Kids Special Collections
S.T.E.A.M. Kits
These kits are science, technology, engineering, art, and math-themed. Each has hands-on activities, books, handouts, and movies. Enjoy a silly video about them here. We created these kits ourselves! Each kit is for different ages ranging from 7 to 12 years old. Click for a complete list of available kits, or search our catalog using “theme kits” to see the contents of each.
First Steps to Go Kits
First Steps to Go are themed kits for toddlers and preschoolers that offer books, toys, puzzles, DVDs, and activity sheets on a variety of subjects… all in a convenient rolling duffel bag to take home! Click for a complete list of First Steps To Go kits, or search our catalog using “theme kits” to see the contents of each.
Musical Instruments
Check out a guitar, violin, keyboard, a dulcimer or more from our David & Gail Meltzer Musical Instrument Collection! Each instrument comes with a teach-yourself book and an online resources guide. Check out a complete list of our instruments here or give us a call to check what’s available.
Special thanks to Jim Terry Music, our community partner for this collection, and Elisa’s Greatest Wishes for helping to make these available.
Adaptive Toys
A circulating collection of adaptive toys, communication devices, capability switches, and games for children with special needs. Items in this collection are specifically designed for children who are developmentally delayed or physically challenged.
Special thanks to Dr. Maggie Davis Pediatric Dentist for raising funds for new toys; if you would like to support this collection, please email marisa@phlib.org.
Families may borrow three adaptive toys plus one capability switch if required for 28 days. For a complete list, click here.
Wonderbooks & Read-along Collection
Love audiobooks but want to read along? We’ve got just the collection for you! Check out Wonderbooks, the newest product from Playaway. Each book has a built-in player that reads the story and has a learning mode to encourage literacy skills and discussion. Or, take a look through our extensive Read-along collection of books with CDs. Experience reading a new way with these fun options!
Wonderbooks are here! Come into the library and borrow one today.
Playaway Launchpad Tablets
Pre-loaded with educational and entertaining content for kids from ages 3-12, handheld Launchpad tablets are designed with a simple, easy-to-use interface. They’re also 100% secure and ad-free: No wifi or download needed! Check out a short video about them here: bit.ly/launchpadtablets
Playaway Views
The first self-playing, pre-loaded, library-exclusive video player – with educational yet entertaining content perfect for your little ones! Does not access the internet and has zero advertisements. Sturdy enough for your 3-year-old, interesting titles for your 12-year-old!
Puzzles
Did you know that we have children’s puzzles available for loan? These range anywhere from just a few wooden pieces up to 100 pieces. When these become too easy, you’ve graduated to the main puzzle collection on the adult side of the Library!