The Bellmore Memorial Library engages interests, inspires curiosity and supports the community through leadingedge technology, enriching programs and lifelong learning. Whether visitors attend a storytime in the children’s room, participate in a teen community service project or take an adult art class, the library offers a diverse selection of programs and resources tailored to a wide range of interests.
Adults
Adults can rely on the library for opportunities such as defensive driving courses, free tax assistance and virtual chair yoga from home. The library provides a welcoming environment for adults to learn new skills, meet others with similar interests, enjoy concerts or focus on personal wellness. Discussion groups are available for film enthusiasts (Reel Chat), avid readers (Departures Book Group and Truth Be Told Nonfiction Book Group) and seniors seeking social connection (Senior Small Talk). One of the library’s most popular offerings, An Afternoon of Comedy, is scheduled to return in February.
Teen Corner
The Teen Corner serves as an inviting space for students in grades 6–12 to relax, study or spend time with friends. A bulletin board highlights upcoming activities such as crafts, cooking workshops, 3D printing, games and more. A new initiative, 100 Books Before Graduation, encourages teens to read 100 books before finishing high school, with prizes available along the way; books assigned for school count toward the goal.
Teens can also support the community through volunteer opportunities. Board Game Buddies is an ongoing program where teens play board games with children. Additional service credit can be earned by participating in craft programs and donating completed projects to nursing homes or animal shelters. Teens may also earn credit from home by creating getwell cards or writing book reviews.
In The Children’s Room
The Children’s Department serves children from infant through age 12 and their caregivers. Storytimes and music classes provide sensory exploration through movement, music and stories for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Read to a Dog remains a beloved program in which children ages 4–12 read age-appropriate books to a therapy dog and an adult volunteer. Monthly scavenger hunts, LEGO/Builders Club sessions, toys and computers for games and homework are available throughout the room. Young readers can also register for the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program to work toward an exciting literacy milestone.
Whole Family Fun
Each year, library staff members design an escape room experience suitable for all ages. Families and friends gather to solve puzzles and attempt to escape the meeting room within a set time, often enjoying the challenge regardless of the outcome. When summer arrives, the community is invited to the Summer Reading Club KickOff Event in the library’s parking lot, featuring games, prizes, food, dancing and plenty of fun.
The library also offers special collections and digital resources that expand access beyond its physical space.
Library Of Things
Bellmore Memorial Library cardholders can borrow a wide assortment of items—including lawn games, musical instruments, electronics and DIY tools—at no cost. Board games have recently been added to the collection. The Library of Things allows patrons to try items before deciding whether to purchase them.
Museum Passes
For those seeking activities outside the library, museum passes are available to borrow. Many passes are now offered as printondemand, eliminating the need to visit the library to obtain them. Adult cardholders in good standing can borrow passes for destinations such as the Long Island Children’s Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, Old Westbury Gardens and additional cultural institutions.
Research
Library cardholders have access to a wide range of educational, entertaining and practical online resources. These include homework help and résumé assistance through HelpNow, family history research via Ancestry.com, ebook borrowing through Libby or Hoopla, film streaming on Kanopy and much more.
Visit bellmorelibrary.org for more information.
