Now that we’re in deep-freeze mode here in T.O., and finally have enough snow on the ground for shovels and snow angels, you may be looking indoors for some fun and a chance to thaw out. Toronto Public Library (TPL) is one of the city’s greatest resources to keep curious kids busy, and parents warm, during the winter months.

Kids will love having their own library card, and parents will love the opportunity to change books and movies before boredom sets in. Not to mention the substantial savings of borrowing versus buying, especially when holiday bills are still being paid.

With a simple library card, you check out books, magazines, newspapers, CDs, and movies at any library or online, you can also take advantage of the many (free) programs offered for kids and families. While the library system is citywide, meaning you can use your library card or attend programs at any location, many branches offer unique programming. It’s easy to check which programs are being offered where through the library’s online system.

TPL also has an online resource for early reading support, KidsSpace, where kids can hear and read stories and play games, and where parents can access links and reading information.

Here are a few programs, which may be offered at your local branch. Some are drop-in programs and others require registration. Check your local branch to find out which programs are offered:

Nannies & Tots: Songs, stories, and finger plays for nannies and their charges.

Baby Time: (Birth – 18 months) Bouncing and tickling rhymes, songs and stories for babies with their parents or caregivers.

Toddler Time (19 months – 3 years): Stories, songs and rhymes for toddlers accompanied by parents and caregivers.

Preschool Storytime (3 – 5 years): Stories, songs and rhymes for kids with their parents or caregivers.

Spanish/English Storytime (3 – 5 years): A duo-language story time that includes stories, songs and rhymes.

Family Films: Movies for kids, teens and the whole family.

Family Board Game Days: Make Literacy Day a ‘family affair’ – play some board games at the library!

Many branches also have holiday, cultural, and event-themed programming, such as Valentine’s Day, Chinese New Year, and March break programs, along with magic shows, crafts, puppets, and theatre presentations.

So if you’re looking for indoor fun this snowy, cold week, why not rediscover your inner bookworm and introduce your wee one to all the local library offers?

Toronto Public Library: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca