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
Using Different Ways to Illustrate Picture Books
From the traditional woodcutting, metal etching, lithograpy, acrylics, cut-outs, dioramas, 3D models, fiber arts, and collage to the modern digital illustration, textured materials...
Easy Reader Picture Books with Chapters
Some children delight in finding little stories inside. A table of contents adds a level of literacy.
Children's Books about Dementia and Memory Loss
This booklist highlights children’s books that gently explore dementia, most often through relationships with grandparents. The stories support understanding, empathy, 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. Laurel
Location: Main Library
Laurel has an M.L.S. in library science from North Carolina Central, which she obtained in 1995. She has worked in two different library systems in NC since then. She has always liked reading, and this profession was a good way to combine a liking for working with children with the above. Laurel’s favorite genres are romance, science fiction, and culinary mysteries. She likes traveling and writing, as well as reading.
Pronouns: she/her
