A Bright New Chapter for Frankfort’s Library: The New BSDLibrary.org is Live
We’re proud to announce the launch of the brand-new website for the Benzie Shores District Library, the public library serving Frankfort, Michigan and the surrounding Benzie County community. Located steps from Lake Michigan, the Frankfort Library is a local hub for learning, events, and community. We feel proud to have designed and built their new website and online presence.
Designed and developed by Traverse City Web Design, the new site at BSDLibrary.org is colorful, minimal, and inviting.
At first glance, it might look deceptively simple—but behind the clean layout is a carefully crafted user experience and a powerful WordPress foundation, all built with the library’s future in mind.
This is Michigan web design with intention: rooted in community, refined in execution.
A Minimal Look, Crafted with Purpose
When we began work on the new BSDLibrary.org, the team at the Frankfort Library asked for something simple. No clutter. No gimmicks. Just a clean, functional site that reflects the library’s mission and is easy to use for everyone—from kids finding summer events to seniors checking hours or searching the catalog.
So that’s what we built. It is a completely custom design built to their specifications.
The site’s bright, airy aesthetic is based directly on the Library’s logo color palette—subtle blues, warm yellow, and cool greens that evoke a lakeshore sensibility. We stripped away anything unnecessary, leaving behind a clean layout that feels open, calming and fun.
But don’t let the simplicity fool you. Every design decision—from spacing and typography to navigation and search—was carefully considered to create a seamless, intuitive experience. It’s not flashy. It’s focused (with a little flashiness!).
Built for the Community, Powered by WordPress
Behind the calm interface is a fully custom, high-performance WordPress site that makes life easier for both library visitors and staff.
We hand-coded key features—like the search functionality—to be fast, responsive, and accurate.
The backend is optimized for mobile, speed, and accessibility, making sure everyone in the Frankfort community can connect with their library without friction. And because it’s WordPress, BSDLibrary.org can grow with the Library over time—adding new events, resources, and tools with ease.
The site is also incredibly easy for the Library’s staff to manage.
With just a few clicks, they can post new events, update library news, or adjust content across the site.
Hosted and Supported by Hosting North
After the launch, we didn’t just hand over the keys and walk away. Through our hosting division, Hosting North, we continue to manage, monitor, and secure the BSDLibrary.org site so the Frankfort Library staff never have to worry about updates or maintenance.
Hosting North provides:
- WordPress core, plugin, and theme updates
- Daily backups stored securely offsite
- Virus scanning and firewall protection
- Performance monitoring and uptime checks
- Fast, personal support for content updates and tech needs
It’s not just a website—it’s a managed service that ensures the library’s digital presence remains fast, functional, and secure 24/7.
A Model of What Michigan Web Design Can Be
For us at Traverse City Web Design, this project is a perfect example of what Michigan web design should strive for: clear goals, strong community ties, and thoughtful execution. We’re proud to have helped the Benzie Shores District Library create a digital space that feels as welcoming and useful as the physical one.
We believe great websites don’t need to scream. Sometimes the best design is the kind you barely notice—because it just works.
If you’re in Frankfort or anywhere in Northern Michigan, we invite you to check out the new BSDLibrary.org and experience it yourself. And if you’re a nonprofit, business, or public institution looking for a reliable, beautiful, and future-ready site, we’d love to talk.
Explore more at TraverseCityWebDesign.com. Let’s build something meaningful—together.
Stay Northern.
