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’re also sharing wishes from Bellingham community members for the next 250 years!

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

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

Bellingham Community Wish Wall

In recognition of America 250, hundreds of communities across the United States are hosting Wish Walls to invite visions for our nation’s future. Bellingham Public Library and Whatcom Museum invited the community to submit their wishes at the Museum’s Free First Friday event at the Lightcatcher Building on July 3rd and in the Children’s Department at the Central Library.

We’ll share a selection of the wishes that were collected here on a rotating basis, and on the digital signboards located at all BPL locations. Thank you to all who shared their wishes with us.