Free train exhibit at the SF Public Library - Thomas the Train, Polar Express and more

Now through January 9th, the San Francisco Public Library is presenting a magical winter wonderland, All Aboard: San Francisco Public Library Holiday Train, an interactive display of beloved trains from children’s literature. Now in its third year, the electric toy train layout features the Polar Express, from the book by Chris Van Allsburg, and Thomas the Tank Engine, from the book series by W. Awdry. The trains will be on display in front of the Fisher Children’s Center, Main Library, second floor, through January 9, 2009.

Visitors can power the interactive exhibit by pushing the buttons that activate each train along the 35-foot-track. Buttons also activate ski gondolas, a Ferris wheel, animated sledders and village lights inside the glass-enclosed exhibit. Large buttons, with easy-to-read signage, make the display readily accessible to young children.

The holiday train display is the work of Roberto Lombardi, the Library’s Facilities Director, and his staff from the Facilities Engineering Unit.

The six-car Polar Express and Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends Clarabel and Annie are all Lionel O scale replicas. An additional display case identifies the different scale model trains. After pushing the buttons, young train enthusiasts can also visit the Children’s Center and check out books about trains.

Where: 100 Larkin Street (at Grove)

Hours: vary - click here for San Francisco Public Library hours