Youth Services at the Library

Stuff for kids and teens(and probably some parents too)

Books, programs, computers, games, crafts, and quiet corners — all on the second floor of the library, free with your card.

Learn by doing

A whole floor for younger readers

Located on the second floor of the library, kids of all ages can find books for every reading level — picture books, beginning readers, chapter books — plus games, toys, puzzles, and more. Cozy spaces for reading. Regular programs for our youngest patrons. Friendly staff at the Youth Desk who know the collection inside and out.

Beyond the books

More than just quiet reading

Encouraging reading is our first priority — but there’s plenty else going on. Several computers for homework, research, and games. An activity room for group events, crafts, and parties. Block areas for younger kids. Comfy couches to watch PBS or play our in-house Nintendo Switch.

Join us

Childhood programs

Several ongoing programs for our youngest patrons. Drop in any time and join us for some fun and learning.

  • Cuddle Up

    Tuesdays at 10:00 AM

    Ages 0–3 + caregivers

    Stories, playtime, and learning to interact with others — a relaxed gathering for our youngest patrons and the grown-ups who bring them.

  • Fun With Friends

    Thursdays at 10:00 AM

    Ages 3–5

    Books, crafts, and activities designed specifically for preschoolers — the perfect first step into a library routine.

  • Homeschool Group

    Wednesdays at 11:00 AM

    Kindergarten and up

    Lessons, stories, activities, and crafts. A welcoming space for homeschool families to socialize and learn together.

Youth Services Director: Ext. 6

Youth Services Programmer: Ext. 3

(812) 829-3392

Coming up for kids

Programs, story times, and family events from the library calendar — kid-specific and all-ages, sorted by date.

Kids at the library

Frequently asked questions

We get these a lot, so we thought we should put the answers in one place.

  • How old do I have to be to get a library card?

    You can get a youth library card at age 6 or when you enter Kindergarten — whichever comes first. A legal guardian must be present when you sign up. Youth cards have a few limits compared to teen or adult cards.

  • What can I check out with a youth card?

    Up to 10 books, music CDs, audiobooks, and/or magazines. Youth cards cannot check out DVDs or video games. The card stays at the library for safekeeping — just tell the librarian your first and last name. It can also be used at the bookmobile.

  • What is a Teen / YA card and when do I get one?

    Once you turn 14 your card upgrades to a Teen Card. It has a dragon on it (yes, really) and lets you check out non-rated-R movies and non-rated-M video games. You can borrow up to 20 items total. At 18 you get a full adult card with no restrictions.

  • What is the late fee for overdue books?

    There is no late fee for overdue items. Fines are only assessed for damaged or missing items, so just take care of what you borrow and bring it back when you can.

Always available

Cool stuff to do at the library

Even when no programs are scheduled, the library has plenty for kids and teens to dig into.

  • 3D Printer

    Located in the Tech Lab along with our gaming PC. Print sculptures or functional models up to 180 mm³.

    Visit the 3D Printing page
  • Nintendo Switch

    Play our Nintendo Switch on the upstairs TV by yourself or with friends. Ask the folks at the Youth Desk for the controllers and more info.

  • Study Rooms

    Two study rooms — one on each floor. Call ahead to reserve, or drop in to see if one is available. Best for groups of three or fewer.

  • Free Wi-Fi & Computers

    Wi-Fi is free and available 24 hours a day. You can also submit homework or anything else directly to our printers from anywhere — including home or your phone.

  • Movies
  • Dedicated Youth Staff
  • Books
  • More Years of Fun to Go!

What would you like to see?

  • Suggest a book or a book series
  • Suggest a movie you’d like us to carry
  • What kind of activities would you like us to host?
  • What’s the best ratio of peanut butter to jelly for a perfect sandwich?
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