Arts & Culture

Enjoy free performances, history talks and more

We offer performances, exhibits, movie screenings and more—all year long. Every month we host music performances, opera and ballet previews. From cultural celebrations to history talks, there is something for everyone at your Library.

Explore

Artists

We frequently work with local artists to produce illustrations for program materials or murals in our buildings. We prioritize equity and inclusion in selecting artists to work with.

Arts Programs

We host free arts programs and music and dance performances throughout the year.

Bullitt Lecture in American History

The A. Scott Bullitt Lecture in American History features presentations by presidential historians, popular historians, public intellectuals and professors of American History.

Community Programs

We offer free programs and events to strengthen our community and celebrate Seattle’s many cultures.

Exhibits

Visit our level 8 gallery space at the Central Library for touring exhibits, pieces from our Special Collections or works from artists addressing a current theme.

Movies

We screen free movies at many of our neighborhood branches and we also occasionally host curated film festivals covering a wide spectrum of topics and interests