The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library, located in Midland, Michigan, is a public library that has been serving the community for over 60 years. Founded in 1955, the library is named after Grace A. Dow, the wife of Herbert H. Dow, the founder of The Dow Chemical Company. The library's mission is to provide free and equal access to information, education, and entertainment for all members of the community.
History and Architecture
The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library was built in 1955, with a unique architectural design that reflects the style of the time. The building features a striking glass and stone façade, with a large atrium that allows natural light to flood the interior. Over the years, the library has undergone several renovations and expansions, including a major renovation in 2004 that added new meeting rooms, a computer lab, and a children’s area. The library’s design has been recognized for its aesthetic appeal, and it has become a beloved landmark in the Midland community.
Collection and Services
The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library boasts an extensive collection of over 200,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library also offers a wide range of services, including free Wi-Fi, computer access, printing and copying, and meeting rooms. The library’s staff is committed to providing excellent customer service, and they offer programs and events for children and adults, including author readings, book clubs, and technology classes. The library is also a member of the Sage Library System, which provides access to a shared catalog of over 1 million items from libraries across the region.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 150,000 |
| Audiobooks | 10,000 |
| e-books | 20,000 |
| DVDs | 5,000 |
| CDs | 3,000 |
Programs and Events
The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library offers a diverse range of programs and events for children and adults, including author readings, book clubs, technology classes, and children’s storytime. The library also hosts exhibitions and displays, featuring local artists and artisans. The library’s programs and events are designed to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement, and they are often free and open to the public.
Children’s Services
The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library has a strong commitment to children’s services, offering a range of programs and activities designed to promote early literacy and a love of reading. The library’s children’s area features a colorful and engaging environment, with a large collection of picture books, early readers, and children’s fiction. The library also offers children’s storytime, toddler time, and other programs designed to support early childhood development.
- Children's storytime: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:00 am
- Toddler time: Wednesdays at 10:00 am
- Book clubs for kids: monthly, grades K-5
Technology and Digital Services
The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library offers a range of technology and digital services, including free Wi-Fi, computer access, and printing and copying. The library also offers e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines, which can be accessed through the library’s website or mobile app. The library’s digital services are designed to support lifelong learning and entertainment, and they are available 24⁄7.
Digital Collections
The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library offers a range of digital collections, including e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines. The library’s digital collections can be accessed through the library’s website or mobile app, and they are available 24⁄7. The library’s digital collections include:
- OverDrive: e-books and audiobooks
- Hoover's: business and company information
- LinkedIn Learning: online courses and tutorials
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, you can visit the library in person and provide proof of identity and residency. You can also apply for a library card online and pick it up at the library.
What services does the library offer for children?
+The library offers a range of services for children, including storytime, toddler time, book clubs, and summer reading programs. The library also has a large collection of children’s books, audiobooks, and DVDs.
