Downtown Mount Vernon Association Birds of Winter Art Walk

Saturday, February 1
2-5 p.m.

The Mount Vernon City Library is pleased to be a part of the Downtown Mount Vernon Association Birds of Winter Art Walk.

The Library’s featured artist for the month of February is Karen Bakke. As the Impressionists have done, Karen Bakke paints “en plein air” - in the fresh air. Plein air paintings are fresh and vibrant. She then goes back to the studio to breathe that same life on to the canvas that she saw and felt outdoors. Every aspect of creativity from Karen Bakke’s past resides in the creations of the present.

Karen has a lengthy commercial background, which included toy design to illustration to visual-effects in the TV and movie industry. She now paints solely as a fine artist based at her home studio in Sedro-Woolley, WA. Her inspirations and challenges are endless on her journey in art.

Karen is currently the president of Plein Air Washington Artists, an active organization with over 250 members across Washington State and beyond. She is also a member of Oil Painters of America, American Women Artists, and the American Impressionist Society. She has earned many entries into juried shows and won awards, including Artists' Choice, People's Choice and Best Plein Air.

Plein Air Painting by Karen Bakke

Every Saturday in February
1-4 p.m.

Karen Bakke, president of Plein Air Washington Artists, will be at the library every Saturday in February, demonstrating what it means to paint “en plein air”- in the fresh air. She will be painting live and in person from 1-4 p.m. each week. Stop by the library to watch as her masterpieces come to life!

We Love Books: a Make Your Own Bookplate Class

Thursday, February 6
6 p.m.

Who needs a Valentine when books are your one true love? Make a personalized bookplate stamp in this free class at the library. Bookplates have been used for many years to signify which person owns the book. Create your own, one-of-a-kind stamp with your name and scenery or whatever suits you. Space is limited-so visit the library or call (360) 336-6209 to register! This class is for ages 16+.

MVCL Book Discussion

Thursday, February 13
12:30-2:00 p.m.

The Thursday Afternoon Book Club will be discussing Hillbilly Elegy: a memoir of family and culture in crisis by J.D. Vance. Read the book of the month and join us for a great literary discussion on the second Thursday of every month from 12:30 to 2:00 pm.

Swing Dance Night at Hillcrest Lodge

Thursday, February 13 from 6-8 p.m.

You are invited to the Mount Vernon City Library’s Free Swing Night at Hillcrest Lodge. Learn the basics of swing dancing with a free lesson at 6 pm and then enjoy live music by members of the MVHS Jazz Band, social dancing, and light refreshments beginning at 7 pm. The ‘20s are back and so we are swinging you into a new favorite pastime! Come as you are, bring your Valentine, or invite your whole crew for this fun, free, all-ages event. No dancing experience necessary! Don’t want to dance? No problem! Come enjoy the live music and entertainment. 1920s or Swing attire highly recommended but not required.

This event is at Hillcrest Lodge - 1717 S 13th St. Mt Vernon, WA 98274

Books N’ Brews at Skagit River Brewery

Wednesday, February 26
6-8 p.m.

The Skagit River Brewery and Mount Vernon City Library bring you a new book club that is dedicated to reading local & supporting local! All ages are welcome. We will be meeting on the last Wednesday of each month to discuss books by Washington State authors from many different genres. Participants 21+ will get a discounted price on select brews during book club meetings.

The February Book Selection: Reservation Blues by Sherman Alexie

This event is at Skagit River Brewery - 404 S 3rd St, Mt Vernon, WA 98273

The Library will be closed Monday, February 17

Ozobots

Saturday, February 1 from 2 - 4 p.m.
Wednesday, February 19 from 3 - 7:30 p.m.
Recommended for ages 6+

Try out simple coding and robotics with Ozobots. These cute pocket-sized robots are easy to use! Just draw colored lines on paper using markers. The robots will follow the lines and respond to color codes by changing their speed, direction or LED light color.

Chinese New Year Celebration

Tuesday, February 4
Drop in from 3 - 7:30 p.m.
All Ages

Celebrate the Lunar New Year as the Year of the Rat begins. Learn about Chinese culture and participate in a range of family-friendly activities.

Teen Valentine's Day Treat Challenge

Saturday, February 15
2 - 3 p.m.
Grades 6 - 12

Try to make your best Valentine’s Day treat using various ingredients like Oreos, marshmallows and frosting in this Nailed It challenge.

Storytime at Ristretto

Monday, February 24
4 p.m.

Join us for an all ages storytime at Ristretto Coffee Lounge in Downtown Mount Vernon! Ristretto will be offering discounted kid's hot chocolates.

This event is at Ristretto Coffee Lounge - 416 South 1st Street, Mount Vernon, WA 98273

Downtown Mount Vernon Association Birds of Winter Art Walk

Saturday, February 12-5 p.m.