All Library programs are free of charge. Please read the following list carefully for appropriate ages, days and times. Visit the Bellingham Public Library online events calendar.
Art Lab
Thursday, August 20, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Lecture Room, Central Library
For youth in 5th – 8th grade. Feeling creative? Come to Art Lab! Each month we will focus on a specific art medium and we’ll get creative together. All supplies provided.
Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall
Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Inside Bellis Fair Mall
Come enjoy a wide array of handmade crafts and baked goods created by children 13 and under. All items are priced $5 or less; cash only sales. Fun for all ages to browse! Tables will be set up indoors throughout the Bellis Fair Mall.
Federal Civics 101: How Should We Celebrate America at 250?*
Wednesday, September 9, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Lecture Room, Central Library
In this 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this interactive workshop will explore the words and legacies of the Declaration and other “Founding Documents.” After reading the Declaration aloud and learning about its role in U.S. and global history, participants will discuss what the Declaration can mean to us now.
Program provided by Michael Bowman, Rural Civic Engagement Specialist, Office of Washington Secretary of State. Pizza will provided for participants. Registration is helpful for placing our food order, but is not required. Please join us! Click HERE to register.
Let’s Read! A Middle Grade Book Group*
Thursday, September 10, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Fireplace Room, Fairhaven Library
For youth entering 5th – 8th grade in the fall. Join us for book discussion, activities, and snacks.
*Pre-registration is required. Contact Lesley at lsnorman@cob.org for registration information.
Correspondence Club
Saturday, September 12, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
SkillShare Space, Central Library
Correspondence Club invites people of all ages and abilities to make creative mail – cards, postcards, letters, and envelopes – to connect with others near and far. Participants have access to a wide variety of supplies, including glue sticks, a diverse paper collection, scissors, envelope templates, tape, etc. Guidance is offered upon request by an experienced teacher and correspondent. At its best, mail art encourages generosity, reciprocity, delight, and gratitude.
Teen Advisory Board Meeting (TAB)*
Monday, September 14, 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Lecture Room, Central Library
Monthly meeting of the library’s Teen Advisory Board (TAB). *For more information about TAB, or how to become a member, click HERE.
Typewriters 101: An Introduction to the Operation and Maintenance
Wednesday, September 16, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
SkillShare Space, Central Library
Drop in for a hands-on exploration of one of the most revolutionary machines in the literary world: Typewriters! With a rich history that echoes through our modern era, typewriters have been employed for letter writing, remote journalism, storytelling and poetry, and even as a liberation device that enabled women to enter the office workforce in droves. Despite the ubiquity of computers and their endless ability to edit, decades later typewriters persist as writing instruments that inspire authors with a slower, more intentional writing style. The sound alone of a typewriter in use is hypnotic: from type bars hitting the cylinder to the ding warning the end of the line is mere characters away, typewriters draw you in.
With six popular models of typewriters ready for exploration, this presentation is designed to engage library patrons of all ages! Local typewriter aficionado Jennifer Dunn will provide information and tutorials about the typewriters presented as well as tips to clean and repair that dusty typewriter in your attic. The typewriters on display will have excerpts from the authors who used and popularized particular models, paper to test out and free write, and a clean/repair evaluation station for those who bring in their typewriters for an inspection and guidance.
Growing Community Through Food
Thursday, September 17, 4:00 – 5:45 pm
Lecture Room, Central Library
Join us for a celebration of the stories behind our food – where it comes from, the cultural traditions it carries, and how it nourishes both our bodies and our communities. This interactive event features short films by Connecting Community and bites provided by local chefs. Group conversations facilitated by WWU’s Community Engagement Fellows.
Together, we’ll explore:
- How local food systems help us grow community and express shared values.
- Cultural connections to food and what we need to heal and flourish.
- Ways to spark inspiration, strengthen wellness, and connect with each other.
Doors open at 3:30 pm.
Weather permitting, portions of the event will take place outdoors on the Lee Memorial Lawn.
Food and beverages will be provided!
Cost: Free and open to all!
Friends of the Library September Book Sale
Thursday, September 24, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday, September 25, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, half-price
Saturday, September 26, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm, $5/bag
Lecture Room, Central Library
Come down to the Lecture Room at the Central Library for the Friends of the Library September Book Sale and browse from a huge selection of books, DVDs, and more. There will be items for all ages and all proceeds benefit your library. Credit card and cash payments will be accepted. Check it out!
Smart Trips Workshop: Bike Maintenance
Thursday, September 24, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
SkillShare Space, Central Library
Drop by the SkillShare space to practice basic bike maintenance with Libby Chenault from Smart Trips. Learn how to lube a chain, pump a tire or fix a flat, then take your new skills home to keep your bike rolling smoothly. Find out which tools are essential, how often you should perform these simple tasks and when your bike needs a more serious repair. Note: You will not be able to bring your own bicycle into the Library for this event.
Whatcom Community College Open House Information Session
Wednesday, September 30, 3:30 – 5:30 pm
SkillShare Space, Central Library
This program provides community members with a welcoming opportunity to explore the educational options and support services available at Whatcom Community College. Drop by to find out about programs, resources, and pathways to college, and get personalized help to make informed decisions about your next educational steps. WCC staff will be able to assist with applications, accessing information, and connecting you with resources to support your learning journey.
Updated 8/14/2026
