We would like to welcome everyone to the newly updated Southgate Veterans Memorial Library! With new furniture, a new parking lot and a rebuilt front entrance, we think the library is looking better than ever. There are a few areas we’re especially interested in highlighting, and hope you stop in soon to see for yourself!


Teen Room

We have completely converted our large study room into a Teen Room! It features all new tables, chairs, a couch and other seating options, as well as new decorations. This room is reserved for use by our patrons in grades 6-12, beginning at 3 p.m. when school is in session, and all day when school is not in session (including weekends, holidays and school breaks). Don’t worry, parents, you can use the room too, as long as your teen is willing to accompany you! We’ll also use the Teen Room for our Teen Advisory Board meetings, as well as the teen events we have planned (keep an eye on our website for upcoming announcements).


Front Atrium

A space often used to relax, read, use the Wi-Fi, or do some work, the furniture in our front atrium was long overdue for a refresh. Brand new lounge chairs and couches have replaced the worn-out furniture of the past, and a new counter-height table has been installed for comfortable studying, work or whatever! With easy access to power for laptops, phones and other devices, it’s a comfortable, quiet area for enjoying everything the library has to offer.


Circulation Desk

We’re not sure just when the old circulation desk was installed, but based off pictures, at least 40 years ago, and it may have here since the library was built – almost 60 years ago. It was definitely due for an update! The new desk is more accessible, making it easier for all patrons to speak with staff and borrow items, and it includes a built-in drop box that makes returning items a breeze. New space for brochures and flyers makes it easy to find detailed information on library services and events.


1,000 Books Before Kindergarten now at the Southgate Veterans Memorial Library!

Parents and caregivers, you are a child's first teacher and role model, and they need your help to succeed. We have joined the multitudes of libraries that offer resources for this self-led program to promote reading and bonding between caregivers and young ones.

The concept is simple: read 1,000 books before your child starts kindergarten. Studies have shown that children who are read to at an early age have bigger vocabularies and are more successful when they start school.

Stop in the library to sign up and grab your goodie bag to get started! The most important thing in your goodie bag will be your 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten booklet. You can use it, the online website (https://southgatevml.readsquared.com/), or the ReadSquared app to record how many books you have read together, and every time you reach a milestone you can come back to the library to collect a prize. Once you have reached 1,000 books you will be invited to our yearly celebration to commemorate this great achievement!


For more information or questions, please contact the library (734) 258-3002 or visit https://southgate.lib.mi.us/.