Storytimes for Working Parents in the Des Moines Metro
Working parents, this one is for you!
If you have ever looked at a library storytime schedule and thought, “This looks great… if I didn’t work,” you are not alone.Thanks to an amazing request (and some serious research!) from a local parent, we have rounded up storytimes in the Des Moines metro that actually work with busy schedules. Think evenings, weekends, and flexible options you do not have to miss because of work.
Whether you are juggling school drop-offs, meetings, practices, or all of the above, these storytimes make it easier to slow down and enjoy meaningful moments with your little ones.
Are we missing your local library’s evening or weekend storytime? Shoot us a message, and we will get it added!
Bookmark these other great library sources to check out:
Evening & Weekend Storytimes in the Des Moines Metro
Below is a quick-reference list of storytimes that work well for working parents. We recommend double-checking library calendars for age ranges and occasional schedule changes. Typically, library schedules change around school breaks and summer break. Alwaya double check before you go!
Bondurant Community Library
Event Calendar: https://bondurant-ia.whofi.com/
Storytime Options:
- Saturday Stories: 3rd Saturday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Clive Public Library
Event Calendar: https://www.cityofclive.com/library/calendar.php?view=month&month=01&day=01&year=2026&calendar
Storytime Options:
- Family Storytime and/or Activity: Most Thursday evenings at 6:15 p.m.
- Saturday Stories: Various Saturdays throughout the month from 9:30 to 10 a.m.
Grimes Public Library
Event Calendar: https://grimes.librarycalendar.com/events/month
Storytime Options:
- Family Night Activity: Every Monday from 6 to 6:30 p.m.
- Baby & Toddler Open Play: 3rd Saturday from 9 a.m. to Noon
The Little Book
Event Calendar: https://www.thelittlebookdsm.com/events
Storytime Options:
- Family Read-Aloud with Des Moines Therapy Neighborhood: 2nd Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Musical Storytime with Local Performer Craig Petersen: 4th Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Pleasant Hill Public Library
Event Calendar: https://pleasanthill-ia.whofi.com/calendar/full
Storytime Options:
- Songs & Stories: 1st Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m.
Urbandale Public Library
Event Calendar: https://urbandale.librarycalendar.com/events/month
Storytime Options:
- Baby Bounce: 1st & 3rd Saturday from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.
- Family Storytime: 1st & 3rd Saturday from 10:30 to 11 a.m.
- Evening Family Storytime: Every Tuesday from 6:30 to 7 p.m.
Waukee Public Library
Event Calendar: https://waukee.librarycalendar.com/events/month
Storytime Options:
- Pajama Storytime: Every Monday from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m.
- Storytime At Home Activity Packs: Pick up every Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
West Des Moines Public Library
Event Calendar: https://www.wdmlibrary.org/events/upcoming
Storytime Options:
- Saturday Storytime: Every Saturday from 9:30 to 10 a.m. OR 10:30 to 11 a.m.
- Family Night at the Library: 1st Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Des Moines Parent Event Calendar
Stay up to date with all events happening around central Iowa with our Des Moines Parent Event Calendar. We are adding events daily! Make sure you have this resource bookmarked, and do not forget to download our FREE app for easy access. Search ‘Des Moines Parent’ in the app store.
