By Christine Mwangi, Director of Fund Development
Kent District Library has evolved to be so much more than a place to check out books. It’s a place where our community connects, grows, learns and thrives.
This has all been made possible through your help. Thank you!
“Libraries are innately subversive institutions born of the radical notion that every single member of society deserves free, high quality access to knowledge and culture.” -Dr. Matt Finch
Ensuring our patrons have unfettered access to the internet both inside and outside of our building was a goal this year. To combat the digital divide, we significantly increased the number of hotspots we had available for checkout and currently have 700 in circulation, serving patrons throughout Kent County and especially those in rural and underserved communities.
To nurture and promote literary talent, we hosted the 9th annual Write Michigan contest, and over 950 writers from across the state submitted stories in four categories —249 adults, 367 teens, 283 youth and 52 Spanish writers (11 and younger) and we hope to have even more entries during our 10th annual contest.
"The Write Michigan Short Story Contest is an amazing doorway into publication for the aspiring writer. It offered me an effective process to refine my writing skill and provided a platform from which to share it." -Andy Hughes, Write Michigan Winner
Our Bookmobile continues to bring the library to patrons who may not be able to get to the library. The Bookmobile presence at community events has increased by 123% in the last year.
We need your help to effectively challenge the barriers that our community faces and provide everyone access to literacy programs and the other services we offer. The gift you give today will be a valuable step towards helping us meet the unique and emerging literacy needs of our community, even beyond the walls of our branches.
Can we count on you?
Your generosity and patronage keep us going, and each of you is important in helping Kent District Library serve the community as a vibrant and life-changing resource. To donate, please give online at kdl.org/donate.
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