Melissa Public Library

Melissa Public Library’s Family Place serves as a welcoming, developmentally appropriate environment where families with young children can learn, play, and connect. With approximately 2,550 visits per month, Family Place is a vital community hub that supports early literacy, healthy child development, and caregiver engagement.

Our play area provides a safe, engaging space that encourages exploration, imaginative play, and social interaction. While children participate in developmentally appropriate activities, caregivers have access to a curated collection of parenting materials, early childhood resources, and community referrals that support informed and confident caregiving.

We offer a comprehensive range of programs that promote early literacy, school readiness, and caregiver-child bonding, including:

• Baby Storytime
• Toddler Storytime
• Preschool Storytime
• Family Storytime
• Multilingual Music & Movement
• Sensory, Coloring, and STEM Stations
• Baby and Toddler Playtime Stations
• Preschool Dance (ages 3–6)
• Tiny Totz Dance Class (12–36 months)
• Walking and Waddling Toddler Crafts
• 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
• Lactation Lounge

Each program is intentionally designed to support language development, motor skills, social-emotional growth, and positive caregiver-child interaction.

In alignment with the Family Place model, our outreach initiatives extend beyond the library’s walls. We regularly provide story times and early literacy programming at local businesses and community spaces, ensuring families throughout Melissa have access to enriching, research-based early childhood experiences.

Melissa Public Library remains committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where families feel valued, connected, and empowered. Through intentional programming, accessible resources, and community partnerships, Family Place continues to serve as a cornerstone of early childhood support within our growing community.