We asked, you answered: 8 of the best libraries in Michigan

‘Gander readers weighed in on their favorite public libraries to visit in Michigan.

Did you know that Michigan has nearly 400 public libraries across the state? Libraries provide various resources for local residents, from lending out books to connecting folks with local community partnerships.

We recently asked readers to tell us about the library they visited the most growing up. It was clear from the answers that libraries hold fond memories for many of us—especially bookmobiles and the impact of Carnegie libraries. Check out this list and see which libraries across the state captured our readers’ hearts.

Eastern Michigan

Madison Heights Public Library
240 W. 13 Mile Rd., Madison Heights

“Walt Whitman Library in Warren and Madison Heights Library shaped me in many ways, and I am so grateful for them!”—Denise K. 

Milan Public Library
151 Wabash St., Milan

“I lived out of town in the country during the late 60s and 70s. The Bookmobile would come and park in a general store area on Whittaker Rd—the memories I have cherished all these years.”—Peggy D.

Ferndale Area District Library
222 E. 9 Mile Rd., Ferndale

“Every Saturday my best friend and I would walk to the Ferndale Public Library. On our way, we’d stop at Cunningham Drugs on Nine Mile and buy a pack of Necco Chocolate Wafers, or a pack of Sen-Sens. We’d go to the library, check out our books (mostly novels), and walk back home. The following Saturday, we’d repeat the entire process, returning our books from the week before, and then checking out more.”—Lane A. 

Mid-Michigan

Shiawassee District Library – Owosso Branch
502 W. Main St., Owosso

“Mrs. Britz was one of the librarians with the most beautiful white hair (at least to a three-year-old). I wanted to be just like Mrs. Britz when I grew up. I did become a librarian when I grew up after playing library for years.”—Cathy Y. 

Northern Michigan

Tawas City Library
208 North St., Tawas City 

“It was right on US-23, across from Keiser’s Drug Store and their attached Variety Store, and, yes, we often crossed the highway unsupervised.”—Susan C.

West Michigan

Hackley Public Library
316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon

“Gorgeous historic building. It’s like a castle of books!”—Holly H. 

Alvah N. Belding Library
302 E. Main St., Belding

“Beautiful building left over from the time of the silk factories, great staff. I used the library so much that the librarians gave me special permission to take out three books at a time. Otherwise, I was still too young and limited to one book at a time.”—Ginger R. 

Southern Michigan

Niles District Library
620 East Main St., Niles

“Niles Public Library. I spent all of my school years there—one of my favorite places.” —Darlene J-B.