Dickinson County Library - Solomonson Branch
Where the community finds its story
The Dickinson County Library's Solomonson branch in Norway, Michigan, is a welcoming space for people of all ages to explore their curiosity, discover new interests, deepen their knowledge, and nurture a lifelong love of reading and learning.
In 1933, the Norway Reading Room was established on Main Street and became a formal library the following year. It was then moved from City Hall to the Coast to Coast building, where it remained from 1934 until 1977. After a fire destroyed the Coast to Coast building in 1977, the City of Norway quickly offered land that had been bequeathed to the city by Ellen and Lillian Solomonson. The new library facility, officially named the Solomonson Branch Library - Norway, opened its doors in April 1978. Since then, it has been serving residents who appreciate its cozy atmosphere.
In 2014, the library added an outdoor patio in memory of longtime Solomonson Branch employee Ray Gattra, who willed funds to the library upon his passing.
The Solomonson Branch features a generous browsing library that offers a diverse selection of popular materials, including both fiction and nonfiction, suitable for all ages. Library cardholders can place books on hold, request an interlibrary loan from other branches in case the Norway location doesn’t have a particular title, and return books to any Dickinson County branch. Additionally, the Solomonson Branch provides access to the same digital collections available throughout the Dickinson County Library system.
Another important Library feature is its role as a community resource to help patrons discover and pursue their interests. A regular calendar of events and programs are available for youth, including reading challenges, craftmaking activities, and entertainment geared towards positive emotional and intellectual development.
Computer and internet access is also available at the Solomonson branch for adult patrons to achieve personal, educational and professional goals.
The library’s strategic plan calls for a remodel of the Solomonson branch interior, beginning in the Winter of 2026. The renovation goals include redesigning the entrance to improve accessibility, adding a small meeting room, and updating the floor plan to make the space more usable.
Dickinson County Public Library Director Megan Buck emphasizes how committed the staff at the Solomonson branch is to the Norway community:
“All our staff provide friendly customer service, but one great thing about the Norway Branch is that patrons tend to see the same faces when they visit. This can lead to a more meaningful relationship and a better understanding of how we can assist them in using their local library. Kathy, Teena, and Susie are providing wonderful service at the branch, and I know patrons appreciate them very much!”
Visit the Solomonson Branch Library - Norway at 620 Section Street Norway, MI 49870 or visit the Dickinson County Library’s website for a full list of services and upcoming events: https://www.dcl-lib.org/
