Van Belkum Branch
🏢 Grand Rapids Public Library · GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan
Van Belkum Branch
The Van Belkum Branch on Plainfield Avenue NE has anchored northeast Grand Rapids since 1943, now operating from a building donated to GRPL in 1999 by local business owner Nick Van Belkum.
🕑 Library Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📍 Location & Contact
Address: 1563 Plainfield Ave NE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49505
Phone: 6169885410
Website: grpl.org
📖 About Van Belkum Branch
<p>The Van Belkum Branch traces its roots to 1943, when it first began serving the northeast Grand Rapids neighborhood through several locations before settling into its current home at 1563 Plainfield Ave NE. In 1999 the building was donated to Grand Rapids Public Library by Nick Van Belkum, a local business owner whose generosity secured the branch's permanent place in the community. Today the branch offers public computers, printing, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary on-site parking, and serves as a ballot drop box location. The Friends of the Library host periodic used book sales here, drawing regulars from across the Plainfield corridor.</p>
⭐ What makes this branch special
- Building donated to GRPL in 1999 by community benefactor Nick Van Belkum
- Neighborhood presence dates to 1943 across multiple sites
- Complimentary on-site parking lot
- Official ballot drop box location
- Friends of the Library book sales held on-site
📱 Free with a Grand Rapids Public Library Card
Stream, borrow & research with your free GRPL card — at the branch or from home.
📍 More Grand Rapids Public Library branches
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking at Van Belkum Branch?
Yes — the branch has its own free parking lot directly adjacent to the building on Plainfield Ave NE, making it easy to stop in without hunting for street parking.
Can I drop off my ballot at Van Belkum Branch?
Yes. Van Belkum Branch is an official ballot drop box location. Check the City of Grand Rapids elections page for drop-box availability windows during election periods.
How did Van Belkum Branch get its name?
The branch was named for Nick Van Belkum, the local business owner who donated the current building to Grand Rapids Public Library in 1999, ensuring the northeast neighborhood would have a permanent library home.