Libraries with great kids' areas in New York

New York's three library systems (NYPL, Brooklyn and Queens) add up to more than 200 branches, nearly all with a children's area and weekly storytimes, all free. This list picks the ones with standout children's areas, buildings worth a visit in themselves, or neighbors that make a full day.

The NYPL's Stavros Niarchos branch, opened in 2021, has a whole children's floor and a rooftop terrace right beside Bryant Park; Brooklyn's Central Library opens onto the botanic garden and Prospect Park; the Flushing branch has the city's largest collection of Chinese picture books and bilingual storytimes; Jefferson Market in Greenwich Village looks like a fairy-tale castle; and Hunters Point in Long Island City has floor-to-ceiling windows facing the UN.

• 6 places
• 6 free
• 6 stroller-friendly
• closest is 5 min away