Bellevue Public Library Adult Reading Program Off to Strong Start After Huge Kickoff Event

By Laura Mischke, Head of Adult Services

The Bellevue Public Library’s “Legends & Mythical Creatures” Adult Program kicked off on Sunday, April 19, with a vibrant community celebration that drew more than 1,000 attendees. Under clear, sunny skies, families and adults gathered on the library lawn to enjoy an afternoon filled with live music from Blues Agent, a variety of food trucks, and engaging activities for all ages.

Guests explored activity tables hosted by local businesses and community partners, while children and families enjoyed attractions like the bounce house, emergency vehicles, and a selfie station. Many attendees took the opportunity to register for the Adult Library Program, with early registrants receiving their choice of incentives, including themed tote bags, pens, notepads, a picnic blanket, or free treats from Monster Dogs, Gracie’s Soda and Sips, or All Puffed Up, a Greek Donut Experience.

Inside the library, visitors were invited to enjoy the opening day of “Once Upon a Quilt: Legends Told in Thread and Voice.” This quilt show explored the personal lore of quilts as expressed through fabric, pattern, and design. Along with the 44 quilts in the show, their stories were displayed, revealing the inspiration, symbolism, and meaning stitched into every quilt. 

The event marked a strong and enthusiastic start to the six-week program, which invites adults to read, attend events, and earn entries toward exciting grand prizes. 

If you missed the kickoff, there are still many opportunities to participate in special programs and win prizes. All adult registrants are entered into a drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. Throughout the program, participants can earn drawing entries by reading books or attending programs. These entries may be applied toward one of three grand prizes: The Cloak of Legends, a handcrafted reading-themed quilt; The Tome of Infinite Tales, a Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition; or The Adventurer’s Supply Kit, a collection of gift cards totaling $300 to Casey’s, Menards, and Cornhusker Auto Wash.

Find a complete listing of events here: https://ne-bellevue.civicplus.com/176/Library