For 25 years, the White Lake Community Library has been more than just a place to borrow books. It’s been a space to gather, share ideas, and build connections. To mark this milestone, the library invites everyone to an Anniversary Open House on Friday, October 17 from 6–8 p.m. Guests can enjoy refreshments from The Gnarly Heifer, a short program about the library’s history, and a few surprises.
From Vision to Reality
The library’s journey began well before it opened in 2000. In March 1998, the White Lake Community District Library was officially recognized by the state. It would serve the Whitehall District Schools area.
At the heart of this vision was Bette Carlson. She imagined a library for the entire White Lake area—a place that would become a central part of the community.
Image courtesy of White Lake Community Library
In 1999, voters approved two bond issues to fund the new building. The groundbreaking took place on October 30, 1999, on land donated by Howmet Corp. Less than a year later, the library opened its doors on October 7, 2000. The new building was 10,000 square feet—designed to grow along with the community.
Image courtesy of White Lake Community Library
“Bette dreamed of a ‘third space’ for everyone,” said Virginia DeMumbrum, Library Director since 2019. “We wanted a warm and welcoming place that offered not just books, but also programs, resources, and space for all.”
Images courtesy of White Lake Community Library
25 Years of Growth and Change
In the early 2000s, the library added teen and adult programs to its popular story times. Outreach expanded, and new technology transformed many services.
In 2013, digital content became available. That year, about 2,000 titles were borrowed online. By 2024, that number reached over 21,000.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the library boosted its Wi-Fi signal into the parking lot. It stayed on 24/7 so people could access the internet safely.
In 2020, the community approved a small additional millage for technology and maintenance. This support reflected strong trust and appreciation for the library.
Today, the library welcomes 150+ visitors a day and offers hundreds of programs each year. It has truly become a community hub.
“As a result, we now host everything from technology help to craft clubs,” DeMumbrum added. “It’s a space where people gather to learn, connect, and be heard.”
Surprising Services, Big Impact
Many people are amazed at what the library offers:
- Free streaming of videos, eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers, and magazines
- Hotspots, tablets, and laptops available to borrow
- Free printing, scanning, and mobile phone printing
- No overdue fines
- Access to materials from libraries across Michigan
- A mobile app for managing accounts
- A Library of Things including power tools, toys, and even Halloween costumes
One of this fall’s most popular features is the Little Free Costume Library, where kids can pick out a costume at no cost.
Meanwhile, a new knit and crochet club attracted a dozen participants at its first meeting. Weekly gatherings are now underway.
Milestones That Shaped a Legacy
Here are just a few highlights from the past 25 years:
- 1984: Story hours begin and the collection becomes automated
- 1990s: Internet access is added; district library planning begins
- 2000: The current library opens
- 2003–2008: Wireless internet, newsletters, and Smithsonian partnerships arrive
- 2004: The library applies for the “Best Small Rural Library in America” award
- 2013–2024: Digital services grow rapidly
- 2024: A new rooftop solar project begins, set to save $250,000 over 20 years
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
As the library celebrates its 25th anniversary, it’s also planning for the future. Goals include:
- Modernizing the building
- Exploring a downtown location
- Expanding the Library of Things
- Continuing to serve as a place of connection
DeMumbrum credited both the staff and the community for shaping the library’s identity.
“People’s passion for learning and connection has made this library a vibrant part of White Lake,” she said. “And Bette Carlson’s dream set it all in motion.”
Celebrate with the Library
📅 Friday, October 17, 6–8 p.m.
📍 White Lake Community Library
🎉 Enjoy food, community, and surprises!
Come celebrate 25 years of stories, learning, and community. Let’s write the next chapter together.
Stay connected to what’s happening in our area by visiting CatchMark Community.
