The newly published Kent District Library 2024 Community Report tells the story of Kent District Library becoming a place where every person feels they belong. The report celebrates achievements, growth and partnerships throughout the community. It also includes systemwide and branch specific statistics. It is available for download at kdl.org/communityreport and highlights numerous accomplishments, including:
- Introducing Preschool Booster Packs. Booster Packs are collections of fun-filled games, activities and books that are created for kids to help with pre-literacy skills.
- Offering the first On the Same Page program featuring Ann Patchett and Kevin Wilson. On the Same Page invited our community to come together through the shared experience of reading.
- Receiving the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given for making significant and exceptional contributions to their communities.
- Partnering with the American Heart Association to launch a Libraries with Heart program to support area residents in monitoring their own blood pressure numbers.
- Launching Legendary Readers, a simple and fun reading program designed to help children develop a lifetime love of reading and learning. Participants in grades K-5 are asked to read, write or visit the library for 100 days throughout the school year, outside of the classroom.
“This past year has been about showing up—not just waving the flag of what libraries stand for but doing the hard work to make a difference,” said Executive Director Lance Werner. “We want to be part of people’s lives, a source of calm and inspiration in an often-chaotic world, and a place where no one gets left behind.”
