Children and families can find fun activities every day at Salem Public Library. Books, events, and activities for children from birth to 18 are offered throughout the year, including:

Family Festival of the Arts - Once a month from October to April, families are invited to enjoy a evening of entertainment in Loucks Auditorium. All show are free and open to the public with the support of the Friends of the Salem Public Library.

Special Events - Check here to find out about special programs offered throughout the year.

Storytimes - Salem Public Library offers eight storytimes each week, welcoming infants, toddlers, and families. No registration is needed for this free programs.

Discovery Room - The Discovery Room is a unique offering of Salem Public Library, a mini-children's museum offering several educational, hands-on exhibits throughout the year. The theme changes every quarter and children are sure to find reasons to return again and again.

Books Groups for Kids - Two books groups - Book Chat, for kids in 6th grade and older, and Book Detectives, for kids in 3rd-5th grade - offer children and a favorite adult the chance to read and discuss a book together in fun environment.

Brain Boosters - Free parent education programs in English and Spanish are available periodically throughout the year, aimed at teaching parents to do fun math and science activities that boost early literacy in their children ages 3-5.

Daycare Provider Training - Salem Public Library's Youth Services division periodically offers free training opportunities to area daycare providers. Trainings are open home daycare and center-based care providers. 

Public Use Computers - Computers offering educational games and filtered Internet access are set aside for patrons up to age 18 in the Youth Services area on the third floor of the Central Library and in the children's area at the West Salem Branch. 

Read to a Pet - In partnership with the Willamette Humane Society, therapy dogs visit once a month to give kids a chance to practice reading to a furry friend.

Toddler Totes - Preschool-aged children can choose the themes that interest them most, and take home these special backpacks filled with books, videos, games, music and more that help them learn. Totes are available for toddlers and preschoolers, with a special series of totes offered in Spanish.