Ben F. McDonald Public Library - Corpus Christi Libraries

As a Family Place Library, the Ben F. McDonald Public Library offers a biannual parent/child workshop, an early literacy play area, and a parenting collection. Our permanent play area is a key feature of our library. Children who visit the play area can explore open-ended play while children and caregivers interact with each other. The play area allows children to become accustomed to the library in a fun and welcoming environment.  Caregivers who would like information about child development and parenting resources can easily browse our parenting collection housed in the play area. Our 1-2-3 Grow With Me biannual workshop and play group brings parents and caregivers together with community resource professionals while young children get the chance to play, explore, and interact with each other. Children love to explore the open playroom packed with costumes, instruments, blocks, art activities, and gross motor toys while caregivers can talk with experts on child development, nutrition, and other pertinent topics. Caregivers who attended past workshops made the following statements about the 1-2-3 Grow With Me program: “I had an amazing time getting to know the different agencies and organizations and what they could offer my family.” “My child has been a lot more vocal and interested in new things since he has been to the workshops.” "I have been looking for and been to different libraries. this is the best that I've been to!!! Highly recommended and very appreciate all you do for the community."