Bellaire Public Library

Library Closed on MLK Day
2026-01-19 09:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH, 43906, United States
Holiday Closure Notice:
The Bellaire Public Library will be closed on Monday, January 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday set aside to honor the legacy of Dr. King, his commitment to education, and his unwavering pursuit of justice. We wish everyone a restful and reflective holiday.
Regular hours will resume on Tuesday, January 20.

Online offerings always available:
Even though the library will be closed, our online offerings are always available. Download e-books, audiobooks, e-magazines, and more at The Ohio Digital Library online or through your smartphone with the Libby app. All you need is your library card to get started!

Lil' Bookworms Story Time & Craft
2026-01-16 10:30 - 11:00, 2026-01-15 17:00 - 17:30
BPL’s Lil’ Bookworm Story Times and Craft are designed for children ages 3 through Pre-K, though all ages are welcome. These programs typically run about half an hour. Join Miss Bri for a story, a craft, and lots of fun on Thursday evenings at 5:00 pm and Friday mornings at 10:30 am.
Winter/Spring 2026 Schedule:
➤ Download a printable brochure schedule

Thurs., Jan. 15 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Jan. 16 at 10:30 AM
Let it snow! Through cleverly positioned die-cut windows, little readers can watch Flip the penguin build a snowman—then pull a tab to make it snow so he can start another. Following, we will build our own marshmallow snowmen.
Thurs., Jan. 22 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Jan. 23 at 10:30 AM
When you have a pair of warm mittens and a great imagination, a snowy day is an invitation to explore and have fun. So Zoey the daring chicken and Sam the loyal pig are headed to the North Pole! We will then make our own watercolor resist mittens.
Thurs., Jan. 29 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Jan. 30 at 10:30 AM
A little groundhog named Tess tries every trick to avoid going to sleep for the winter. . . and almost misses Groundhog Day! Afterwards, at our craft time will make a little groundhog to hibernate.
Thurs., Feb. 5 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Feb. 6 at 10:30 AM
After a variety of animals get stuck one by one in bubble gum melting in the road, they must survive encounters with a big blue truck and a burly black bear. Join in the fun by making a craft fingerprint bubble gum machine.
Thurs., Feb. 12 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Feb. 13 at 10:30 AM
From frilly hearts and silly hearts to growing hearts and glowing hearts, there’s plenty of love to go around. Will you join the peas in giving away some valentines? Any kind will do… Every hap-pea heart says, “I Love You!” Go home with a heart gnome.
Thurs., Feb. 19 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Feb. 20 at 10:30 AM
Eigen’s mom has come to talk to Mrs. Connor’s class about a special holiday called Lunar New Year. She tells them all the fun ways that the holiday is celebrated around the world. After reading the book, we will make Chinese paper lanterns.
Thurs., Feb. 26 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Feb. 27 at 10:30 AM
They say a leopard can’t change its spots—but Spot sure can! There will be a special treat at today’s story time: polka-dot cookies (allergy note: sugar cookies with yellow, blue, red, and green frosting).
Thurs., Mar. 5 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Mar. 6 at 10:30 AM
The Duckling asks for a cookie—and gets one! It isn’t fair! The Pigeon NEVER gets what he asks for. Do YOU think the Pigeon should get a cookie, too? C is for cookie will be the craft because everyone should get a cookie.
Thurs., Mar. 12 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Mar. 13 at 10:30 AM
We’ll be wearing green this week. Will you? Celebrate with us by reading Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the Crayons and making your own handprint rainbow.
Thurs., Mar. 19 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Mar. 20 at 10:30 AM
Illustrations of puddles, peeping birds, blooming boughs, sunshine, and kites are brought joyously to life in a lyrical and colorful celebration of spring. A rain-themed art project will round out today’s story time.
Thurs., Mar. 26 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Mar. 27 at 10:30 AM
Velvet tries to persuade Bamboo not to be afraid of dragonflies. Will it be a successful effort? After we read the story, we will make tissue paper dragonfly friends to take home.
Thurs., Apr. 2 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Apr. 3 at 10:30 AM
When Pete wakes up Easter morning, ready to check out his basket of goodies, he discovers the Easter Bunny needs a little extra help. Our favorite groovy blue cat puts on his bunny ears and finds a way to collect, paint, and hide the eggs all in time for Easter. Puffy paint marshmallow bunnies will then be created.
Thurs., Apr. 9 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Apr. 10 at 10:30 AM
We will read the hit book about a willful young frog with a serious identity crisis and his heard-it-all-before father. Frog wants to be anything but a frog, but learns that being himself isn’t bad. After we read, we’ll create frog headbands to complement the story.
Thurs., Apr. 16 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Apr. 17 at 10:30 AM
A charming ode to a toddler’s love of trains, whether sending toy animals on a journey around a model track or driving a cardboard-box locomotive, this little puppy really likes trains. All aboard! Go home with your own paper train.
Thurs., Apr. 23 at 5:00 PM and Fri., Apr. 24 at 10:30 AM
Celebrate National Library Week with Daniel Tiger and Prince Wednesday. They are so excited for story time at the library! But first they have to learn how to be calm and quiet. Can they calm down before story time starts? We’ll make paper bookworms to celebrate.

Ohio Valley Promenaders
2026-01-13 16:45 - 21:00, 2026-01-06 16:45 - 21:00, 2025-12-16 16:45 - 21:00, 2025-12-09 16:45 - 21:00
The Ohio Valley Promenaders offer line dance and square dance lessons on Tuesdays in the Community Room on the lower level of the Bellaire Public Library. The lessons are open to all ages. While many of the Promenaders are seasoned pros, the group is always accepting new members and the first lesson is free! Newcomers can jump in quickly, as square dancing is based on walking to eight counts, and the caller leads dancers on what to do in a “learn as you go” fashion.
Promenaders Schedule:

Line Dance: Improvers — Tuesdays from 4:45 to 6:00 pm
Line Dance: Beginners — Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:00 pm
Square Dancers — Tuesdays from 7:00 to 9:00 pm

The cost per program is $5 to help cover expenses.
The OV Promenaders have been dancing since 1970!
➤ For questions about square dancing, call Nancy Campbell at 740-676-2136.
➤ For questions about line dancing, call Jenny Roupe at 304-280-5211.
*NOTE: This is not a library-affiliated program. The Ohio Valley Promenaders group solely arranges the line dancing and square dancing lessons.

Cardio Drumming
2026-01-12 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-01-05 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-12-29 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-12-22 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-12-15 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-12-08 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-12-01 18:00 - 19:00
Cardio drumming is a high-energy workout that combines rhythmic drumming with full-body movements to upbeat music. Using a stability ball, drumsticks, and a bucket, participants drum, dance, and sweat their way through a heart-pumping routine that’s as fun as it is effective. It’s a great way to burn calories, boost coordination, and relieve stress—all while feeling like a rockstar! No experience needed and great for all fitness levels!
Cardio Drumming classes will be led by Nicole Smolenak on MONDAY nights at 6 pm. Starting in December, the cardio drumming classes will be on Monday nights.
Note: The Library has six cardio drumming kits available for people new to cardio drumming to test out, but regular participants are encouraged to bring their own gear.
What do you need to get started cardio drumming?

A large inflated exercise ball
A large bucket or basket to hold the ball (the opening should be just slightly smaller than the circumference of the ball so that the ball is suspended in the basket/bucket).
Drumsticks
Enthusiasm!

That’s it! Cardio drumming takes minimal supplies and a kit can usually be assembled for around $25-30.
What it’s look like?
How much fun is this? You know you want to try it!

Afterschool Teen Programs
2026-01-12 15:00 - 16:00
Our Afterschool Teen Library Program offers a fun, safe, and welcoming space where teens in grades 6–12 can explore new interests, build skills, and connect with friends. Together with OSU Extension & 4‑H, we’ve created a lineup of hands‑on, curiosity‑sparked activities that empower teens to learn, create, and discover—all while having a great time.

Whether they’re creating art, raising chicks, engineering indoor gardens, or launching rockets, teens can expect an exciting mix of learning and fun. We invite all teens to join us after school for engaging programs, new friendships, and a place to feel inspired!

Each month features a different themed program:

January 12th at 3:00 pm: ❄️ Snow Art – A creative winter workshop where teens experiment with artistic techniques to make unique snow‑inspired creations.
February 10th & 24th at 3:00 pm: 🐣 ChickQuest – A deep dive into biology and agriculture as teens explore the full lifecycle of chickens and learn the science behind avian development.
March 9th & 23rd at 3:00 pm: 🌿 Indoor Garden Creators – A blend of creativity, sustainability, and plant science as teens build and care for their own indoor gardens.
April 7th & 21st at 3:00 pm: 💧 Hydroponics for Teens – An introduction to soil‑less gardening that teaches sustainable agriculture and hands‑on growing techniques.
May 11th at 3:00 pm: 🦋 Butterfly Conservation – Teens learn about butterflies, their ecosystems, and how to support local conservation efforts.
☀️ 🚀 Summer Day Camps – Two exciting day-long summer experiences:

Solar Energy Day Camp (June 24)
Rocketry Day Camp (July 21)
Each camp offers interactive workshops that ignite a passion for science and technology.

Closed on New Year's Day
2026-01-01 09:00 - 18:00
We will be closing at 2:30 pm on New Year’s Eve (Wednesday, December 31) and closed all of New Year’s Day (Thursday, January 1) to ring in the new year and give our team a well-deserved break.
Regular hours will resume on Friday, January 2.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Library Closes Early on New Year's Eve
2025-12-31 14:30 - 19:00

Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
2025-12-25 09:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-24 09:00 - 19:00
The Library will be closed both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to allow our team time to celebrate the season with loved ones.
Regular hours will resume on Friday, December 26.
Wishing you a joyful and peaceful holiday!

Homeschool Learning Club
2025-12-17 14:00 - 15:00
The library is excited to announce the launch of its new Homeschool Learning Club (HLC), designed specifically for homeschooled children ages 5-10. Building on the success of our popular Lil’ Bookworms Story Time & Craft program, this innovative learning club will engage young learners through a variety of literacy and STEAM-related activities each month. Participants will enjoy hands-on experiences that blend reading, science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, fostering a comprehensive approach to learning in a supportive environment.
HLC takes place on the third Wednesday of every month at 2:00 PM.

2025 Schedule:

September 17: GAMES
Book: “Join in and Play”
Join us as we read a story about meeting friends and cooperation. Following, we will practice our skills by playing BIG games.
October 15: SPACE
Book: “The Spacesuit”
Off we go! After reading The Spacesuit, we will become engineers and build rocket ships to explore outer space.
November 19: AMERICA
Book: “America is…”
What does freedom mean to you? Come along as we journey through America and explore different parts of our great nation. We will then make a torch to light the way.
December 17: SNOW
Book: “Snowflake Bentley”
Do you live in a place where it snows every year? Or maybe you live somewhere so warm that it never snows! Wherever you live, you can have fun learning about snow!

BPL Board of Trustees Meeting
2025-12-16 18:00 - 19:00
MONTHLY BOARD MEETINGS:
The Board of Trustees meet on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the library’s Table Room.
PLEASE NOTE: The June 2025 meeting will be held the fourth Tuesday of the month, June 24.
When a holiday falls on the 3rd Tuesday, the Board will then meet on either the second or fourth Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m.
All are welcome to attend.

➤ Learn more about BPL’s Board of Trustees

Santa Visit—Cookies, Cocoa, and Christmas Craft
2025-12-10 17:00 - 19:00
Santa returns to the Bellaire Public Library! Write a letter to Santa telling him what you want for Christmas, then hand-deliver it to him in person. Stay for cookies, hot chocolate, and a Christmas-themed craft. Kids of all ages welcome.
Did you know our Children’s area has a whole section of holiday books? Check check out our juvenile books for Kwanza, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s on display!

Fall Lil' Bookworms Story Time and Craft
2025-12-05 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-12-04 17:00 - 17:30, 2025-11-28 10:30 - 11:00
Story Time returns in 2025 for our fall schedule on Sept. 18 & 19! BPL’s Lil’ Bookworm Story Times and Craft are designed for children ages 3 through pre-K, though all ages are welcome. These programs typically run about half an hour. Join Miss Bri for a story, a craft, and lots of fun this winter on Thursday evenings at 5:00 pm and Friday mornings at 10:30 am.
➤ Download a brochure for our September and October Story Times!
➤ Download a brochure for our November and December Story Times!
FALL 2025 SCHEDULE:

BHS Thespians Christmas Play
2025-12-03 18:00 - 19:00
The Bellaire High School Thespians are back for their annual Christmas play at the Bellaire Public Library! This year, we are excited to announce that they will be presenting “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” The performance will start at 6 pm on Wednesday, Dec. 3. Hot chocolate will be provided.

*NOTE: This program is put on by the BHS Thespians and is not a library-sponsored event.

Ohio Valley Promenaders - Dec. 2 Class Canceled
2025-12-02 16:45 - 21:00
The December 2nd Ohio Valley Promenaders class is canceled due to inclement weather.

The Ohio Valley Promenaders offer line dance and square dance lessons on Tuesdays in the Community Room on the lower level of the Bellaire Public Library. The lessons are open to all ages. While many of the Promenaders are seasoned pros, the group is always accepting new members and the first lesson is free! Newcomers can jump in quickly, as square dancing is based on walking to eight counts, and the caller leads dancers on what to do in a “learn as you go” fashion.
Promenaders Schedule:

Line Dance: Improvers — Tuesdays from 4:45 to 6:00 pm
Line Dance: Beginners — Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:00 pm
Square Dancers — Tuesdays from 7:00 to 9:00 pm

The cost per program is $5 to help cover expenses.
The OV Promenaders have been dancing since 1970!
➤ For questions about square dancing, call Nancy Campbell at 740-676-2136.
➤ For questions about line dancing, call Jenny Roupe at 304-280-5211.
*NOTE: This is not a library-affiliated program. The Ohio Valley Promenaders group solely arranges the line dancing and square dancing lessons.

Closed for Thanksgiving
2025-11-27 09:00 - 18:00
The library will be closed on Thursday, November 27th, in observance of Thanksgiving. As we gather with loved ones to reflect on the season, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our patrons for being such a cherished part of our community.
Your support, curiosity, and love of learning inspire us every day. We’re thankful for the stories we’ve shared, the connections we’ve built, and the joy you bring to our library.
We wish you a safe, cozy, and joyful holiday filled with warmth, good food, and great books. Regular hours will resume on Friday, November 28th.

No Cardio Drumming this Wednesday - Moving to Mondays starting Dec. 1
2025-11-26 18:00 - 19:00
No cardio drumming on Wednesday, November 26.
NOTE: Starting Dec. 1, 2025, cardio drumming classes will take on Monday nights at 6 pm.

Cardio drumming is a high-energy workout that combines rhythmic drumming with full-body movements to upbeat music. Using a stability ball, drumsticks, and a bucket, participants drum, dance, and sweat their way through a heart-pumping routine that’s as fun as it is effective. It’s a great way to burn calories, boost coordination, and relieve stress—all while feeling like a rockstar! No experience needed and great for all fitness levels!
Cardio Drumming classes will be led by Nicole Smolenak on Wednesday nights at 6 pm.
Note: The Library has six cardio drumming kits available for people new to cardio drumming to test out, but regular participants are encouraged to bring their own gear.
What do you need to get started cardio drumming?

A large inflated exercise ball
A large bucket or basket to hold the ball (the opening should be just slightly smaller than the circumference of the ball so that the ball is suspended in the basket/bucket).
Drumsticks
Enthusiasm!

That’s it! Cardio drumming takes minimal supplies and a kit can usually be assembled for around $25-30.
What it’s look like?
How much fun is this? You know you want to try it!

Bright Minds Book Club
2025-11-25 16:00 - 17:00
The Bright Minds Book Club is a little different than your standard book club. Instead of picking a single book that everyone reads together, we will announce a theme, and students in grades 1-8 can select a book related to that theme to read. On the last Tuesday of each month, we will meet for a discussion about that topic and how the books everyone chose relate to it. Each month, we will also engage in a craft or activity at the book club that reflects the theme. Miss Bri will lead the monthly discussion for the younger kids and Mr. Chad will lead the conversation with the older students.
Bright Minds Book Club Fall/Winter Schedule:
September 2025:

Theme: Animals in Autumn
Book Club Date: Tuesday, September 30 at 4:00 pm
Book Club Activity: Pom Pom Hedgehog

October 2025:

Theme: Halloween
Book Club Date: Tuesday, October 28 at 4:00 pm
Book Club Activity: Pumpkin Catapult

November 2025:

Theme: Thanksgiving
Book Club Date: Tuesday, November 25 at 4:00 pm
Book Club Activity: Charlie Brown Thanksgiving “Dinner”

December 2025:
Taking a break for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays — we’ll see you in January!
January 2025:

Theme: Winter
Book Club Date: Tuesday, January 27 at 4:00 pm
Book Club Activity: Blizzard

➤ Download a poster of the September 2025-January 2026 schedule
