On Ada library’s ‘golden’ birthday, Amy Van Andel reflects on its origins, possibilities
Amy Van Andel looks back on her role in building Ada’s library, inspired by family, community needs, and a lifelong love of reading.
Ada
Much has changed since the 1820's when Rix Robinson first established his fur trading post at the confluence of the Grand and Thornapple rivers and laid the foundation for modern day Ada. Or has it? Sure Ada has a booming residential market, big plans to dress up the village center, and the global headquarters of the multi-billion dollar Amway Corporation. But the community's wild and wooded character, and its prime location outside the busy county seat of Grand Rapids, continues to attract entrepreneurs, residents, and visitors. The challenge in the coming decades is to maintain the high quality of life that's stood for nearly 200 years. For more information on Ada visit the Rapid Growth: City Guide
Hundreds of Kent County students explore creative futures at Mosaic
Nearly 400 students gathered for the 2025 Mosaic Event, discovering how storytelling, technology, and creativity can inspire careers and community impact.
New Ada Hotel opens, embracing village’s rich history
A modern hotel, owned by Cheri DeVos, opens along the Thornapple River in Ada, blending stylish design with historical charm and featuring two restaurants.
Paddles with purpose: Breaking a world record, raising money for Gift of Life Michigan
Four local pickleball players hope to smash a world’s record in the booming sport while promoting a life-saving cause.
No longer simply the sound of silence: Local libraries offer gathering areas for community groups
Kent District Library is creating a community Third Space. Study rooms are being booked for a variety of activities from dulcimer rehearsal to Girl Scout meetings.
Ada envisions new $8.5M covered bridge park
Ada leaders announced plans for new Ada Covered Bridge Park and enhanced trail system. The group has launched the final phase of a $8.5 million fundraising campaign.
Small businesses have huge resource in local library, chamber, and partnering organizations
It can be costly to run a small business, but the amount of resources that the Kent District Library and its partners, including the Grand Rapids Chamber, and Kent Intermediate School District are invaluable. Entrepreneurs and small businesses have a large resource with access to technology, tools, data, and training.
A Q&A with the West Michigan historian behind the Historic Michigan Travel Guide
Larry J. Wagenaar has lived in West Michigan for more than 30 years. He’s the CEO of the Historical Society of Michigan, which has released an updated version of the Historic Michigan Travel Guide.
Library seeking reduction in millage, ensures no reduction in resources, programming
As costs of living increase nationwide, the Kent District Library is focused on continuing to provide invaluable resources and programming to the community. For their upcoming millage, they are seeking a reduction in their millage, to keep more of residents’ hard-earned money in their pockets.
Advocating for libraries and strengthening communities
Nearly 440,000 area residents have benefited from the materials, resources and programming at the Kent District Library. Now community members have a chance to help increase that number by attending or sponsoring KDL’s annual literacy program fundraiser, the Literacy Libations Gala.
