Bellevue Library Empowers Community Through Creative Learning
December 3, 2021 - by Sandy Vo
Bellevue Library Empowers Community Through Creative Learning
At the Bellevue Library, you’ll find more than just books. Between the divided genres and quiet atmosphere lies a community of people, programs and services dedicated to supporting avid learners and creative minds. Information Services Manager Ian Chapman said the library is a space for people to gather in comfortably.
“Whether they just want to meet up with friends, are looking for a place to study, or seeking out ways to continue lifelong learning, we’re here to support those needs,” he said.
The Bellevue Library is the largest branch in the King County Library System with support from Bellevue Friends of the Library, a nonprofit organization made up of members who volunteer their time and efforts in supporting the three major libraries in Bellevue: Bellevue Library, Lake Hills Library and Library Connection at Crossroads. Through various fundraising events, the revenue made contributes to the programs and services offered at each Bellevue location.
As the global pandemic continues on, Bellevue Library moved all programming online to keep the community safe.
“Our programs and services are offered in multiple languages and can range from free job help to teaching math to kids,” Chapman said. “We even offer take-home learning kits for specific classes for a more engaging experience.”
With holidays quickly approaching, the King County Library System is shifting to winter-focused programs like Winter Holiday Photography with Merrill Images, a class that teaches how to beautifully shoot and process photos during a season of lights and festivities. Bellevue Library also offers a hands-on creative lab that pushes creativity in science, technology and - during the holidays - a place where people can make homemade gifts.
“Our Bellevue Library Makerspace gives people access to different crafting machines like laser cutters and 3D printers," Chapman said. "Around this time of year, it becomes a popular spot for people to design and create personalized gifts.”
The holiday season is also a great time to educate the community on sustainability. Bellevue Library has partnered with the City of Bellevue to teach kids about sustainable and zero-waste goals in a fun bingo book. Download a copy of the bingo card online, or printed versions can be picked up at any of the Bellevue libraries.
The Bellevue Library looks forward to gathering people safely in their space again. In the meantime, be sure to check out their extensive list of online programs and classes on the King County Library System website. The library is still open and welcomes the community to browse books, access free online learning, streaming services and much more. And of course, they always offer a free library card!
Learn more about The Bellevue Public Library at www.kcls.org
Images courtesy of: Bellevue Public Library
This blog is part of the Heart of Bellevue: our campaign to showcase local businesses while connecting you with stories of activity, creativity and recovery. Find out about our campaign and explore more of what’s happening around Downtown.
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Bellevue Library/KCLS
1111 110th Ave NE
Bellevue, WA 98004
