The Newcastle Library is jam-packed with activities and resources for families with kids, as well as teens and young adults. Whether you’re looking for story time or art workshops, Newcastle Library should be your first stop. You’ll find their programs (plus other free events) listed on our event calendar.
In addition to these 10 free things to do at Newcastle Library, the King County Library System offers free classes and learning opportunities for all ages at each of its branches. You might be surprised at all the free things there are to do at the library! Here's some inspiration.
10 free things to do at Newcastle Library
1. Reading Buddies at Newcastle Library (StudyZone)
This drop-in weekly program offers reading practice for kids. Two students are paired with a volunteer who reads aloud with them. The books change every two weeks. Students can also bring a book to share. It’s great reading practice for grades K to 8. Reading buddies also offers sessions for English language learners in grades K to 12.
2. Family Story Time
Offered in the evenings, this weekly program is wonderful for parents/caregivers and kids age newborn to 5 (siblings welcome). Enjoy music, stories and rhymes—and help your child develop literacy skills.
3. Toddler Story Time
Perfect for ages 1 through 3, this drop-in story time with Ms. Dil includes music, songs and bubbles. Stay afterward for a short but fun playtime session.
4. Inclusive Chinese Paper Cutting and Crafts for Families – 适合家庭的中国剪纸
Drop by to do a themed paper craft activity. This monthly program is a great opportunity to learn easy crafts you can do at home with your child. This Mandarin/English bilingual program is great for kids of all ages.
5. Talk Time: English Conversation
Are you learning English? Do you have family members who are learning English? You can practice speaking English at this welcoming weekly event for ages 18 and up.
6. Tech Help for Seniors
This monthly program offers tech help for older adults. Volunteers provide one-on-one help for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS. Bring your smart phone, iPad or laptop—and your questions. Please register in advance.
7. Monthly Art Workshops
Interested in pour paint? Inspired to paint a mountain landscape? The Newcastle Library offers monthly art workshops for ages 13 and up. Local artists guide you through the process of creating your own work-of-art. They provide all supplies. Registration is required. (Sign up early—events fill up). These events are made possible by Newcastle Arts Council, the City of Newcastle, and 4Culture.
8. Blank Page to Published: Writing Creative Fiction and Memoirs Series
This 4-class series at Newcastle Library is great for aspiring writers age 13 and up. Learn tips and techniques from published authors who share the secrets of getting your creative juices flowing. Registration is required. (If no space is available, add your name to the waiting list).
9. Crafting Connections
This evening event for ages 13 to 17 focuses on positive relationship chats and friendship bracelet crafts. Make something for someone special—and talk about forming healthy relationships in a low-stress teen space.
10. PawsWithCause Painting Party for Kids!
Save the date: Saturday, March 23, 2024 is the PawsWithCause Party for Kids! Register and save your child’s place in this fun workshop. Paint a portrait based on a real shelter pet to help the animals be seen outside of cages and promote adoption. For this session, the Newcastle Library is featuring animals from Seattle Humane and Sammamish Animal Sanctuary. All materials are free, including paints, brushes and pre-sketched canvases. This special event is for ages 6 to 12 (ages 6 to 8 accompanied by an adult). Note: There are 2 sessions.
The Newcastle Library offers even more resources, including study room, meeting room, computers and printers, photocopiers, scanners, Wi-Fi, magazines—and of course, books. All you need is your library card to use these free services.
Beyond these 10 free things to do at Newcastle Library, there are also one-time events such as expert talks and workshops, as well as community celebrations and live music. Why not drop by and ask a librarian about all the free things to do at Newcastle Library?
Newcastle Library is located at 12901 Newcastle Way, Newcastle WA 98056. Phone: (425) 255-0111.
