Lake Orion library is a good sized library with well-defined spaces. The youth section was colorful, easy to access, and had a wide variety of materials! The youth section had its own set of restrooms, a small play area, dedicated space for table games and activities, youth computers, and plentiful staff to assist young patrons. First off, we noticed the DVD selection was listed in alphabetical order with covers facing outward. My kids appreciated how easy it was to flip through them to see titles they were looking for. Also, a large selection of picture books that were also shelved this way. What a novel way to make the titles appealing to the smallest of smallest patrons!
Huge themed kit green bags were available for families, teachers, and students to check out. These were prominently displayed on a shelf. There were table top games , such as chess and checkers, out that just begged to be played!
A set of dedicated youth computers were in plain sight and open to kids games. We interacted with a youth librarian and she was pleasant, helpful, and very patient. There was a play space for preschool/toddlers that had a collection of toys, a play kitchen , and board books all within reach of small children.
We attended a StarLab event that was in the Multi-purpose room, presented by Oakland County Park System and really enjoyed ourselves! The inflatable planetarium was very neat to experience. It was very informative and interesting to learn more about our night sky. For other Star Lab events see here.
Lake Orion library had many activities for people of all ages. Please visit their even calendar to see upcoming activities, most area open to the public- though some require registration. Check activities online at Lake Orion Library Events.
We did not visit, but they did have a dedicated Teen Room for grades 6-12. Peeking in, you could see book shelves, magazines, and gaming systems geared toward this age of students.
A quick visit to the adult portion of the library led us to discover that you could check out board games! We saw plenty of kids in the adult section, but everyone was respectfully looking for what they were seeking or reading materials at one of the plentiful tables. It had spaces set aside for studying , but also many spots to just curl up with a book or two.
Much to our surprise, our local library card could be used at Lake Orion!Make sure to ask, if you ware not a resident of Lake Orion if your local area is a reciprocal library. All I had to do was show my drivers license, email, and local library card.We were able to take home several books that could be returned at our local library with the understanding that transfer can take 5-7 days and the book is not ‘checked-in’ until it reached Lake Orion Library & we would be responsible for any fines we accrued.
Currently, they also have a special traveling exhibit called Exploring Human Origins. It is based on the Smithsonian National Museum of History exhibition. It is in the lobby of the library and explores what scientists know about human evolution. The display had lots of visual guides, diagrams, and pictures. Several iPad stations were available for further exploration of the ideas displayed. It would likely be appealing for ages 8+, but could be a conversation starter for all ages. This was one of my kids favorite activities and we spent a long time reading information and went home with some books to gather more information. This exhibit is only available until August 22nd.
Overall, we spent almost 3 hours at the library! It was a pleasant afternoon and we plan on returning in the future for other Lake Orion library events. Of note, currently Lapeer Road near the library is under construction and an alternative route is advised. For hours and other information, please visit Lake Orion Library website.
KCMichigan is a PreK teacher, mom to fraternal tween twin girls, and wife to a technology-loving husband. For fun she loves to read, explore new museums or parks, and go on day adventures with her family!
Author: Amber Louchart
Amber is the proud mother to four beautiful children, Damian (27), Rosaleigh (14), Carlyn (11), and Naomi (8). Her family also includes four cats. She loves being a stay-at-home mom and feels blessed to be able to care for her children full-time and provide them with so many opportunities through Metro Detroit Mommy. In addition to Metro Detroit Mommy, Amber has a passion for hosting karaoke with Malibu Entertainment. She enjoys the metro Detroit nightlife especially, singing, dancing and meeting new people.
Amber is the proud mother to four beautiful children, Damian (27), Rosaleigh (14), Carlyn (11), and Naomi (8). Her family also includes four cats.
She loves being a stay-at-home mom and feels blessed to be able to care for her children full-time and provide them with so many opportunities through Metro Detroit Mommy. In addition to Metro Detroit Mommy, Amber has a passion for hosting karaoke with Malibu Entertainment. She enjoys the metro Detroit nightlife especially, singing, dancing and meeting new people.
