Farmers Insurance awards $5,000 Grant to Family Impact Centers

    Family Impact Centers is grateful to recognize the support of Farmers Insurance which recently awarded the organization a $5,000 community grant to strengthen local food assistance efforts and provide healthier food options for families in need.

    2025, Family Impact Centers served 547 unique families across Fowlerville and surrounding rural communities. With the support of Farmers Insurance, the pantry will be better equipped to purchase nutritious foods such as fresh produce, proteins, and other essentials that help families maintain health and stability.

    “In a time when more families than ever are needing help, support like this makes a real difference,” said Michael Shafer, Executive Director of Family Impact Centers.

    In addition to expanding access to healthy food, this funding will also help Family Impact Centers continue developing resources that support meal planning, grocery budgeting, and grocery-saving strategies for families working to stretch limited resources.

 Community Connect Event being held Feb. 7th at 2142 Community Church

    The Livingston County Homeless Continuum of Care is hosting the 19th Annual Community Connect Event on Saturday, February 7th at 2l42 Community Church in Brighton. This event is a one-day event bringing together free resources, information, and connection to services. Anyone in the community who could benefit from these services and resources is welcome to attend.

    The event will offer many valuable resources for Livingston County residents. Some of the free services will include health screenings, haircuts, legal services, and information on topics like housing, utility programs, health and human services and basic needs. Many free resources will be available as well. Those who attend can pick up personal care items, winter gear, laundry detergent, diapers, food and more. No registration is needed to attend the event and families are welcome! Childcare will not be provided.

    This year, the Secretary of State Mobile Office will also be on-site providing a variety of services. Necessary documents and fees will still apply. A list of fees and documentation needed can be found at https://milivcounty.gov/hscb/homeless-care/sos-mobile/.

    The Community Connect Planning Team acknowledges this event could not be successful without the help of community partners, sponsorships, and volunteers. Thank you to 2l42 Community Church for hosting the event and to the Brighton Masonic Lodge, Livingston County United Way, and Livingston Sunrise Rotary for sponsoring the event.

    Volunteer opportunities are available for event set-up, tear down, traffic directors, and more. Sign up at https://www.volunteerlivingston.org/agency/detail/?agency_id=81231.

 Fowlerville District Library

Upcoming Events

Monday – Wednesday: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm

Thursday: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm

Friday: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

For any questions, or to register for programs, call us at                517-223-9089

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KIDS & FAMILY

Homeschool Hangout

This is a fun drop-in program for homeschoolers to connect with one another over games and activities. Each session includes a STEAM activity. 

Wed, Feb 4 & 18 ● 1-2pm

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Family Storytime (Ages 1-5)

For families with “littles” to learn, play and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes, movements, and activities. Playtime and crafts included! 

Tues ● 10-11am

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Toddler Storytime (Ages 0-3)

A storytime for the “littlest littles” to learn, play, and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movements that appeal to short attention spans. 

Wed ● 10-11am

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Kids Club (Ages 6-12)

All the fun of Lego Club, but with more! Now you can play a game, complete a craft or activity, and still build with your favorite bricks. 

Thurs.● 4pm

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Graphic Novel Book Club

Read the book and then come to discuss it. Snacks provided. Books are available at the front desk and are yours to keep. We will be discussing DETECTIVE BEANS ADVENTURES IN CAT TOWN. 

Mon, Jan 26 ● 4pm

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Book Boxes (All ages)

Fill out the online form by visiting the events page on our website. Let the librarians pick a surprise selection of books for you. Register the first two weeks of every month to get next month’s box, which will be ready to pick up the first of the following month.

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Reading Dragons (All Ages)

Game on! Read to earn creature cards to collect and play games! Can you collect them all? Stop by the library to grab a reading log and a starter set to begin your adventure.

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Reading Dragon Break-In Bags (Ages 6+)

Our library dragon, Paige, has been kidnapped and locked up! Follow the clues with the help of Detective Magnum to figure out how to break her out. Participants will earn the exclusive Magnum card and Paige family pack. Second grade reading proficiency is needed to participate. Registration is Required. 

Tues, Feb 17 1-2pm & 4-5pm

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Live Homework Help

Free with your library card! Log on to HelpNow, click “Live Help”, Enter subject and grade level and enter the online classroom for expert assistance. You can find a link on our homepage.

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Sensory Playtime (Ages 2-5)

This is a drop-in playtime filled with unstructured, sensory fun! Watch your littles use their imaginations to turn everyday things into toys. Caregiver supervision is required. 

Friday, Feb 20 ● 10-11am

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Spark Club (Ages 10-13)

Find your spark in a variety of creative ways at one of these programs, just for pre-teens (sorry, no younger siblings). Come to make things with polymer clay. 

Sat, Feb 28 ● 1-2pm

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TEENS

Origami (Teens Age 13+)

Learn or practice origami skills. Instructions are provided for those without prior experience or who need a refresher.

Thurs, Feb 5 ● 3-4pm

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Button Making (Teens Age 13+)

Create your own unique pinback buttons, or build one from an existing design. 

Thurs, Feb 12 ● 3-4pm

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Murder Mystery Puzzle Boxes (Teens Age 14+)

Immerse yourself in the mystery as you try to solve one of these puzzle boxes. Handle clues, profile suspects, and find the killer with your deductive reasoning. 

Thurs, Feb 19 ● 3-4pm

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Dungeons & Dragons (Ages 12-18)

Come play D&D 5th Edition! No prior experience needed.

Wednesdays ● 2:30-5pm

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Switch Free Play (Ages 10-18)

Open gaming time with the library's Switch.

Fridays ● 2:30-5 pm

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Maker Space Open House (All Ages)

Join us in for a Maker’s Space Open House. Connor will be on hand to help with the 3D Printer and Glowforge. What will you create? 

Tues ● 4-5 pm

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Murder Mystery Puzzle Boxes (Ages 14+)

Immerse yourself in the mystery as you try to solve one of these puzzle boxes. Handle clues, profile suspects, and find the killer with your deductive reasoning. 

Thurs, 2/19 ● 3-4 pm

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Make Your Own Bookmarks (Age 13+)

Make a bookmark of your own design, whether to use for yourself or to donate to others.

Tues, 1/27 ● 3-4 pm

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Investing 101 for Teens (Ages 13+)

You’re a teen; you have a job, and you work hard for your money. Come and learn the basics of investing to make your money work for you. Presented by Steve MacDermaid from Edward Jones. 

Thurs, Jan 29 ● 3-4pm

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ADULTS

Find Your People at the Library (Adults)

We are thrilled to continue this popular working group to explore the Ancestry Library Edition and other valuable genealogy resources. Bring your laptop or use one of our computers. 

Wed, Feb 18 ● 2-3:30 pm

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Cardmaking (Adults)

Enjoy camaraderie and cards at this popular program. You will make four different cards to take home. All supplies included. Registration is required. 

Thurs, Feb 26 ● 6:00 pm & Fri, Feb 27 ● 11am

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Scrapbooking (Adults)

Make the most of your memories and join us for a fun day of scrapbooking your favorite photos. Stay the whole time or for just a few hours. Everyone gets their own table. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is required. 

Sat. Feb 21 ● 10:30 – 3:30pm

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Shelf Indulgence Book Club (Adults)

Members take turns facilitating the discussions. Come and enjoy some literary camaraderie! Register to get a free copy of the book, while supplies last. Registration begins one month before each scheduled meeting. Next up we will discuss THE BANNED BOOKSHOP OF MAGGIE BANKS by Shauna Robinson. 

Thurs, Feb 19 ● 2-3pm

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Sewing (Adults)

Bring your sewing machine and learn from a master seamstress. All levels of skill are welcome. Registration is required. 

Wed, Feb 18 ● 5:30pm & Fri, Feb 13 ● 10-2 pm

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Paper Bag Junk Journal (Adults)

Follow along with the Craft & Hobby Artist’s Academy to make a paper bag junk journal. Quick and easy, totally customizable and so much fun! Supplies provided. 

Friday, Feb 6 ● 11 am

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Holistic Wellness (Adults)

Lyndsey Johnson from Natural Roots and Wellness presents workshops for promoting health and vitality through holistic practice. She will be discussing hormones. 

Mon, Feb 2 ● 5 pm

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The Library Lounge (Adults)

Bring your own book, or read one of ours, and come to our monthly after-hours silent reading ungroup for adults 18+. Enjoy a “mocktail”, pub snacks and find a comfy chair for uninterrupted, delicious silence for an hour. We will have a book discussion area for those who want to talk about what they are reading, but the rest of the library is for those who want to read in peace. Registration is required. Adults only. 

Tues. Feb 10 ● 7-8:30 pm

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Senior “Appy Hours”

Learn how to use that app, cancel subscriptions, register for telehealth, or anything else tech related on your phone or computer. Sign up for a 30-minute one-on-one help with an expert. Call the front desk at (517) 223-9089 to reserve a spot. 

Wed Feb 11 ● 2-4pm

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Talking Cars with Automotive Journalist Robin Warner

Robin Warner, from CAR AND DRIVER, talks cars. What’s it like to drive a super car from McClaren or the new minivan from Kia, Chevy Silverado, Corvette, or anything in between? As a 20-year veteran journalist, Robin Warner has reviewed them all and looks forward to answering your questions about the cars of today. He will be here right after attending the North American Auto Show with the latest scoop.

Thurs, Jan 29 ● 6pm

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Peace Corps: “Make the World Your Classroom”

Discover how the Peace Corps sends young people around the globe to teach, support communities, and learn new cultures from the inside out. Learn how the Peace Corps can turn those dreams into reality.

Tues, Jan 27 ● 6pm

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So You Think You Can Puzzle! Puzzle Challenge

Register your team of up to 4 people to compete to complete an identical puzzle in the fastest time. Single registrants will be paired with other singles. Prizes will be awarded, and refreshments will be served. This month’s puzzle features a Valentine theme. 

Thurs, Feb 12 ● 6pm

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Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald 50th Anniversary

Shipwreck historian, Ric Mixter, is one of only a handful of people who have visited the wreck personally. He explored the site for over an hour at a depth of 550 feet. It was the beginning of over 20 years of research for Mixter. Join us to mark this grim anniversary. Registration is required. 

Thurs, Feb 19 ● 6 pm

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Repair Cafe

Don’t throw it away! Bring your broken items here for repair and advice from handymen. 

Sat, Feb 28 ● 10-12pm

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Did You Know?

Did you know that we are a food collection location for the Family Impact Center? Non-perishable foods may be dropped off in the cafe area, and we thank you!

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A Friendly Reminder

We are happy to be fine-free, however after a book is 8 weeks overdue the item will be withdrawn from our system and can no longer be returned. A library lost/replacement fee will be applied to the account. Please return your items on time so that others can enjoy them too.

 Williamston Theatre starts off 2026 with ‘Dial M for Murder’ 

    Williamston Theatre starts off 2026 with Dial M for Murder, adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the original by Frederick Knott. Performances for this classic suspense thriller begin Thursday, February 5 and run through Sunday, March 8. Tickets are now on sale.

    The Theatre is located at 122 S. Putnam St. in downtown Williamston,

    Do you believe in the perfect murder? When Tony Wendice discovers a love letter meant for his wife, a vengeful obsession takes over. He plots revenge, hires an old friend to do the unthinkable, and sets a meticulous plan in motion — until one mistake sends everything into a spiral. Dial M for Murder is Jeffrey Hatcher’s sharp adaptation of a classic suspense thriller that gives the iconic story new life. You may know the story; but seeing it live, just feet from the performers, is a whole new experience. Catch every glance. Every twist. Every gasp. Contains mature content.

    Dial M for Murder runs for five weeks only - February 5 through March 8th. The first four performances are Preview performances - Thursday and Friday at 7:30PM, Saturday and Sunday at 2:00PM. The schedule for the remaining four weeks - Thursday at 2:00PM, Friday at 7:30PM, Saturday at 2:00PM and 7:30PM, Sunday at 2:00PM. The Official Opening Night for Dial M for Murder is Friday, February 13. Conversation Sunday is Sunday, March 1 immediately following the 2:00PM performance. Visit our website for more information about Previews and Conversation Sunday.

    For information on ticket prices, discounts and ticket policies please visit our Ticket Information page on our website: williamstontheatre.org

    For more information about the company and the rest of our 2025-2026 Season please visit our website at williamstontheatre.org or call (517) 655-SHOW (7469).

 Livingston Link-Up invites professionals to meet their fellow public service providers

    Livingston Link-Up invites business professionals, medical personnel, care providers, and those that assist community residents in need to a free networking event. Livingston Link-Up will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 4:00pm-6:00pm at 2l42 Community Church in Brighton (7526 Grand River Ave.).

    This networking opportunity provides professionals in the private and public sector to meet, connect, and share insights with one another. Referrals, insights, volunteerism, and financial support could be the missing link in solving some of our shared community challenges.

    Last year, 151 guests attended the event representing 92 different organizations. This year, the Livingston Link-Up Planning Committee hopes to increase guest and agency participation and representation.

    “We are excited to host another year of Livingston Link-Up! This event has the power for agencies and organizations to build long lasting relationships and lead to cross sector coordination and collaboration to support our community residents in need.” said Grace Dennis, Community Collaborative Planner for the Human Services Collaborative Body.

    There is no registration needed! Simply stop by and get to know other local professionals.

    This event is sponsored by the Bank of Ann Arbor Livingston, Brighton Masonic Lodge, Livingston Sunrise Rotary, and Livingston County United Way.

 Consumers Energy provides $5 million to lower customer bills

    To support its customers, Consumers Energy is kicking off 2026 by investing $5 million to help customers and communities across Michigan through direct assistance, community partnerships and programs designed to help families manage energy costs.

    The utility said that this is part of a broader, ongoing commitment to keeping energy within reach and standing alongside customers – not just when challenges arise, but before they do.

    “Affordable energy is a promise we make to our customers,” said Lauren Snyder, senior vice president and chief customer and growth officer at Consumers Energy. “Our customers are facing real pressure in their everyday lives, and we believe energy shouldn’t add to that burden. This commitment is one way we’re showing up today, and it reflects a broader commitment to help customers stay connected, supported and confident that we’re standing with them.”

    While Consumers Energy bills remain competitive compared to national and regional benchmarks, company officials siad, “we know affordability is more than comparisons. It’s about helping customers manage costs and stay supported. That’s why Consumers Energy continues to stay committed to help customers stay ahead by showing up when it matters most.”

    The dollars are funded by Consumers Energy – not customers’ bills – and will be distributed in partnership with the following agencies that connect directly with people in communities across the state:

        · United Way South Central Michigan

        · TrueNorth Community Services

        · The Salvation Army – Great Lakes Division

        · Society of St. Vincent de Paul in the Archdiocese of Detroit

        · THAW (The Heat and Warmth Fund)

        · New Day Foundation

        · Greater Flint Health Coalition

        · Kent County Community Action

        · Mid-Michigan Community Action

        · Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency

        · Ottawa Community Action Agency

    Customers who need help should call 2-1-1, a free service that connects Michiganders to nonprofits in their area that can help with basic needs, from energy bills to food and shelter.

    Customers needing assistance with managing their bill can find helpful resources at ConsumersEnergy.com/Assistance and are also encouraged to explore My Personalized Offerings, an easy-to-use tool that matches customers with payment assistance resources and energy-saving programs — learn more at ConsumersEnergy.com/Offers. As always, if you’re facing challenges with your bill, please call us at 800-477-5050 for support.

    Consumers Energy said that its approach “reflects a belief that affordability is not a single initiative, but a lens applied across the company’s work — from how we communicate with customers, to how we design programs, to how we partner with communities across the state. Expect additional actions throughout the year as part of this broader commitment.”

    “When our customers are making hard choices at the kitchen table, energy should not be one of them,” Snyder said. “We have a responsibility to meet customers where they are – and that’s exactly what we are doing.”

 Author highlights how supporting local can double community economic impact

    Area author and marketing strategist Desiree Martinez is releasing a new book centered on one clear objective: helping communities double their economic impact by keeping dollars circulating locally through trust, loyalty, and belonging.

    In Stop Marketing, Start Belonging, Martinez showcases real-world examples of community-first business and media, including WHMI, Beauchamp, Destination Stars Hollow, and Explore Brighton Howell, and the role they play in strengthening local economies.

    Martinez will be appearing at upcoming events with the Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce, where she will discuss the book’s core ideas and their relevance for local businesses and communities.