Wayne Public Library annual year report

Wayne Public Library

By Sarah Shurge  – In the time of technology, libraries may seem outdated or unnecessary, however that couldn’t be farther than the truth. The Wayne Public Library is a staple in the downtown Wayne community that deserves recognition.
From July 2024 – June 2025 the Wayne Public Library offered 137 programs to the community, 402 people participated in the 2025 summer reading program, 740 new library cards were issued, 33,610 physical items were checked out, there were 10,610 on-site computer/wifi logins, 49,976 in-person visits, and 4,237 active library card users.
“We were thrilled to have nearly 50,000 visits last year, and I fully expect that we’ll exceed that milestone this year,” said Jody Wolak, Wayne Public Library director. “I’m also really happy that we were able to issue 740 new library cards.  These new cards represent people moving to the city, children getting their first library cards, and even people who’ve lived in Wayne for a while but who never sought out a library card before.”
This past year the Wayne Library replaced 14 computers that were 10+ years old.
“Now that we’ve finished replacing the backlog of outdated computers, my hope is that we can get on a reasonable replacement schedule where we replace a portion of the library’s computers every few years to keep our technology up to date without it growing into an overwhelming and expensive project,” said Wolak.
The Wayne Library leveled and labeled all books in the Youth Readers collection, making it easier for library users to find their selections.
New digital security cameras were installed in the library.
In partnership with Wayne RESA, the Wayne Public Library, and the City of Wayne, a Storybook Trail was created in Attwood Park. Each sign along the half-mile path contains pages from a book for families to read.
“Public response to the Storybook Trail has been terrific, and it is a great example of cooperation between the city, library, and Wayne RESA,” said Wolak.
A mobile app was launched for the library, allowing users to easily search the catalog, place holds, manage their accounts, and browse upcoming events. Be sure to scan the QR code to download the app.
“One of my favorite features on the library’s app is the ‘My Barcode’ feature, which will save a digital version of your library card. If you’ve got your phone, you’ve got your card,” said Wolak. “I also love using the ‘Scan ISBN Barcode’ option, which allows you to scan the barcode on any book, see what libraries own it, and put it on hold in a matter of seconds.”
Not only can you check out physical books and DVDs in person at the library, you can download ebooks, audiobooks, and music through Libby and hoopla.
The Wayne Library circulated an all-time record high number of 13,212 digital items through Libby and Hoopla.
In addition to Libby and hoopla, your library card now allows you to access a huge variety of streaming video content through Kanopy, the Wayne Library’s newest digital service.
With Kanopy, you can use your smart TV, mobile device, or computer to instantly stream movies and TV series 24/7 from a collection of over 31,000 popular titles from Warner Bros., MGM, BBC, Paramount Pictures, A24, The History Channel, A&E, The Criterion Collection, Kino Lorber, The Great Courses, and more.
Kanopy also includes a section just for kids with carefully selected titles from Weston Woods, Sesame Street, Jim Henson Productions, Highlights for Children, Signed Stories, and more.
To learn more or get started with Libby, Hoopla, or Kanopy, visit wayne.lib.mi.us and click the link that says ‘download ebooks, audiobooks, music, movies, or magazines’.
The Wayne Library has plenty of exciting events in store this month for all ages to enjoy.
On Saturday, February 14th, from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m., the Wayne Library will host The Snow Ball. This event is for all children with their adults to come dressed to the nines for a snowy celebration complete with snacks, photos, music, and dancing.
“This is the second year that we are hosting the Snow Ball, our fancy snow-themed winter gala,” said Wolak. “It’s a great opportunity for children and their adults (parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) to dress up and enjoy a special outing together.”
On Monday, February 16th, from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., the Wayne Library will host Teen Mini Canvases. This is a teen event (grades 6-12) where kids use simple dots and lines to create their own tiny work of art.
“It’s a low-pressure way for them to express their creativity in a laid back, welcoming environment,” said Wolak.
On Wednesday, February 18th, from 6:30 – 7:15 p.m., the Wayne Library will host Olympic Family Storytime. This is a kids event (ages 5 and under) with stories and songs, making your own Olympic flag, and getting your body moving.
“The Olympics are always so exciting to watch, and the Olympic Family Storytime brings some of that excitement to the library,” said Wolak. “It will be a fun way to burn off some of our pent-up energy from being stuck inside.”
Lastly, on Thursday, February 26th, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., the Wayne Library will host Knit & Crochet Night. This is an adult event where you can bring your work(s)-in-progress, your supplies, and enjoy a casual craft hour in the company of others in the community who share your interests.
“I just learned how to crochet this winter so I’m looking forward to meeting others who have been doing this a lot longer than I have, seeing what they are creating, and maybe picking up some tips,” said Wolak.
Wayne Public Library board members are President – Larry McConnell, Vice-President – Virginia Cesarz, Secretary- Emily Kliemann, Trustee – Renee Davis, Trustee – Quanda Ross, and Library Director – Jody Wolak.
The Wayne Public Library is located at 3737 S Wayne Rd, and is open 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday – Thursday, and 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Friday – Saturday.
For more information about the Wayne Public Library, visit wayne.lib.mi.us or call 734-721-7832.
“There is really something for everyone at the Wayne Public Library. Please come check us out (pun intended),” said Wolak. “If you’re interested in getting a library card, just drop by the library with your valid ID showing that you live in the city of Wayne and we’ll get you set up with your free card.”
Thank you to the Wayne Public Library for everything they do for our city!