The library has been important to Ania Fleszar for as long as she can remember.
“It’s been a source of information and comfort for my entire life,” shares the recent graduate of Lowell High School.
Growing up just across the Flat River from the Englehardt Branch of Kent District Library, Fleszar was a regular among the stacks. It was a place to find not only books but also community. “It was the first place I ever volunteered,” she notes.
So when she was in the teen section and noticed a sign announcing the KDL Community Impact Scholarship, it was only natural that she would apply. Last month, Fleszar was notified that she was one of two winners, and she now has $5,000 to use toward her college degree.
Scholarship Rewards Community Involvement
New this year, the Community Impact Scholarship was created by KDL with funds from a Library Journal Jerry Kline Award that it received in 2023. The scholarship is offered to graduating seniors or adults returning to school.
“Our mission at Kent District Library has always been to empower and uplift our community through education and opportunity,” said Andrew Erlewein, member of the Kent District Library Board of Trustees, in an emailed statement. “By launching this Community Impact Scholarship, we’re thrilled to provide direct support to individuals in our area who are ready to pursue their dreams through college or trade school.”
Applications were reviewed using an anonymous process, and two winners were chosen to receive $5,000 awards. Jamie Elgrably of Kentwood received a scholarship in addition to Fleszar.
“Ania is a great choice for this scholarship,” says Amanda Schrauben, who represents the Englehardt and Alto branches on the KDL Board of Trustees. “She exemplifies what we were looking for in terms of someone who loves the library and is also active in the community.”
WMU-Bound this Fall
Fleszar, who just graduated with the LHS Class of ’25, says it was a surprise to get the call about the scholarship.
“I was actually at a rehearsal for Six and was in a lot of shock,” she recalls. “It was so exciting.”
The scholarship money – which will be distributed directly to each winner’s school – will be used by Fleszar at Western Michigan University. While she doesn’t have a declared major yet, she is thinking about theater or education. “I could see myself going into secondary teaching,” she says.
The Lowell library has been the site of many happy memories for Fleszar and now KDL is helping her to create new ones as she enters the next chapter of life. “I’m so grateful,” she says.
Leave a Reply