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. Young Authors Workshop: A Writing Adventure
Beginning Saturday, June 22: Join for a series of creative writing/debating/entrepreneurship workshops with instructor, Priyanka Raha from PopSmartKids Academy. Spark creativity, build confidence and develop essential writing skills through fun and collaborative exercises. Learn how to craft compelling stories and express their unique voice on the page.
Upcoming workshops:
July 13: Young Debaters Workshop: Exploring the Art of Debate Adventure for Young Orators
August 3: Young Entrepreneurs Workshop: A Business Creation Adventure for Aspiring Innovators
9. Rocket Science: Alka Rockets with The Museum of Flight
Tuesday, June 25: Design and launch your own, small rockets using Alka-Seltzer as their fuel! Learn the basic physics involved in launching rockets as well as the fundamental shapes and design of a rocket with presenters from the Museum of Flight. All materials provided.
10. Family Garden Fun: Plant Seeds and Paint Your Own Garden Flags
Tuesday, June 25: Learn to plant seeds from the seed library and paint garden flags! Join Lisa Taylor, garden educator and author of the Maritime Northwest Garden Guide and Your Farm in the City; An Urban Dweller’s Guide to Growing Food and Raising Animals in a fun hands-on garden art class. All supplies provided. Ages 10 and older, younger children with adults.
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.
