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
June is Audiobook Appreciation Month, and the Kent District Library (KDL) provides patrons with a wide range of audiobook and digital resources year round. This collection provides a convenient option for enjoying titles whilst traveling, working, multitasking and more.
Within Kent District Library’s network of 20 branches, a variety of communities are served, with unique needs at each location, whether urban or rural. At rural branches, the library staff provide crucial resources like reliable, high-speed Internet, tech lessons, audiobooks and more to residents who might not otherwise have access to such.
First Steps Kent is an early literacy initiative that aims to ensure children have exposure to books at a young age. Raising a child takes a village and many local organizations, including the Kent District Library, provide helpful resources in line with the initiative.
Play is also an important element of learning. The new WonderKnook playscapes installed at Kent District Library invite children and families to imagine, explore curiosity and play within their branches.
The Kent District Library (KDL) was awarded a five-star library rating by the Library Journal Index of Public Library Service. This top score recognition reflects the commitment the Library has to bettering everyone in the community.
Michigan’s winter can lead many to spend more time than ever indoors. The Kent District Library (KDL) provides a wide range of programming, special events and festive fun during the cold-weather months.
In response to community needs, the Kent District Library (KDL) has partnered with Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) to offer a free mental health series. This is in addition to their regular virtual resources and physical materials available for checkout to help with anxiety, depression, health and wellness.
Designed to showcase West Michigan musical talent, the VIBES collection is expanding to include a pop-up mini concert series. On Thursday nights, the VIBES Reference Desk Mini Concerts transform library branches to live music settings.
Public libraries exist to serve their communities. At the heart of their mission, the goal is to provide materials and resources that reflect and represent their diverse communities, including LGBTQ+ and BIPOC populations. A recent uptick in book-banning discussions is putting pressure on libraries, including Kent District Library, threatening their future funding and millages.
Oftentimes, the summer can mean a learning drought for many children. Kent District Library provides many free items to help students utilize literacy resources and maintain reading grade levels.
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