City of Eaton Rapids Representative – 4 Year Term
After moving to Eaton Rapids in 1996, the Eaton Rapids Library quickly became one of my favorite places to visit. A few years later, when I was asked to join the library board, I gratefully accepted the opportunity. I have always believed that vibrant libraries are essential to the strength of any community, and I was eager to contribute to expanding the services and programs the library already offered. From programs for all ages to services and experiences that go beyond books, my goal has been to help create a welcoming environment for everyone.

It has been exciting to witness the library’s growth over the years, including its transition to a district library and the increase in programming and usage during my time on the board.

In addition to serving on the Eaton Rapids Area District Library Board, I am also the organist at the First United Methodist Church, play piano for residents at ICAL, deliver Meals on Wheels, assist with the Mobile Food Pantry, and volunteer monthly at the Greater Lansing Food Bank.

Hamlin Township Representative – 4 Year Term
Emily Bodkin joined the library board of directors during its transition from a city library to a district library. She represents Hamlin Township and serves as the board’s vice president. Emily and her husband, Ben, have lived in Eaton Rapids since 2005 and are proud parents of three children.

In addition to her role on the library board, Emily is the teacher and director of Humpty Dumpty Cooperative Preschool in Eaton Rapids. The preschool’s mission is to serve families with young children by helping them begin their educational journey, and the Eaton Rapids Area District Library is a valued partner in that mission.

A passionate reader, Emily is excited about the library’s expanding programs and services and looks forward to seeing how they benefit the community.

Eaton Rapids Township Representative
Matthew Swan Badgero has proudly served on the library board since 2018. A resident of Eaton Rapids since 2013, Matthew is a passionate supporter of the library and firmly believes that every strong community should have a library that serves all its members.

In his free time, Matthew enjoys traveling, geocaching, and, of course, reading. Thank you for supporting the library!

Eaton Rapids Township Representative – 4 Year Term
I moved to Eaton Rapids in January 2016, and the first thing I looked for was the library. I wanted a place to bring my four young children to check out books and attend storytime. When the previous director, Anna, invited me to join the efforts to create the district library, I was thrilled to be part of something I truly love.

As a representative of Eaton Rapids Township, I serve as the board treasurer. I bring an accounting background, a passion for books, and a desire to create a community space where my children—and others—can explore literature, games, classes, and more.

City of Eaton Rapids Representative – 4 Year Term
Deanna Halsey has been a lifelong resident of Eaton Rapids, growing up on a farm north of town. She has lived within the city limits for over 30 years, building a home with her husband, Rus. Deanna and Rus have a son, Andrew, who is currently in high school.

Deanna works as a healthcare aide at Eaton Rapids Middle School and has a deep passion for serving her community. She has been involved in numerous service projects both locally and abroad, including Medical Eye Missions to Dominica. A dedicated supporter of the Eaton Rapids Area District Library, Deanna is committed to ensuring it thrives for future generations. She also recently began serving on the board of Eaton Rapids Teen Space.

City of Eaton Rapids Representative – 2 Year Rotating
I joined the library board because I believe the library is so much more than just books. It provides essential services such as internet access, copying, faxing, tech support, and a variety of programs for both children and adults.

I also volunteer as a substitute for my husband in the “Jump Into Reading” program for preschoolers at the library and contribute to the local backpack/food bank project in Eaton Rapids.

Hamlin Township Representative – 4 Year Term
Having previously served as a rotating member of the board, I understand the commitment required to fulfill this role. As a longtime library patron, I am extremely proud of the resources and programming the library provides to our community. I enjoy interacting with the dedicated staff and am always willing to make myself available when needed.

With 45 years of experience in corporate banking, I bring an extensive background in business and staff management. These skills will serve me well as I represent the township in this position.