Kent District Library reports $99 million in resident savings; 20,000 children finished summer reading

Kristen Cavell, the newly seated trustee representing East Grand Rapids, introduced the Kent District Library’s annual report and thanked the commission for its ongoing support.

"Kent District Library exists to serve and further all people," Cavell said, noting the library’s role in the community and previewing its summer programs.

Jen Devault, KDL’s director of library operations, told the commission residents saved about $99 million last year by using library services — a figure she said represents a $135,000 increase over the prior year. Devault said the average value per library user from checked-out materials alone is about $1,417 and emphasized that the figure excludes programming and public computer access.

Devault also reported that KDL helped 20,000 young readers complete the library’s "Summer Wonder" program last year and provided over 29,000 meals to children across Kent County. Scott Nymire, manager of the East Grand Rapids branch, described recent branch upgrades — study rooms, new carpet and an in-progress Reeds Lake mural — and thanked the commission for support that enabled those improvements.

Commissioners praised the library’s outreach and role as a community gathering place, noting tutors and school groups use the space and that the branch functions as a "third place" for local teens.

The presentation ended with staff offering printed materials and KDL committing to continued coordination with the city on programs for youth and residents.