Our History
The Northfield Township Area Library, located in Whitmore Lake, Michigan, resides in the historic Dodge House. Built in the late 19th century, the Dodge House was originally the home of Albert and Maria Stevens. Albert Stevens owned, at differing times, both of Whitmore Lake's grand hotels.
In 1906, the Dodge family purchased the home. Henry Phelps Dodge was well known in the community as a merchant and postmaster. It was also home to Pete the Wonder Dog, a German shepherd who was an icon of the community.
In the 1940s the Dodge family left and the house changed ownership several times. Eventually, the Township took ownership of the building leaving it vacant.
In 1983, a committee determined it was possible, with a millage, to open a library. In 1987 the millage passed and the Dodge House became home to the new Library.
The house was in poor condition, but with help from the community, the house was renovated. In June of 1989, the Library opened with about 8,500 books and about 650 registered patrons. Today, the collection has nearly tripled in size with over 21,000 volumes and the Library serves over 6,000 registered patrons.
The director, staff, and Board of Trustees of the Northfield Township Area Library are honored to provide vital library services to our community. We look forward to doing so for many years to come!
In 1906, the Dodge family purchased the home. Henry Phelps Dodge was well known in the community as a merchant and postmaster. It was also home to Pete the Wonder Dog, a German shepherd who was an icon of the community.
In the 1940s the Dodge family left and the house changed ownership several times. Eventually, the Township took ownership of the building leaving it vacant.
In 1983, a committee determined it was possible, with a millage, to open a library. In 1987 the millage passed and the Dodge House became home to the new Library.
The house was in poor condition, but with help from the community, the house was renovated. In June of 1989, the Library opened with about 8,500 books and about 650 registered patrons. Today, the collection has nearly tripled in size with over 21,000 volumes and the Library serves over 6,000 registered patrons.
The director, staff, and Board of Trustees of the Northfield Township Area Library are honored to provide vital library services to our community. We look forward to doing so for many years to come!
