Search results for: library card
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Annual Budget Hearing
Published: November 7, 2025
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING YPSILANTI DISTRICT LIBRARY County of Washtenaw, Michigan ON THE ADOPTION OF THE BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS IN THE LIBRARY DISTRICT OF THE YPSILANTI DISTRICT LIBRARY PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Ypsilanti District Library Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, the nineteenth day of November, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at YDL-Whittaker Road, 5577 Whittaker Road, Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197, to consider the approval and adoption of the operating budget of the Ypsilanti District Library for the fiscal year 2025-2026. Copies of the proposed budget are on file at …
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Library Social Work program coming to YDL
Published: January 23, 2025
The Ypsilanti District Library is transforming how patrons can connect with social service resources in the community, thanks to a generous grant from Washtenaw County Community Mental Health. With funding from the Washtenaw County Mental Health and Public Safety Preservation Millage, YDL will hire a fulltime Library Social Worker. This MSW position will engage with the community at YDL’s three locations to help provide information, support, referrals, and follow-through to people experiencing challenging life circumstances. The Library Social Worker will help patrons seeking community resources such as mental health services, substance use services, housing services, food, education, and other social …
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Your Library is OPEN!
Published: March 6, 2023
The library is OPEN! YDL’s newest branch held its Grand Opening on November 14, welcoming hundreds of excited visitors through the doors for the first time. A week of Grand Opening programs followed, drawing more excited crowds. In the first three months, the library has had over 7,000 visitors and launched many activities for the community. Our first storytime series ran from January 10-February 16, with weekly sessions for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Thanks to support from Rotary Club of Ann Arbor, families were able to choose a free book to keep at each storytime. The Martin Luther King, Jr. …
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Censorship Is So 1984. Read for Your Rights.
Published: October 1, 2025
Celebrate Banned Books Week 2023 (Oct 1-7)!
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Seniors & Caregivers
Whether you’re taking a watercolor class, mastering your smartphone, or getting resources for caring for a loved one or managing retirement, the library has plenty to offer. The Learning Never Gets Old series offers special events and programs for those ages 55 and up.
Teachers
We want to support you in the classroom! The library is here to support teachers and enrich student learning with classroom library cards, free homework help, tours of the library, targeted collections for special research projects, and more.
Board
The Board of Trustees consists of 7 members who are publicly elected by the residents of the library district. They hold monthly public meetings.
Library Plaza
Featuring a tile fountain and a statue of Harriet Tubman, Library Park Plaza is a great place to sit with a good book on a nice day
Engage
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Get Ready to visit the New Superior Branch!
Published: November 13, 2022
Opening week is here. Have fun visiting your new library!
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Michigan Notable Authors visit YDL
Published: May 2, 2023
This year, the Michigan Avenue branch is a stop on the 2023 Michigan Notable Books tour!
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Propose a Library Program
We are always looking for engaging educational programs to share with our patrons. Please tell us more about the program you would like to offer.
2026 Family Read and Spring Challenge Take Flight
Published: February 6, 2026
This year’s Family Read features three books about birds and birding, along with hands-on activities to learn throughout the month of March.
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Book Lovers
See the latest staff-recommended books, hear about authors coming to town, download eBooks and eAudiobooks, and use databases to research literature and find great books.
Finland
Published: December 18, 2020
Let’s visit Finland and see reindeer, as part of our Around the World tour.
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Service Area
The library serves residents of the City of Ypsilanti, Ypsilanti Township, and a portion of Superior Township.
Libby (OverDrive)
Download ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines to your computer, tablet, phone, or eReader.
Little Ones
The first five years of a child’s life are the most important. Children develop movement, cognitive, and social skills that last a lifetime. The library is here to help parents and caregivers give their little ones the best start in life.
You’re Invited to our 150th Birthday Party!
Published: August 27, 2018
Celebrate 150 years of library service to the community with music, kids activities, history, and cake!
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Read to a library plant
Published: October 4, 2021
Drop by YDL-Whittaker and read to a plant in our cozy new reading nook!
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Grants boost Superior progress
Published: November 24, 2021
This is part of a series of updates about the new YDL library being constructed on North Harris Road in Superior Township. Find more information and updates at ypsilibrary.org/newlibrary. YDL received word of two grant awards for specific features of the building. The Humane Society of the United States awarded YDL a $2,000 grant toward bird-friendly glass. The Children’s Foundation awarded the library $23,100 toward the new library’s kitchenette, making the free summer lunch program possible. To see the latest on the capital campaign, visit, ypsilibrary.org/nextchapter. The construction team continues to make visible progress on the new library. The …
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Teens
Teens are making and recording music, creating art and graphics, getting help with school, and getting ready for college and careers. Learn about our library spaces, programs, and toolkits designed by teens, for teens.
Staff E-mail Policy
F4 Staff E-Mail Policy Approved: 07/24/2003 Revised: 1/24/2024 The YDL email system serves as a vehicle for staff communication in pursuit of the Library’s mission and core values. All employees, including temporary and hourly staff, are subject to this policy. Emails sent or received on the library email system are not private property. They form part of the administrative records of the Library and as such, may be subject to records retention requirements and FOIA requests. No expectation of privacy is granted nor should it be expected. The Library Director reserves the right to authorize appropriate personnel to access, retrieve, …
Piano Policy
C4Piano PolicyApproved: 09/22/2016 The Ypsilanti District Library acquired a Kohler & Campbell baby grand piano in 2003 to accompany concert performances held at the Whittaker Road library. The piano is available for public use in conjunction with programs, recitals and special events for a fee of $25. The piano is tuned and receives regular maintenance from a licensed professional three times each year; usage fees help cover the cost of these services. The piano must be reserved, in advance, through the meeting room booking system or Library Administration. A $25 piano usage fee will be charged in addition to …
Writing as a Gift
Published: December 8, 2021
Get ideas for how to make a present for someone special using your creativity and words!
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Your Purchasing Has Power
Published: February 20, 2020
Two great ways to support YDL by doing your regular shopping
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Racism and Diversity in Kids’ Books
Published: April 12, 2021
Read about what we’re doing to make sure out collection is inclusive and learn what you can do to navigate the collection and find what you want to meet your family’s needs.
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Zoning and Site Plan
Published: April 13, 2019
Superior Township is voting soon to rezone the site to approve the library use. Our architect, Daniels and Zermack, is working with construction manager O’Neal Construction to refine the budget.
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Collections
Collections Collections Catalog Digital Collections eBooks for Kids More from YDL Suggest Materials The library catalog Use the library’s catalog to search for books, movies, music, and more. You can also place holds, renew materials, and pay fines. Can’t find what you need in the catalog? Request it from interlibrary loan (MeL) or suggest that we add it to our collection Browse the Catalog More from YDL Kill-a-Watt meter Save energy, save money Kits Themed sets of books and educational toys Library of Things Find games, tools, tech, cooking and office supplies, and more in our Library of Things collection. Michigan …
Documentaries on Police Brutality and Race Relations
Published: June 9, 2020
This is a collection of documentaries available on Hoopla that focus on specific events and ideas surrounding police brutality and race relations.
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Reading’s Not “Snow” Hard
Published: December 2, 2025
The Winter Challenge is back! Kids and teens can complete four activities in a row, column, or diagonal from the Winter Challenge BINGO card between December 20-January 4 to earn a free book. When families read and learn through hands-on STEM activities during school breaks, at library programs, or at home, kids build and maintain literacy and problem-solving skills. Having fun while learning as a family builds positive memories, and each success inspires kids to try new projects and learn more. Use this BINGO card to track activities, or pick one up from the library. When you complete a BINGO, …
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South Korea
Published: October 2, 2020
Let’s visit South Korea, as part of our Around the World tour.
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Celebrate the 2024 Solar Eclipse with YDL
Published: February 27, 2024
Celebrate the eclipse with YDL!
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Fund Balance Policy in Accordance with GASB Statement No. 54
E5Fund Balance Policy in Accordance with GASB Statement #54Approved: 01/26/2012 PurposeThe following policy has been adopted by the Ypsilanti District Library Board of Trustees in order to address the implications of Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 54, Fund Balance Reporting and Governmental Fund Definitions. The policy is created in consideration of unanticipated events that could adversely affect the financial condition of the Ypsilanti District Library (YDL) and jeopardize the continuation of necessary public services. This policy will ensure that YDL maintains adequate fund balances and reserves in order to: a. Provide sufficient cash flow for daily …
TumbleBook Library
Kids will love these animated, talking books! Watch your favorite children’s books come alive with narration, music, and interactive elements.
Soil Boring, Road Updates, and Grant Announcement
Published: November 18, 2019
This is part of a series of updates about the new YDL library that will be constructed on North Harris Road in Superior Township. Find more information and updates about the project at ypsilibrary.org/newlibrary. What are the latest developments? You may have noticed some activity and changes at the construction site. On November 12, G2 Consulting Group cleared certain areas of brush in order to perform soil borings. Results will be available in late November, which our architect and engineering team will use to move forward with a site plan. The Library, Washtenaw County Road Commission, and Superior Township Board are …
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Library of Things
Find games, tools, tech, cooking and office supplies, and more in our Library of Things collection.
Service
YDL receives Great Stories Club grant from the American Library Association
Published: July 25, 2023
Grant will allow librarians to lead book clubs with underserved teens
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Artwork
We believe that original art holds a special place in public libraries. Not only does it enhance the ambiance but it is also an important ingredient of the full experience when visiting YDL.
Contact Us
Get help with your account, propose a program, request a library visit, or ask us a question.
Public Participation at Board Meetings
D4Public Participation at Board MeetingsApproved: 02/26/2004Amended: 09/26/2013 Purpose Members of the public are welcome to share their comments and concerns about library-related issues with members of the Library Board. This policy states the procedures and rules of conduct which will facilitate a fair and orderly expression of public comments. Open Board Meetings Meetings of the Ypsilanti District Library are open to the public so citizens may have the benefit of observing Board business. All formal action by the Library Board takes place during public meetings. All meetings are noticed and held in accordance with the “Open Meetings Act.” …
Road Construction Friday June 15
Published: June 14, 2018
The pavement will be repaired in the YDL-Whittaker library parking lot on Friday, June 15.
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Visit
View the open hours of our Whittaker, Michigan, and Superior Township locations to plan your next visit. See a list of holiday closings and learn about the exhibits and services at our libraries.
Youth Services
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The Puppets of Spelhorst
The Puppets of Spelhorst Family Read 2025 Full List of Family Read Events BINGO CARD A magical and beautifully packaged gift volume designed to be read aloud and shared, The Puppets of Spelhorst is a tale that soothes and strengthens us on our journey, leading us through whatever dark forest we find ourselves in. March is Reading Month and we are excited to announce The Puppets of Spelhorst by Kate DiCamillo as this year’s Family Read, to be read and celebrated all month. The Puppets of Spelhorst is a short chapter book with beautiful black and white illustrations. It is the first …
Celebrate the Winter Season with YDL!
Published: November 29, 2022
Winter has arrived and YDL has great family-friendly, seasonal events for all ages.
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2025 Family Read and the Spring Challenge
Published: February 19, 2025
We are thrilled to announce The Puppets of Spelhorst as the 2025 Family Read.
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Groundbreaking Celebration and Progress Report
Published: March 4, 2021
At its meeting on December 16, the Superior Township Planning Commission approved the final site plan for the new library! Now our design work can be finalized and the construction can go out for bid.
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Information on YDL-Michigan’s Closing on 3/4/2020
Published: March 4, 2020
We are set to reopen our downtown branch on Thursday, March 5.
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More to See!
Published: July 26, 2021
As you can see from these wonderful aerial photographs, the new library site is taking shape! Diversified Excavating prepared the base for the building’s foundation with crushed stone. Superior Township issued our building permit, so Diversified expects to begin pouring concrete next week. Harris Road will be widened in conjunction with the new library construction. The Library, Superior Township, and our respective engineering teams are partnering to make sure the process goes smoothly and efficiently, with the least disruption possible to neighborhood traffic. Act fast! The Young Family Next Chapter Challenge runs through July 31. Visit ypsilibrary.org/nextchapter before the challenge …
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Have you tried the YDL App?
Published: April 11, 2019
The YDL app available for Android and iPhone, allows you to manage your account, search the catalog, renew or reserve items, and download digital content.
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Learning Express Library
Practice exams and eBook study guides for GED, ACT, SAT, ASVAB, nursing, and others; includes computer skills training videos.
Connect
Get the latest news about the library including our job postings and RFPs.
Strategic Plan
YDL’s ambitious and exciting 2017 Strategic Plan will drive library improvements and new community collaborations over five years.
YDL-Superior Permanent Art Collection Call for Artists 2024
Published: May 15, 2024
Calling all artists: Submit a finished piece for consideration in the new Superior Branch’s art collection!
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MyHeritage: Library Edition
One of the largest genealogy databases of its kind, with over 6 billion historical records from the U.S. and around the world.
Planning Garden Purchases? Visit YDL first!
Published: April 1, 2026
In 2025, the Ypsi Seed Library distributed more than 7,500 free seed packets. This year, we are excited to offer more than 200 unique varieties of fruit and vegetable seeds, cycled seasonally for both indoor starting and direct sowing. Our Library of Things is also expanding its gardening offerings just in time for planting season. All YDL branches have seeds to take home. At YDL-Whittaker, you’ll also find seedlings, a year-round propagation station, and garden starting kits. We’ve taken your feedback to heart and added even more resources to help start your garden and keep it growing all season long—including …
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Writers
From memoirs and poetry to resumes and business plans, YDL is here to support writers of all ages and skill levels working on all sorts of projects.
New Youth Activity Bins at YDL-Whittaker
Published: January 10, 2020
The American Girl dolls have broken out of the case! YDL-Whittaker has replaced the doll display with new activity bins that encourage independent hands-on learning at the library. Best of all, an American Girl doll is included. Sign out an Activity Bin at the youth reference desk to use in the library. Ages 6 and up, or with the help of an adult or older sibling! ART: Make art, then take it home or add it to our library display TECHNOLOGY: Robots, iPads, and coding tools MATH: Sharpen your math skills with fun games READING: Games and activities to …
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Celebrate Banned Books Week 2023 with YDL
Published: September 29, 2023
Celebrate Banned Books Week 2023 (Oct 1-7)!
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Learn the ABCs
Published: January 19, 2021
Gather supplies around your house, then do some fun activities to help your child learn the ABCs!
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Exterior finishing and a generous grant
Published: July 1, 2022
The exterior is taking shape, and we received a generous grant from the James L. and Faith Knight Foundation!
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ABCmouse (in the library)
ABCmouse Early Learning Academy is an engaging online curriculum for children ages 2–8+, including reading and language arts, math, beginning science, social studies, art, and music. Enter your YDL card number to create an account.
Join YDL at Ypsilanti’s Annual Juneteenth Celebration
Published: June 11, 2025
June 19 is Juneteenth, a now-federal holiday celebrating the end of slavery in the U.S.
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Program Patio
Published: January 20, 2023
This patio area hosts many outdoor programs during the warmer months. Local artist Yen Azzaro led a a community-sourced ground mural to decorate the patio, which was funded with grants from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council and Ann Arbor Kiwanis. Past the patio, we built accessible raised bed gardens. These are used for library programs centered on gardening and growing food. These were provided by a grant from the Ann Arbor Farm and Garden Club. Another exciting building feature is the library’s solar installation on the south side of the building. The 46 kilowatt installation generates enough electricity to …
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Dramatic progress inside and out
Published: August 3, 2022
The most dramatic addition to the exterior has been the installation of the solar panels on the south side of the building.
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Fireplace Installation Starts
Published: May 31, 2022
The fireplace, a focal point of the library, has been installed.
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Ceiling and walls underway
Published: April 20, 2022
In the last month, the roof has been completed and crews are making fast progress on interior work. The concrete slab has been poured. The subceiling insulation is mostly in place, and drywall is being installed. The walls are being framed and windows are being fabricated. We were delighted to welcome major donors and stakeholders into the space for a behind-the scenes Hard Hat Party during National Library Week. Attendees signed walls and posed with vests and hard hats to celebrate the progress of the new library. In the coming weeks, crews will begin installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing …
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Superior Groundbreaking
Celebrate the groundbreaking on our new Superior Library!
Job Seekers & Skill Builders
Looking for a new job? The library can help with online job listings, job search assistance, basic computer training, and help studying for specialized certifications.
Newsroom
Read the library’s latest press releases, see recent media articles about our work, and get in touch with us with news inquiries.
Policy Manual Policy
D10Policy Manual PolicyApproved: 12/15/16 The policy manual of the Ypsilanti District Library shall consist of policies issued by the Library Board of Trustees as required for the effective operation of the library. Each policy will be reviewed on a regular basis in order that the manual will reflect current needs. Revisions may be made by the Library Board of Trustees at any time and will be so marked. The following categories and numbering system will be used: CATEGORY GENERAL SUBJECT A Guiding Principles B Library Operations Policies C Facilities Policies D Administrative Policies E Financial Policies F Personnel Policies …
Windows installed and landscaping underway
Published: August 31, 2022
With construction over 75% complete, the new library changes day by day. On the exterior, landscaping work is underway and the retention pond and concrete work are complete. On the interior, crews have been installing countertops and cabinets in the kitchenette, laying tile on floors and walls, adding lighting, and painting. The windows made with bird-friendly glass are installed. In the coming weeks, crews will apply a foam layer to the exterior before installing the final layer of exterior wall material. Painting and tiling work will wrap up, and carpet will be installed. Library shelving is scheduled to arrive in …
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Community Assistance
These agencies in the Ypsilanti area can help you find housing, pay bills, heat your home, file taxes, get legal help, support your kids at school, find affordable health care, and much more. Our librarians can help you find the services you need.
Endowment
Supporting the YDL Endowment fund helps secure the library’s future.
Celebrate Banned Books Week with YDL
Published: September 13, 2022
Books are challenged for surprising reasons. Dinosaurs Divorce by Laurene Kransy Brown and Marc Brown was challenged for possibly creating anxiety for children of married couples. Bruce Coville’s My Teacher Glows in the Dark was contested for including “farting” and “armpit farts” in the text. Harry Potter is continually challenged for promoting witchcraft. Censorship is the suppression of ideas or information because a particular person or group of people does not like the idea in question. Censors believe that because they find a particularidea objectionable, no one should have access to information about that idea. Book challenges are often initiated …
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It’s Time for the Summer Challenge
Published: June 7, 2024
YDL is ready to start the 2024 Summer Challenge. From June 15 until August 25, you can log your activities on your Summer Challenge account.
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Digital Resources
Published: February 3, 2018
Check out the latest bestseller, catch up with your favorite magazine, or stream a movie all from the comfort of your own home!
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Adaptive Computer Stations
Computer stations designed for blind and visually impaired patrons
Service
Power of Children exhibit
The exhibit profiles three children who changed history: Ruby Bridges, Anne Frank, and Ryan White. As the faces of some of the most intense struggles of the twentieth century, their lives and stories continue to teach and inspire us.
Remembering Medal of Honor Recipient Charles Kettles
Published: February 8, 2019
Lt. Col. (Ret.) Charles Kettles was an Army veteran from Ypsilanti who passed away on January 21, 2019 at the age of 89. Mr. Kettles was a helicopter pilot in the Army during the Vietnam War. In 1967, he led a series of daring rescue missions in his helicopter after American troops were ambushed in South Vietnam. He ultimately saved the lives of over 40 people. For these heroic acts, Mr. Kettles was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2016. In 2006, Mr. Kettles recorded an oral history interview with Bill Vollano as part of the Veterans History Project through …
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Explore the Outdoors with New STEM Kits
Published: July 2, 2019
Enjoy the great outdoors this summer gazing at the stars, bird calling, catching butterflies, and more, with our new outdoor STEM kits!
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Finally Back on the Block!
Published: April 11, 2025
Patrons and library staff can let out a collective breath as the downtown branch (finally) reopens.
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YDL has developed a new strategic plan!
Published: June 1, 2023
YDL has unveiled its new strategic plan for 2023-2025.
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History
A brief history of the YDL-Michigan building (229 W Michigan Ave)
LET’S COMPLETE OUR HISTORY
Published: September 24, 2020
In October, YDL will co-host a Wikipedia edit-a-thon of Ypsilanti and related pages. We want to engage our diverse community to paint a more complete picture within those articles.
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Ypsi Stories Episode 10: From Here To There By Land And Water
Published: August 4, 2021
Episode 10 of Ypsi Stories.
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One Year of Ypsi Stories
Published: November 24, 2021
It has officially been one year since the first episode of the Ypsi Stories podcast.
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VISIONS Fair Showcases Disability Access Products and Services
Published: May 21, 2022
The 2022 VISIONS Vendor Fair takes place on Wednesday, June 8th from 11-4pm at the Ann Arbor District Library and features a variety of Michigan exhibitors who will demonstrate the latest products and services for the blind, visually impaired and physically disabled. Electronic readers, magnifiers, support services for the blind, Braille devices, library services, CCTVs, leader dogs, and transportation services are just a few of the many outstanding services and products that will be on display. The VISIONS Vendor Fair is presented by and is held at the downtown branch of the Ann Arbor District Library (which also serves as …
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Take a Tour of the Superior Branch
Stop by and take a self-guided tour of the Superior branch.
Town Hall Anti-Racism Series: Youth Empowerment and Radical Imagination
Published: July 13, 2020
Join YDL Storytme presenter Kristen Hamilton and Kekere Freedom School to learn about anti-racism.
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Kids & Parents
Find books, websites, homework help, and fun activities that inspire learning, spark curiosity and discovery, and connect kids and parents in the Ypsilanti community to each other and library resources.