Kevin Peterson - Grand Rapids Public Library Commissioner

07/07/2026

Andrew Carnegie wrote in his influential essay “The Gospel of Wealth” that a free library is the best gift that can be given to a community. Beginning in 1881, he funded the construction of more than 2,500 libraries worldwide, and today, hundreds remain in operation.

The Andrew Carnegie Foundation is committed to supporting libraries as trusted public institutions, providing access to books, knowledge, and services, and helping Americans obtain the skills needed for greater opportunities and upward mobility.

Learn more about this work at https://carnegie.org/our-work/libraries/

06/30/2026

The digital checkout system is clearly the way to go though I do love seeing the old date stamps! Reading this to my daughters and I'm immediately reminded of how many families in our community that have shared this experience.

While the stamps aren't used anymore, the library fosters connections every time a book or item is checked out!

06/26/2026

Head on over and learn why they say "West-side best-side!"

06/24/2026

Attended Storytime in the Park- Garfield yesterday after the library board meeting and wow - this community shows up!

A big thanks to all of the volunteers and community partners that make these events happen. It felt like a carnival for literacy, so much fun, so many people, so many resources being shared.

Definitely give them a follow and attend one of their events. Heads up: there is a crowd, but I'm so very glad that's the case!

06/17/2026

Delays are never fun yet I'm glad to know that the work is progressing and there's a plan in place to restore this neighborhood library!

GRPL’s Yankee Clipper Branch Closure Extended | Reopening Re-Scheduled for September 8, 2026.

The Yankee Clipper Branch (2025 Leonard NE) will extend its temporary closure due to maintenance issues caused by spring flooding. GRPL will reopen the Yankee Clipper Branch to the public on September 8, 2026.

During this extended closure, we will complete building improvements that address issues caused by spring flooding. While our vendor replaces drywall, insulation, and ceiling tiles, we will perform additional general maintenance while the building is closed to the public. We will also conduct standard air quality testing to ensure this neighborhood branch is clean, comfortable, and ready for the community's return.

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate our community’s patience as we work to restore our space and ensure it is safe for reopening. Learn more about our extended closure in this blog post. → https://www.grpl.org/?p=24090&preview=1&_ppp=8497005ea1

05/22/2026

Love seeing this partnership in action!

05/15/2026

Library card 🤝 voter registration
Library advocate 🤝 candidate

HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY!

Learn more at ReadLeadRun.org

04/29/2026

Always a great day advocating for and with libraries with the Michigan Library Association!

I had a wonderful opportunity to visit several legislators, connect with the field, and I even had a chance to visit the Lansing library.

This year's talking points focused on preserving and advancing State funding systems for libraries. Libraries are critical infrastructure for our communities and I was glad to see so many advocates and legislators show up for them!

It’s !! We couldn’t be more excited to welcome a very special guest this morning—Governor Gretchen Whitmer helped kick off Michigan Library Advocacy Day! 🎉

Thank you, Governor Whitmer, for joining us and supporting Michigan libraries.

With advocates from across the state gathered in Lansing, the energy is high, and the message is clear: libraries power strong communities. On to a full day of sharing stories, making connections, and advocating for the future of Michigan libraries! 📚✨