Bellingham Public Library joins libraries nationwide in celebrating the many ways libraries support strong communities, during National Library Week, April 7-13, 2019.
Bellingham Public Library Director Rebecca Judd said she is particularly proud to celebrate National Library Week this year, with Washington resident and renowned philanthropist Melinda Gates serving as honorary chair.
In her statement kicking off National Library Week, Gates praised libraries and library workers for their contributions to strong communities.
“In addition to providing communities with access to ideas and information, libraries play an important role in our public life by encouraging creativity, promoting equality, and serving as a source of empowerment,” she said.
Over the last 20 years, Gates has invested more than $1 billion through her foundation’s Global Libraries initiative to enhance the power of libraries to improve lives. She has dedicated her life to achieving transformational improvements in the health and prosperity of families, communities and societies. As co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, she sets the direction and priorities of the world’s largest philanthropy.
National Library Week, this year April 7-13, is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and communities.
National Library Week 2019 coincides with the launch of Bellingham Public Library’s Community Conversations, an effort to learn about people’s aspirations for our community, as part of planning for Bellingham Public Library’s future. More information: Community Conversations.