Salado Public Library

The Salado Public Library is located in a small Central Texas village of approximately 2400 residents. Prior to becoming a Family Place Library there was only 1 story time per week, and it often had very low attendance. Since implementing our Family Place programming, we have seen a drastic increase in children's program attendance.

Our story times often attract 30-40 young children and their parents/caregivers. We have noticed a huge increase in the number of families who drop into the library just to play with the toys and materials we have on the floor in the Children's area. Most families will spend anywhere from two to four hours utilizing the Children's area.

We are very pleased that we are seeing an increase in families who are non-native English speakers attending our Children's programs, as well. We receive many, many compliments about the changes we have implemented during the last couple of years. In addition, we are starting to attract families who live in other towns and cities in the area.... many of whom have their own public libraries! As we are also a popular tourist destination, we often have visitors from across the United States who pop into the library and attend programs. 

This year, I was hired as the new Children's Librarian, providing relief for our other two full-time librarians. As a result, I have been able to increase Children's programming and have seen strong attendance numbers since doing so. Our most popular programs, other than storytimes, are our Music Munchkins and Mini Makers. Both take place twice a month on the same day. Music munchkins is a half hour program that includes instrument-play, songs, and movement. Afterward, there is free play with a variety of instruments. Our mini makers program features a new activity each week that is STEAM-centric. Some of the things we have done are dinosaur Oobleck, rainbow animal sensory bottles, slime, tinfoil boats, and galaxy Play-Doh. Our take home crafts are still extremely popular, and we hope to continue to provide engaging and just plain cool programs. 

Our mission is to continue to be a welcoming space for all families where children can play, socialize, and explore!