Dolly Parton Imagination Library

Imagination Library provides Lucas County children one free, age-appropriate book per month from birth to their fifth birthday, regardless of income. Children enrolled at birth will have 60 books mailed to their home before kindergarten, promoting early literacy and kindergarten readiness.

Local History and Genealogy

The Library’s Local History and Genealogy Department helps to make history come alive. With access to a treasure trove of information, memorabilia, resources, and expertise, people can connect with the past by learning more about the history of their family, home, or community.

A woman sits on the left side of a little girl who is doing a learning activity. The woman is smiling while watching the little girl. The little girl looks happy to do the activity.

Ready to Read

Reading is not a natural skill; it must be taught, and learning is hard work! The Library’s nationally recognized Ready to Read program provides individualized instruction to parents and caregivers throughout the community to support them in the essential work of helping children learn to read.

Internal view of the Children's Library at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library by the Sheep in a Jeep display.

The Saloff Children’s Library

Our community’s youngest learners have access to a world of wonder at The Saloff Children’s Library. With 90% of a child’s brain development occurring by the age of five, the enriching experiences in Children’s Library help ensure that all children reach their full potential.

Tech Shelf

Up to 30,000 Lucas County households lack essential technology for full participation in our digital society. The Library’s Tech Shelf is a store designed to help bridge this gap with refurbished and new technology sold on a sliding scale based on income and household size. 

Unrestricted giving

Unrestricted gifts provide the measure of excellence for the Library to pursue new opportunities or make investments in programs or services that are of particular need to the community.