America's Independence: 250 Years Later

A group of book covers featuring American history

We hold this truth to be self-evident, that the freedom to read and think freely is a fundamentally American right upheld by the public library. In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Bellingham Public Library has gathered reading and viewing recommendations exploring a range of perspectives and is hosting a book group for adults in June to share in an America 250 discussion.

We acknowledge that our nation’s history is complex, and we encourage our community to participate in the pursuit of learning and civic engagement.

The Library is also participating in the Made By Us Wish Wall project, and will collect wishes for the future in-person at the Whatcom Museum’s Free First Friday on July 3.

America at 250: Book List and Films

America’s Founding: 250 Years Later booklist

Nonfiction and fiction titles that explore the history and founding of America from a wide range of perspectives.

photo of John Lewis in front of the US Capitol building

Explore Kanopy’s Juneteenth Collection of films and documentaries

Use your library card to reflect, learn, and celebrate with Kanopy’s thoughtfully curated film collection honoring Black history, freedom, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Through powerful documentaries, historical narratives, and contemporary stories, these films explore the significance of Juneteenth while highlighting the voices, experiences, and resilience of Black communities past and present.

Library Staff Recommendations

Klan War: Ulysses S. Grant and the Battle to Save Reconstruction by Fergus Bordewich (Adult Nonfiction)

“Klan War is a detailed political history of the US in the 1870s, when President Ulysses S. Grant tried to protect black voting rights (and lives) in the face of terrorist attacks by white supremacists in the southern states. If you like narrative histories, this one is very well-written, and a timely examination of a period of American history that usually gets about three paragraphs in high school textbooks.”

– Karen, Public Services Clerk

Subpar Parks: America’s Most Extraordinary National Parks and Their Least Impressed Visitors by Amber Share (Adult Nonfiction)

“I was genuinely surprised by the visitors who felt there were too many animals in America’s national parks, but my favorite criticism was the comment on Crater Lake: ‘Just something to look at and leave.’ Arguably true, although sadly non-specific.”

– Karen, Public Services Clerk

America 250 Local Events

Bellingham Reads Book Group in June

Tuesday, June 23, 12:00 – 1:00 pm IN-PERSON

Lecture Room, Central Library

Tuesday, June 23, 6:30 – 7:30 pm ONLINE*

Bellingham Reads is the Library’s book discussion group for adults. As the United States moves toward honoring the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, our Bellingham Reads book group will host an America 250 themed discussion on Tuesday, June 23.

The complexity of American history deserves more than one book. In recognition, June’s discussion will be a book share experience. Choose one of the following suggested titles for discussion.

• The First Conspiracy by Brad Meltzer
• Native Nations: A Millennium in North America by Kathleen Duval
• The Traitor’s Wife: The Woman Behind Benedict Arnold and the Plan to Betray
America by Allison Pataki
• Espionage and Enslavement in the Revolution: The True Story of Robert Townsend
and Elizabeth by Claire Bellerjeau

Pick one or more, or choose a different title that focuses on early American history, and then join the conversation. Meet in-person 12:00 – 1:00 pm OR *register for the online meeting at 6:30 pm online or by contacting Suzanne at scarlson-prandini@cob.org or 360-778-7236.

Whatcom Museum Free First Friday

Friday, July 3, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Whatcom Museum – Lightcatcher Building, 250 Flora St.

Join us in celebrating Free First Friday at the Whatcom Museum! There will be art, crafts and music for all ages, and you can submit a wish for our Community Wish Wall in honor of America’s 250 years of independence.

Bellingham Community Wish Wall

Hundreds of communities across the United States are hosting Wish Walls to invite visions for our nation’s future. Bellingham Public Library invites community members to share their hopes for their city, county, state, and nation with us at in-person events.

America’s Independence: 250 Years Later