About the Montague Branch
Montague Branch Library – Serving Muskegon’s Northern Community
From small beginnings of a “reading station” in 1939 to the current location in downtown Montague, the Montague Branch Library has come a long way. Although the library moved several times to different locations, including the Ripley Building and the Ohrenberger Building, library service has always been provided to the community. After outgrowing the first few locations, the realization of the dream of a new library was made possible in part by a sum of money left by the late Thure Anderson, as well as the Friends of the Montague Library.
The Montague Branch is located on the corner of Ferry and Spring Street in downtown Montague and shares the building with Montague City Hall and the Police Department. Across the street is the local US Postal Service.
Instrumental in the continual library services since 1939, the Friends of the Montague Library officially formed in 1943 and have been avid supporters ever since. The Friends, a 501C non-profit organization, continue to provide significant support to the Library, including holding Book Sales and other fundraisers that help provide programs for the community. The Library houses a permanent book sale room which is always updated so the public can browse the many varied books.
Something that makes the Montague Branch unique is the collection of art work that is displayed throughout the library. Several paintings depict local scenes and were created by local artists. Some have been donated to the library, while others are on loan. This special collection attracts visitors from around the country. Another unique feature of the library’s collection is the Michigan Section. Topics range from local cookbooks, Michigan history and Montague High School yearbooks. These items are separated from the rest of the collection and provide patrons with a look into the local area.
Over the past several years the programs have increased in number. In addition to Storytimes and yearly Summer Reading programs for all ages, the library offers programs for families. Family Fun Nights include crafts, games, music, snacks and cultural components.
One of the Muskegon Area District’s new initiatives is the Muskegon Storyville Villages at three of its branch locations. One of the Villages is installed at the Montague Branch. Storyville is an interactive, early literacy, child-size area within the library that consists of themed areas of play, learning and books. The Storyville village theme includes a weather zone, beach zone, and a submarine.