Whatcom County Library System - Collaboration

Collaboration

Although it is a separate library system, WCLS has maintained a reciprocal borrowing agreement with Bellingham Public Library since 1944. WCLS cardholders can check out and return materials at any Bellingham Public Library branch, or at Whatcom Community College Library. In 2010, WCLS became a member of "Whatcom Libraries Collaborate", a consortium of all academic and public libraries in Whatcom County. Through this program, any cardholder from any member library can borrow materials from any other member library.

Whatcom County Library sponsors the "Whatcom Reads!" program in conjunction with the Whatcom County Library Foundation, Bellingham Public Library, Whatcom Community College Library, Western Washington University Library, and other local organizations. "Whatcom Reads!" is a community event based on the "If All Seattle Read the Same Book" event series begun in 1998 by librarian Nancy Pearl. Each year one book is selected as the central theme for the event, and a series of community discussion groups, author appearances, contests, and other activities are hosted throughout Whatcom County.