Family Fun for Full Schedules

Published on June 09, 2026

Six children seated in a line on the floor in front of library bookshelves looking at each other while making excited faces

By Abby B.

Finding time for meaningful family activities can be difficult when schedules are already packed. That is why we at Siouxland Libraries offer programs that work with your schedule, not against it. With evening and weekend options designed for busy families, it is easy to find opportunities to learn, play, and spend time together without adding extra stress to the week. 

Whether you stop by for storytime, a hands-on activity, or a special event, you’ll find free experiences at the library that help your family connect, explore new interests, and make lasting memories together. 

Children seated at a table building structures using marshmallows and toothpicks at a Siouxland Libraries Storytime.

 

For our youngest learners, Family Storytimes bring songs, stories, and interactive fun to a library branch every Satuday on a rotating basis. These welcoming storytimes give children and caregivers a chance to build early literacy skills together while making reading a fun part of the family routine. 

A Siouxland storyteller faces a group of children and caregivers leading an action rhyme. Everyone is mirroring the storyteller by raising their hands in front of their bodies.

 

Young readers can also build confidence through Paws & Pages, where children read aloud to certified therapy dogs in a relaxed, encouraging environment. With afternoon and Saturday sessions available at multiple library branches, the program helps kids strengthen reading skills while creating positive and memorable experiences with books. 

One child is seated on the floor with an open book next to a dog laying down on blue carpet with nursery rhyme characters printed on it. To children look on close by at the child reading to the tail waggin' tutor dog.

 

During the summer, Park and Play combines stories, outdoor fun, and community connection into one easy Saturday outing. Families can enjoy storytime together before visiting the Bookmobile and the Mobile Recreation Unit from Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation. It is a simple way to read, play, and spend time together outdoors at one of our city parks. 

 

Passenger side profile of the Siouxland Libraries Bookmobile parked in a school parking lot ready for classrooms to check out items.

 

And for families who cannot always make it to the library, Siouxland is finding ways to bring library experiences into the school day. Through scheduled kindergarten visits at select elementary schools, students can explore the library, discover new books, and connect with library staff while families are busy at work. The program is already reaching local students, with plans to expand to even more schools in the future. 

There is always something happening at Siouxland Libraries, from weekly programs to seasonal events and special activities. Families can explore upcoming events through the library’s online calendar or sign up for email updates to stay connected and find programs that fit their schedule. 

 

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