These libraries are more than just books – they’re dynamic community hubs
In Westchester, public libraries often serve as much more than book-lending spaces. Many function as town hubs for children’s programming, teen activities, adult learning, community meetings, and specialty resources like museum passes, seed libraries, and on-site cafés. If you’re touring towns, spending some time in the local library can be a surprisingly efficient way to understand the community, especially for families.
Here are several Westchester libraries that stand out for notable amenities, services, and programming.
Scarsdale Public Library
Scarsdale Public Library is one of the county’s strongest examples of a library that’s deeply woven into family life. A standout offering is My First Book Club, a recurring program designed for young readers and their caregivers, which brings families together around shared reading, discussion, and early literacy.
The Scarsdale Library has a robust lineup of monthly programming, from Mah Jongg to author talks to family-friendly bingo, arts and crafts, chess, pregnancy and postpartum support groups, and more. Popular programs and seasonal one-offs tend to fill up fast, so residents know to snag a spot in their favorites as soon as registration opens.
Rye Free Reading Room
The Rye Free Reading Room is one of the most distinctive libraries in Westchester because it pairs classic library services with creative community programs. One of its most notable offerings is the Seed Library, where patrons can check out seeds (including heirloom and organic options) to plant at home, then return collected seeds later to help replenish the program.
The library also supports community media and skill-building through RyeTV, which provides access to portable video equipment and resources for local cablecasting. This kind of programming is a good example of how Rye’s library extends beyond books into hands-on learning and community participation.
Irvington Public Library + Tiffany Reading Room
Irvington’s library system includes the main Irvington Public Library plus a unique and historic offshoot: the Tiffany Reading Room. The Tiffany Reading Room is a separate public space open on weekdays for quiet reading, studying, and small group meetings, offering a more focused environment than a typical library setting.
This popular library offers tons of unique programming throughout the year, from an ongoing adults-only game night to gallery events in the Martucci Gallery & Program Room. Library card holders can also download free ebooks via Tumblebooks (ideal for K-6 readers) and kids movies and TV shows from Kanopy Kids.
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Ossining Public Library
Ossining’s library is often cited as a major community resource, and it has received formal recognition for its programming and family appeal. According to the referenced guide, the Ossining Public Library won two Best of Westchester awards in 2023, including Best Library and Best Children’s Library.
And there are countless reasons for the recognition. Not only is the library home to books, videos, and services for all ages, but also for its endless events calendar. Weekly programs like Baby Time, Pokemon Clubs (for kids 6-12), and arts and crafts for kids and adults make this destination a go-to for everyone.
Larchmont Public Library
Larchmont’s library is another great example of a small-town library with high engagement and steady programming across age groups. The referenced guide notes that the library holds over 100,000 items, including books, CDs, and movies, and it regularly runs programs for children, teens, and adults.
One notable community initiative is Free Book Friday, when staff place carts of free books in front of the library for residents to take. Layer in ongoing programs like Afternoon Stories & Crafts (which fills up fast), LEGO Free Play, and classes from personal investing to knitting, yoga, and college prep, there’s nothing you won’t find here.
Chappaqua Library
Chappaqua Library is a key town resource with robust family programming and practical services for adults as well. In addition to lending books and e-books, it offers children’s events and the ability to reserve rooms, perfect for students, remote workers, and community groups.
This library caters to a diverse community of all ages. From Portuguese/English storytime to programs for early walkers and programs celebrating America250 in 2026, there’s no shortage of things to do for Chappaqua residents.
Making Libraries Part of Your Suburban Search
If you’re exploring Westchester towns, don’t skip the library tour. Libraries are one of the easiest ways to understand how a town supports families, through programming, gathering spaces, inclusive services, and everyday community resources. It’s also a great way to get a feel for the pace of a town outside of the school-day rush.
For more insights, visit Suburban Jungles’s New York City suburbs section and the New York City blog page on our website.
Want help narrowing in on the towns that match your family’s lifestyle priorities? Suburban Jungle Strategists can help you build a town-first plan and make your search easier (and less overwhelming!). Schedule your free initial strategy call today.
