History of Lansing Community Library

Mission Statement

Lansing Community Library facilitates the enjoyment of lifelong learning, fosters creativity, and promotes community engagement.

Vision Statement

Lansing Community Library promotes the right of all citizens to have free access to information, technology, and resources.

History of the Library

On January 21, 1998 the Lansing Community Library officially opened its doors to the public. The Library was staffed solely by the help of the following volunteers: Kenneth & Barbara Ketchum, Dothrae Ketchum, Donna League, Charlotte Powell, and Gene Young. As the news spread about the Library, more people volunteered their time to help operate the Library. Hours of operation were very limited, such as 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. various days of the week.

The first Lansing Community Library Advisory Board meeting was held on February 3, 1998. The advisory Board members were Gene Young, Chairman; Ada Young, Virginia Boedeker, Darlene Dean, Virginia Watkins, Marco Toro Valverde, Charlotte Powell, Donna League, and James Cuer.

Over the next four years the Lansing Community Library continued to operate strictly with volunteer help. In the summer of 2002, the board approached the Lansing City Council with the proposal of hiring a part-time librarian beginning in January 2003. The City Council approved this recommendation in August 2002. With the advisory board suspending purchases through December 2002 and a $2,500 grant received from the Kemper Foundation, they were able to hire their first librarian, Mrs. Darlene Dean.

On April 1, 2003, the City of Lansing residents overwhelmingly approved the election to officially establish the Lansing Community Library by a vote of 697 Yes to 62 No.

The community’s longtime dream for a new facility was realized on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 when the Lansing Community Library opened at its new location, 730 1st Terrace. The collection was moved in three days through the valiant efforts of a young man, David Hall, pursuing his Eagle Scout, numerous community volunteers and the Library staff of three. This was truly a great day for the City of Lansing!