Guide to Franklin Avenue Library (DMPL)

I am a self-professed book nerd. I love to read and I want my kids to love reading too. Aside from reading to them and exposing them to a variety of different books, the best way I can think of to raise them to love books is by taking them to the library.

We like to make the rounds to different libraries around Des Moines. I remember one particularly cold and rainy week when I’m sure we went to the library at least 4 times! However, the Franklin Avenue Library in Des Moines is our “home” library. When we lived in Beaverdale, we could walk to it. Even though we can no longer walk to it, we still visit at least once a week. 

Franklin Ave Library

5000 Franklin Ave, Des Moines

Why do you love the Franklin Avenue Library?

I usually go to the library with my kids and I appreciate that there are two entrances and parking on both sides of the building. It makes it easy to get in and out! 

The library was recently remodeled and has many environmentally friendly features, including charging stations in the parking lot for electric cars and native grasses and wildflowers planted outside to attract birds and butterflies. 

There are big windows in the children’s area that are great for looking out of and letting in natural light. It is a very welcoming environment. 

What my kids love about the Franklin Avenue Library

Storytime with Miss Donna is a favorite! All of my kids know her by name and ask if we will see her when we go. The especially love the bubbles at the end of storytime!

Fridays are Lego day at the library. Even though we have tons of Legos at home, my boys love going to build new creations on Friday. 

My kids are elementary age and younger, so they love spending time in the kid’s area, playing with the tools, doll house, and kitchen stuff, and doing art projects. 

In addition to the children’s area, there is a great space at the front of the library with additional puzzles, puppets, and toys. It has a space theme that the kids enjoy. 

Programs at the Franklin Library 

• Baby Rhyme Time (ages 0 – 18 months): Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.
• Toddler Storytime (ages 18 months – 3 years): Wednesdays, 10:15 a.m. and 10:50 a.m.
• Preschool Storytime (ages 3 – 6 years): Mondays, 10:15 a.m.
• Evening Family Storytime (entire family): Tuesdays, 6:15 p.m.
• Saturday Storytime: 2nd Saturday of the month, 10:30 a.m.

Check the event calendar for special events. We have enjoyed free previews of performances at the Des Moines Community Playhouse, seen a firetruck, been to a show-and-tell with the Blank Park Zoo, and more. 

Insider tips

There are very nice family restrooms in the children’s area that are separate from the main bathrooms. 

There is a large selection of kids DVDs in the children’s area that are free to checkout. 

This post is part of Des Moines Mom’s Guide to Libraries in Des Moines area.