Saint Paul Central Library in Saint Paul, MN 55102

Enter this grand old building on Rice Park at street level and you might be tempted to veer left into Zelda's Coffee, serving ice cream, sandwiches, and other treats right at the library entrance. It's a good place to keep in mind during your visit, or when exploring this attraction-packed section of downtown.

The cafe is just the first of many kid-friendly conveniences here. The Teen Center, with computers, seating, and stacks, is off to the right at the end of the corridor, offering a secure haven away from the general collection on the upper levels, and definitively separate from the "little kids" space while still close by.

The Children's Library proper begins to the left, and winds through several distinct areas. Its dedicated information desk is manned by helpful library staffers, with lots of seating and tables, book displays, puppets, and much more to make a visit enjoyable.

A stage and puppet theatre at the back of the section hint at the great performances offered here during the weekly Saturday Live! program. Restrooms are in the main corridor, just outside the children's section.