Programs for Middle and High School Grades

Typewriters 101: An Introduction to Operation and Maintenance

Thursday, March 19, 1:30 – 4:30 pm

Thursday, April 16, 1:30 – 4:30 pm

SkillShare Space, Central Library

Join us 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.

Art Lab

Thursday, March 19, 2:00 – 4:00 pm

Thursday, April 16, 2:00 – 4:00 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.  

Community Salmon Release

Thursday, March 26, 4:00 – 5:00 pm

Maritime Heritage Park Amphitheatre

It’s time to say goodbye to our salmon! All are welcome to join us as we wish our community-raised chum salmon luck on the next step of their journey. From 4:00 – 5:00 pm, attendees will be invited to release a salmon fry into Whatcom Creek with the help of representatives from the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association (NSEA) and the Bellingham Public Library. Footwear with strong traction is encouraged. Family Storytime featuring salmon to follow. We hope you can join us for this special event! 

Let’s Read! A Middle Grade Book Group*

Thursday, April 2, 4:00 – 5:00 pm

Lecture Room, Central Library

For youth in 5^th – 8^th grade. Our book group meets on the second Thursday of each month, but we’ll meet on the first Thursday in April. Snacks provided. Contact Lesley at lsnorman@cob.org about registration information.

*Pre-registration is required. Space is limited. Contact Lesley at lsnorman@cob.org about registration information.

Spring Succulent Terrariums

Monday, April 6, 2:00 – 4:00 pm

Lecture Room, Central Library

For grades 5 – 8. Make and take a tiny desert landscape, complete with real succulents. All materials and snacks provided!

Correspondence Club

Saturday, April 11, 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. 

Whatcom Community College Open House Information Session

Monday, April 27, 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.