why we love chapin library
Chapin Library is unique in Myrtle Beach – it’s even unique for the state. It is the only city-owned library in SC! That’s an interesting fact but what you should really know about Chapin Library is better experienced. But we’ll write about it here and hope you make time to visit/experience in person soon! Here is what makes Chapin Library so special and unique.
first some facts...
ADDRESS: 400 14th Ave N, Myrtle Beach
HOURS: Closed on Sundays.
Mon & Wed: 9a–6p
Tues & Thur: 9a–7p
Fri: 9a–5p
Sat: 9a–3p
getting a library card at chapin
You do need a different card – your regular Horry County card won’t do here. It’s super easy and it’s free (if you live in Horry or Georgetown County). You do not need a library card to enjoy the children’s programs but if you’re close enough to easily return items here then it seems silly not to go ahead and get one!
unique programs
They mix up their children’s programming with some really fun things and they’re always collaborating for even more variety.
One cool thing they do is story time at local parks (Savannah’s Playground and McLeod Park). They even have a story time at Big Air trampoline park! They also have Music & Movement which we have attended and loved. It’s fun for kids and adults to jump around to silly music. There is Messy Mini’s, Kids Yoga, Teen Karaoke, and plenty for adults too.
They always seize opportunities with big and small holidays too. Around Halloween they had a contest to decorate pumpkins as a favorite storybook character. And they created a special “bag-o-books” for Halloween along with a craft and activity.
Be sure to keep up with their programs each month by checking their calendar page and following them on Facebook.
kids section
The kids section is very large and robust. Of course there is an impressive selection of books but there is so much more! There are several cute little nooks to tuck away and read in. There are several tables for games or homework. And the younger kids play area…
Well, we’ll just say it’s going to be hard to pull your kid out of there. It is really large compared to our county libraries and it’s packed with toys. Like seriously well stocked. Most county libraries have a basket or two but Chapin has enough to fill a whole playroom!
for teens and adults
After letting the little guy run around for a while I wanted to browse the books. I immediately found a half dozen I wanted to check out. They do such a good job of putting interesting, unique and timely titles front and center. The library also does lots of book clubs, teen activities/programs, speaker series, and more. Be sure to check their website for more details!
things to do nearby
Visiting Chapin Park seems like an obvious choice. It’s right next door so you don’t have to move the car! We wrote about Chapin here.
Nance Plaza is another open green space to let kids run around in. There is a huge water fountain that could be a substitute splash pad for the warmer months. (It’s the super big kind where water easily flows over the edges.) And if Grand Strand Brewing isn’t open or busy then kids can slip over there to play with their Connect 4. Or better yet, sit down outside with a drink, appetizer and a fellow mom to properly enjoy the place.
other library reviews
We’re trying to make the rounds of all of our local libraries. You can find info on each branch that we’ve visited so far here!