Children's Services

The Children's Room in the Stoneham Public Library offer an extensive collection of materials including: books, magazines, audio books on cassette and CD, music CDs, and videos on VHS and DVD. We also have a section of materials for parents and teachers and offer a number of programs and special events for children of all ages. Please check our calendar of events for our schedule.

Computers

There are four computer stations for patrons to use, three of which have Internet access. Children can use computers to look up books in the catalog, access databases to help them with their homework, or play games.

Library Cards

All Stoneham children are eligible for library card regardless of their age. A child's application must be signed by a parent or legal guardian if they are in fifth grade or younger and the adult must have a valid form of ID such as a license or utility bill so that staff can verify a Stoneham address.

Regular Programs

Ages 12-24 months: Baby Lapsit is a 20-minute toddler program for parent and baby together featuring songs, fingerplays, stories, followed by playtime. Older siblings may attend if they so wish, but adults are responsible for the behavior of any children they bring. The eight week long program runs three times throughout the school year. Registration is required.

Ages 2-3: Tales for 2s & 3s is a 20-minute program for children aged 2, incorporating stories, rhymes, songs, fingerplays, followed by playtime. Parents attend with their children. The eight week long program runs three times throughout the school year. Registration is necessary.

Ages 4-5: StoryTime for 4s & 5s is a half-hour program for children ages 4- 5 held incorporating stories, rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and crafts. Parents do not attend with their children. The eight week long program runs three times throughout the school year. Registration is necessary.

Ages 5-7: Stories & More is a 45-minute program where children hear a short story and enjoy a related activity held monthy during the school year and for 6 weeks during the summer. Parents do not attend with their children. Registration is necessary except in the summer. To learn about upcoming programs, Visit our calendar.

Ages 8-12: Creative Kids is a 45-minute program where children hear a short story and enjoy a related activity held monthy during the school year and for 6 weeks during the summer. Parents do not attend with their children. Registration is necessary except in the summer. To learn about upcoming programs, Visit our calendar.

Grades 5-8: Elementary School Book Group is a book discussion group that meets on a monthly basis during the school year. No registration is necessary.

Tours & Group Visits

The Children’s Department offers library tours and/or storytelling sessions for classrooms, child care centers, Scout and other groups. The tours are available by appointment only and group leaders are urged to call at least two week in advance to schedule a tour. The Children’s Librarian is also available to visit classrooms, schedule permitting. See the Just for Teachers link for further details.