Start Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday at the Bettendorf Public Library

May 21, 2026 - Step into the pages of history and celebrate the 250^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence at the Bettendorf Public Library.

The library is holding several free, educational and entertaining programs leading up to the 4^th of July that highlight America's rich heritage and uphold the principles of democracy:

Musical Sing-Along | Saturday, June 6 | 2 p.m.
Be in the room where it happens! See everyone's favorite show about the ten-dollar Founding Father! Come sing along with the historical figures who founded America. Have some popcorn and raise a glass of lemonade to freedom!

Crafts for Adults: Hanging Star Ornament | Wednesday, June 10 | 6:30 p.m.
Debbie Ford from Parkside Treasure House in Orion will show participants how to make patriotic star ornaments using diamond painting. Registration is required on the library's website.

Iowa Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War: Discovering Quad Cities Civil War History | Saturday, June 20 | 10 a.m.
Learn about the history of Camp McClellan, a former Union Army camp located in Davenport, and its importance during the American Civil War. Founded in August 1861, Camp McClellan served as a training area for new recruits, a hospital for injured soldiers, and eventually a prison camp.

Tea You Won't Throw in the Harbor | Friday, June 26 | 1 p.m.
Get the tea on English vs US varieties of the most popular beverage in the world (aside from water). Learn about the teas consumed around the time of the Boston Tea Party from Rebecca Sebastian of Sunlight Media. Plus, make two tea blends to take home and partake in a tea taste-off to determine which is better: US tea or English tea. Registration is required on the library's website.

American Girl Doll Party | Wednesday, July 1 | 1 p.m.
American Girl dolls and their ever-popular books were created to spotlight aspirational characters along with American history. This drop-in party will feature activities, crafts, and more that highlight the eras of various American Girl dolls.

Visit the library's 4^th of July events webpage for more details on all these programs.

Following these lead-up events, the City of Bettendorf will hold its citywide 4^th of July celebration, including a parade, festival, and fireworks. Visit the City's 4^th of July webpage for more details.