Library FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you located? We are located on the West Side of Grand Rapids, near Lake Michigan Drive and Wilson Avenue.
What are your hours? Fridays 1-3 pm, by appointment, and during scheduled events.
How does the library work? Dawn Treader is a private lending library open only to members.
Why would I want to join? Dawn Treader offers access to books that aren’t often found in public libraries, with special emphasis on living books for children. Our lending periods are also longer, to allow homeschooling families longer access to the books they need and want.
What are living books? Here is a good definition, along with some additional resources.
How much does it cost to join? $60 per year per family.
Why is there a fee to join? Well, there is cost associated with running a library. All libraries cost money to operate; our public libraries are not actually free but paid for with our tax dollars. Also, if we have paid a fee to join an organization or service, we tend to steward our relationship with and use of that organization or service better than if we had no financial responsibility. We want the families who join to be invested in Dawn Treader and to take good care of the books they borrow.
What is the fee used for?
- Book purchasing
- Dust jacket covers
- Barcode labels
- Book repair materials (special archival-quality glue, tape, laminate, etc.)
- Shelving
- The use of TinyCat, our electronic catalog and check-in/check-out system
What is included in the membership?
- Full access to the library
- Free in-person book clubs at the library (for kids and moms)
- Opportunities to connect with other families through the library and its activities (Dawn Treader partners with the Charlotte Mason Grand Rapids Homeschool Collective for most of its events)
- Storytimes for littles
Can I visit first to see if I want to join? Of course! Email [email protected] to make an appointment.