Tiny Weekends
The newly-renovated Hockessin Public Library.
Photo: Cschroeder999 (Wikimedia Commons)
Library

Hockessin Library

Three separate story times by age — Book Babies, Toddler Tales, and Rhythm, Rhyme and Story Time — plus book groups split by grade, and free parking in its own lot.

1023 Valley Rd, Hockessin, DE 19707, USA, Hockessin, DE 19707

Hours

Hours not posted

Last checked 2026-08-21

Cost
Free
Best for
All ages
Indoor / outdoor
Indoor
Typical visit
1–1.5 hours
Stroller friendlyBathroomsChanging tableShadeNot fencedNo food on siteEasy parking

A neighbourhood branch with a childrens section and story times; a dependable indoor stop when you need one.

15 upcoming events here →

The Quick Version

  • • Three story times split by age run most weeks: Book Babies, Toddler Tales, and Rhythm, Rhyme and Story Time.
  • • Book groups are split by grade — 5 & 6 year olds, 7 & 8 year olds, a family group, and a teen group for 12–17 — plus youth and teen Dungeons & Dragons.
  • • Free lot on site, stroller-friendly, changing table available. Closed Thursdays; Friday hours are 10 AM–1 PM.

Best Ages

All ages

Plan For

1–1.5 hours

Admission

Free

What to Expect

What sets Hockessin apart is how finely the kids' calendar is sliced. Instead of one catch-all story time there are three — Book Babies, Toddler Tales, and Rhythm, Rhyme and Story Time — each running most weeks, so you're not squeezing a six-month-old in next to a five-year-old. Book groups keep going with that logic: separate ones for 5 & 6 year olds, 7 & 8 year olds, families, and teens 12–17, alongside Kids Hang Out, Little Explorers, teen and youth Dungeons & Dragons, and a Teen Writers' Circle.

Practically it's an easy stop: free lot, stroller-friendly, changing table. Watch the opening days: Thursday is closed and Friday ends at 1 PM.

Who It's Best For

The age-split calendar is the point: Book Babies and Toddler Tales for the youngest, story time and Kids Hang Out in the middle, book groups broken out for 5–6 and 7–8 year olds, and D&D and a Writers' Circle for teens.

Highlights

Three story times, split by age

Under 5

Book Babies, Toddler Tales, and Rhythm, Rhyme and Story Time all run most weeks — pick the one that matches your kid.

Book groups by grade

Ages 5–17

Separate groups for 5 & 6 year olds, 7 & 8 year olds, families, and teens 12–17.

Easy logistics

All ages

Free dedicated lot, stroller-friendly inside, and a changing table — rare to have all three confirmed.

Logistics

Admission

Free admission

Free, like all Delaware public libraries. Some programs may need sign-up.

Membership tip: A free Delaware library card also lets you reserve free passes to Delaware State Parks and the Brandywine Zoo through the libraries' Museum Pass program (one pass per card at a time).

Getting There

Parking

Ample free off-street parking in a dedicated lot.

Easy — pull straight into the lot.

Entrance

1023 Valley Rd, Hockessin.

Parent Logistics

Strollers Friendly

Stroller-friendly.

Bathrooms

Not confirmed — ask at the desk.

Changing Tables

Changing table available.

Shade

Indoors.

Food & Snacks

No food on-site. No food service — it's a library.

Snack strategy: Eat before or after.

Pro Tips

  • ✓ Thursday is closed; Friday is a short 10 AM–1 PM window.
  • ✓ Mon–Wed run to 9pm, which makes this a workable after-dinner stop.
  • ✓ Check the branch calendar and sign up where needed; the story times and book groups are age-specific, not one-size-fits-all.

When to Go

Best Time to Visit

Monday–Wednesday 10 AM–9 PM offers the widest window. Thursday is closed; Friday 10 AM–1 PM, Saturday 10 AM–5 PM, and Sunday 1–5 PM. Confirm holiday closures with the branch.

Seasonal Notes

Hours: Mon–Wed 10 AM–9 PM; Thursday closed; Friday 10 AM–1 PM; Saturday 10 AM–5 PM; Sunday 1–5 PM. Check the branch page for holiday closures.

Rainy Day?

A free indoor option in Hockessin with kids' programs on the calendar most weeks.

Upcoming Events

Little Explorers

Oct 26 · Nov 23

Free Ages 2–5 indoor

Children ages 2-5 and their caregivers can explore and play together with a variety of activities. The program typically includes options like hopscotch, a balance beam, a tunnel, activity mats, stringing beads, sensory bins, and a reading nook.

More info

Youth Dungeons & Dragons

Mondays · next Mon, Oct 26 at 4:00 PM (3 dates)

Free Ages 10–12 indoor
RSVP

Kids aged 10-12 can dive into the imaginative world of Dungeons & Dragons, learning the ropes of character creation, roleplaying, and combat skills in a friendly, beginner-focused setting. They'll join a group to embark on an epic adventure, slaying foes and protecting the innocent, all while developing problem-solving and social skills.

More info

Rhythm and Rhyme Preschool Story Time

Tuesdays · next Tue, Oct 27 at 10:15 AM (4 dates)

Free Ages 3+ indoor

Families will enjoy a mix of picture books and musical songs designed for preschoolers and their caregivers. The session takes place in a quiet, child-friendly room with a focus on early literacy and interactive reading.

More info

Rhythm, Rhyme and Story Time

Tuesdays · next Tue, Oct 27 at 10:15 AM (4 dates)

Free Ages 3–12 indoor

Families can look forward to an engaging session filled with interactive stories, lively songs, and perhaps some gentle movement activities designed to capture the attention of preschoolers. Kids will get to practice listening skills, participate in call-and-response, and enjoy a shared group experience, while parents can relax knowing their little ones are entertained and learning in a stimulating environment.

More info

Teen Writers' Circle

Tuesdays · next Tue, Oct 27 at 4:00 PM (3 dates)

Free Teens Tweens indoor
RSVP

The Hockessin Library's Teen Writers' Circle offers a space for aspiring authors to receive feedback on their writing. Participants can share poems, essays, or longer works to get criticism or compliments. The circle aims to support and inspire young writers in completing their projects.

More info

5 & 6 Year Olds Book Group

Oct 27 · Nov 24

Free Ages 5–6 indoor

Kids aged 5 and 6 can join a lively book discussion about "Dinosaurs Before Dark Illustrated Edition" by Mary Pope Osborne. They'll share their thoughts on the story, enjoy a provided snack, and parents can expect a structured, literacy-focused activity in the library's community room.

More info

Toddler Tales

Wednesdays · next Wed, Oct 28 at 10:05 AM (4 dates)

Free Babies & Toddlers indoor

Bring your little one (18-35 months) for an engaging morning of stories, songs, and interactive fingerplays designed to captivate their attention and encourage early literacy. Caregivers can expect a relaxed atmosphere where toddlers can wiggle, sing along, and enjoy age-appropriate tales with their peers.

More info

Book Babies

Wednesdays · next Wed, Oct 28 at 10:50 AM (4 dates)

Free Ages 2 and under indoor

Bring your little one for a cozy morning of early literacy fun designed specifically for newborns up to 17 months. You and your baby will enjoy gentle stories, interactive fingerplays, and songs, providing a wonderful opportunity for sensory stimulation and social interaction in a calm environment.

More info

Kids Hang Out

Wednesdays · next Wed, Oct 28 at 4:30 PM (4 dates)

Free Ages 3–12 indoor

Kids can dive into a world of creativity and play at the library's new 'hang out' spot. They'll have access to various building materials, including LEGOs, to construct their own masterpieces. For those who love gaming, there will be kid-friendly games available on the Nintendo Switch, plus the chance to play NBA Math Hoops.

More info

Family Book Group

Oct 28 · Nov 25

Free Ages 8+ indoor
RSVP

Families with children aged 8 and older can join a book discussion. This month's selection is 'I Survived the American Revolution, 1776' by Lauren Tarshis. Participants can pick up copies of the book in advance from the Children's Room.

More info

Teen Dungeons & Dragons

Nov 2 · Nov 16

Free Ages 13–17 indoor
RSVP

Participants can craft a character and collaborate with other players to tell a story and defeat evil in the land of Lurith. This program offers an opportunity for roleplaying and strategy.

More info

Teen Book Group 12 - 17 Year Olds

Wed, Nov 4 at 4:15 PM

Free Ages 12–17 indoor

Teens are invited to a book discussion group focusing on a specific title each month. Participants can check out copies of the featured book from the Teen Section prior to the meeting.

More info

Craft Zone

Tue, Nov 10 at 4:45 PM

Free Ages 6–12 indoor

Children can participate in a craft program where all supplies are provided. This activity is designed to encourage creativity and fine motor skills, with participants making a unique item to take home.

More info

Family Movie - The American Experience

Sun, Nov 15 at 1:30 PM

Free Families indoor

Gather your family for a free screening of Disney's Newsies, a lively musical that tells the inspiring true story of the 1899 New York City newsboy strike. Kids will enjoy the catchy songs and energetic dance numbers while learning about a pivotal moment in American history where young people fought for change. Parents can expect a PG-rated film that runs just over two hours, offering a blend of entertainment and a valuable lesson in social justice.

More info

TeensCreate - Leaf Printed Tote Bags

Tue, Nov 17 at 4:15 PM

Free Ages 12+ indoor

Teens will use natural leaves and fabric paint to design unique tote bags in a hands-on art session. The library provides all materials and includes snacks during the event.

More info

7 & 8 Year Olds Book Group

Tue, Nov 17 at 4:15 PM

Free Ages 7–8 indoor

Kids aged 7 and 8 will gather to discuss "The Fenway Foul-Up" by David Adler, sharing their thoughts and interpretations of the story with peers. They'll engage in a structured conversation about the book, fostering critical thinking and social interaction, all while enjoying a provided snack.

More info

Friends of the Hockessin Library Book Sale

Nov 20 · Nov 21

Free indoor

Families can browse through a wide selection of gently used books for all ages, from board books for little ones to novels for teens and adults. Kids can enjoy the thrill of picking out their own stories, while parents can discover new reads and support the local library. Expect a treasure hunt atmosphere with plenty of literary finds.

More info

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