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
Manga for Kids!
This list is a catalog companion to Southwest Regional's paper booklist of recommended manga for kids! Manga are graphic novels originating from Japan. They are typically read the...
3rd Grade Reads!
This list is a catalog companion to Southwest's paper booklist for recommended 3rd grade reads. Third graders are often starting to make the leap from beginner chapter books to...
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
Iris
Location: East Regional Library
Iris is a retired Health Educator with the State of North Carolina, serving the public for 34 years. She is an NCSU Emeritus professor and a native of Durham, NC. She is now happily continuing to serve North Carolina citizens in her part-time retirement position as Children’s Library Assistant with the East Regional Library.
Pronouns: she/her
