Children's Home: Welcome to the Children's Department

Morse Institute Library Children's Department

Children

How do I...?

You can find the standard library hours, as well as holiday hours, on our website here. Anytime the library is open, the children’s department is open.

The first step in getting a library card for anyone of any age is to provide proof of address. Most people use an ID for this (like a driver's license). In the case that the address on your ID is not your current address, a piece of official mail can be used to verify your address in addition to your photo ID. For example, a utility bill functions as a piece of official mail, but junk mail does not. An active library card with your current address can also be used to verify a child’s address. For a child to get a library card, they must be five years old and able to write their first and last name (although some help from an adult is allowed). A parent/guardian with proof of address must also be present.

You can use your library card at any of the 56+ public libraries in the Minuteman Library Network. For a list of the libraries in the network, click here. While you are always welcome to visit and borrow items from other libraries, keep in mind that they may not share the same policies as the Morse Institute. It is always best to double check loan and fine rules before deciding to check items out.

Parenting & Homework

Entering the online world with confidence and safety is an important milestone in any child's life. Please feel free to browse the following websites.
Net Smartz
American Academy of Pediatrics (Social Media and Youth Mental Health)
Massachusetts Internet Safety Resources

Need a little guidance with your next homework/research project? Please feel free to browse our resources below.
Hoopla
Gale in Context: Elementary
Gale in Context: Middle School
Britannica Learning Zone
Britannica Library Edition for Kids
Natick Public Schools

Natick has a robust and thriving community. Here are a few spots to check out for fun things to do!
Natick Center Cultural District
Natick Farm
Natick Recreation Department
Natick Bacon Library
Massachusetts Activities for Families

In addition to these terrific resources, please take advantage of the Parenting Resources section of the children's department featuring the following topics:
Activities, Adoption, Aging, Birth and Babies, Child Development, Death and Dying, Different Abilities, Divorce, Families, Fears and Behaviors, Feelings, Health, Parenting, Personal Safety and Toilet Training.

A photo of the children's department staff.

The mission of the children's department is to provide materials, resources, services and support for children ages birth through grade six. The staff has developed a variety of handy resources that include videos, parenting materials, homework help and suggested reading lists for children and their grownups.
Have fun!