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!
Early literacy
Parents and other significant caregivers are a child’s first and best teachers. Learn how to help children develop early literacy skills beginning at birth so that they are ready to learn once they begin school.
Staff picks
Toddler Books
This list is a catalog companion to our paper booklist for recommended Toddler Books at Southwest!
GOAL! Soccer books for kids ⚽
To celebrate the ongoing World Cup, check out these soccer chapter books for kids!
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
Donielle
Location: South Regional Library
In 2006, Donielle started working for Wake County Public Libraries when she was 16 years old. She began her work experience as a page and held that role for 15 years. In order to increase her library knowledge, she attended ECU and received her MLS. Donielle is also proud to say that she’s a certified librarian! While working as a page, she was also a library assistant in Franklin County. Now she’s a children’s librarian, which is the role she always wanted! She feels really grateful for being a part of the Durham family.
