Lil' Bookworms Story Time & Craft
2026-04-24 10:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH, 43906, United States
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.

Authors Festival
2026-04-25 10:00 - 16:00
Join us for the Bellaire Public Library’s Authors Festival, a full‑day celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community. This special series brings together readers, writers, and anyone with a love of books for an inspiring day packed with workshops, conversations, and opportunities to connect. Whether you’re a dedicated reader, an aspiring author, or simply curious about the world of writing, the festival offers something enriching for everyone. Featured presenters share hands‑on learning experiences and personalized sessions, making the festival shine as a space to discover new ideas and fuel your creative spark.

Authors: Visit the Authors Festival page to fill out a form to reserve a table at any one of our upcoming 2026 Authors Festival programs (Limited space available).
Interested authors with questions should reach out to Chad Webb, cwebb@bellairepubliclibrary.org.

For the Public

Have Inspiring Conversations & Meet-the-Author Moments
Get the chance to hear directly from seasoned authors about their creative journeys, writing processes, and the stories behind their books. These conversations bring literature to life and offer a unique look into how great stories are shaped.
Gain a Deeper Appreciation for the Craft of Writing
Through interactive sessions, festival‑goers can explore how writers build setting, develop characters, and craft compelling narratives. Even non-writers will walk away with a richer understanding of how the books they love come together.
A Community Experience
The festival brings readers together in a welcoming, lively environment. It’s an opportunity to meet neighbors, share stories, and celebrate the literary talents connected to our region.

For Authors and Inspiring Writers
High‑Value Guidance from an Experienced Author
Authors Festival workshops provides practical insights into writing and publishing—from story development to navigating the modern publishing world. Workshops, discussions, and audience questions often spark new story ideas or help writers see their current projects from new angles. Writers at any stage can pick up tools to strengthen their craft and will hopefully leave energized and ready to dive back into their work.
One‑on‑One Critique or Consultation Time
A limited number of private sessions with our presenters allow writers to seek personalized feedback, ask questions about their projects, or discuss next steps in their writing journey—an invaluable opportunity rarely available at local events.
Networking with Other Writers
The festival creates a supportive environment for authors to connect, share ideas, and find encouragement. These interactions can lead to critique partnerships, idea exchanges, or simply renewed motivation.
2026 Authors Festival Schedule

Saturday, February 7th, from 10 am to 4 pm

Tables featuring 18 authors from various genres
Edgar-nominated author Robin Yocum, renowned for his fiction set in the Ohio River Valley, will provide valuable writing and publishing insights during a one-hour workshop at 11:00.
Lunch break at 12:00 pm – Lunches from Gulla’s Hot Dog will be available to purchase.
Robin Yocum will offer a limited number of one-on-one sessions for authors and the public in the afternoon.

Featured speaker: Robin Yocum
Robin Yocum’s latest novel, The Last Hitman, was released December 2, 2025 by Crooked Lane Books. His book The Sacrifice of Lester Yates, was released in 2021 by Arcade CrimeWise and was a finalist for the Dashiell Hammett Award for excellence in crime writing. Favorite Sons was named the 2011 Book of the Year for Mystery/Suspense by USA Book News. A Brilliant Death was a Barnes & Noble No. 1 bestseller and a finalist for both the 2017 Edgar Award and the Silver Falchion Award for best adult mystery. Yocum grew up in the Ohio River village of Brilliant, Ohio, and has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Bowling Green State University.
➤ Visit Robin Yocum’s website

Saturday, April 25th, from 10 am to 4 pm

Tables featuring 18 authors from various genres
Nationally acclaimed children’s book author, storyteller, and current Poet Laureate for the state of West Virginia, Marc Harshman, will lead a creative writing workshop and share publishing insights during a one-hour workshop at 11:00.
Lunch break at 12:00 pm – Lunches from Gulla’s Hot Dog will be available to purchase.
Marc Harshman will offer a limited number of one-on-one sessions for authors and the public in the afternoon.

Featured speaker: Marc Harshman
Harshman’s fourteenth children’s book, FALLINGWATER, co-written with Anna Smucker, was published by Roaring Brook/Macmillan in 2017 and has been an Amazon Book of the Month choice, as well as a Junior Library Guild selection. A previous title, THE STORM, was a Smithsonian Notable Book for Children. Children’s books have been translated into Danish, Korean, Swedish, Spanish, and Japanese. He holds degrees from Bethany College, Yale Divinity School, and the University of Pittsburgh.
➤ Visit Marc Harshman’s website

Saturday, September 19th, from 10 am to 4 pm

Tables featuring 18 authors from various genres
Workshop to be announced
Lunch break at 12:00 pm – Lunches from Gulla’s Hot Dog will be available to purchase.
Workshop leader will offer a limited number of one-on-one sessions for authors and the public in the afternoon.

Saturday, November 14th, from 10 am to 4 pm

Tables featuring 18 authors from various genres
Workshop to be announced
Lunch break at 12:00 pm – Lunches from Gulla’s Hot Dog will be available to purchase.
Workshop leader will offer a limited number of one-on-one sessions for authors and the public in the afternoon.

Saturday, December 12th, from 10 am to 4 pm

Tables featuring 18 authors from various genres
Workshop to be announced
Lunch break at 12:00 pm – Lunches from Gulla’s Hot Dog will be available to purchase.
Workshop leader will offer a limited number of one-on-one sessions for authors and the public in the afternoon.

Cardio Drumming
2026-04-27 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-05-04 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-05-11 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-05-18 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-01 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-08 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-15 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!

Bright Minds Book Club
2026-04-28 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 Winter Schedule:
January 2026:

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

February 2026:

Theme: Red
Book Club Date: Tuesday, February 24 at 4:00 pm
Book Club Activity: Candy Hearts

March 2026:

Theme: Green
Book Club Date: Tuesday, March 31 at 4:00 pm
Book Club Activity: Grow a Rainbow

April 2026:

Theme: Spring
Book Club Date: Tuesday, April 28 at 4:00 pm
Book Club Activity: Save Fred the Worm

Ohio Valley Promenaders
2026-04-28 16:45 - 21:00, 2026-05-05 16:45 - 21:00, 2026-05-12 16:45 - 21:00, 2026-05-19 16:45 - 21:00, 2026-05-26 16:45 - 21:00, 2026-06-02 16:45 - 21:00, 2026-06-09 16:45 - 21:00, 2026-06-16 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.

Afterschool Teen Programs
2026-05-11 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.

BPL Board of Trustees Meeting
2026-05-19 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-16 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

Closed Over Memorial Day Weekend
2026-05-23 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-05-24 09:00 - 19:00
The Library will be closed over the Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 23, through Monday, May 25. As we head into the holiday weekend, we extend our gratitude to all the men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving in the country’s armed forces and wish our patrons a peaceful and safe holiday. Normal Library hours will resume on Tuesday, May 26.

Library Closes at 4 PM on the Last Friday of the Month
2026-05-29 16:00 - 17:00
The Library closes one hour early once a month, generally on the last Friday of each month, for a staff meeting/training.
2025 – 4:00 PM Friday Closings:

Jan. 3
Feb. 7
Mar. 7
Apr. 4
May 30
June – no meeting, library will remain open until 5:00 on June 27
July 25
Aug. 29
Sept. 26
Oct. 31
Nov. 28
Dec. 26

Friends of the Ohio River and Western Railway Historical Society 2026 Annual Meeting
2026-05-30 10:00 - 17:00
Join the “Friends” at their 2026 Annual Meeting this year in Bellaire, Ohio. Enjoy engaging presentations and a guided walking and driving tour that brings to life the sights and sounds of Ohio’s last narrow-gauge railway – the Ohio River and Western Railway.

Learn about the railroad’s origins, explore historical and modern images of Bellaire. Discover the story of the last run and learn about our ongoing preservation efforts of the remaining equipment. The walking and driving tours include stops in the Bellaire and Shadyside areas.

The Library’s Local History Room will be open during the meeting and BPL’s Frank Curtis Narrow-Gauge Railroad collection will be available to view, along with other railroad related collections.

Agenda:
Registration: 9:45 am-10:00 am

Morning: 10:00 am – 10:15 am

Annual Business Meeting
Will Lawson, Friends Director

PowerPoint Presentations: 10:15 am – 12:30 pm

John Sullivan and the Great Stone Viaduct, presented by Daniel Frizzi, author & historian
Bellaire to Shadyside narrow-gauge origins, presented by Bill Logan, rail historian
OR&W Preservation Efforts, presented by Bo DeCoy, modeler, Friends Director

Lunch: 12:30 – 1:00 pm
Afternoon Tour: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Great Stone Viaduct
OR&W/B&O Station locations
John Sullivan Memorial and Park
OR&W turntable location
Avondale Station
Shadyside Station
Coach #15
Webb Mine location
Lashley Station
Mapleton Station

End of Tour: Dinner Shadyside on your own.

Summer Fair Night Market - Summer Reading Kick-Off
2026-06-04 17:00 - 20:00
🌞 Summer Fair & Summer Reading Kickoff 🌞

Join the Bellaire Public Library for our Summer Fair, a free, family‑friendly celebration to kick off our Summer Reading Program! Stop by for an evening full of fun, food, music, and community.
🎈 Activities & Entertainment include:
• Inflatable bounce houses
• Balloon artist
• Music by Mr. K DJ
• Kirke’s Ice Cream Truck
• The Gringo Taco Truck
• Night Farmers Market featuring more than a dozen local vendors, offering handmade items, goodies, food, and more—perfect for browsing while you enjoy the fair atmosphere.
📚 Learn about our Summer Reading Program, sign up for challenges, and celebrate the start of summer with friends, family, and neighbors.
📅 Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026
⏰ Time: 5:00–8:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Bellaire Public Library, 330 32nd Street, Bellaire, OH
✨ Everyone is welcome!

Thank you to our sponsor:
The Summer Fair is sponsored in part by the Sinclair Foundation.

Dino Academy: A Dinosaur Puppet Discover Show
2026-06-05 13:00 - 14:00
🦖 Step into the prehistoric world with Dino Academy! 🌋

Led by the quirky and curious Dr. Sarah Tops 🧑‍🔬, this action‑packed adventure uncovers fascinating dino facts 📚 that will wow even the biggest dinosaur fans.
Featuring life‑like, colorful dinosaur puppets 🦕🦖 that stomp, roar, and charm 🎭 their way into every heart, this show blends science 🔬, storytelling 📖, and imagination ✨ in the style of your favorite nature programs.
It’s an unforgettable field trip through time ⏳—without ever leaving your seat! 🎉

Family friendly. Kids of all ages welcome.
Summer Reading 2026

Summer Reading Club: Unearth a Story
2026-06-10 13:00 - 14:00, 2026-06-17 13:00 - 14:00
🦖 Summer Reading Club: Unearth a Story 🦕

Dig into summer fun at the Bellaire Public Library! Our Summer Reading Club programs take place Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. and are designed for kids in grades 1–6.
Using the 2026 CSLP theme “Unearth a Story,” this exciting series runs from June 10 through July 22 and features a variety of hands‑on programs, with many focusing on dinosaurs, fossils, and prehistoric adventures. Participants can expect stories, activities, crafts, games, and special programs that spark curiosity and bring ancient worlds to life.
Whether your child is a dino expert or just loves to explore, our Summer Reading Club offers a fun and engaging way to learn, imagine, and read all summer long!
📚🦕 All programs are free, and everyone is welcome.

Programs: Wednesdays at 1:00 pm

June 10: 🦁 Zoo to You
A zoo educator introduces you to some of our favorite animal ambassadors, from birds and reptiles to amphibians and small mammals (sorry, the zebra just won’t fit in the van!)
June 17: 🦖 Dynamic Dinosaurs
T. Rex and other amazing dinosaurs will be explored in this interactive program with large fossil replicas and actual fossils. Find out how big these creatures were, what they ate, and other interesting information.
June 24: 🏺 Archeology
Dig into the past! Kids will excavate, paint, and engrave their own plaster “petroglyph” while discovering how archaeologists uncover prehistoric art.
July 8: 🚂 Toys & Trains
The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum’s Educational Outreach Program offers interactive experiences with toys, dinosaurs, and everyday life.
July 15: 🦕 Dino Zipline
Dino Ziplines is a hands-on STEM program where students design an build a transporter to safely deliver a dinosaur egg to its nest using a zip line system. Participants will test and improve their designs while exploring basic engineering principles and problem-solving concepts.
July 22: ⚒️ Interactive Fossils
Witness the magic of learning through virtual activities. Students get up close and personal with genuine fossils, sparking their curiosity and fostering a love for science.

Summer Reading 2026

Lil' Bookworms Story Time and Dino-craft
2026-06-12 10:30 - 11:00
📚🦖 Bring your little ones for a cozy, joy‑filled time at the library—with a prehistoric twist! Lil’ Bookworms Story Time & Dino‑Craft is perfect for children ages 3 through Pre‑K, but all ages are welcome to join the fun. 🦖📚

Each 30‑minute session includes a delightful reptile or dinosaur‑themed story and craft, with plenty of giggles, imagination, and discovery. Spend time with Miss Bri as stories come to life and little hands create something special to take home—often inspired by dinosaurs, fossils, and the world long ago.
It’s a fun and gentle way to celebrate summer, spark curiosity, and build a love of books during our Summer Reading Program!

Programs: Fridays at 10:30 am

June 12: 🐍 Snakes
We’ll read “Snakes on the Job,” a story filled with sibilant sounds and wordplay. The snakes slide into trucks and roll out slowly, operating various construction vehicles like bulldozers and diggers, while building a surprise.
Craft: Spiral Snakes
June 19: 🚫 No program — Library closed for Juneteenth
June 26: 🐘 Mammoths
Does your wooly mammoth need a wash? It’s not very easy to do… Find out exactly how when we read, “How to Wash a Wooly Mammoth,” a hilarious instruction manual.
Craft: Woolly Mammoth Handprint
July 10: 🦕 Pet Dinosaur
What would you do it, instead of a cat or a goldfish, you had a dinosaur for a pet? Well, that’s exactly what happens to the little boy in, “How to Take Care of Your Dinosaur,” where an enormous egg appears one day.
Craft: “Hatch” your own pet dinosaur
July 17: 🦅 Pterodactyl
Teddy the T-Rex is jealous that his best friend Pete the Pterodactyl can fly. Pete can catch balls that fly high in the air, he can help the teacher with things she can reach, and basically, he just seems cooler than Teddy at “Dino School.”
Craft: Toilet Paper Roll Pterodactyl
July 24: ⚒️ Fossils
Rhythmical text and lively, well-researched illustrations follow a paleontologist and his crew as they find, clean, assemble, and exhibit dinosaur bones in, “Dig Those Dinosaurs.”
Craft: My Dinosaur Fossil

Summer Reading 2026
