For kids and families
The library is a place for all kinds of families to discover, explore, and have fun together.
It’s not just books (although we’ve got a great collection for kids!). At the library you can:
- Try out robots and other cool maker technology
- Explore in special sensory spaces
- Get messy at craft programs
- Build a masterpiece with LEGOs
- Check out a bilingual storytime
- Get personalized reading recommendations for any age
…and much more!
For every age
Through every stage of your lifelong learning journey, the library is there for you. From the very beginning with lapsit storytimes and board books, through homework help and fun activities for kids in school, and into the teen years and beyond – at every age, we can help you grow, learn, and have fun!
Staff picks
Gardening Books for Kids!
This list is a catalog companion to Southwest's paper booklist about gardening! This list includes non-fiction, picture books, and board books.
Disney Easy Readers
Looking for an Easy Reader featuring your child's favorite Disney characters? We've compiled them here to make the search easier!
Unearth a Story: Picture Books about Diggers
This booklist celebrates all the incredible machines and amazing animals that move earth, build worlds, and burrow beneath our feet. These picture books highlight the creatures and...
Featured online resources
Brainfuse HelpNow
Free online tutoring, help with writing assignments, and more.
Help and more info for Brainfuse HelpNowNC Kids Digital Library
Ebooks and e-audiobooks for kids!
Help and more info for NC Kids Digital LibraryJust for Kids Access Video
Kids’ shows, with favorites like Sesame Street, The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss, and more.
NCpedia
Info about North Carolina history, people, government, and educational institutions.
Accounts and access
Library cards
No one is too young or old to get a library card! Kids from 0 to 17 can check out items, use computers, and more with a juvenile card. A parent or guardian must be present to sign up for the card.
For Durham Public Schools students – Bull City, NC SLAM
Durham Public Schools students can also check out items through the Bull City, NC SLAM program. No sign-up is required: students already have a SLAM ID unless you’ve opted out of the program – it’s the same as your student ID or PowerSchool number. You can use your SLAM IDs for checking out books, using library resources online, and more. Learn more about how Bull City, NC SLAM works.
Meet the children’s librarians
Ms. T-H
Location: South Regional Library
Ms. T-H was originally born in New York but has been in NC since 2010. Ms. T-H recently moved to Durham from Raleigh after graduating with a degree in Middle Grades Education (Science & ELA) and realizing that the classroom for her is in the public library. Ms. T-H grew up loving the library and reading, constantly checking out 10+ books at a time and begging to stay one hour more. Becoming a librarian is a dream come true! Ms. T-H is excited to focus on STEAM and media literacy programs. They'd love to share the skills to enjoy the tech and online world safely and competently with the next generation. Ms. T-H is interested in focusing on subjects that children in the community are interested in, so don't be afraid to let her know what you'd like to see. She'll work hard to get it done! Outside of work, Ms. T-H loves playing video games, gardening, collecting Pokemon cards, and jamming out at concerts.
Pronouns: she/they
