Interlochen Public Library

Library Showcase:

Successful musical composers and musicians are taught the basics of how to read and write music. But, that it not what gives them the ability to make moving music. The ability to create inspiring and stirring music comes from the heart and soul of each musician.

Those affiliated with the Interlochen Public Library know the basics requirements for a library to exist. But, that knowledge is not what makes the library significant. It is the love for their community and patrons that comes from the staff’s heart and soul that creates a harmonious melody within the walls of the library. The staff is dedicated to providing services that benefit everyone who comes into contact with the library. They work with other organizations in the community to stimulate the minds of their patrons.

The library is located ½ mile from the Interlochen Center for the Arts. (http://www.interlochen.org/). Interlochen Center for the Arts brings thousands of students and teachers to Interlochen throughout the year. The library’s usage increases during the summer months when summer camps are in session. During that time, counselors and teachers visit the library to enjoy the library’s ambiance. One teacher brings her International students to the library to enhance their language skills.

Another resource that is close in proximity to the library is the Golden Fellowship Hall. Actually, the Fellowship Hall and the library are on opposite ends of the same building. The library is able to utilize the hall for special programs. On average, the library and the FOL sponsor an adult or family program to the community in the hall once a month.

The library is also close to the Interlochen Community School and each week, 6 classes walk to the library for separate story hours and to check out books.

This past winter, the library worked on rearranging their collection and assembling new shelving. Their F.O.L. group donated half of the money for the shelves, which cost more than ten thousand dollars, and the other half was paid for out of the library’s funds. The shelves were installed by volunteers and the total project took 3 months. As a result, the library now has more room for books and a new look to the library.

In addition to adding shelves, the interior of the library has changed with the addition of new furniture that was purchased at a local Amish furniture store. An end table was donated by the store and the other pieces were funded by their F.O.L.

As illustrated, their F.O.L. has funded several programs and projects for the library. They are able to do this because each year they have an annual book sale which nets about $4,000-$5,000. An additional source of revenue is an annual February concert which is held at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. They also receive memorial donations to their organization. In addition to the recent library projects, the F.O.L. also fund all of the Summer Reading Program’s six week entertainment schedule. Cassettes and DVDs are purchased with F.O.L Funds.

The Interlochen Public Library is an asset to their community. Their moving symphony is being composed daily through the efforts of their library staff and volunteers.

We salute the Interlochen Public Library for all they have done for their community and are proud to have them as a member of the Mid-Michigan Library League.

Mid-Michigan Library League- 210 1/2 N. Mitchell- Cadillac, MI 49601
Phone: 800-968-0046 Fax: 800-968-3297

Website design: Holly Mercer
Last Update: April 2, 2007