About the Holton Branch

Holton Branch Library – where everybody knows your name

The Holton branch is in a small rural area in northeast Holton Township. Located off M-120, on Holton-Duck Lake Road, it’s in a popular corridor, next door to the local grocery store and across the street from the post office and Township Fire Department. The township is about 15 miles northeast of Muskegon and about 15 miles east of Lake Michigan, and has a total area of 35.7 square miles with approximately 2,519 people.

The first record of library service in Holton dates all the way back to 1876. Over the years the library has changed names and locations several times, but has always proudly served the residents of Holton Township. In 1983, a goal to build a new library and township hall became a reality. Through fundraising and donations, the library moved into its current location in 1985. Much of the original wood shelving remains today.

In addition to the library space, the community room is used for library programs. The “Kid’s Corner,” with a colorful children’s rug and decorative flannel board, has helped to create an inviting space for families. A large outdoor sign helps promote library programs and events.

The Holton branch offers an adult book club. Members of the book club select the titles that are read. Also offered are many programs for families, including a new monthly Family Fun Night, which often includes special guests from the community. The library also partners with Holton Public Schools.

In order to better serve the community, library staff has been reorganizing the collection of materials. It has included better labeling, better signage and more user friendly shelving locations. High demand items at Holton include DVDs, music and children’s books. The public computers and free Wi-Fi are also well used, as patrons are able to use their library cards to download many free items on their computers and devices.

Monetary support for the Holton Branch comes in many forms. Since 1988, the Friends of the Holton Library have raised funds and awareness of the library. Often its members volunteer their time at library programs. Currently, the Friends group is working on a project that will include a remodel of the library to create more space for the collection and more areas for tables and chairs. Their support is much appreciated at the branch.

There has been an increase in the number of programs and attendees in 2018. The Holton Branch continues to be a place in downtown Holton to meet with others, learn new things and enjoy great programs and services.