Summer fun around the branches
The Library is especially important in the summertime. It’s a refuge from the heat and a main source for books and knowledge when school is out. And it fulfills a key need to keep kids, families, and people of all ages entertained – all for free.
The Foundation provides each Library region with flexible funds to help put on special programs, events, and celebrations to help make summer extra fun and memorable.
Here is a look at some of the ways the Library engaged communities across the city this summer, thanks to your support:
Sparking wonder in West Seattle
The “Wonder Wednesdays” program invites Seattle Housing Authority resident families for all-day summer camps at Camp Long! High Point Branch staff work with SHA and the Parks Department to organize rock climbing, nature walks, arts and crafts, and field games for kids. Participants also get books to take home. This year, beloved West Seattle teacher Mr. Akim also led a live music lesson!
Picking out new clothes downtown
The third annual Young Adult Resource Fair at the Central Library included an expanded clothing “closet” with free items to take home. Kendra and her daughter Maliyah were among its many visitors. “It’s so easy to spend money, and I worry about having enough for her, so finding this is amazing,” Kendra said. “Plus, she has good luck finding the good stuff.”
Celebrating 20 years in Northgate
The Northgate Branch opened in 2006 as one of four new neighborhood branches funded by the Libraries for All campaign. Over the past 20 years it has become an essential hub for the surrounding community, which celebrated its anniversary together in mid-July. In addition to a “birthday party” with free cake and special guests, anniversary events included a West African dance workshop, interactive mixed media arts and crafts session, and a magic show.
Meeting firefighters in Wallingford
Firefighter Story Time is always a popular program, but its long-awaited return to the Wallingford Branch exceeded expectations. Families filled the meeting room to capacity (and used up all the stroller parking space) at the small branch which does not typically host large programs. Firefighters read a story, demonstrated protective gear, and imparted safety lessons. Afterward, attendees visited the fire engine parked outside. “This clearly resonated with families and the community,” said Daniel Nguyen, a regular supervising librarian at Wallingford. “The energy and turnout really underscored the value of bringing this program back.”
Programs like these are made possible in part thanks to gifts from our generous donors. Your gift to the Foundation supports enriching experiences for people from all backgrounds at the library. Give today to invite more families to find joy and belonging at the Library.