(Chelsea Update would like to thank Virginia Krueger for the information in this story.)
On May 1, 2024, Chelsea District Library (CDL) made the final payment on the loan used to construct the library.
This means that taxes are going down for the CDL service area. In 2004, voters approved a 20-year bond that allowed CDL to expand from the historic McKune House to the beautiful space it inhabits today. In 2023, the bond millage rate was 0.49 mills, which translates to approximately a $100 annual tax reduction for homes with assessed property values of $201,500.
We opened the doors of the expanded library in the fall of 2006. How have library services changed in the years since our new building opened?
- Nearly doubled our collection of physical items to borrow
- Increased library programs offered from 269 to almost 800 annual library programs and outreach events.
- Added multiple platforms for downloading and streaming ebooks, audiobooks, and videos
- Added the Ingenuity Engine, a creative makerspace
- Added CDL Garage collection of tools, games, and more
The board and staff of CDL are grateful for the support of our community as we have grown and expanded.
Please join us on June 1 from 1-3 p.m, as we celebrate not only the bond payoff, but the 25th anniversary of the library district formation, 65 years of library services in the McKune House, and the 75th anniversary of the Friends of Chelsea District Library. Mingle with the Friends, explore CDL & Friends history, take a look at the strategic plan, check out useful library resources, and enjoy light refreshments.
Don’t miss the ceremonial burning of the mortgage to kick off the 3 p.m. Music in the Air performance.
About Us: Chelsea District Library (CDL) is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to engage, inspire, and equip through evolving services and resources. CDL currently serves 16,126 residents in the Chelsea library district—City of Chelsea, Lyndon and Sylvan Townships, and the portions of Lima and Dexter Townships within the Chelsea School District.
For more information visit www.chelseadistrictlibrary.org.
