What's Your Library Story?
Kent District Library branches have deep roots in the communities we serve, and the stories you share with us
about all the ways you use and are invested in your libraries move, inspire and motivate us. You have told us how you
use your library not only to borrow materials, but to find employment, reconnect with long-lost friends and family,
learn new skills and spend time with those you care about.
Those stories should be told. We're telling them here.
Some of our supporters tell us why they love the library:
Jack DeVries
Last fall, 3-year-old Jack DeVries walked into the Byron Township branch with a gift for children's librarian Barb DeYoung. In his little hand, closed so very tight, were three pennies...
Jim Dykstra
When life threw Jim Dykstra and his family a frightening curveball last year, the Kentwood man turned to his library for relief — and grew closer to his grandchildren in the process....
Girls Count
The school day has been over for hours, but on a recent Monday evening, more than a dozen girls in grades 3 to 5 gather at the Kentwood branch, clearly geared up for some after-school fun — with math...
Kay Kiel
Kay Kiel has been a regular KDL patron since her 20s. In many ways, the library has been that constant friend, who, no matter how much your life changes, remains steadfast...
Lisa Montgomery
When Lisa Montgomery and her two daughters visit the Byron Township branch, she makes it a point to first check the hold shelf. Chances are, she said, something's waiting for her to pick up...
Newman Family
Cassandra Newman and her family were having a rough summer. After the loss of their beloved dog, Max, a 5-year-old English mastiff, Cassie turned to the Spencer Township branch in search of books...
Cynthia Worden
When Cynthia Worden tells you she doesn't think she could have made it without the library, she isn't exaggerating...
Anonymous Patrons (Service Center Tribute Wall)
If walls could talk, those that line the sorting area at KDL's Comstock Park Service Center would have many tales to tell: of love and longing, faith and family, humor and humility...