Families with young children who rely on weekly storytimes at Bellingham Public Library should know that regular sessions are currently on a break and are not scheduled to resume until July. However, the library is not going dark on children's programming in the meantime. Special events and alternative programs continue at all branches, and the library's online events calendar is the most reliable place to find out what is coming up.
Bellingham Public Library operates three branch locations serving Whatcom County: the Central Library at 210 Central Ave in downtown Bellingham, the Barkley Branch at 3450 Woburn St, and the Fairhaven Branch at 1117 12th St. All three branches participate in rotating programming throughout the year, with the Central Library hosting the majority of special events due to its larger footprint and meeting room capacity.
The library's storytime programming typically follows the school year calendar, with breaks corresponding to teacher professional development periods and summer transitions. The gap between the end of spring storytimes and the July restart is a normal part of the annual cycle. Staff use this window to prepare for summer programming and to coordinate the library's summer reading program, which runs June 1 through September 1 for kids, teens, and adults. The summer reading program offers participants a chance to log reading time and earn small incentives throughout the summer months.
Between now and the July storytime restart, the library is offering a variety of children's programs at different dates and times. The library encouraged families to check the full online events calendar or stop by any branch to pick up a printed monthly calendar. Printed calendars are available at all three locations and list the full schedule of programs across all age groups.
Bellingham Public Library programs are free of charge, and no library card is required to attend most public events. Children's programs typically include age-specific activities such as craft projects, STEM activities, games, and guest presenter programs. Some events require registration to manage capacity, which can be completed through the same online calendar system.
The library also continues to offer its full digital library services regardless of in-person programming schedules. Cardholders have access to the children's digital library, which includes e-books, audiobooks, streaming video, and learning apps. Residents without a library card can apply online or in person at any branch.
For families who are new to Bellingham or unfamiliar with the library's programming, the storytime transition period is a good time to get oriented. Visiting any branch to pick up a printed calendar, signing up for the summer reading program, and bookmarking the online events calendar will put you in good position before the July restart. The library's children's staff are available at the branch desks to answer questions about upcoming programming and to help families find resources that fit their needs.
Regular storytimes are set to resume in July. Families interested in being notified when the fall schedule is released can follow the library's Facebook page, which posts schedule updates, program announcements, and photos from events throughout the year.
