Whatcom County Library System

The first libraries in Whatcom County were begun by women's clubs and organizations, and included facilities in Lynden, Ferndale, Blaine, and Sumas.

The origination of a county-wide library system dates to the 1940s, when the County Grange proposed the idea of consolidating existing services and extending outreach to other communities.

The Foundation is a nonprofit organization that assists in supporting the libraries of Whatcom County, and states that their focus is "to foster intellectual freedom and First Amendment rights and to encourage life-long learning.

The Outreach Program offers delivery of items to care centers, assisted living facilities and correctional institutions, as well as homebound patrons.

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.