As the leaves fall and bike tires roll into storage for the winter, we’re celebrating another amazing season at Muskegon Area Bike Library (MABL), and what a ride it’s been!
A Season of Growth and Connection
This year marked incredible growth for MABL, with a 50% increase in bike checkouts compared to the last two seasons. Over 120 bikes were checked out from the MADL Muskegon Heights Branch alone, helping residents of all ages get where they needed to go — to work, to school, to the beach, or just out for a joy ride around town.
We also welcomed two new program partners this season: Bethlehem Neighborhood Park Association, serving as a new repair location, and Greasy Opossum Pop-Up, a new bike repair hub. Their addition expanded our reach and strengthened our network of community-driven cycling support.
Riding Again After 40 Years
One of this season’s most inspiring stories comes from Scottie, a Muskegon Heights resident who visits Muskegon Heights Branch Library almost every day. Scottie wanted to check out a bike through MABL because he was having problems with his car. "It was so helpful riding the bike and it made me feel healthier. I'll definitely be participating again next year."
Stories like Scottie’s remind us that a simple bike can mean so much more than just transportation — it’s about health, connection, and the joy of being able to get around within your community.
This season’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated community partners who keep the gears turning:
- Muskegon Area District Library (MADL) – for hosting the program and providing ongoing staff support
- Muskegon County Bicycling Coalition (MCBC) – for transporting bikes and countless volunteer hours
- Hackley Community Care (HCC) – for providing storage space and support for winterizing our bikes
- And of course, we extend endless gratitude to our mechanics, volunteers, donors, and riders who keep this community thriving on two wheels.
As we close out another incredible season, we’re reminded that the trail may end — but the journey never does. Together, we’ll keep building a healthier, more connected MABL community, one bike, one ride at a time.
Lashae Simmons, MBA
Library and Outreach Manager
MADL Muskegon Heights Branch
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