As a child, the local library was one of my favorite places to visit. I have fond memories of frequently stopping in with my aunt and cousins, hoping to find a good book, or two, to enjoy. Although I do remember using a card catalog (remember those?!) to find books, I also remember being introduced to computers, thanks to the library. Of course libraries look a little different these days, but it’s now one of my favorite spots to take my own kids. So when we moved into Boone County a little over a year ago, one of our first stops was the Boone County Library’s Main Branch location on Burlington Pike.
I had heard wonderful things about the Boone County Library, so I was so excited to take my two young children to check it out. We’ve been back countless times over the past year and we always find something new to explore. To start, the building itself is amazing and my daughter still comments each time we walk in that “it’s as big as a castle!” Not only is it large, but it’s also filled with innovative spaces and plenty of places to get lost in a good book.
When you walk in the door, the first thing you may notice is the enticing smell of good food. One of my favorite features of the library is Battaglia Deli. This little café is open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm and serves surprisingly delicious sandwiches, soups, and other specialties. My kids love it because for $1, they can get a bag of freshly popped popcorn, which is often a special treat as we leave the library.
Once I got past the wonderful concept of a café inside a library, we made our way to the second floor and the children’s area. There’s so much I love about this large, open space and even more that my kids love. To the left is a large play area where my kids could spend hours. They love to put on puppet shows, play whatever educational games are out and color on the large, paper-covered table. There’s also an area for babies and toddlers, with plenty of age-appropriate toys and activities. The space has other features to explore, such as a large Connect Four game (a favorite), Ipads with interactive games and seasonal activities. Adjacent to the children’s area is a large room used for the many classes and events held for all ages – infant through teenager.
I have a big place in my heart for all libraries in the Cincinnati area, and I’m especially glad we ended up so close to one that meets all of our needs and more. It’s not only ideal as a family outing, but I often work there, enjoy lunch, and the quiet of the main space of the library. The Boone County Main Branch is full of so many surprises as well, from concerts to museum-quality exhibits, and many other offerings. For Northern Kentucky families, it’s a great spot to utilize for free, educational fun, and a place to make meaningful memories together.
For more information on the Main Branch of the Boone County Library, as well as the other branches, activities, and events, visit its website here.
About Andrea:
A native Cincinnatian, Andrea has experienced life in all four corners of this city. After growing up on the west side, she headed north to attend Miami University, then moved east to Hyde Park and now lives in Northern Kentucky with her family.
When she’s not playing trains and doing the “hot dog dance” as a stay-at-home mom to her two toddlers, Andrea is busy writing for Cincinnati (and, ahem, Kentucky!) publications and brainstorming ideas for her next children’s book! With a newfound passion for fitness and overall health, she spends a lot of time at her family gym and loves to play outside.
Andrea worked in education for several years and has a special love for children’s literature. She loves showing her children all our city has to offer and enjoys sharing her finds with other parents. Her favorite spots include the Cincinnati Zoo (although she steers clear of the bird house), her local library and any playground.