Is there anything more magical than the local library? This is your spot to find your next favorite story, to find the resources you need for your new favorite hobby, and to connect with people going through the same experiences as you are facing. And while the library might hold a ton of benefits for adults, it’s seriously one of the best tools around whenever you have kids. As a Springfield milestone photographer, I spend a lot of my time getting to chat with parents about their favorite local spots. Sit back and relax while I tell you why it’s time to get a card for Lincoln Library in Springfield, IL!
About the Lincoln Library In Springfield, IL
326 S. 7th Street, Springfield, Illinois 62701
The Lincoln Library is a historic space that dates back even before the Lincoln presidency began! Back in 1856, a bunch of businessmen gathered together to discuss the start of a subscription library. Back then, stockholders of the organization could rent out books to read whenever they wanted. In the 1860s, the library gained new ownership as well as a much larger catalog. They headed into the 1870s with over 3,000 volumes and a brand new location. During that time, they also decided to change their membership and let anyone from the city reap the benefits. It moved over to the Carnegie Building in 1904, before the building was demolished and rebuilt. After a brief stay in the former JCPenney’s store, the center moved to its permanent residence downtown on S. 7th Street.
To this day, the library is devoted to its mission of empowering every person in the community. While they do focus much of their attention on adults, they take special pride in their children’s programs. They work with children all across the community to give them the opportunity to succeed in school and beyond. They break down barriers to ensure everyone in the community has a place where they belong!
Services
If you have a child but haven’t stopped by the library, it’s time to change that! The Lincoln Library has a children’s area with something new each time you swing by. If you intend to check out books, the very first step is to get a library card. Luckily, that’s pretty simple. All you have to do is bring a government-issued photo ID with your current address, as well as an official document dated within the past 60 days (a bill works perfectly!). The card is completely free if you live in Capital Township, and it’s available for a fee for those outside of the city limits. They also issue cards for kids 5 and up, so your child can have a card all of their own!
Even without a card, there’s so much you can do here. Their schedule is packed with events that will spur on your child’s development while encouraging literacy. Their family storytimes are always a hit. For 30 minutes, your child will sing a song, move their bodies, and listen to a story being read by the librarians. Sometimes, there will also be crafts and games.
Over the weekends, they have hour-long activities perfect for elementary-aged kids. Your child can come by and make crafts with tools like Cricuts, or they can build a LEGO set unlike any other. The activities are normally centered around the current holidays, giving you the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Lincoln Library Reading Programs For Springfield, IL Kids
If you are looking for the best way to boost your child’s reading skills, check out their 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program. Not only does this give you a handy way to track all the stories you’ll read with your child, but it will also show you how to engage your child throughout each story. Plus, they are going to get a reward each and every time you hit another 100 books! The materials for this program are entirely free and can be picked up the next time you are here.
In addition to all the programs and reading challenges, their selection is amazing! Your child can read award-winning books by some of the best authors on the scene today. There are also plenty of ebooks your child can rent out to read on their own device.
Specialty
The Lincoln Library has been designed to make sure Springfield, IL parents also have access to all the resources they could possibly need to make this time a little easier. If you are currently nursing, you will have access to the Parents’ Room on the first floor. You will have complete access to this room for 30 minutes at a time and will have total privacy. Your children are welcome to come with you, so they never have to leave your sight!
They have resources specifically created for homeschool families. Before you start out with your child’s education, you will have several tools you can use to ensure you head into this season feeling organized. They also have a questionnaire that will ensure this is the right path for your crew. If so, you will have access to custom collections that will help your child with their schooling. They have different formats like audiobooks, DVDs, and books. You will be able to tell them exactly what you need help with, and the library will connect you with the right resources.
Beyond all these services, the library has so many amazing tools you might not have known about! You can print off documents or get things notarized. They have bus passes for sale, and there are career resources. You can even find groups just for adults where you can build up a community over shared interests.
Families Of All Types Love Everything That The Lincoln Library In Springfield, IL Offers
If you haven’t been to the Lincoln Library in Springfield, IL in a bit, I hope this shows you why you need to change that! And if you could use a little extra help on making this season feel a little extra memorable, I would love to chat! As a Springfield milestone photographer, I love working with parents to make sure they can celebrate each and every season. If you want to see if I am a match for your crew, send me a message today so we can connect!
