Free library events for my kids near me? Yes, please! In addition to providing books to check out and other services, your local Metropolitan Library System branch provides dozens of programs and events each month for kids of all ages and adults. These range from story times for the very young to adult craft nights and informative programs such as how to use A.I.
All of the library branch programs, events and activities can be accessed via a searchable calendar. You can search for events at your specific branch!
These programs are FREE but some do require preregistration, info you’ll find clearly stated on the event listings below. Their event system also makes it easy to see if the events are held one time or if they are repeated during the month at that location.
BONUS: Want to learn and be creative at home with your kids? Take advantage of another popular library program, Take Home Kits that are available during certain time periods at the branches.
Each month, we’ll highlight our favorite, in-person free programs, events and activities so you and your family won’t miss any of the fun at your local branch (or any branch!) of the Metropolitan Library System.
Free events at Metro Libraries in March:
From a deep dive into insects and space to commemorating Women’s History Month and the Route 66 Centennial, March is packed with events for kids, teens and adults across the library system. Explore all events at metrolibrary.org/events/upcoming.
Spring Break Fun
Spring Break programs are happening across the system, including board games at Southern Oaks Library, arts and crafts at Edmond Library and workshops at Warr Acres Library and Capitol Hill Library. Find a full list of Spring Break events at metrolibrary.org/springbreak.
1-2-3 Play With Me
1-2-3 Play With Me provides dedicated time for parents and caregivers to play one-on-one with babies and toddlers in a library setting. Each session includes guided play, access to community resource professionals and a short storytime.
Play supports early brain development, imagination and physical growth. Visit metrolibrary.org/123playwithme to learn more about upcoming sessions.
America’s Mother Road Takes Center Stage
As Route 66 approaches its 100th anniversary, the Metropolitan Library System is launching a yearlong celebration with take-home kits and a traveling exhibit highlighting Oklahoma’s role in shaping the historic highway. The traveling exhibit will share stories of Oklahoma City–born Chicken in the Rough, route champion Cyrus Avery, the Threatt Family Filling Station and the 1928 “Bunion Derby.” A full schedule of Route 66 programs is available at metrolibrary.org/route66.
The Route 66 Adventure Passport Take-Home Kits, available at all Metro Library locations in March while supplies last, include a passport guiding participants to notable Oklahoma stops along Route 66. Travelers can visit in person and collect stickers or explore virtually from home.
“Small Wonders: Insects in Focus”
“Small Wonders: Insects in Focus” is on display at the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library from Jan. 28–March 16. Created by Tulsa artist Bob Sober and organized by ExhibitsUSA, the traveling exhibition features striking, large-scale macro photographs that present insects at a human scale. Using advanced photographic techniques, Sober assembles hundreds of images to reveal extraordinary detail, color, and texture, blending scientific precision with artistic beauty.
Insects have existed for more than 350 million years and play a vital role in sustaining ecosystems, yet their complexity often goes unnoticed. This exhibition invites visitors to slow down and look more closely, offering a new perspective on the familiar creatures living all around us. Check out the library’s many programs inspired by this unique exhibit.
Not So Creepy Crawlies
March 6, 9 a.m.
The Village Library, 10307 N Pennsylvania Ave., OKC
Ages: Kids
Partnering with the OKC Zoo, this program highlights some of the hardest-working insects in our ecosystems. Learn how decomposing insects break down plant matter, animal remains, and waste, keeping our environment healthy. Guests will also meet an animal ambassador or two. Registration required.
Gallery Giggles at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
March 11, 11 a.m.
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, 11 NW 11th Street, OKC
This baby-focused storytime is led by a Metro early childhood librarian and blends art exploration with songs, rhymes and finger plays. Families will gather in the Early Childhood Studio before visiting an upstairs gallery space. Reservations are required. Best for ages 0–24 months, with one caregiver per child. Adult supervision is required in gallery spaces.
Wildlife Walks at Midwest City Library
March 14, 9:30 a.m.
Midwest City Library, 8143 E. Reno Ave., Midwest City
All ages welcome
Families are invited to explore local birds, insects and other wildlife near the library grounds. Participants will learn how to use tools like the Merlin Bird ID app and other citizen science resources. Registration required.
Entomological Ecosystem (DIY Bug Terrariums)
March 14, 2:30 p.m.
Downtown Library, 300 Park Ave., OKC
Ages: Teens & Adults
Teens and adults can create their own ecosystem for preserved insects while learning about habitats and design. Registration required.
Women’s History Month & Women in Space
Join Metro Libraries to celebrate renowned women artists and the women who have made their mark in astronomy, engineering and space travel.
Art Spark: Inspired by Elizabeth Catlett
March 15, 2 p.m.
Northwest Library, 5600 NW 122nd St., OKC
Ages: Teens
Teens will explore Catlett’s bold, socially conscious artwork and create pieces inspired by her style.
After School Art Hour
March 17, 4:30 p.m.
Midwest City Library, 8143 E. Reno Ave., Midwest City
Ages: Kids
Children will learn about artist Ruth Asawa and create their own masterpieces.
Women in Space at Northwest Library
March 17 at 6 p.m.: Lunar Sooners Stargazing Party
March 18 at 2 p.m.: Exploring Our Solar System
March 19 at 2 p.m.: Exoplanets and Beyond
March 20 at 2 p.m.: Artemis II: Going to the Moon
Northwest Library, 5600 NW 122nd St., OKC
Ages: Kids 5-12
Young explorers will study constellations, design exoplanets and hear from NASA Ambassadors about the Artemis II mission. Registration required.
Space Camp at the Downtown Library
March 13, All Day: Alien Takeover
March 14 at 11 a.m.: Constellation Creators
March 16 at 4 p.m.: Space Sand Art
March 17 at 11 a.m.: Astronaut Food
March 18 at 4 p.m.: Rocket Building (Registration Required)
March 19 at 11 a.m.: Sensory Space Station
March 20 at 4 p.m.: Let’s Paint the Moon
Downtown Library, 300 Park Ave., OKC
Ages: Kids
At Spring Break Space Camp, each day features a different space-themed activity for kids. From crafts to hands-on science, Space Camp offers daily opportunities for young explorers to learn and create.
Touch-a-Truck at Bethany Library
March 20, 9 a.m.
Bethany Library, 6700 NW 35th Street, Bethany
All ages welcome
Kids and families can explore life-size vehicles and meet community support leaders, including police officers, firefighters and construction workers. The event will also feature face painting, take-home crafts and food trucks. A quiet hour will be observed from 9 to 10 a.m., with no horns or loud music, to accommodate guests sensitive to noise.
Clubs for All Interests at Metro Libraries
Metro Library locations offer a wide variety of clubs including Coding, STEM programs, LEGO Club, Chess Club, Pokémon Club and Magic: The Gathering. Visit
metrolibrary.org to find a club near you.
Karaoke Klub for Teens
March 26 at 3 p.m. at Choctaw Library
Comic Book Club for Teens
March 26 at 5 p.m. at Midwest City Library
More resources:
Gardening for All Ages as a part of Metro Grows! More information at Metrolibrary.org/MetroGrows.
Metropolitan Library System provides access to a wide variety of online learning platforms, such as:
- Creativebug: Thousands of arts and crafts video tutorials by expert artists.
- Fiero Code: Interactive coding lessons for ages 8-18.
- HelpNow: Brainfuse service offering live tutoring, practice tests, and skill-building for students from elementary to high school.
- LearningExpress Library: Study guides and practice tests for exams like GED, ACT, SAT, and more.
- LinkedIn Learning: Self-paced video courses in business, technology, and creative skills.
- Tumblebooks: Children’s reading comprehension support with quizzes and read-aloud stories.
Wanting even more free events and activities at Metro Libraries? All of the library branch programs, events and activities can be accessed via an easily searchable calendar.
