libraries

The libraries in and around Indianapolis offer so much more than just books. When the weather gets too cold (or too hot), a great library can double as a free indoor space where kids can explore, play, and learn. All library branches have children’s sections, but the locations below go the extra mile with play spaces, makerspaces, hands-on learning, and family-friendly features. If you need an easy, low-cost outing, start here. Tip: Hours can change for holidays or special closures, so it’s smart to double-check before you go. Jump to a Library Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library (Zionsville) Carmel Clay Public Library Greenwood Public Library Central Library (Indianapolis) Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library Hancock County Public Library (Greenfield) Westfield Washington Public Library Hamilton East Public Library (Fishers + Noblesville) Fort Ben Branch Library (Indianapolis) Libraries Near Indianapolis That Are Great Spaces for Kids to Play Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library Location: 250 N. 5th St., Zionsville Hours: Mon–Thu: 9am–8pm; Fri–Sat: 9am–5pm; Sun: 1pm–5pm Tucked into a neighborhood in Zionsville, Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library has a children’s area that fills the entire first floor. Families will find toys, games, blocks, puzzles, a hut, a dollhouse, a pretend kitchen, puppets, and a large train table that makes this an easy place to linger. There’s also a separate room for babies, plus a fish tank near the entrance that kids love to visit. Carmel Clay Public Library Location: 425 E. Main St., Carmel Hours: Mon–Thu: 9am–8pm; Fri: 9am–6pm; Sat: 9am–5pm; Sun: 1pm–5pm The colorful children’s area at Carmel Clay Public Library includes activities for a wide range of ages. Babies and toddlers can spread out in an open space with pretend play options like a play house, plus interactive favorites such as a giant Lite-Brite. Older kids can explore the Exploration Lab, a drop-in makerspace with STEAM activities that encourage experimenting and building. Adults will appreciate that Java House is right inside the library, just steps from the children’s section. Greenwood Public Library Location: 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood Hours: Mon–Thu: 9am–8pm; Fri–Sat: 10am–5pm; Sun: Closed Greenwood Public Library is a favorite for good reason. The children’s area is large and includes a makerspace, a play zone for little kids, a mini town for pretend play, a puppet theater, and plenty of LEGO. A wooden tree feature anchors the space and adds lots of kid-friendly nooks for books. Babies have their own separate area to crawl, explore, and play. Greenwood Public Library Central Library Location: 40 E. St. Clair St., Indianapolis Hours: Mon–Tue: 10am–8pm; Wed–Thu: 10am–6pm; Fri–Sat: 10am–5pm; Sun: 1pm–5pm The largest location in the Indianapolis Public Library system is also one of the most engaging for kids. The Learning Curve at Central Library is a hands-on area built for children, teens, and families. In addition to books, families will find a technology lab, spaces for creative projects, a theater area, and a baby zone. The baby zone includes interactive elements like activity walls, while older kids can experiment with tools like a green screen and other hands-on learning experiences. Central Library Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library Location: 1120 Stafford Rd., Plainfield Hours: Mon–Thu: 9am–8pm; Fri: 9am–6pm; Sat: 9am–5pm; Sun: 1pm–5pm Toys, trains, puzzles, blocks, and a play kitchen with wooden food, Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library is designed for kids to settle in and play. The children’s wing is bright with lots of natural light, and families often spot a big tree feature in the middle of the space. There is also a desk area where crafts and simple art activities are frequently laid out for kids to try. Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library Hancock County Public Library Location: 900 W. McKenzie Rd., Greenfield Hours: Mon–Thu: 9am–8pm; Fri: 9am–6pm; Sat: 9am–5pm; Sun: 1pm–4pm If you’re up for a short drive, Hancock County Public Library in Greenfield has a children’s department that feels like its own little community. Set up like a mini town, kids can play in themed spaces like a pretend veterinary office and bakery. Families will also find LEGO, a nature-themed area with wooden blocks and animal displays, and plenty of room for open-ended play. Hancock County Public Library Westfield Washington Public Library Location: 17400 Westfield Blvd., Westfield Hours: Mon–Wed: 9am–8pm; Thu–Sat: 9am–5pm; Sun: 1pm–5pm This newly constructed library opened in June 2024 and sits in the heart of Westfield. The children’s area includes play-based activities connected to interactive story times, a puppet theater, puzzles, play tables, and early literacy computer stations. There’s also a separate room with tables and chairs for coloring, which can be a helpful spot to regroup after story time. Near the entrance, Rivet at the Library sells coffee, tea, pastries, and more. Hamilton East Public Library Locations: Five Municipal Drive, Fishers & One Library Plaza, Noblesville Hours (both branches): Mon–Thu: 9am–8pm; Fri–Sat: 9am–6pm; Sun: 12pm–6pm Hamilton East Public Library welcomes families into a colorful children’s environment that encourages imaginative play and early literacy. Little ones can explore a spacious play area, while older kids and pre-teens can find dedicated spaces designed for learning, reading, and hanging out. Families will also appreciate thoughtful features like quieter spots to take a break and accommodations for nursing parents. Note: Hamilton East Public Library has ongoing renovation phases, so families may want to check for any temporary service adjustments before visiting. Fort Ben Branch Library (Indianapolis Public Library) Location: 9330 E. 56th St., Indianapolis Hours: Mon–Tue: 10am–8pm; Wed–Fri: 10am–6pm; Sat: 10am–5pm; Sun: 1pm–5pm The Fort Ben Branch Library is a standout for imaginative play, plus inclusive features that help families who need calm spaces and sensory supports. Kids can explore a welcoming children’s area with hands-on elements that encourage creative play and discovery, making it an easy choice when you need a free indoor outing. Fort Ben is also the first library branch in the state of Indiana to become a Certified Autism Center™ by receiving an international autism accreditation through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). It’s a meaningful option for families who value thoughtful supports and a more sensory-friendly experience. More Free Indoor Play Ideas Free Places to Play Indoors in Indianapolis Best Indoor Playgrounds around Indianapolis

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