Building Community, One Book at a Time: How the Bad Axe Library is Redefining Public Space

When thinking about what makes a community vibrant and attractive to the next generation of talent, libraries might not always be the first thing that comes to mind. But in Bad Axe, Michigan, the local library is doing more than lending books — it's creating a sense of place, opportunity, and belonging for residents of all ages.

We spoke with Briynne McCrea, Director of the Bad Axe Area District Library, about how the library has evolved into a dynamic, community-centered space that resonates deeply with younger generations. From major renovations to engaging programs and outreach, the library is redefining what it means to serve a community in the 21st century.

A Space Transformed

Thanks to a $250,000 Community Center Grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the Bad Axe Library recently completed a top-to-bottom renovation. With matching funds from the library itself, they refreshed nearly every part of the building: a new roof, updated siding, new carpet and paint, additional shelving, and cozy lounge furniture. Accessibility was prioritized too, including updates to the children’s area and the addition of quiet study rooms.

Before the renovation, the library was running out of space and beginning to show its age. Now, with updated shelving and a more flexible layout—especially in the children’s area—it’s better equipped to serve growing collections and create a more engaging experience for families.

The library also redesigned its computer room with modern workstations and debuted brand-new public-use computers funded by the Jean M. R. Smith Foundation. This transformation has positioned the library as what McCrea describes as a “community living room”—a welcoming, multi-use space for creativity, connection, and personal growth.

Engaging the Generations

The library is also meeting younger generations where they are—through hands-on learning, creativity, and technology.

One popular initiative is the STEAM @ the Library afterschool program, which gives kids a chance to explore science and art in fun, interactive ways. Another standout is the Bookmobile, a mobile outreach vehicle that brings books and learning directly to schools, daycares, senior centers, and even local apartment complexes. “Kids get very excited when they see the Bookmobile roll up,” says McCrea. “It’s been a really fun way to bring the library out into the community and get kids excited about reading.”

Their Summer Reading Program has also made a strong comeback post-COVID, offering story times, crafts, outdoor yoga, and partnerships with the city’s Parks and Recreation department to engage local families. Parents with young children can also take advantage of monthly Playgroups and Story Times designed to encourage early literacy and social interaction.

The Library as a Community Connector

What makes the library truly special is its focus on community building. As McCrea puts it, “The library’s superpower is how it belongs to every member of the community equally.” Whether you're exploring your family history, playing Mahjong, crocheting by the fireplace with the Loopers Club, or working remotely with free Wi-Fi and computer access, the library offers a welcoming space for everyone.

The library is also leading the way as part of a larger revitalization of the city’s community complex, which includes a park, splash pad, and sports courts. With its updated facilities, the library reflects a broader investment in public spaces that support both well-being and a sense of pride.

Get Involved, Stay Connected

Community members can get involved through the active Friends of the Library group, which helps fund events and improvements, and even organizes trips like their recent visit to see the family musical Matilda at Midland Center for the Arts.

Looking for a great read and a way to support your local library? Visit the Friends of the Library Used Book Store, open on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month from 10 AM to 3 PM. Located in the former George E. Greene School in Bad Axe, every purchase supports local library programs, events, and community activities.

Not everyone realizes the scope of what the library offers, either—free digital resources like eBooks, audiobooks, and even test prep tools are available through the Libby App. You can even rent sports equipment like basketballs, tennis rackets, and skateboards to use in the nearby park.

To stay up to date with events and offerings, visit www.badaxelibrary.org or follow the Bad Axe Area District Library on Facebook.

A Hub for Today—and Tomorrow

As young professionals and families consider planting roots in rural communities, places like the Bad Axe Library offer more than meets the eye. They provide accessible, enriching, and welcoming environments that support lifelong learning, meaningful connections, and a high quality of life—right here in the heart of Michigan's Thumb.

Making Michigan's Forgotten Coast My New Home ❤️

Life is about love and loss.

Home is about finding your place in the world that affords you the peace to endure those losses.

I’m a “Mitten Girl” born and raised. Loud and proud. Strong but sensitive. When troubles came my way... I ran... I ran to the water. I ran home. Not to the place I was raised. Not to the place I was living. I ran to the Harbor.

But not just any harbor... I ran to Harbor Beach, Michigan.

On the south side of town, I sat at Williams Inn, picking from homemade selections at their soup and salad bar. Staring at a huge framed print of Princess Diana. How often I’m told I share her likeness. How fitting I share her name. I thought of her boys losing her as I was now losing my mom.

“Promise me, you’ll find your new happy,” my mom said to me at her bedside on hospice. Together, we’d sat at numerous doctor offices and hospital waiting rooms over the last decade. She, the last, of several loved ones to pass. I’m lost in thought.

Just then, Jenny, a kind server assures me they won’t begin to charge me rent until I’ve stayed at least 4 hours. An unexpected smile spreads across my face and soothes my soul.

Next, I overheard a customer nearby speak of the long walk home across the street and my attention is drawn to homes nearest the shoreline. I reach for my phone inquisitive of what homes on Huron go for around these friendly parts when the list of those on the market graces my screen.

My heart be still.

In disbelief, I whisper, “I could afford to live here?” to my surprise.

I called the Harbor Beach Inn, where Carl, the kind owner of a quaint motel, turned the heat on in my room preparing for my arrival. He gave me specific directions on where to find his location and what stores would be nearby and still open for necessities once I arrived. The next day, he encouraged, should I be interested to make Harbor Beach my home to ask locals of homes they may know will come on the market this spring.

I ran home to pack a bag and pets. He allowed me to stay with my two little dogs in tow. I booked a week, during which time, cruising town, I spotted a woman carrying a boxed flat-screen television set into a Lion’s Hall. I burst through double doors to find a room full of women scrapbooking. Tables of snacks and a couple of children enjoying the spoils.

I poked fun saying, “this must be where they keep the wild women.!” We shared a laugh and then I shared with them my interest to relocate. They ran down a list of potential realtors, listings, and locations, when suddenly someone said, “she’s a stitch, put her in next to Lou!”

Lou.

Yes, there next door to Lou, stood the home of Mary whose heavenly homecoming had come almost a year ago.

In the days to come, Mary’s daughter and son would share the sweet estate where they grew up. We would sit at the dining table in the kitchen sharing similarities of our youth, of losing our fathers then and our mothers now.

It wasn’t long before we’d reached an agreement and a storage unit I’d secure before I skipped out of town to pack and list my home an hour and a half away. Locals would recommend builders, power washers, roofers, and inspectors. I’ve never been more readily aided and checked upon to be sure I had what I needed.

It’s been a month now that I’ve been making my house a home. Playfully dressing up details Mary passed unto me. I’m even happy to report, I’ve accepted an offer as I proofread today!

So should you consider a move to the thumb...

I bid you to consider the beach. Harbor Beach.

I’ll leave singing the praises of its schools, homes, farms, and businesses to its natives.

I’m honored, for the opportunity, to sing praise for its people!

For it’s the people of Harbor Beach who continue to heal my heart.

🏡

- Diana Lea Egan