A quad like no other: SouthFlorida.com

"Can we please, please, please go to the library today?" If there's one sure kid-pleaser in our family it's an afternoon out in downtown West Palm Beach. We start with the library, but our afternoon also includes time in the fountain play area, take-out pizza at outdoor picnic tables, and homemade ice cream -- all in the same quad. We park once and enjoy four activities in one afternoon.

Every Wednesday after school we head to the West Palm Beach Public Library. The marine-life themed children's department here is an absolute treasure. There are banks of computers and pint-sized tables for activities. There are Legos, puzzles, and a puppet theater. A grouping of petite chairs beckons the littlest visitors to flip through buckets of board books. The talented and creative librarians offer a variety of story times for children ages 1 to 5. This group has engineered some truly amazing preschool programs on themes ranging from The Polar Express to Curious George.

There's even a visit every summer from the West Palm Beach Fire Department -- with lights flashing and sirens blaring -- to teach fire safety. Check out the library's web site, where you'll find a roster of special events for families with children of all ages and interests.

Next, the interactive Fountain Park is a delight for little ones ready to let loose after some quiet library time. During the summer, the fountain is fenced and guarded by a city employee. There are public restrooms just outside the library, so bring a change of clothes (water shoes are a good idea) and let the kids run in and out of the choreographed isles of spraying water.

After some serious playtime at library and fountain, ravenous kids will be happy to tuck into a slice of cheese at Pizza Girls, a local favorite for a heavenly slice. Call ahead for a pie and have it waiting when the fun is done at the fountain. It is a narrow restaurant so if you have a crowd, take-out is a nice option -- remember to ask for plates. Picnic tables can be found around the fountain and in front of the library.

Last, but certainly not least, is ice cream at Sloan's. A visual as well as gastronomic extravaganza, Sloan's is a treat. The homemade ice cream is divine, but don't miss out on other dessert offerings, including slices of cake and cookies as big as your child's imagination. Sloan's also has a great novelty gift selection. Don't leave without checking out the restroom doors -- kids think they're magic.

On Thursday nights, various sponsors host "Clematis by Night" with free entertainment and vendors on Centennial Square from 5:30 p.m.�9 p.m. This event is the ideal way to end a perfect day downtown with your family. It's a beautiful thing driving home a car full of kids who are happily exhausted and fed with books piled high on their laps. Park at metered spots along the street, in one of the city garages or take the free trolley from CityPlace.

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