Right here stands a beacon. It is a beacon of community engagement. It is the Redford Township District Library. This library offers an inviting atmosphere. It captivates visitors.
The Redford Township District Library started back in the 1920s. At that time, library service was provided by bookmobiles. These bookmobiles served the citizens. Work toward a real Redford Township Library began in 1945. The first Library Board was appointed then.
The Library was first in the fire hall. In March 1949, it moved. It went to a small building on Five Mile Road near Beech Daly. Larger quarters came in March 1956. The library then moved to a building across from the Township Offices. Many local organizations helped. They gave books, equipment and services. A community card party financed all of this.
Ground broke for a new library building in July 1961. On May 20, 1962, the Redford Township Public Library was dedicated. An addition was completed in 1966. It was funded by Library Services. Construction Act funds and local funds matched. This brought the Library to 14650 square feet. After that, the building remained without renovation until 1992.
Changes kept happening. Grants and matching funds helped. They came from the State of Michigan and Chrysler Corporation. Usage grew a lot. People decided a larger library was needed. It would meet community needs and demands better.
Citizens, the Library Board, and Friends of the Library formed a district library. In August 1994, citizens voted the Library a 1 mil operating fund. This money could only be used for library service. The Library expanded its hours and services.
The District Library Board looked for a place to build. Five sites were looked at. None were right. In June 2002, Presbyterian Village of Redford offered land. It was 2.5 acres of free land. The Board said yes quickly. Plans were made for an $8.5 million bond campaign. This was to finance the building of a new facility. Ground broke on May 28, 2003. This was for the new Redford Township District Library.
The library opened on August 23, 2004. It is 65000 square feet and state-of-the-art. Over 7300 people used the Library during the first week. On September 19, 2004, the new Library was dedicated. It was dedicated to the citizens of Redford.
The Redford Township District Library has two stories. It has many book options. It caters to all interests and ages. Study rooms offer a quiet escape. They are for study or reading. The staff is friendly and helpful. They create a welcoming place. Special events add flair. Food Truck Thursdays are one example.
The Redford Township District Library truly is the gem of our little township. Some people note that the Library Assistants go out of their way to be helpful. This makes the Library a place one looks forward to read or study.
The service is exceptional. The staff is very professional, helpful and attentive. The atmosphere and selection of reading materials is warm and inviting. This makes this library a true source for helpful information.