As always, the Public is invited to attend all Library Commission Meetings and Library events. The Library will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities upon adequate notice. If you need assistance, please call the Bennett Civic Center Library at 734-466-2491 or email lvcc@livoniapubliclibrary.org.
Storytime Programs
Programs for children 12 months to 5 years
Reading Challenges
Ask about Our New Grade School Reading Challenges!
Bennett Civic Center Library Programs
32777 Five Mile Rd.
Sandburg Library Programs
30100 Seven Mile Rd.
LOL Visits
Introducing LoL! (Librarians on the Loose), a literacy partnership for storytimes at your location.
Click here for more information
TumbleBookLibrary
Our Library has a subscription to TumbleBookLibrary, and
your family can access it from home! It’s unlimited, and FREE
for you to use! Explore animated, talking picture books,
read-along chapter books, non-fiction books, and more! Happy Tumbling!
Click here for more digital downloads
Book Bundles
Need help picking out books? The Children’s Librarians at the Livonia Public Library can put together book bundles to help! Each bundle will include 3-10 books based on a common theme. Fill out a form to request a bundle or stop by the Bennett Civic Center Library to browse our ready-to-go picture book bundles!
Storytime Programs
Storytime Programs
Programs for children 12 months to 5 years
Fun for Ones Baby Storytime
Ages 12 to 23 months with parent or loving caregiver.Songs, simple stories, and other activities that introduce our youngest patrons to the pleasures of the library. No registration required. Click here for more information.
@ Bennett Civic Center
Mondays, Sept. 8 – Nov 17
10:15-10:35 a.m. OR
11-11:20 a.m.
Rhythm & Rhyme
Ages 2-4 with a grown-up.A fast-paced story time with dancing, musical instruments, books, and toy time! No registration required. Click here for more information.
@ Bennett Civic Center
Tuesdays, Sept. 9 – Nov. 18
No session on Nov. 11
10:15-10:45 a.m. OR
11:15-11:45 a.m.
Tip Top Toddler Storytime
Ages 2-3.Toddlers and their grown-ups are invited for stories, action songs, sign language and more! No registration required. Click here for more information.
@ Bennett Civic Center
Wednesdays, Sept. 10 – Nov. 19
10:15-10:40 a.m. OR
11:15-11:40 a.m.
@ Carl Sandburg
Thursdays, Sept. 11 – Nov. 20
10:30 a.m.
Peppy Preschool Storytime
Ages 3 to 5.Join us for stories, action rhymes, songs, and a surprise or two along the way! Children will go home with a small take-and-make craft. No registration required. Click here for more information.
@ Bennett Civic Center
Thursdays, Sept. 11 – Nov. 20
10:15-10:45 a.m.OR
11:15-11:45 a.m.
@ Carl Sandburg
Wednesdays, Sept. 10 – Nov. 19
10:30 a.m.
Reading Challenges
Reading Challenges
Register for all of these programs (plus some for grownups) at livonialibrary.beanstack.org. You can also register at the Children’s Reference Desk.
1000 Books Before Kindergarten
For any child from birth until they enter kindergarten.You are invited to participate in this FREE program which encourages parents to read 1,000 books with their children before they start kindergarten. It’s easy to participate. Mark off the books you have read on your reading log. When you reach 100, show us your log to receive your prize and your new reading log. As children reach their milestones, their names will be displayed in the Livonia Public Libraries on our walls of fame. Sign up on Beanstack today! Click here for staff recommended books.
Kindergarten Challenge
This challenge may be completed the June before kindergarten through the end of their kindergarten year.Continue (or begin) your child’s reading journey by reading 100 books selected for you by the Livonia Public Library’s Children’s Librarians. Simply read a book and mark it off in Beanstack or on the paper log.
50 in First Challenge
This challenge may be completed the June before first grade through the end of the school year.Your child may be beginning to read on their own. Using the 25 pre-selected books and 25 of your child’s choice, complete the 50 in First Challenge by having your child read to you and/or read the books together. Simply read a book and mark it off in Beanstack or on the paper log.
Second Grade Storytellers
This challenge may be completed the June before second grade through the end of the school year.One of the best ways for a child to increase their reading comprehension is to read and book and then tell you what happens. During second grade, you and your child can select 25 books to read together and then have your child tell you the story in their own words. Log the books in Beanstack or on the paper log.
Third Grade – True 25
This challenge may be completed the June before third grade through the end of the school year.Third graders can explore the world of nonfiction. Reading three books in six different categories (biography, social sciences, sciences, technology, poetry, and history/geography) plus seven books in whatever category they like, your child can complete the True 25 challenge. Simply read a book and mark it off in Beanstack or on the paper log.
Fourth Grade – Books Outside the Box
This challenge may be completed the June before fourth grade through the end of the school year.It is important for people to read about cultures outside of their own, and this challenge encourages fourth grade students to read five diverse books. These are books that take place in different countries, have characters of a different race or ethnicity, and/or characters with disabilities, just to name a few examples. Simply read a book and mark it off in Beanstack or on the paper log.
Tween Reading Challenge
For Tween readers in grades 5-7. This challenge runs January – December and may be joined at any time.Complete monthly and bonus challenges for a chance to win a fabulous prize. Sign up on Beanstack today!
Smokey Bear Reading Challenge
Challenge is geared for ages 4 to 10, but all ages are welcome. This challenge runs January 1st to November 28th, 2024 and may be joined at any time.Smokey Bear turns 80 this year! Join Smokey in completing a reading challenge to learn about wildfires and the environment in honor of his birthday. Register on Beanstack today.
Register for all of these Reading Challenges (plus some for grownups) at livonialibrary.beanstack.org. You can also register at the Children’s Reference Desk.
Civic Center Library Programs
Civic Center Library Programs
32777 Five Mile Rd
STORYTIMES
See our Storytime information.
See our Storytime information.
Board of Library Tweens (BLTs) Meeting
Grades 5-7
Mondays, Sept. 22, Nov. 17, and Jan. 12 from 7-8 p.m.
Come hang out for an hour of chatting about our favorite (and not-so-favorite) books, movies, and everything in between. We’ll brainstorm some cool program ideas together and munch on lots of tasty snacks.
Sensory Shenanigans
Ages 3-8
Saturdays, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, and Jan. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Children of all abilities and ages benefit from sensory-based play: it stimulates the brain and helps develop fine and gross motor skills. During the program, children will experience different sensory stations such as fidget toys, kinetic sand and more! Please wear appropriate clothing that can get a little messy! No registration required.
Club Create*
Grades 4-7
Thursdays, Sept. 18, Oct. 16, Nov. 13, and Jan. 22 from 7-8 p.m.
Do you like to be creative? Bring your creativity and join us for Club Create, where we’ll offer a different themed activity each month. Registration required.
Livonia Brick Association
Grades 3-6
Wednesdays, Sept. 10, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, and Dec. 3 from 6-6:45 p.m.
Do you like building, being creative, and working with a team? This Club is for you! We use Legos, with a basis in STEM, to create builds around a theme that changes every month. No registration required!
My First Book Club*
Grades K-2 with a grown-up
Saturdays, Sept. 6 and Nov. 1 from 10:15-10:45 a.m.
An introduction to book clubs: During this program, we will answer some questions and participate in a fun activity related to an exciting book we’ve read. All registered participants will be able to pick up a free copy of the book to keep—a valuable resource for your child’s reading journey!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Kids & Comics*
Grades 3-4
Saturdays, Sept. 6 and Nov. 1 from 11:15-11:45 a.m.
Do you love graphic novels? Join us for our fun Kids & Comics Book Club! We’ll chat about an exciting book, do a fun activity, munch on some tasty snacks, and hang out with new friends! All registered members can grab a free copy of the book—to keep!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. We can’t wait to see you there! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Graphic Novel Book Club*
Grades 5-7
Monday, Oct. 13 and Dec. 15 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
We’re excited to invite you to our fun book club all about graphic novels! And guess what? All you need to do is register, and you can snag a free copy of the book—to keep!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch starting September 15, 2025. We can’t wait to read and chat with you! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by The Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Middle-Grade Masterpieces*
Grades 4-7
Thursdays, Oct. 23 and Dec. 4 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Are you excited to explore some awesome classic books? Join us for our Middle-Grade Masterpieces book club! We’ll chat about the month’s fun read and enjoy some yummy snacks together. Best part? You get to keep the book! Make sure to register, so you can grab your free copy at the Children’s Reference Desk at the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. We can’t wait to see you there! Don’t miss out on the fun! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by The Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Don’t Read This Book!*
Grades 5-7
Mondays, Sept. 15 and Nov. 10 from 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Hey there, awesome tweens in grades 5-7! Join us for a super fun book club just for you! We’ll hang out, play some trivia games for cool prizes, and chat about the book! Plus, everyone who registers can grab a free copy of the book—to keep!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. Can’t wait to see you there! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Empower Hour Book Club*
Grades 4-7
Saturdays, Oct. 11 and Dec. 13 from 10:15-11 a.m.
Hey there, Grades 4-7! We’re excited to invite you to our book club, perfect for you and a favorite adult! We’ll have yummy beverages and delicious breakfast snacks to enjoy while we chat about the book. Don’t forget, if you register, you can pick up your free copy of the book—to keep!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. We can’t wait to see you there! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Code Crackers*
Grades 2-3
Saturdays, Oct. 11 and Dec. 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Hey there, 2nd and 3rd graders! Do you love solving mysteries? If so, come join us for Code Crackers, our super fun book club where we dive into all kinds of mystery books! And guess what? The book isn’t just for borrowing—it’s yours to keep! Make sure to register so you can pick up your free copy at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. We can’t wait to see you there! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Family Board Games
Ages 8 and up
Wednesdays, Aug. 27 and Sept. 24 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Come take advantage of the library’s amazing board game collection, learn a new game, and connect with your family and the community at our Family Board Game events. Staff will be on hand to explain the rules and guide the fun, and all games will be available for checkout after the event. No registration required.
Renegade Writers*
Grades 4-7
Thursdays, Sept. 25, Oct. 9, and Nov. 20 from 7-8 p.m.
Join us every month as we dive into the world of creative writing. We will try out different genres and writing styles. Participants will also get a journal to decorate. Registration required.
Growing up in the 1950s*
Grades 2-5
Saturday, Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Do you think you would have liked growing up in the 1950s? What kind of hobbies would you have? What kind of crafts would you have made? Registration is required. Part of One City One Book.
Haunted StoryWalk®
Ages 2-10
Saturday, Oct. 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join us for a family-friendly spooktacular outdoor trick-or-treat event! Visit the StoryWalk® behind the Bennett Civic Center Library, read the story, and pick up a few (non-candy) treats along the way. There will also be photo ops and a Scarecrow Bubble Show! This is a drop-in event; families may visit any time between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Kids are encouraged to attend in costume and bring a treat bag.
Candy Taste Test*
Grades 5-7
Monday, Nov. 3 from 7-8 p.m.
Are you ready for some sweet treats? Join us as we try out different candies and find out which one comes out on top! Registration required.
Scavenger Hunts
All ages welcome
New every month! Can you find all of the special characters hidden across the children’s room? Find all six of them, tell a librarian, and get a special prize to take home!
Nature Nook with Braille-Enhanced Storywalk®
Enjoy some fresh air and a story! Located behind the Bennett Civic Center Library the Nature Nook was designed and completed by Eagle Scout Candidate Matthew Sas and the Storywalk® was funded by the Livonia AM Rotary. Seedlings Braille Books for Children provided the Braille enhancement. Stories will be available in the Nature Nook from about April through October.
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
All ages welcome
Grab your family, get outside, and try to find the items on this outdoor scavenger hunt we created. You can also check out our Summer Reading Scavenger Hunts:
Scavenger Hunt :#1
Scavenger Hunt #2
Scavenger Hunt #3
Homeschooling Resources
All ages welcome
Looking for ideas to keep kids reading, thinking, and learning? Try some of these free Homeschooling Resources, including virtual tours, educational resources, and kid-friendly livestreams.
Grades 5-7
Mondays, Sept. 22, Nov. 17, and Jan. 12 from 7-8 p.m.
Come hang out for an hour of chatting about our favorite (and not-so-favorite) books, movies, and everything in between. We’ll brainstorm some cool program ideas together and munch on lots of tasty snacks.
Sensory Shenanigans
Ages 3-8
Saturdays, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, and Jan. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Children of all abilities and ages benefit from sensory-based play: it stimulates the brain and helps develop fine and gross motor skills. During the program, children will experience different sensory stations such as fidget toys, kinetic sand and more! Please wear appropriate clothing that can get a little messy! No registration required.
Club Create*
Grades 4-7
Thursdays, Sept. 18, Oct. 16, Nov. 13, and Jan. 22 from 7-8 p.m.
Do you like to be creative? Bring your creativity and join us for Club Create, where we’ll offer a different themed activity each month. Registration required.
Livonia Brick Association
Grades 3-6
Wednesdays, Sept. 10, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, and Dec. 3 from 6-6:45 p.m.
Do you like building, being creative, and working with a team? This Club is for you! We use Legos, with a basis in STEM, to create builds around a theme that changes every month. No registration required!
My First Book Club*
Grades K-2 with a grown-up
Saturdays, Sept. 6 and Nov. 1 from 10:15-10:45 a.m.
An introduction to book clubs: During this program, we will answer some questions and participate in a fun activity related to an exciting book we’ve read. All registered participants will be able to pick up a free copy of the book to keep—a valuable resource for your child’s reading journey!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Kids & Comics*
Grades 3-4
Saturdays, Sept. 6 and Nov. 1 from 11:15-11:45 a.m.
Do you love graphic novels? Join us for our fun Kids & Comics Book Club! We’ll chat about an exciting book, do a fun activity, munch on some tasty snacks, and hang out with new friends! All registered members can grab a free copy of the book—to keep!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. We can’t wait to see you there! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Graphic Novel Book Club*
Grades 5-7
Monday, Oct. 13 and Dec. 15 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
We’re excited to invite you to our fun book club all about graphic novels! And guess what? All you need to do is register, and you can snag a free copy of the book—to keep!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch starting September 15, 2025. We can’t wait to read and chat with you! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by The Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Middle-Grade Masterpieces*
Grades 4-7
Thursdays, Oct. 23 and Dec. 4 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Are you excited to explore some awesome classic books? Join us for our Middle-Grade Masterpieces book club! We’ll chat about the month’s fun read and enjoy some yummy snacks together. Best part? You get to keep the book! Make sure to register, so you can grab your free copy at the Children’s Reference Desk at the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. We can’t wait to see you there! Don’t miss out on the fun! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by The Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Don’t Read This Book!*
Grades 5-7
Hey there, awesome tweens in grades 5-7! Join us for a super fun book club just for you! We’ll hang out, play some trivia games for cool prizes, and chat about the book! Plus, everyone who registers can grab a free copy of the book—to keep!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. Can’t wait to see you there! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Empower Hour Book Club*
Grades 4-7
Saturdays, Oct. 11 and Dec. 13 from 10:15-11 a.m.
Hey there, Grades 4-7! We’re excited to invite you to our book club, perfect for you and a favorite adult! We’ll have yummy beverages and delicious breakfast snacks to enjoy while we chat about the book. Don’t forget, if you register, you can pick up your free copy of the book—to keep!—at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. We can’t wait to see you there! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Code Crackers*
Grades 2-3
Saturdays, Oct. 11 and Dec. 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Hey there, 2nd and 3rd graders! Do you love solving mysteries? If so, come join us for Code Crackers, our super fun book club where we dive into all kinds of mystery books! And guess what? The book isn’t just for borrowing—it’s yours to keep! Make sure to register so you can pick up your free copy at the Children’s Reference Desk of the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center branch. We can’t wait to see you there! Registration required. **This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Livonia Public Library**
Family Board Games
Ages 8 and up
Wednesdays, Aug. 27 and Sept. 24 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Come take advantage of the library’s amazing board game collection, learn a new game, and connect with your family and the community at our Family Board Game events. Staff will be on hand to explain the rules and guide the fun, and all games will be available for checkout after the event. No registration required.
Renegade Writers*
Grades 4-7
Thursdays, Sept. 25, Oct. 9, and Nov. 20 from 7-8 p.m.
Join us every month as we dive into the world of creative writing. We will try out different genres and writing styles. Participants will also get a journal to decorate. Registration required.
Growing up in the 1950s*
Grades 2-5
Saturday, Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Do you think you would have liked growing up in the 1950s? What kind of hobbies would you have? What kind of crafts would you have made? Registration is required. Part of One City One Book.
Haunted StoryWalk®
Ages 2-10
Saturday, Oct. 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join us for a family-friendly spooktacular outdoor trick-or-treat event! Visit the StoryWalk® behind the Bennett Civic Center Library, read the story, and pick up a few (non-candy) treats along the way. There will also be photo ops and a Scarecrow Bubble Show! This is a drop-in event; families may visit any time between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Kids are encouraged to attend in costume and bring a treat bag.
Candy Taste Test*
Grades 5-7
Monday, Nov. 3 from 7-8 p.m.
Are you ready for some sweet treats? Join us as we try out different candies and find out which one comes out on top! Registration required.
Scavenger Hunts
All ages welcome
New every month! Can you find all of the special characters hidden across the children’s room? Find all six of them, tell a librarian, and get a special prize to take home!
Nature Nook with Braille-Enhanced Storywalk®
Enjoy some fresh air and a story! Located behind the Bennett Civic Center Library the Nature Nook was designed and completed by Eagle Scout Candidate Matthew Sas and the Storywalk® was funded by the Livonia AM Rotary. Seedlings Braille Books for Children provided the Braille enhancement. Stories will be available in the Nature Nook from about April through October.
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
All ages welcome
Grab your family, get outside, and try to find the items on this outdoor scavenger hunt we created. You can also check out our Summer Reading Scavenger Hunts:
Scavenger Hunt :#1
Scavenger Hunt #2
Scavenger Hunt #3
Homeschooling Resources
All ages welcome
Looking for ideas to keep kids reading, thinking, and learning? Try some of these free Homeschooling Resources, including virtual tours, educational resources, and kid-friendly livestreams.
Sandburg Library Programs
Sandburg Library Programs
30100 Seven Mile Rd.
STORYTIMES
See our Storytime information.
Adventures in Fencing with Plymouth/Ann Arbor Fencing Academy*
Ages 6 and up
Thursday, Aug. 14 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Join us, alongside a professional fencing coach from the Plymouth/Ann Arbor Fencing Academy, for an introduction to the sport of fencing. Attendees will practice techniques with provided props. Regular equipment and gear will be for display purposes only.
Japanese Storytime with Momo Kajiwara
Ages 2-6
Wednesday, August 20 from 10:30-11 a.m.
Local music teacher Momo Kajiwara will lead us in song, movement, and storytelling in Japanese! Geared towards ages 2-6. Siblings welcome.
Baby Cafe
Infants
Fridays, Sept. 12 – Nov. 21 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Infants and their significant others can find a quiet spot to play and meet others at the same stage of life.
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
All ages welcome
Grab your family, get outside, and try to find the items on this outdoor scavenger hunt we created. You can also check out our Summer Reading Scavenger Hunts:
Scavenger Hunt :#1
Scavenger Hunt #2
Scavenger Hunt #3
See our Storytime information.
Adventures in Fencing with Plymouth/Ann Arbor Fencing Academy*
Ages 6 and up
Thursday, Aug. 14 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Join us, alongside a professional fencing coach from the Plymouth/Ann Arbor Fencing Academy, for an introduction to the sport of fencing. Attendees will practice techniques with provided props. Regular equipment and gear will be for display purposes only.
Japanese Storytime with Momo Kajiwara
Ages 2-6
Wednesday, August 20 from 10:30-11 a.m.
Local music teacher Momo Kajiwara will lead us in song, movement, and storytelling in Japanese! Geared towards ages 2-6. Siblings welcome.
Baby Cafe
Infants
Fridays, Sept. 12 – Nov. 21 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Infants and their significant others can find a quiet spot to play and meet others at the same stage of life.
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
All ages welcome
Grab your family, get outside, and try to find the items on this outdoor scavenger hunt we created. You can also check out our Summer Reading Scavenger Hunts:
Scavenger Hunt :#1
Scavenger Hunt #2
Scavenger Hunt #3
*Registration required in person or by phone.
Children under the age of five must be accompanied by a parent or a responsible caregiver over the age of 17 at all times (refer to the Livonia Public Library’s Unattended Children Policy). Children ages five through ten may use the library and attend library programs independently while a parent or caregiver over the age of 17 remains in the library. Please make arrangements for other siblings as necessary.
Children under the age of five must be accompanied by a parent or a responsible caregiver over the age of 17 at all times (refer to the Livonia Public Library’s Unattended Children Policy). Children ages five through ten may use the library and attend library programs independently while a parent or caregiver over the age of 17 remains in the library. Please make arrangements for other siblings as necessary.