Summer Fun with El Paso Public Library

Hey Winefam, summer in El Paso is almost here, and you already know what that means. Hot afternoons, snack requests every 12 minutes/seconds, and everyone needing something to keep them busy. I have a free and practical resource for you. Bonus points: A/C, group activities, and lots of learning.

While we are all applying for camps, and making plans for the summer it can be stressful. Ive spent many summers trying to cram each day with something “enriching”. El Paso has so many libraries you could visit one each week of summer and find a different activity at each one, bonus points they have Lego play on Fridays, and story times. You don’t have to spend $100 a week to try and not bore your family to death.

One easy summer resource I think more families should use is the El Paso Public Library.

A library card is free for City of El Paso residents and military families at Bliss, and it gives families access to so much more than books. With an El Paso Public Library card, you can check out books and magazines, borrow eBooks and eAudiobooks, use library computers, and access online research tools, databases, and digital resources. If you’re interested in the many classes they offer check them out here.

For parents, this is a simple way to keep kids reading during summer break without buying new books every week.  It is also a great option for hot days with quiet afternoons, screen-free time, or building a simple summer reading routine at home. Try their program, Reading in the 915, for a chance to win prizes. To be honest, one of my favorite parts of childhood: heading to the library. 

To apply for a General Library Card, you can visit any El Paso Public Library branch or complete the application online(waiting 3 days for the physical card). You will need a government-issued photo ID with your current address. If your ID does not show your current address, bring proof of address, such as a utility bill, lease, bank statement, mortgage statement, voter registration card, or another approved document. Fort Bliss families, your orders qualify you for a card, and it’s FREE. Apply here.

And for families who cannot always make it to a branch, the El Paso Public Library Bookmobile is another great option. The Bookmobile brings library access to different parts of the community, making it easier for families to check out books and use library services closer to home.

The 2026 Bookmobile route includes stops at parks, recreation centers, schools, and community locations across El Paso, including Pebble Hills Park, Veterans Park Recreation Center, Paul Harvey Park, Mission Hills Park, Madeline Park, and more.

With summer coming up, this is the perfect time to get your library card, check the Bookmobile schedule, and make the library part of your family’s routine. Whether your child loves picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, audiobooks, or just needs something new to explore, the library is one of the best free things to do in El Paso with kids.

Before the summer boredom kicks in, add “get a library card” to your family checklist.

What’s your favorite activity at your local library? Come back next week for another Mom Tip Tuesday 🙂

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Cheers,

Amber

A devoted mom of three, full-time RN, and unapologetic lover of Jesus, Amber is navigating life one shift, school pickup, and glass of Cabernet at a time. Through her blog, she shares the unfiltered reality of balancing motherhood, faith, career, and the occasional meltdown, with humor, grace, and a whole lot of carbs. Carbs & Cabernet is more than a blog, it’s a space for women who are doing their best, even when life feels like a beautiful mess. Amber opens up about the joys and struggles of parenting, her walk with Christ, the challenge of showing up fully as both a professional and a parent, and why sometimes the best therapy is girl talk and garlic bread. If you’re looking for honest encouragement, practical tips, and a little reminder that you’re not alone, you’re in the right place.