| |
The Ridgefield Park Public Library
Children's Programs
About the Children's Department
The Children's department is open to serve children from the time they are babies until they leave sixth grade. Our collection of board books, picture books, easy fiction and non-fiction, older juvenile fiction and non-fiction, and magazines is supplemented by videos, DVDs, and CD-ROM educational games. In addition, we have a small but growing collection of books in the Spanish and Korean languages. Our cozy toddler room contains some toys and puzzles to make a trip to the Library with younger children a must activity. Our educational CD-ROMs can be used in the library or borrowed.
We welcome your children to the library but need to remind you that children under the age of seven may not be in the library alone. They must be accompanied by a caregiver. The library staff maintains an environment that is safe for everyone but the staff cannot be responsible for unattended children. Children come and go frequently particularly after school and it is not our function to monitor their comings and goings. If your children are spending great amounts of time in the library, they should have a phone card or change in case they need to make a phone call. They should also have a phone number at which a parent or caregiver can be reached in the event that they experience difficulty.
It is true that the library is no longer the quiet place of years ago. It is more aptly described as being a bustling, busy environment and we like it that way. Even so, children should be reminded that the library is not the appropriate place for games that should be played outdoors, running, jumping, roller blading, etc. and that everyone in the library must be treated with respect. The staff will remind children if they are behaving inappropriately but if the children don't respond to the reminders, they will be asked to leave.
Library Cards
Library Cards are issued to children at age 5. Parents must present proof of residency in the form of an unexpired driver's license or a utility bill with the parent's current RP address. A library card allows a child to borrow all material from the library except for videos and DVDs. These must be borrowed by an adult with an adult card.
Computers
Computers are available so that children can search the library catalog, make use of the specialized reference databases, surf the Internet, type papers and reports, and experiment with graphics programs. Our educational CD-ROMs can be used in the library or borrowed. Those under the age of 18 will only be allowed to surf the Internet if they have a parental permission form on file at the library. Children must bring their library cards with them each time they wish to use the Internet.
Baby & Me
Parents, grandparents, and caregivers are welcome to bring their newborns to 2 year olds to the library for stories, finger plays, and songs. This is a great way to foster the love of reading and libraries early in life and also a great way for adults to meet others with small children. Register by calling the library at 201-641-0689
Pre-School Story Time
Introduces the pre-schooler to the magic of  reading and listening. We hope that parents will help their pre-schoolers develop the life-long habit of browsing through the library's collection at the conclusion of Story Time each week. We encourage you to let us know if you are looking for something special—we love to help you find good books!
Pre-school children beginning at age 2 meet once a week for age appropriate stories, play, and crafts which will introduce your child to a group experience and reading. To participate in pre-school story time, children must be RP residents and must be pre-registered. Registration generally takes place in September and January so please check our schedule or call Mrs. Reilly at 201-641-0689.
Sleepy Time Tales
Children of all ages are invited to gather up a favorite teddy bear or blanket and come to the library for favorite nighttime stories. Pajamas are optional and this is a great way for parents to share some quiet time with their children. After listening to a few stories, you'll still have time to browse for books to take home. During the summer months, this program is generally held outdoors (weather permitting) so don't forget your bug spray! Click here for schedule.
Let's Learn Something New 
There's always something new to be learned and the library presents programs that give children the basics of sewing, knitting, gardening, origami, Chinese brush painting, and many other topics. No previous experience or knowledge is ever necessary. Children just bring with them their willingness to learn something new. Click here for schedule.
Book Bingo
A literary twist on an old favorite. Children play book bingo for small prizes. Click here for schedule.
Book Clubs
Children's book clubs meet once a month and are grouped by age level. Age-appropriate books are chosen ahead and each child who registers receives a copy of the title for the month. During book club meetings, book discussion is coupled with games and snacks. A great way to show your 2nd through 6th graders that reading can be a blast. Children must register in order to attend.
Movies
G rated films are shown twice a month during the day in the summer months. Children over the age of 7 are welcome to attend these screenings on their own. We also show family films (rated PG) once a month in the evening during the summer. Children must be accompanied by adults to attend the family showings. Age appropriate films are also shown at various times during the school year. Check the library's schedule for dates and titles of films.
Celebrations
There is always something to celebrate at the library so remember to stop by frequently. We always celebrate holidays (Halloweeen, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukkah, etc.) In addition we frequently host book parties (Shredderman, Captain Underpants, Harry Potter) and we generally celebrate the birthdays of two of our favorites, Dr. Seuss and Harry Potter. Click here for schedule.
Summer Reading
During the summer, we schedule at least one activity per day to keep the Village's young people engaged in reading. We're playing book bingo, inviting you to lunch at the library, telling stories outdoors, and offering special weekly craft programs to supplement many of our regular activities. The library is the place to be during the summer so don't miss out on any of the fun. Click here for schedule.
|
|
|
|
