
Paramus, NJ
201-599-1302
What we love: Paramus has everyone covered! To name a few of their monthly offerings: Summer Bandshell Concert Series, Trivia and Mocktails via Zoom, bookclubs for all ages, crafting (Slime Making for the 4th of July!), and storytime for the little ones. Check the calendar link for upcoming events, or call the main circulation desk for more info. We also love that there are Zoom event options in case you can’t make it in person. Please be sure to check each event, as some are reserved for Paramus residents only.
Maywood Public Library
459 Maywood Ave
Maywood, NJ
201-845-2915
What we love: Maywood offers some really creative events to break up the monotony of Summer. This month they are having a Flower and Leaf Pounding Craft, Baby Time (a lap sit storytime for babies 2 and under), Tech Bar, and a live animal show! They also have a Free Seed Library for members of the community to take seeds home! How cool is that?
https://www.maywoodpubliclibrary.com/
Tenafly Public Library
100 Riveredge Rd
Tenafly, NJ
201-568-8680
What we love: What’s not to love at Tenafly Public Library this summer? There’s Baby Time for the tiny ones, First Snacks for 3-6, Amazing Water (featuring experiments!), DIY Self-Care for Teens, and Crafting for Adults (sea glass collage? count me in!). I love that they have dedicated events for teens, with crafting/self care themes that truly appeal to this group. Be sure to check the calendar and pre-register if registration is required.
https://www.tenaflylibrary.org
