ADA-compliant entrances, restrooms, and interior spaces

• Level flooring and wider aisles

• Easier access for individuals with mobility challenges, seniors, and families with strollers

• Parking that meets accessibility standards and provides more spots

Why it matters: The current historic building presents physical barriers that exclude many patrons.Description text goes here

• Expanded areas for children, teens, adults, and seniors

• Private and group study spaces

• Dedicated rooms for workshops, tutoring, and meetings

• Multi-use rooms for community events and after-hours use

Why it matters: Program attendance and library usage are outgrowing the current building.

• Reliable high-speed internet and more public computers

• Remote and collaborative work space that includes modern technology

• Space for tech classes and digital literacy support

Why it matters: Digital access is a lifeline for rural and underserved populations.

• Simultaneous programming and flexible spacing for multiuse purposes

• Outreach programs can grow (homebound services, school partnerships)

• Room for community partnerships (local orgs, small businesses, schools)

Why it matters: The current library can’t meet rising demand from year-round and seasonal residents.

• The Island House was not built to house the weight of books and the crowds of people that come through each year (Over 42,000 in 2024)

• Deed restrictions for the Island House will ensure public access. It will be protected and repurposed by the Village of Elk Rapids

• Moving the library allows for sensitive stewardship of a beloved structure without compromising accessibility or space

Why it matters: This honors both our heritage and our future.

• Energy-efficient systems and environmentally conscious design

• Flexible layout that can evolve with community needs and technology

Why it matters: Investing now prevents costly future retrofits.

• A visible, accessible community hub for lifelong learning and connection

• Equitable access to knowledge, resources, and opportunity—for everybody

Why it matters: Libraries are more than books—they are the heart of a thriving community.

The cost of moving the library is $7 million. Our funding plan (based on a spring of 2024 fundraising feasibility study) is committed to fundraising ½ of the cost through private donations and grants and the other half through a short term capital bond.

Through a generous donation from Katharine Dexter McCormick, the island property was deeded to the Village of Elk Rapids. The library has been leasing space for over 75 years. In 2017 efforts to expand the Island House footprint caused division in our community. Because of this and the fact that we do not own the building, the library board decided to look for alternative solutions to the accessibility issues.

Yes! We had over 42,000 visits to our library last year. Libraries have evolved into community spaces where people come to gather, access resources and participate in programming that enhances their lives.

The Village of Elk Rapids has formed an Island House Committee. Public input and community research has resulted in a number of ideas for the future of the Island House within deed restrictions. Stay informed through the Village of Elk Rapids as we move forward, so will the decision on the future of this community asset.

Public libraries are funded by their local population. Most libraries own their own building, but ERDL never has. As a publicly funded institution, this building will be your building! In order for the library to offer relevant modern day services, we need a building that can hold the number of books and people that represent our community.

Here’s why it can still make sense to support a public library, even if you don’t personally use it:

1. Strong Libraries Build Strong Communities

Libraries support education, literacy, and lifelong learning. They help kids succeed in school, support job seekers and small businesses, and offer programs for seniors and families. Even if you don’t use the library, your neighbors, coworkers, and future workforce likely do.

2. Property Values and Community Attractiveness

Communities with vibrant public libraries are more attractive to families, professionals, and retirees. A modern library is often considered a community asset — like good schools and parks — and can help protect and even raise property values.

3. Economic Efficiency

Libraries are cost-effective. For every tax dollar spent, libraries often return many times more in value through free resources like internet access, meeting rooms, databases, technology, tax help, and programs. It's a public service that benefits many for a relatively low cost.

4. You May Use It One Day

Even if you don’t use the library now, life changes. People turn to libraries for:

• Wi-Fi when home service goes down

• Quiet work or study space

• Help filing for jobs or benefits

• Children’s programs or caregiver support

• Access to printers, computers, or reliable information

Think of it like a fire department — you might not use it every day, but you’re glad it’s there when you need it.

5. Libraries are the great societal equalizer

Libraries provide help and resources for everyone, regardless of income, background or ability.