The Atrium

I agree that part of it is a sense of community. For me, a large part of it is wanting to support things that the library does. I am really looking forward to seeing Jodi Picoult next week. Having events like this come to GR just reinforces how much I do get out of being a part of this community.

A lot of it has to do with what events are offered, though. For example, the Taste of Soul event at GRPL was a huge success because it was relevant to so many people in this community.

That's a good point. I think "My Sister's Keeper" hit home with a lot of people in our community as well. It really makes you think about your stance on this kind of an issue- no matter what side you originally saw it from. I think the Jodi Picoult visit will be a success!

We need to invite more local authors to GRPL. Everytime a new book is released by a West Michigan author, we should invite them to come and present and promote their book. Local authors should not have to pay for the use of our rooms and do their own promoting. That doesn't encourage them to even come to GRPL, especially when Schuler's and other book stores will have them for free, even if they are still trying to get their career off the ground. These are the individuals we, as a community, need to support.

I agree. The reason people come to these types of events does have to do with community. Even more so, I think people get excited when people who are notable in their field visit our community to speak to us. Whether it is an accomplished authors, or famous pastry chefs, when someone is speaking about a subject they know and care about, people will come to hear them speak. It gives people a sense of insight that they normally would not see. People feel good to hear the ideas of the people they admire.

Secondly, I agree about West Michigan Authors. The GRP Library should be to the West Michigan Author what the Vatican is to the Catholic Church. This should be a central place that welcomes and invites authors of this area with open arms. Events that the library sponsors should be planned with local authors as a team. Local Authors would support this collaboration with heart body and soul. If the West Michigan Author can't find support at the local level, where else would they go? The West Michigan author being involved in library events and planning is the best way to bridge the gap between the idea of "community library" being more than just a place to get books. If more people saw speakers at GRPL, the more they would see that good things are happening in our community and not just Chicago and New York.

I do feel that GRPL is doing a lot, but think how amazing the library could be if they did a bit more. I get a postcard from Schuler Books once a month letting me know their Friday events. There is no reason that the GRPL couldn't be a community events hub just as the local bookstores are doing. I've heard library professionals say things often like "what can we do?" Books are living breathing things - and having real live authors come to the library will remind people that GRPL isnt just a place to get books, but a way to CONNECT to books. Don't worry about providing "cutting edge" technology or providing decaf lattes (agreed, these are important things too). Just provide a place where people can come and feel like the world of media, literature, and music is a real thing.