For generations, the Bay County Library System has been at the heart of our community, providing access to books, technology, and programs that enrich lives and strengthen our region.
“We cover the entire county for library services” said Trish Burns, Director of the Bay County Library System. “Branches in Auburn and Pinconning, our gorgeous historical Sage Library, and the Alice and Jack Wirt Library anchor us in the community.”
Beyond these physical locations, the library system is always looking for new ways to serve residents and adapt to their needs.
“We are constantly evolving and improving to be relevant and convenient for people. We connect people, ideas, and information with our collections. Our Bookmobile visits areas further from branches – 45 stops each month to bring services to everyone. While we are still very book centric, both print and electronic, many additional collections add to the idea of promoting reading, learning, and socializing in different ways.”
The Bay County Library System’s Children's Room is a place where imagination, discovery, and fun come together. Walk into any of the four branches, and you’ll find children laughing during a storytime, families gathered for a craft project, and young minds engaged in hands-on STEM activities. Whether attending a book discussion, joining a baking program for preschoolers, or participating in a themed party for elementary schoolers, kids always have something to look forward to at the library.
“There’s always something going on in the Children’s Room,” says Madison Roberts, Children’s Department Head for the Bay County Library System. “We offer 10+ storytimes across four branches, book discussions, school visits, crafts, games, and unique programs each month. We even have a play area for families who drop in. There's no shortage of fun at the library.”
For families who can’t always attend a program, we make it easy to bring the experience home. The Children’s Collection is filled with more than just books. Parents and kids can check out picture books with built-in speakers that read aloud, STEM kits that encourage creativity and problem-solving, backpack kits designed for beginning readers, and even puppets, tablets with educational games, and Tonie boxes for interactive storytelling. Families looking for hands-on fun can borrow Legos that support social-emotional learning, giving children a chance to engage in collaborative play at home.
“We also promote reading and literacy in fun ways all year long,” Madison shares. Beyond daily programming and collections, the library fosters a love of reading through engaging challenges throughout the year. The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program encourages early literacy for children ages birth to five. Those who complete the challenge earn a backpack filled with school supplies to help them start kindergarten prepared. During the summer, the Summer Reading Program allows kids ages 0-12 to earn a book to keep, along with coupons for free items from local businesses. In January and February, the Winter Reading Program gives children an opportunity to win prizes like stuffed animals, water bottles, and gift cards just for spending time reading. These programs encourage kids to not just read, but to enjoy the experience and feel excited about books and learning.
Whether families are looking for engaging programs, take-home activities, or a way to encourage reading throughout the year, the Bay County Library System offers endless opportunities for learning and fun for families and children. Follow the BCLS Children's Page on Facebook to stay updated on everything happening at the library!
The Bay County Library System is filled with opportunities for learning, connection, and discovery. Yet, many Bay County residents don’t realize just how many services, resources, and programs are available to them.
“It’s honestly amazing to me how many services, resources, and programs that the Bay County Library System offers to patrons of all ages,” says Kristin Freeman, Marketing Manager at BCLS. “Many Bay County residents don’t realize the extent of what is available from their public library, and the benefit it can have on their lives. Still others don’t even think about the library as a place with things to see and do for teens and adults, and sometimes forget to use their library card after their little ages out of the children’s department. However, the Bay County Library System offers more for teens and adults than you can imagine!”
One way BCLS serves teens and adults is through book clubs. Reading becomes a shared experience through monthly book clubs at each of the four branches, offering a chance to connect with others in a safe setting. For those who want to create their own group, Book Club Connections allows patrons to check out sets of 10 copies of popular book club novels to encourage meaningful discussions outside the library.
Beyond book clubs, BCLS is always looking for ways to introduce readers to new books. One of the most popular displays is Blind Date with a Book, where books are wrapped in paper with just a few descriptive clues. “Our library is always looking for creative ways to inspire readers and help them discover their next favorite book! One of our most popular displays is Blind Date with a Book, where books are wrapped in paper with only a few descriptive clues, inviting readers to take a chance on a surprise read. This is a fun way to step outside your reading comfort zone and discover something new!”
For those who love to stay on top of trending books, the #BookTok collection brings viral social media recommendations straight to the shelves. “Another popular display is our #BookTok collection, which highlights books that have gone viral on social media. With trending recommendations straight from TikTok, this display helps readers find the most talked-about books, from swoon-worthy romances to thrilling mysteries.”
The library offers a wide range of programs for all interests. Patrons can participate in everything from hands-on craft projects to movie screenings, technology help sessions, and informational workshops on important real-life topics like estate planning and heart health. “Other programs that are offered include crafts, games and movies, workshops on real-life topics such as estate planning and heart health, technology help, and so much more.”
For those looking for something a little different, BCLS also offers themed subscription book boxes on a rotating schedule. These provide readers with a surprise selection and fun goodies to help expand their reading preferences.
While in-person programs and collections are a huge part of BCLS, the library’s digital collection offers endless options for those who prefer to read, watch, or listen from home. “BCLS is also proud to offer digital collections to Bay County residents. With Libby, hoopla, and Kanopy, you can watch, listen, and read thousands of items including music, audiobooks, movies, magazines, eBooks, and television shows from your mobile device or computer. The digital collection at BCLS is extensive, and most popular items can be accessed through one of these streaming platforms with your library card.”
For many, the library is a go-to destination for borrowing books or finding a peaceful spot to read. However, beyond the bookshelves lies a wealth of resources waiting to be explored.
If you’ve ever wondered about your family’s past, the library can help you uncover stories that might otherwise remain hidden. “If you’re interested in your family tree, the Local History and Genealogy Room at the Alice and Jack Wirt Public Library branch is a great place to look for information" says Kristin Freeman, Marketing Manager at the Bay County Library System. "Aside from historical records, over 140 years of The Bay City Times newspapers are also available digitally and can be accessed from any address in Bay County.”
For those with old home videos, photo negatives, or cassette recordings, the Memory Lab at BCLS provides an opportunity to bring those memories into the digital age. “The Memory Lab at the Bay County Library System is an incredible resource designed for those who want to digitize, preserve, and share their personal history. The lab offers easy-to-use equipment and software, and while its self-guided, library staff are available to assist as needed.”
The library is also a place to try new things. If you’ve ever wanted to pick up a new skill or hobby, BCLS offers a unique way to do so with its Library of Things collection. “The Library of Things is an exciting collection that offers hands-on, practical, and fun items for teens and adults to check out for free! This unique collection allows patrons to try before they buy, learn new skills, or explore new hobbies without the upfront cost.”
This collection has something for everyone. “It includes home improvement tools, crafting devices, musical instruments, yard games, outdoor gear, technology gadgets, and more. It is perfect for lifelong learners, DIYers, and families who want to explore new experiences, hobbies, and technology without making a big investment. Everything is free to borrow with a library card for Bay County residents, just like books!”
With so many ways to learn, explore, and connect, the Bay County Library System continues to evolve beyond traditional expectations. “The library is so much more than just books—it’s a center for discovery, creativity, and connection. If you haven’t already, sign up for a library card and start exploring everything we have to offer. Stay in the loop by following us on social media and subscribing to our newsletter—you won’t want to miss what’s coming next!”
