Celebrating Reading Month: Stories, Connection, and Community

At Members First, Reading Month is about more than books on a shelf—it’s about the moments, connections, and opportunities that stories create.

Throughout the month of March, our communities came together in a simple but meaningful way: by sharing the joy of reading. From book donations to storytime gatherings, each interaction became part of a larger story—one rooted in access, imagination, and connection.

A Community Effort to Expand Access

This year, our book drive was centered on one goal: expanding access to stories and opportunity for readers of all ages. And our community delivered in a big way.

Together, we collected more than 1,200 books to refresh and restock our Little Free Libraries. Each donated book represents more than just pages—it’s a new adventure, a learning moment, or a sense of comfort for someone who needs it.

Because when books are accessible, possibilities are too.

Bringing Stories to Life

Reading Month also gave us the chance to create experiences that brought stories off the page and into real life.

At our Kentwood branch in Grand Rapids, families gathered for a special storytime with local Grand Rapids author Nancy Devon. As she read Tasha Goes to Puppy School, the room filled with laughter, curiosity, and imagination—reminding us that stories have a unique way of bringing people together.

Learning, Exploring, and Taking Stories Home

In Mt. Pleasant, our Discovery Museum Day extended that sense of connection even further. Families enjoyed free admission, explored hands-on exhibits, and spent meaningful time together.

As part of the day, children who participated in our financial literacy session were able to take a book home thanks to the Michigan Credit Union Foundation —connecting learning with the joy of reading and creating an experience that lasts beyond a single visit.

More Than a Month

While Reading Month may come to a close, its impact continues.

At Members First, we believe that small moments—like picking up a book or attending a storytime—can lead to something much bigger. They spark curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to new opportunities.

To everyone who donated, attended, and supported Reading Month—thank you. Your generosity and participation helped create something truly meaningful.

Together, we’re not just sharing books—we’re building brighter futures, one story at a time.