Looking for fun, educational activities to keep the kids entertained without spending a fortune? From baby rhyme time and preschool storytelling to creative workshops, coding activities and even an indoor slide, Woollahra Libraries might just be one of the Eastern Suburbs’ best-kept secrets for families!
If you thought libraries were just about borrowing books, think again!
Across Double Bay, Paddington and Watsons Bay, Woollahra Libraries offer a wonderful range of activities designed to inspire young minds, encourage creativity and help children develop a lifelong love of learning.
And here’s the best part: many of these activities are completely FREE!
Whether you’ve got a newborn, an energetic toddler, a curious preschooler or a primary school student looking for their next adventure, there’s something worth discovering.
Baby’s First Library Adventure: Book Babies (0–18 Months)
It’s never too early to introduce your little one to the magic of books!
Book Babies is a gentle, interactive program specially designed for babies aged 0–18 months and their parents or carers.
Through stories, songs, rhymes and finger-play, babies can enjoy quality time with their grown-ups while developing early language and listening skills.
It’s also a lovely opportunity for new mums and dads to get out of the house, meet other local parents and enjoy a relaxed activity together.
When: Mondays at 2:30pm
Where: Woollahra Library at Double Bay
Cost: FREE
Sessions run weekly during school terms, with limited spaces available.
Sing, Dance and Giggle at Rhyme Time (0–2 Years)
Got a little one who loves music, movement and making noise?
Rhyme Time is a fun-filled program where babies and toddlers can enjoy nursery rhymes, songs, musical instruments and interactive storytelling.
It’s a wonderful way to encourage early communication, build confidence and introduce children to the joy of books through play.
And don’t worry if your toddler can’t sit still — singing, dancing and joining in are all part of the fun!
Weekly Rhyme Time sessions:
| Library | Day and time |
|---|---|
| Double Bay | Monday 10am and 11am; Tuesday 3:30pm |
| Watsons Bay | Thursday 10am and 10:30am |
| Paddington | Thursday 10:30am and 11:15am |
Cost: FREE
These sessions run during school terms. Numbers are limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Story Time Adventures for Preschoolers (3–5 Years)
Does your preschooler love listening to stories, singing songs or getting creative with arts and crafts?
Woollahra Libraries’ Story Time sessions turn books into interactive adventures.
Each session explores a different theme through stories, rhymes, songs and a hands-on craft activity.
Children can develop their imagination, practise listening and language skills, and enjoy the excitement of discovering new stories alongside other little book lovers.
Weekly Story Time sessions:
| Library | Day and time |
|---|---|
| Paddington | Sunday and Monday at 10:30am |
| Watsons Bay | Tuesday at 10:30am |
| Double Bay | Wednesday at 10:30am; second Saturday of each month at 10:30am |
Cost: FREE
Bookings are required for Story Time, and places are limited.
Creative Kids Will Love Mini Makers Club
For primary school-aged children who love building, experimenting and creating, Woollahra Libraries offer opportunities to turn imagination into something wonderful.
The Mini Makers program introduces children to creative projects and hands-on learning activities.
There are also other activities throughout the year, including construction challenges, technology workshops and coding programs.
These sessions provide opportunities to try something different, develop problem-solving skills and make new friends.
Parents can check the library’s current event calendar for upcoming sessions, age requirements and booking information.
1,000 Books Before School — A Brilliant Little Challenge!
Could you read 1,000 books with your child before they start school?
It might sound like a big number, but reading just one book a day can make a remarkable difference over time.
Woollahra Libraries’ 1,000 Books Before School program encourages families to make reading part of their everyday routine.
It’s a free early literacy initiative designed to help young children develop language skills and a love of books before they begin kindergarten.
And remember, reading the same favourite bedtime story again and again still counts towards building positive reading habits!
It’s a lovely activity for parents, grandparents and carers to enjoy together.
School Holiday Fun Without the Big Price Tag
School holidays can quickly become expensive, especially when you’re trying to entertain children for two whole weeks.
Thankfully, Woollahra Libraries run special school holiday programs with activities designed for primary school-aged children.
Depending on the holiday program, activities may include creative workshops, science experiments, performances and interactive learning experiences.
The library generally releases its school holiday program approximately one month before the holidays begin.
It’s worth checking early, as popular activities can fill up quickly.
Homework Help, Reading Challenges and More
Woollahra Libraries aren’t just for little ones.
Older children can also benefit from a range of educational resources, including:
- Homework help and online tutoring: Support for primary school students tackling homework and assignments.
- NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge: Access to information and recommended books for participating students.
- Reading inspiration: Discover new authors, children’s book awards and age-appropriate reading suggestions.
- Digital resources: Explore online books, educational activities, coding resources and digital storytelling.
These resources can be especially helpful for parents looking for ways to support their children’s learning outside the classroom.
Yes, There’s Even a Slide Inside Double Bay Library!
Here’s something the kids will love!
Woollahra Library at Double Bay features an indoor slide, adding an extra element of excitement to a family library visit.
The slide has scheduled operating times, generally:
Daily: 10am–11am and 3pm–4pm
Operating times may change for library events or at staff discretion, so check with the library before visiting.
It’s a fun little bonus that makes a trip to the library feel like an adventure.
Where to Find Woollahra Libraries
Three local libraries offer children’s programs and resources:
Woollahra Library at Double Bay
451 New South Head Road, Double Bay
Paddington Library
247 Oxford Street, Paddington
Watsons Bay Library
8 Marine Parade, Watsons Bay
Each library has its own program schedule, so families can choose the location and activities that suit them best.
A Few Handy Tips Before You Go
Most regular children’s programs are free, but children must be current Woollahra Libraries members to participate.
Library membership is free, and families can join online.
Remember that:
- Weekly Book Babies, Rhyme Time and Story Time sessions operate during school terms.
- Some programs require advance bookings.
- Spaces can be limited, particularly for popular sessions.
- School holiday activities follow a separate timetable.
- Program times may change, so always check the latest information before heading out.
Why We Love This for Eastern Suburbs Families
Between school fees, swimming lessons, sports, birthday parties and weekend outings, keeping children entertained can become expensive.
That’s why community resources like Woollahra Libraries are so valuable.
They’re welcoming places where children can discover new interests, build friendships, explore their creativity and develop important skills — all without families needing to spend money on expensive activities.
And for parents, they’re a chance to enjoy meaningful time with the kids, meet other local families and discover what’s happening in the neighbourhood.
So next time you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids, why not make your local library the destination?
You might be surprised by just how much there is to discover.
Find out more and explore upcoming programs: Woollahra Libraries Children’s Services
