Services and Collections
The Youth Services Department serves children up to 6th Grade. We are always increasing the availability of children's books in foreign languages such as Arabic, Polish, Slovak, and Spanish.
The Youth Services Department offers several different types of books that can be checked out for 2-4 weeks:
*Board books (for use with infants & toddlers)
*Picture books (used mostly for preschoolers)
*Easy reader books
*Juvenile books (chapter books for grades 2-6)
*Juvenile non-fiction books
*Biographies
*CDs, DVDs, books on CD, books on cassette, Playaways, and VHS movies
We also carry all School District 109 textbooks (
Bridgeview
School,
Lyle
School,
Player
School, Wilkins School & Junior High and
Brodnicki
School). These books are for use inside the library. They are reference material and cannot be checked out. Photocopies can be made for a small fee.
The Youth Services Department also has seven internet computers available for children to surf the web, do research, or play games. Every child MUST show a valid library card in his/her name and the child MUST have a Parental Consent Form signed by a guardian in order to use the computer.
Please don't hesitate to ask our staff for help while you are in the library. We are always happy to help you find the perfect book or locate information online or in print.
Programs for Children
Throughout the year Youth Services staff present the following programs: Toddler Storytime, Pre-School Storytime, Spanish Storytime, Arabic Storytime, Polish Storytime, Craft Day, Kindergarten-2nd grade activities (K-2 Club) and 3rd-6th grade activities (Club 36), a six-week Summer Reading Program, and a Winter Reading Program. Families are encouraged to attend special programs such as Storytellers, Magicians, and Puppet Shows scheduled throughout the year.
Preschool Storytime
Welcome friends ages 3 to 5 years old! We are going to have fun singing, rhyming, and listening to great stories and poems. Each week we will do a related craft. Registration is required. Space is limited.
Toddler Storytime
Children 18 months to under 3 years old along with their participating caregiver will listen to rhymes and songs and stories and do age appropriate crafts. Because of the age of the children this program runs about 20-30 minutes in length. We encourage caregivers to stay after the program for some free play and socialization with other toddlers.
Registration is required. Space is limited.
K-2 Club
Join in the celebration of good stories and good listeners. We will hear a new story each week, while we participate in activity sheets and crafts. Children in kindergarten through 2nd Grade are able to attend. Registration is required.
Club 36
Kids in grades 3-6 are welcome at Club 36. Each session has a new focus and a different guide, so check with the librarians to find out what the club is doing right now! Registration is required.
Craft
Come to the library to make a special craft to take home and enjoy. Space is limited, so sign up early to make sure you get a spot! Registration is required.
The Bridgeview Public Library also offers programs in Arabic, Polish, and Slovak. Please contact the library for more information.