About the Library
History
The building that serves as the Main Library of Cass District Library was constructed with federal funds received by Cass County in 1977. Just a few months after applying for more than $800,000 in grant funds, the county broke ground for the new library building at 319 M-62 N in Cassopolis during April 1977. In September, 1978, approximately 450 middle school students, under the supervision of school librarian Barbara Cox, moved the library from its location at the corner of Broadway and York to the new facility. The dedication and open house were held on October 8 and the doors officially opened the following day. On January 1, 1993, Cass County Library merged with the LaGrange Township Library, creating the Cass District Library system. Voters approved a millage request in support of library services on September 14 of the same year.
Cass District Library’s legal service area includes the Cass County townships of Calvin, Howard, Jefferson, LaGrange, Mason, Milton, Newberg, Ontwa, Penn, Pokagon, Porter, and Volinia. Branches are located in Cassopolis, Edwardsburg, Howard, and Mason/Union.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Cass District Library is to provide a center for information, education, culture, and recreation for all patrons throughout their life span, through the library’s collections, programs and special services.
EQUITY STATEMENT
Cass District Library celebrates and embraces all people, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, sex, origin, age, religion, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or beliefs. The Library is committed to supporting a culture of inclusion, connectedness, and belonging through curating a diverse collection of materials and services and by creating and maintaining a welcoming space for all.
The Library is proud to recognize the importance of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and is committed to educating library staff as stewards to the community on these topics. CDL understands that this is a continuous process of listening, learning, and striving as we aspire to move forward with our community. It is our deeply held belief that an inclusive culture for patrons and staff empowers our community to connect, belong and grow.
We acknowledge our unique role as a trusted public institution. The work towards ensuring that our entire spectrum of services are just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive will be a permanent shift.
Library Board Approved February 2023