Kids armor up during the Cool Knights program at Mentor Library

Alyssa takes a close look at a helmet that is hundreds of years old.

Ever wished you could get closer to the exhibits at the museum—so close you could touch them?

The kids who came to our Cool Knights program got to do just that.

They got to see, touch and even wear real armor from the European Middle Ages and Renaissance on Wednesday evening at Mentor Library’s Main Branch.

The armor was from the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection and included a gauntlet, crossbow bolt, close helmet, breastplate, vambrace and more.

The kids also got to learn about where the armor originated and how it was used.

Nicolas sees what it's like to wear a knight's gauntlet.

For more information on Mentor Library's children's programs, check out our event calendar. For more photos from our Cool Knights program, visit our Facebook page.

Kids can get close to awesome armor at Mentor Library

Kids will be able to see armor up close during the Cool Knights program at Mentor Library.

Ever wished you could get closer to the exhibits at the museum—so close you could touch them?

Kids can live that thrill and see real armor from the European Middle Ages and Renaissance up close during the Cool Knights program at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at Mentor Library's Main Branch.

The armor is from the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection and includes a gauntlet, crossbow bolt, close helmet, breastplate, vambrace and more. (It's OK if your kids don't know what a gauntlet or vambrace is yet. They'll learn at the program.)

Kids will even get to touch some of the armor—s0rry, not the helmet—while wearing protective gloves.

This is a hands-on program for first through fifth graders. Each child will need to have one parent with them and nobody younger than first grade will be allowed room.

The program is free. However, we ask that you register beforehand. You can sign up by calling our children's department at (440) 255-8811 ext. 221.