County Library and Bellingham Airport Launch Digital Airport Library

The Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) and Bellingham International Airport (BLI) have partnered to launch “Library Liftoff” — an eye-catching space that encourages travelers to download free library eBooks and eAudiobooks while at the airport.

“With a WCLS library card, or a card from most public libraries, people can access thousands of digital materials, anytime and anywhere,” Christine Perkins, WCLS executive director, said. “Library Liftoff is an innovative way for us to engage more people outside of the library’s walls, while making airport wait times a little more enjoyable.”

Although the Library Liftoff space is at Gate D, travelers can use the free wireless internet access anywhere in the airport to download the free Libby eBook and eAudiobook reader to their personal mobile phone or tablet, connect to their library and stock up on great reading.

“BLI is always looking for ways to improve our customer’s experience and Library Liftoff does exactly that,” Marie Duckworth, BLI landside supervisor, said. “Our visitors can enjoy free digital materials and carry their library in their pocket while traveling.”

Both WCLS and BLI have made major service changes over the last few years. WCLS offers 40,000 eBooks and eAudiobooks, 13 million songs to stream and download, nearly 150 digital magazines, and access to online research tools, like NewsBank, Consumer Reports, Chilton’s Online Library, and many others.

In the fall of 2018, BLI launched direct flights from Bellingham to Tucson; they also offer non-stop flights to Seattle, San Juan Islands, Oakland/San Francisco, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, Phoenix-Mesa, and Las Vegas. Seasonal service to Hawaii (Kona) and Maui from November through April. More information about airport services can be found at www.FlyBLI.com.