Literacy Matters

KDL’s Vibes program pays artists, streams local music, and hosts Vibes Fest on Sept. 13, connecting community members with West Michigan’s diverse musicians.

Kent District Library’s Vibes Fest showcases West Michigan musical talent

KDL’s Vibes program pays artists, streams local music, and hosts Vibes Fest on Sept. 13, connecting community members with West Michigan’s diverse musicians.

Clyde Waltenbaugh
Library, veterans services partner to expand access for Kent County Vets

Kent District Library and Kent County Veterans Services collaborate to bring vital library tools and outreach directly to local veterans.  

Vivienne Blanco Bond, 9, and her sister, Serafina, 7, take part in KDL’s Summer Wonder program by reading "The Wilder Child," written by their aunt, Nicolette Sowder.
Summer Wonder program sparks joyful learning across Kent County families

Kent District Library’s Summer Wonder program blends books, creativity, and curiosity into a fun, flexible routine that keeps kids learning all summer.

KDL expands summer services with free meals, pantry access

Kent District Library branches are tackling food insecurity with expanded summer meals and a Little Free Pantry, reinforcing libraries as trusted hubs of care and connection.

Katie Venechuk
KDL’s foraging classes, seed library build connection between food, community

Through free seed libraries and foraging classes, Kent District Library empowers residents to grow, harvest, and connect with food and nature.

For 10-year-old Connor Trelfa, the Spencer Township branch of the Kent District Library isn’t just a place to borrow books, it’s a second home.
Literacy Matters: 5 stories that celebrate the evolution of our libraries

Libraries are transforming into lively centers of belonging, with these five stories showcasing how Kent County’s libraries ignite curiosity, foster connections, and promote community-wide learning.

A revamped library at Kent County Juvenile Detention Center, supported by a partnership with volunteers and KDL, improves behavior and literacy.
Library overhaul builds culture of reading at youth detention center

A revamped library at Kent County Juvenile Detention Center, supported by a partnership with volunteers and KDL, improves behavior and literacy.

KDL doesn't have a library in Grattan Township, but the bookmobile has made several visits, and the library has sponsored special events such as a visit by the Critter Barn.
Kent District Library expands access with innovative services across Kent County

Kent District Library expands access with bookmobiles, vending machines, airport shelves, and high school branches, making reading accessible everywhere.

Fifth graders across Grand Rapids will explore spades, secrets, and family in “Playing the Cards You’re Dealt,” by Varian Johnson, the 2025 pick for the Grand Rapids Public Library’s One Book, One City for Kids program.
Grand Rapids Public Library unveils fifth-grade reading Initiative, author visit, and related events

Fifth graders across Grand Rapids will explore spades, secrets, and family in “Playing the Cards You’re Dealt,” by Varian Johnson, the 2025 pick for the Grand Rapids Public Library’s One Book, One City for Kids program.

Rachel Groters, Kent District Library Youth Librarian leads the Storytime event at the Grandville Branch.
KDL building on record year with more programs, connections, and expansion projects

Kent District Library fosters connection through free programs, welcoming spaces, and outreach, making it a vital "third space" for all.

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