Cranston Public Library

This quaint, little library is located in an old historic building that once was a schoolhouse in Cranston! Not only does this library have history and charm, it hosts an array of books for all ages. The small touches really make this library seem welcoming and fun. For example, they have little themed gift bags filled with books, activities, and related arts and crafts that kids can check-​out of the library.
Story hour this morning with Miss Stephanie was a great time. It was so heart-​warming to see the children loving this special time to listen to stories, sing some songs, and be silly and active while being lead by a charismatic and loving librarian. Miss Stephanie allowed my little one to come even though he’s not quite 1 year yet (1 to 3 year olds is the typical range). The course runs for two months, and prior registration is required.
I love the feel of Oaklawn village area, and this library combines the historic nature of the area, along with a warm and friendly feel.
The parking lot in the back is a good size for this location, and a nice, welcome amenity since I originally thought I would have to find street parking. I look forward to coming to this branch during the warmer months, as well, but it is definitely nice to have so many good library and story hour options in our lovely state of RI in these colder months.
My little one had a grin on his face and observed all the children as they laughed, danced, clapped, and listened to this wonderful and sweet librarian, and I hope he just soaked it all in.

Old
schools
and
old trees
The city of Cranston has one main public library and five small branch libraries. This review is for the Oaklawn branch of the Cranston library system.
Old schoolhouses tend to make great libraries and in fact a lot of the small, local libraries had their beginnings as tiny schools. This former old schoolhouse is really old and was built back in 1838.
It remained a school until 1895 when a new and larger school was built and it was decided to use this as the permanent library. Other libraries were built in Cranston but this one remains as a very cool reminder of the past.
The building has had several renovations and additions during the decades but it’s schoolhouse roots are still evident. Great vaulted ceilings and rambling areas that are not necessarily logical shows that this not designed from the start as a library.
You can still see where the old, original part separates from the newer additions and it’s easy to imagine what the original school looks like. A giant, ancient tree guards the front and I suspect the tree was old before this building or perhaps even town was a thought.
Yeah, this place has books. magazine, computers, wi-​fi and all the other usual library stuff. Useful, convenient and very friendly and knowledgeable librarians make this a place that still has purpose. However it’s the history, spooky old tree and cool old building that makes this library special.