School is out and the summer is officially underway. Between beach visits, gallons of sunscreen, and endless sprinkler fun, West Michigan offers so many possibilities. But what to do when the novelty starts wearing off and kids start asking, “What can we do now”? Luckily, Herrick District Library offers plenty of exciting ways to keep your kiddos busy all summer long.
Main Library: Groundworks
A great place to start is Groundworks at the Main Library. If your child loves building, creating, or trying new things, this hands-on space is manned by trained and passionate staff and packed with opportunities to explore.
From arts and crafts to 3D printing to learning about new technology, there is much that Groundworks has to offer. Drop-ins are welcome, and any cardholder 13 or older can access this space independently. Younger kids are free to try their hand at a new skill with a parent, too.
Main Library: Children’s Area
Upstairs, the rows of books in the Children’s Area are interwoven with countless adventures and activities. Families can check out discovery backpacks, which are filled with several books around a shared theme and include an activity suggestion or two.
Elsewhere, you can choose from bags featuring items like wiffle ball sets, kites, sand toys, and more—a perfect way to take the fun beyond the library walls!
Young visitors won’t want to miss the play village, complete with a fairy treehouse and spaces for creative play called Tinker Tables. And don’t forget to stop by the Create and Discover Tables, where new, interactive activities are introduced every month.
The library offers many free events for kids all summer long.
Main Library: LEGO Lab and Book Nook
Looking for a place where imagination can run wild? In the LEGO Lab, kids can put their creativity to the test. Whether they’re building stadiums or castles or unique designs of their own invention, the lab promises endless possibilities to create. Reserve a time today.
Downstairs at the main library, you’ll find Herrick’s own used bookstore operated by Friends of the Herrick District Library. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, the Book Nook is filled with stories for all ages. Swing by and discover your next adventure...most for $4 or less!
North Branch: Children’s Area
The North Branch similarly offers tons of possibilities for kids and their families.
One of the library’s most beloved features is the Big Red lighthouse playhouse. After your kids have enjoyed this Holland-inspired landmark, you and your family can browse books by the fireplace or attend family-friendly programs and events, including storytimes and hands-on activities that keep kids engaged throughout the summer.
North Branch: Playscape and Storywalk
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines reading with outdoor fun, the playscape and storywalk are perfect ways to spend a summer day.
The playscape is a space that provides children with the chance to explore and imagine in an outdoor playscape created by the Outdoor Discovery Center network. Families can also enjoy the storywalk, which bring books to life by placing pages of stories along a walking path. As children move from station to station, they read the stories one page at a time, while enjoying fresh air and exercise.
Study Rooms and HelpNow
Both the Main Library and the North Branch offer study rooms that are a perfect space to do some reading, get caught up on work, or simply enjoy a quiet place away from distractions. The North Branch offers two study rooms specifically for kids and teens, which can be reserved through staff members by calling or speaking with them at the desk. The main library offers teen only study rooms in the teen section of the library, which are also available for reservation through speaking with staff.
For students who need academic assistance, HDL cardholders have free access to HelpNow, an online tutoring service. HelpNow connects learners with live tutors who give assistance for an array of school subjects.
Online
The summer fun doesn’t have to end when you leave the library, either. Cardholders have free, unlimited access to a variety of online resources that make learning and entertainment available anytime, anywhere.
ABC Mouse offers educational games, activities, and lessons designed to help young users build skills in reading, math, science, and more. This is a great way for kids to continue learning even when school is out.
LOTE4Kids features thousands of children’s books, narrated in dozens of languages, providing a way for families to enjoy multilingual storytimes and explore new cultures together.
For movie nights and educational videos, Kanopy Kids offers a range of kid-friendly movies, TV shows, and educational content. The platform allows kids to view age-appropriate videos without any ads, as well as PBS shows and read-along picture book videos.
On-the-Go
Summer schedules get busy, but your public library is never far away! Herrick District Library’s convenient “lending machines” (think book vending machines) allow cardholders to easily pick up books and other materials while they’re out and about.
You’ll find these lending machines at the Community Action House Food Club, Holland Township Recreation Center, and Dragonflies Discovery Preschool. Be sure to check out these locations and see what treasures are waiting to be unearthed!
Whether your family is looking for hands-on play, outdoor adventures, or at-home activities, Herrick District Library has something to offer for everyone. Stop by the Main Library or the North Branch and explore how we can help you make this a memorable summer for you and your kids!
