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Bellaire Public Library 111 S. Bridge St. Bellaire MI 49615 |
Spring/Summer Hours Monday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm Saturday 10 am to 2 pm |
Library of Things Gardening tools for removal of invasive species plants Hotspots to use reliable internet access in our area for free! Nintendo Switch (What a fun family game night idea!) Chromebooks that you are able to check out and bring home to use. Launchpads- preloaded tablets with educational STEM games and eBooks for ages 3-10. Wonderbooks- picture books, chapter books, and graphic novels with a built-in audiobook that will read aloud to the child! They still get to turn physical pages and see the beautiful illustrations. Metal detector Singer sewing machine Video Projector with screen 3-D printer that is available for you to use in the library Pickleball outdoor set STEM Kits Come in and check out all we have to offer! |
From the Director... Tom Shilts Exciting news! Bellaire Public Library is the proud recipient of a Children’s Book Project grant from the Pilcrow Foundation of Cottage Grove, Oregon. This will allow us to add $1,200 worth of high-quality books to our children’s nonfiction collection at a local cost of only $400 in matching funds. But let’s back up. Just why is the Pilcrow Foundation making a grant to our little library tucked away in northern Michigan? According to the Foundation’s website, “We recognize the importance of public libraries in rural communities. Libraries are often the center of the community, where people come together to learn and share ideas. Providing quality children’s books to rural public libraries ensures an opportunity for active engagement within the community and lifelong learning.” We at Bellaire Library most certainly share these sentiments. You can help us raise the local funding for this project by making a donation of any size to the Friends of the Bellaire Public Library, either at the library or by mail to Bellaire Public Library, Children’s Book Project, P.O. Box 477, Bellaire, MI 49615. |
Summer Reading Program: "Color Our World"
Summer reading is such an exciting time at the library and our programs director, Dawn, has all kinds of awesome activities in store! The events are weekly starting June 10th until July 24th. This summer we’re transforming into The Art & Story Studio for our 2025 Summer Reading Program! We will be buzzing with color, creativity, imagination, and connection. From paint-splattered stories to hands-on art adventures, The Art & Story Studio is your home base where you’ll uncover new ideas, bring your imagination to life, and experience the wonder of books like never before. Let’s make this summer a masterpiece—let’s Color Our World together! Registration is now open, you can stop by the library to sign up, call us at 231-533-8814, or go to our website: |
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KICKOFF EVENT at JRR Elementary School
June 10th, 1:45pm-2:45pm
JRR Elementary:
6535 John R Rodger Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615
We're kicking off our Color Our World Summer Reading Program with something wild and wonderful- a special visit from Raven Hill Discovery Center! Join us at JRR Elementary School for their Animals-to-go Assembly. Bring the whole family and celebrate the start of a colorful summer full of reading, exploring, and imagination.
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Popsicle Art Quilt
Every Day, All Day
Bellaire Public Library
This is what is called a "passive program". It's for all ages- kids, teens, adults, the whole community! Every time you visit the library this summer, stop by the popsicle art station. Grab a popsicle stick and some colorful Sharpies, decorate it however you like, come back and add more each time you visit! We will put all the decorated sticks together to make a big, beautiful popsicle art quilt for everyone to enjoy.
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A Splash of Color Book Club (Ages 16+)
Friday June 27th, 10:00am
Bellaire Public Library
Join us, as part of our Color Our World theme, for a lively, book-loving experience where each participant will choose and read a book with a color in the title- think The Color Purple, White Oleander, Anne of Green Gables. Pick you favorite genre- romance, mystery, memoir, sci-fi, etc, and let's chat about the stories that speak to us.
Expect thought-provoking book discussions, tasty refreshments, and a fun prize. Whether you're a curious reader or a seasoned bookworm, this club is your chance to read, reflect, and add a little more color to your summer.
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T-SHIRTS FOR TOTES- Tween & Teen Night
(ages 10-17)
Monday, June 23rd, 5:00-7:00pm
Bellaire Public Library
Come join us in making these no-sew, easy and fun tote bags! Up-cycling for a great cause- helping our neighbors in need. We will be making two totes- one to keep and one will be donated to a local food pantry. Please register your attendance so we have plenty of food and fun on hand for everyone! (register on our website calendar https://www.bellairelibrary.org or call us at 231-533-8814)
What to bring: two, three, or more! Gently used or new t-shirts (all other supplies provided)
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Paint to Page- A little field trip!
Thursday June 19th, 10:00am
Bellaire Public Library and Bellaire Hardware
Let's take a colorful adventure from books to brushes!! We'll meet at the library, then take a short walk across the parking lot to visit the local paint store and discover how paint is made. After our behind-the-scenes tour, we'll head back to the library to create our very own Summer Reading posters using bright colors and big imaginations! This might get messy so dress accordingly.
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Little Pages, BIG Color
Thursday June 26th, 10:00am
Bellaire Public Library
It's a colorful Storytime Adventure with MSU Extension here at the library with a vibrant storytime featuring a colorful tale, a tasty rainbow-inspired snack, and a chance to create your very own paper journal. It's a hands-on, heart-full experience where little ones can read, snack, and craft their way through a world of color. Perfect for all of our summer readers!
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Bellaire Garden Club Plant Exchange
Saturday June 7th, 10:00am- 2:00pm
Bellaire Public Library
Stop by the library from 10am until 12 noon, Saturday, June 7th to participate in a plant exchange sponsored by the Bellaire Garden Club. Drop off plants and/or pick up a few. Happy Gardening!
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AUTHOR EVENT with Tim Mulherin
Thursday June 12th, 6:30-7:30pm
Bellaire Public Library
Join us as we welcome Tim Mulherin, author of his latest book, This Magnetic North: Candid Conversations on a Changing Northern Michigan. Discover the changing face of one of America's favorite vacation destinations through the voices of those who know it best. He shares stories from his book and will lead a thoughtful discussion on the region's transformation.
Since his first visit to northern Michigan in 1986, Tim Mulherin has developed a deep love for the Leelanau and Grand Traverse area. His writing reflects decades of personal connection, a passion for the outdoors, and a call for mindful tourism. He is also the author of Sand, Stars, Wind, & Water: Field Notes from Up North.
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INTRODUCING "FIELD TRIPS FOR GROWN-UPS" Applesauce Inn
Wednesday, June 18th at 2:00pm Applesauce Inn: 7296 South M-88 Highway, Bellaire MI Come with us on a little behind the scenes tour of our local gem, the Applesauce Inn, and be sure to stay for the delicious baked goods! It's always interesting to see how these businesses are run and operated. There will be three more "Field Trips for Grown-ups" this summer: - Bellaire Area Historical Museum on July 10th, 2:00pm - Grass River Natural Area on August 1st, 2:00pm - King Orchards on August 5th, 2:00pm |
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NEW ADDITIONS TO OUR LIBRARY OF THINGS!
We added some useful tools to our Library of Things thanks to a grant from the American Library Association. We have wheelchair ramps, grabbers, weighted cutlery, lots of games and puzzles to strengthen cognitive function, a cat companion for those that can't have real animals due to their living arrangements, plus other tools that are useful to those caring for a loved one. If you have a local resident library card you are welcome to check these items out. Feel free to stop in and see all we have to offer in our collection. |
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Antrim Conservation District Story Walk
4820 Stover Rd. Bellaire, MI Just a reminder that we have partnered with Antrim Conservation District to create a magical book experience. Walk through their beautiful trails while finding the pages of a beloved picture book. We change the story seasonally so it's not a onetime adventure! It is currently showcasing Owl Babies by Martin Waddell. |
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Storytime with Miss Diane!
Every Tuesday, at 10:00am to 11:00am
Bellaire Public Library
The famous Miss Diane reads a story, and the kids have a snack and craft activity after. |
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Tech Tuesdays with Gabe
Every Tuesday, 11:00am- 3:00pm
Bellaire Public Library
Every Tuesday Gabe is here to help you with any tech questions you have. He is a wealth of knowledge. Feel free to bring laptops or other devices you would like more guidance using. Additionally, computer skill classes can be arranged upon request. |
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Medicare Seminar
May 7, 1:30pm-2:30pm
Bellaire Public Library
We are still here for your Medicare Information needs, the first Tuesday of every month. Learn more about all aspects of Medicare from Jennifer Marie McDonnell, "The Insurance Guru". She has 20 years of experience as a Medicare expert.
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Spanish Speaking Cohort
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm
Bellaire Public Library
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Kids Coding Club!
Every third Saturday of the month, 10:00am June 21st
Bellaire Public Library
Join us every third Saturday of the month. This is an opportunity for kids to explore the world of computer coding at their live. Students use activities from code.org, Scratch, and devices like Snap Circuits, Mindstorm Lego, and various robots to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. For ages 8-13, registration is required either online by clicking on the calendar on our website, bellairelibrary.org or call the library at 231-533-8814. This is a free program, all supplies are provided. |
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Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall Is it a murder mystery? Yes. Is there a little romance, maybe a love triangle? Yes. Is it pastoral, set in the English countryside? Also yes. Some mysteries or thrillers are fast-paced, adrenaline pumping, and have you on the edge of your seat. Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall isn't that, but that doesn't mean it's lacking in twists and turns, mind puzzling clues, or tense moments. Oh no, it's somehow both quiet and striking. I audibly gasped at parts. There's some scandal, but it's more than that. It's a look at how people handle grief and loss. I enjoyed every moment. You might end up ignoring all your summer chores, but it will be worth it. |
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Abundance
by Ezra Klein
A compelling exploration of how systemic scarcity in areas like housing, healthcare and climate action stems from outdated solutions emphasizes the need for a mindset shift toward abundance and proactive systems to drive transformative progress.
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The writer : a thriller
by James Patterson
When the husband of bestselling true-crime author Denise Morrow is found dead in their luxury apartment, NYPD Detective Declan Shaw must unravel whether she is a target, a victim, or the mastermind behind a chilling plot.
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Heartwood : a novel
by Amity Gaige
"In the heart of the Maine woods, an experienced Appalachian Trail hiker goes missing. She is forty-two-year-old Valerie Gillis, who has vanished 200 miles from her final destination. Alone in the wilderness, Valerie pours her thoughts into fractured, poetic letters to her mother as she battles the elements and struggles to keep hoping. At the heart of the investigation is Beverly, the determined Maine State Game Warden tasked with finding Valerie, who leads the search on the ground. Meanwhile, Lena, a seventy-six-year-old birdwatcher in a Connecticut retirement community, becomes an unexpected armchair detective. Roving between these compelling narratives, a puzzle emerges, intensifying the frantic search, as Valerie's disappearance may not be accidental"
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Great big beautiful life
by Emily Henry
Avery, eager to break free from her uptight ways, turns to notorious flirt Taylor for lessons in confidence, but as their connection deepens, both must face their growing feelings and the risks of falling for each other
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The names
by Florence Knapp
Cora's hesitation to name her son triggers three alternate paths over thirty-five years, revealing the lasting impact of domestic abuse and the complexities of family in her search for autonomy and healing.
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The grandest game
by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Seven players in the Grandest Game, an annual competition run by a billionaire to give anyone a shot at fame and fortune, are pushed to their limits physically, mentally and emotionally. It quickly becomes clear that not everyone is playing by the rules.
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Stalactite & Stalagmite : a big tale from a little cave
by Drew Beckmeyer
Two cave nubs, Stalactite and Stalagmite, witness the history of the world together. Including watching a trilobite, an ichthyostega, a triceratops, a ground sloth and a bat pass through their cave, and eventually grow enough to finally touch.
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More New Titles
Adult Fiction - The Summer Guests by Tess Gerritsen - Bitterfrost by Bryan Gruely - The Trouble Up North by Travis Mulhauser - Lethal Prey by John Sandford - Summer in the City by Alex Aster - Strangers in Time by David Baldacci - South of Nowhere by Jeffery Deaver - The Sirens by Emily Hart - Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez - Tilt by Emma Pattee - The Perfect Divorce by Jeneva Rose - A Mind of her Own by Danielle Steel - Grimms Complete Fairy Tales |
Adult Nonfiction - Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient cultures can teach us about the lost art of Raising Happy, Helpful little Humans by Michaellen Doucleff - Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House by Jonathan Allen - The Photo Ark: One man's Quest to Document the World's Animals by Joel Santore - The House of my Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom by Shari Franke Large Print - Story of my Life by Lucy Score - The Page Turner by Viola Shipman Young Adult - Heiress Takes it All by Emily Wibberley |
Children's - If a Petoskey Stone Could Talk by Brittany Darga - A Bear called Paddington by Michael Bond - Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb by Al Perkins - Dr. Seuss's ABC: an Amazing Alphabet Book! by Diane Seuss - Fox in Socks: Dr. Seuss's book of Tongue Tanglers by Diane Seuss - Inside the Villains by Clotilde Perrin We added a lot of new graphic novels in anticipation of the summer reading program! Come check them out: - Mexikid: A Graphic Memoir by Pedro Martin - A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat - Mindy Makes some Space by Nathan Fairbairn - Choosing Sides- Sweet Valley Twins by Nicole Adelfinger - The Haunted House- Sweet Valley Twins by Nicole Adelfinger - Best Friends- Sweet Valley Twins by Nicole Nicole Adelfinger - Duel by Jessixa Bagley - The First Cat to Space and the Soup of Doom by Mac Barnett - Witches of Brooklyn - Spell of a Time by Sopie Escabasse - Witches of Brooklyn- S'more Magic by Sophie Escabasse - Noodle and Bao by Shaina Lu - Break by Kayla Miller - Sunset of the Sabertooth- Magic Treehouse by Mary Pope Osborne - Button Pusher by Tyler Page - The Leak: For the Love of Truth by Kate Read Petty - Buzzing by Samuel Sattin - Kate the Catsitter by Colleen A. Venable - Kate the Catsitter- Secrets and Sidekicks by Colleen A. Venable |
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