Staycation or Vacation – Wichita Public Library Will Help You Have Fun This Summer!

This article is sponsored by the Wichita Public Library.

Whether you are planning to stay in Wichita this summer or want to get away for a little bit, your Wichita Public Library has several great resources and services for kids and adults to make your travels – local or afar – better. 

If you plan to stay in Wichita, you can enjoy some of that sweet summer sunshine and enjoy library services at the same time. 

Little Free Libraries

Visit the 26 Little Free Libraries in southeast Wichita. The Little Free Libraries are part of a project to help kids have better access to books, tools and resources to explore reading at home. Developing reading skills is important for long-term success in school and beyond. Everyone is able to use the Little Free Libraries. Books are free, and while community partners will help keep the libraries stocked, the community is welcome and encouraged to add books. Click here to view the map of locations – each one represents a letter from the alphabet!

Evergreen Storywalk

You can also visit Evergreen Park at 2700 N. Woodland and explore the Evergreen StoryWalk. The StoryWalk is an activity families can enjoy together. This interactive attraction pairs literacy with physical activity. There are 20 stations along the walking path at the park, each one containing laminated pages from a children’s book. Read the whole book with your child and ask guided questions about what they read. The current book is Maria Had a Little Llama by Angela N. Dominguez. 

Passport Applications

If you are planning to travel out of the country, you can process your passport applications at two of your Library locations: the Alford Branch (3447 S. Meridian) and the Evergreen Branch (2601 N. Arkansas). You can schedule your appointment from noon-6:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday or noon-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday. You can find out more information on the website.

Free Audiobooks on Libby

The Libby App is powerful. Not only will you find the latest and greatest eBooks and audiobooks, you’ll also find more than 3,000 popular magazine titles. 

Library of Things

The Library of Things also offers several great non-traditional items you can borrow that will keep kids entertained both at home and on the road. 

The Finch Robots are programmable robots that brings computer science to life by providing kids and teens alike a hands-on representation of code. 

If you need internet on the road, consider borrowing a Hotspot. 

Tablets, Backpacks & STEAM to Go! Kits

Playaway Launchpads are pre-loaded with content for kids and designed with an easy-to-use interface. 

Early Learning Backpack Kits are themed and include several picture books, educational games or toys, and an activity guide. Themes include backyard discovery, me and my emotions and rules keep us safe.

And finally, the STEAM To Go! Kits are creative and educational kits with a STEAM (science, technology, education, art, mathematics) theme. These are intended for grades 4+ and include animal games, building and design, and more.

Of course, the best way to have fun with your Wichita Public Library is with the Summer Reading Program, a summer-long reading challenge for kids and teens. Included in the fun are fun and educational programs and five free family-friendly concerts! You can see what’s in store here.



You can browse the Library’s full collection of books, movies and more online at catalog.wichitalibrary.org. You can also download the Libby app to access eBooks and audiobooks 24/7. 

 

Wichita Mom
Wichita Mom is the #1 parenting website and your local family guide to the best of Wichita! Providing relevant information and all things Wichita, we love to share about our favorite activities, local businesses, things to do, family fun, and helpful resources unique to Wichita Area parents and families.