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!
Featured online resources
Brainfuse HelpNow
Free online tutoring, help with writing assignments, and more.
Just for Kids Access Video
Kids’ shows, with favorites like Sesame Street, The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss, and more.
NC Kids Digital Library
Ebooks, e-audiobooks, and video for kids!
NCpedia
Info about North Carolina history, people, government, and educational institutions.
Featured book lists
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.
Online storytimes
Join our awesome children’s librarians as they share some of their favorite stories!
More online programming: Online storytime playlist Toddler Tuesday Wacky Wednesday Bilingual Thursday
Meet the children’s librarians
Ms. Patty
Location: Southwest Regional Library
Hola! The library discovered Ms. Patty over 17 years ago, and she’s been “booked” ever since. She is not native to North Caroline but grew up in the second largest state in the United States. Ms. Patty speaks Spanish and English and has been with Durham County for 11 years. She currently works in Youth Services at Southwest Regional, where the kids and she really enjoy singing, dancing, and just being silly. She also enjoys helping kids and parents find the right book and having them come back to tell you, “We really enjoyed the books you recommended!” Besides reading, in her spare time she plays crazy games and has endless hours of discussing Pokémon evolutions with her son. If you’re ever at Southwest, come on over and say, “Hola, Ms. Patty!”
