A Silver Anniversary Reflection
This year marked the silver jubilee of Capital Area District Libraries (CADL) - a quarter century of empowering our diverse communities to learn, imagine and connect. From our beginning as the Capital Area District Library to becoming an award-winning library system serving 23 communities, our journey is a testament to our dedication, growth and the meaningful connections we’ve built together. Let’s dive into CADL’s rich history and explore how we celebrated this significant milestone throughout the year.
The First Chapter
Our story began in the 1970s when Ingham County libraries started discussing the idea of a regional library system. The 1990s brought a critical moment when the Lansing public school system couldn't sustain funding for the city's public libraries. The solution? A regional library system that would not only help Lansing but also boost funding and modernize catalog and circulation functions for Ingham County libraries.
In February 1997, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners and Lansing City Council approved a resolution to create a district library. Fast forward to August 1997 when our residents, with their votes, paved the way for our inaugural three-year operating millage.
We officially opened our doors on January 2, 1998, ensuring a seamless transition for Ingham County Library and Lansing Public Library patrons as they transformed into proud CADL members. In this library blend, all Ingham County Library and Lansing Library buildings and materials seamlessly merged into the district library.
Growth and Expansion of Services
Since our inception, we’ve continually enhanced and expanded our offerings to better cater to the diverse needs of our communities. We’ve also embraced new technologies that remain an integral part of our operations to this day. It started in 1999 when we launched a computerized catalog system at CADL Downtown Lansing. A decade later, in 2009, we took another leap forward by adding a fully searchable calendar of events on our website.
Other notable milestones include introducing our Library of Things collection, now boasting nearly 800 diverse items, and implementing Auto-Renewal—a service designed to extend the loan period for checked-out materials seamlessly. These initiatives reflect our commitment to innovation, accessibility and enhancing the overall library experience for our members.
Celebrating our Anniversary
To commemorate our silver jubilee, we’ve hosted celebratory programs, offered limited-edition memorabilia, published a special Reader’s Advisory booklet and recognized employees who’ve been with us from the beginning. Our biggest celebrations occurred in April when we hosted special 25th-anniversary events for children and adults.
Our community came together at CADL Downtown Lansing for a memorable adult celebration. Hosted by WLNS Channel 6 News Anchor Sheri Jones, the evening included jazz music by Straight Ahead Trio, delicious hors d’oeuvres, a historical exhibit, staff presentations and special recognitions. The next day, children and their families gathered at CADL Downtown Lansing for a fun-filled day featuring performances by magicians Cameron Zvara and Joel Tacey, craft activities and free ice cream provided by Sweet Treats Ice Cream Truck.
We want to express our sincere appreciation for those who attended our 25th-anniversary events, making them truly memorable occasions. This includes past and present employees and board of trustee members, our patrons and community partners, including the Capital Area Transportation Authority and Michigan State University Federal Credit Union.
We are also immensely grateful to the following vendors who played a crucial role in making these events possible: Morton's Fine Catering, Midtown Brewing Co., BRD Printing, Art Craft Display, Michigan Premiere Events and Larry Cushion Trophies & Engraving. Check out photos from both events in the gallery below!
Our Next Chapter
As we look to the future, you can expect us to remain dedicated to our mission of empowering our diverse communities to learn, imagine and connect. It’s an exciting time at CADL! In a few short weeks, we’ll welcome Jenny Marr as CADL’s new executive director. Get ready to join us in giving Jenny a warm welcome as we embark on this exciting new chapter together.
We want to extend a heartfelt “thank you” for being a part of our library community. Your unwavering support, our dedicated employees and the bonds we share with community partners have carried us through 25 incredible years. As we step into the next year and beyond, we’re excited to create more stories, connections and memories together. Our libraries wouldn’t be the vibrant, welcoming spaces they are today without you!