Columbus Library hosts open houses for families to explore school success programs

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — As students return to school, the Columbus Metropolitan Library is supporting K-12 learners with several programs designed to help them succeed.

To kick off the upcoming academic year, the library has announced it is having a series of open houses for families to meet staff and receive more information about what it has to offer. The events will take place at the main library and its 19 area branches on various days and times from Aug. 19-29. Parents can check its website for details.

Columbus Metropolitan Library's School Help locations and hours

The library's afterschool program, “School Help,” will begin on Aug. 19. School Help is designed to provide K-12 students with access to computers and supplies, along with special assistance from staff and volunteers. The hours reflect different dismissal times in each of the school districts.

Monday through Friday: 3-6 p.m.
• Main Library (grades 6-12 only) and Barnett, Canal Winchester, Franklinton, Hilltop, Martin Luther King, New Albany, Northside, Parsons, Whetstone, Whitehall branches

Monday through Thursday: 3:30-6:30 p.m. and Friday: 3-6 p.m.
• Driving Park, Dublin, Gahanna, Hilliard, Linden, Marion-Franklin, Northern Lights and Shepard branches

Monday through Thursday: 4-7 p.m. and Friday: 3-6 p.m.
• Karl Road, Reynoldsburg and Southeast branches

Reading Buddies program

Additionally, the Reading Buddies program offers children in grades K-3 a 15-minute reading practice session. Kids can select a book at their reading level to read one-on-one with an adult.

Teens Create Open Studio locations and hours

Offered at select locations, Teens Create Open Studio is a space where teens can express their creativity, craft unique projects, make music, and connect with friends. The fall schedule starts Aug. 18.

Monday through Thursday: 3-7 p.m. and Friday 3-6 p.m.
• Main Library

Monday through Friday: 3-6 p.m.
• Gahanna branch

Monday through Friday: 3:30-6 p.m.
• Driving Park and Karl Road branches

Monday through Thursday: 3-6 p.m.
• Hilltop and Whitehall branches

Monday through Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
• Martin Luther King branch

Monday through Thursday: 4-7 p.m.
• Reynoldsburg branch

Tuesday through Friday: 3:30-6 p.m.
• Whetstone branch

After-school snack program

Certain library locations provide a free snack to children aged 0-18 through a partnership with Children’s Hunger Alliance. This initiative aims to give kids a nourishing experience. Please ask library staff for more information.