photo courtesy of Billings Public Library

With the turn of another calendar page and the dawn of a new year, Billings Public Library prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Back in 2014 when Billings Public Library opened its doors anew (you'll recall that once upon a time, our public library was named Parmly Billings Library, with that chapter officially ending in December of 2013 to prepare for the grand opening of BPL in January 2014), it was a month-long celebration. While the 10-year celebration isn't quite as lengthy, there is much to behold as the library's entire legacy is reflected on, along with all that the 10-year-old state-of-the-art, environmentally conscious building has brought to the community. 

Monday, January 29 (6:30-7:30 pm – Community Room) | Grand Opening Reception

• Help commemorate a decade of our beloved library's journey. The evening will feature insightful speeches by the library and BPLF administration, outlining their ambitious vision for the next decade. Enjoy a sophisticated array of hors d’oeuvres as we toast to our shared future.

Tuesday, January 30 (6:30-7:30 pm – Community Room): | A Journey Through Time: The Library's 123-Year Legacy

• BPL is honored to have Kevin Kooistra, Executive Director of the Western Heritage Center, present an enlightening session on our library's storied 123-year history, originating from the Billings family’s heartfelt donation. Discover how the library has become integral to our city's fabric.

Wednesday, January 31 (11:00-11:30 am – Off Site) | Ribbon-Cutting for Library Express Locker #3

• Join BPL at the Intermountain Health clinic, 254 US Hwy 87 E, Lockwood, to inaugurate its third Library Express Locker!

Wednesday, January 31 (12:30-2:00 pm – Community Room) | Future of Library Express Lockers

• Following the ribbon-cutting, head back to the library and join its leaders as they unveil future plans and collaborations that have been instrumental in making the Library Express Locker project a cornerstone of service in Yellowstone County.

Thursday, Feb. 1 (6:30-7:30 pm – Community Room) | Panel Discussion: The Making of an Icon

• Dive into the library's history with a panel discussion featuring key community figures, BPL Board, and BPL Foundation members. Moderated by BPLF Director Cody Rose, this session offers a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs behind our award-winning facility.

Friday, Feb. 2 (6:30-7:30 pm – Community Room) | BPL’s Birthday Bash!

• Enjoy delicious birthday cake, dance, and sing Happy Birthday to our library—a fun and memorable evening for the young and young at heart.

Exclusive Tours of the Facility:

• Monday, January 29 : 5:00 pm, prior to the opening reception
• Tuesday, January 30 : 11:00 am and 5:00 pm, before the evening event
• Thursday, February 1: 11:00 am and 5:00 pm, ahead of the panel discussion
• Friday, February 2: 5:00 pm, preceding the birthday celebration

BACK TO SLM'S CALENDAR OF EVENTS