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Stronger together! That was the uniting message coming out of Washington DC this past week at the National Summit on Intellectual Freedom for 150 librarians, library association executives, representatives from the ACLU, NCAC, PFLAG, publishers, authors, the Obama Foundation, booksellers, Red Wine & Blue, advocates, and so many others. MLA was honored to have been invited, not only to represent our members and association but also to represent the International Council for Library Association Executives (ICLAE) that we are a part of.
For over three years, since the beginning of the culture wars that have put our First Amendment Rights through unprecedented challenges, those invited to attend have been on the frontlines guarding and protecting these rights. What we came to realize in our short time together is that we all represent and speak to diverse and unique communities. But, at the end of the day, we all agreed that we must step up TOGETHER, find a common message, fight like hell, and leave egos at the door. We need to acknowledge the hard, exhausting, and daunting work, and that we have to do it anyway. READ MORE
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Let’s Go! October is Michigan Library Appreciation Month | |
Get ready to celebrate Michigan Library Appreciation Month! This October, we are excited to honor Michigan libraries and library staff, emphasizing the theme “Let’s Go!”! Libraries inspire us to go explore, go learn, and go connect with our communities.
Join us in celebrating Michigan Library Appreciation Month and help us showcase the profound impact libraries have on the lives of Michiganders. Libraries and their dedicated staff play a crucial role in fostering connections, providing resources, and supporting lifelong learning.
We invite libraries, library staff, and patrons to get involved in various activities throughout the month. There are several ways to get involved! Download social media and website graphics, sample patron/member newsletter copy, a sample press release, a proclamation you can submit to local officials for approval, and more. Plus, don't forget to follow us on Facebook and share our daily posts featuring fun library collages, stats, and inspirational quotes to help spread the Michigan library love.
Let’s go to the library, engage with our communities, and highlight the invaluable contributions of Michigan libraries, librarians, and library workers all month long! Let’s Go!
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Call for Nominations for MLA Board | |
The Call for Nominations for candidates for the 2025 Board of Directors opens today! The Nominating and Leadership Development Committee (NLDC) is seeking nominations/self-nominations for four member-at-large directors as well as the President-elect position, with terms beginning in July 2025 and ending in June 2028.
Do you know someone who would be a great addition to the MLA Board of Directors? Submit a nomination! We also encourage you to self-nominate if you are interested in serving on the MLA Board. The Call for Nominations will close on Friday, November 1. Learn more about MLA Officer Positions (pdf). Learn more about Board Member Responsibilities (pdf). Preview the questions asked on the nomination form before starting your application: Board of Directors Nomination Form 2024 Requirements
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MLA Strategic Planning Starts Soon | |
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This fall, MLA will begin developing a new strategic direction and 3-year plan for our work to educate, advocate, and engage libraries and library workers throughout Michigan. Since 2019, MLA has been working with a healthy and robust rolling plan that is updated annually and has served us well over the past 6 years. It is now time to gather more input, check in with our members, and re-engage our key stakeholders. As our newly contracted planning consultants state in their proposal, “After the uncertainty of the last several years and recent threats to libraries across the country, it’s a good time to celebrate success, assess what’s working, deepen members connections, and set a course for the next three plus years.” We are excited to get started. READ MORE
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New Podcast Debuting in November | |
What can happen when a few very creative individuals sit around a table with a glass of wine and a good idea? At the PLA Conference in Columbus this past spring, we found out. One of the coop directors, a few library directors, and MLA staff were enjoying conversation when they hit upon a great idea for a joint project that would be fun and inspiring – a monthly podcast celebrating the lives of library workers throughout Michigan. For the past 6 months, MLA and the Library Cooperatives of Michigan have been working together to plan and prepare for a grand debut of Chapter and Verse on November 14, 2024.
Hosted by the Michigan Library Association and the Library Cooperatives of Michigan, Chapter and Verse: Storytime from the Stacks features dedicated Michigan library workers and their inspiring stories. Each episode welcomes a library worker from one of Michigan's 11 cooperative regions to share their most interesting and inspiring experiences.New episodes will premiere on the second Thursday of each month. READ MORE
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Connect with other Michigan librarians and library workers right from your computer with the new MLA Community Forums!
The purpose of MLA Community Forums is to provide a platform for members to exchange ideas and resources. Each forum has a designated topic of discussion: Library of Things, Marketing and Promotions, and Makerspaces. Community Forums are also intended to act as a repository of these conversations that MLA members can reference in the future. All active MLA members are welcome to read and post on the forums.
MLA’s wonderful volunteer moderators will post discussion prompts monthly on each forum so make sure to check back often. Join us and share your thoughts and experiences with the following starter questions:
What makerspace program are you most satisfied with? What is your most impactful makerspace program so far?
What “Thing" your library circulates is your favorite? What is your most popular “Thing" so far?
What marketing project are you proudest of? What is your most successful attempt at promotion so far?
Visit milibraries.org/forum and log into your member account to check out the forums today!
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Each year, the Michigan Library Association Board of Directors, staff, and ambassadors update their pledge to engage in a sustained effort to create a culture that recognizes, enhances and promotes equity, diversity and accessibility for Michigan’s library community. At the same time, MLA is steadfast in modeling an organization where our board, staff, ambassadors and members feel a strong sense of belonging and acceptance, where voices are heard, acknowledged and acted upon. View the statement(pdf). | | | |
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Please update your records with our new mailing address and make sure the address is corrected in your financial software as well!
Michigan Library Association
PO Box 27337
Lansing, MI 48909
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Notice is hereby given to MLA members that the Annual Meeting will take place during MLA 2024 Annual Conference at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Acme (Traverse City) on Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 3:00 – 4:00 PM. MLA 2024 Annual Conference registration is not required to attend the annual meeting and all members are welcome and encouraged to attend. | | | |
Check out MLA's Bill Tracker to view a full list of legislation that the Advocacy and Legislative Committee is watching.
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Advocacy Action Plan FY25 | |
The MLA Advocacy and Legislative Committee, chaired by Jenny Marr, finalized the 2024-2025 Action Plan. The plan outlines the top legislative priorities on both a State and Federal level as well as an advocacy plan to promote the value of libraries and librarians to both legislators and the general public.
View the MLA 2024-2025 Advocacy Action Plan at milibraries.org/mla-advocacy
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Intellectual Freedom Resources | |
MI Right to Read is an MLA initiative coordinated through the leadership of the Intellectual Freedom Task Force to protect the right to read in Michigan. Visit MIRighttoRead.com today to join the coalition and take the pledge to protect every Michigander's right to read.
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Resources for library staff, educators, and board members.
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Tips and templates for promoting intellectual freedom in your community.
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Request support as you take action to protect First Amendment rights.
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Click the image to view MLA's video emphasizing the critical role of libraries in providing access to diverse perspectives, safeguarding intellectual freedom and protecting the Freedom to Read. Help us advocate for Michigan libraries and protect everyone’s First Amendment rights. | |
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Celebrate MI Right to Read Week | Celebrate MI Right to Read Week here in Michigan! This week, we are celebrating intellectual freedom, access, diversity in library collections, librarian qualifications, and our First Amendment rights. Inspired by the ALA Banned Book Week theme “FRead Between the Lines,” our campaign features daily blackout poetry messages. Follow us on our social media channels and give them a share! | |
Make this week memorable by celebrating the importance of libraries and protecting everyone’s right to read. Consider making blackout poetry with patrons or creating blackout poetry graphics for your library to share on social media.
We’ve made a Canva template that anyone with a Canva account can use. Follow this link, then click the button that says, “Use template for new design”. Just add your text, then add black marker graphics to create your poem.
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Letter to Legislators
Check out the latest edition (PDF) of our outreach letters to Michigan Legislators where we continue to educate them on the value of our libraries and the critical role of library staff. Our letters include information on programs and services that libraries provide, education on library funding, the return on investment for our communities, stats and fun facts about library usage, and more.
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Don't miss out on upcoming events! Get your tickets! Click the images to learn more and register or visit the event calendar online at milibraries.org/upcoming-events to view our complete lineup of upcoming programs, conferences, MLA Connect webinars and advocacy hours, plus important deadlines for proposals and nominations, MLA Board elections and more! | | |
MLA 2024 Annual Conference PRESS PLAY | |
PRESS PLAY and join the Michigan Library community at MLA 2024 Annual Conference this October 16-18 at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Traverse City.
You can still take advantage of great rates! A full conference pass is only $350 for individual MLA members and includes three days of networking and education, a ticket to the Michigan Library Awards dinner and ceremony, plus meals, snacks, and lots of candy and coffee.
Standard Rates expire on October 4. Check out the schedule at a glance, featured speaker lineup, breakout sessions, and special events, then review registration options and register today at milibraries.org/annual-conference.
| Executive Coaching at MLA 2024 | |
Executive coaching is a valuable opportunity for professional growth, typically reserved for high-level executives. This year at the MLA Annual Conference, we're thrilled to offer this as an add-on benefit to a few attendees who want to press play on their career development. Maxine Bleiweis, who has benefited from top-tier executive coaching, and coached dozens of library leaders throughout the state, will be offering 1-on-1 sessions to share her expertise and help leaders thrive. Whether you are a new director trying to understand your role, need help determining how to manage an ongoing issue, wondering what path your career journey may take, or want help with your interview skills or a resume review, this is for you!
Bleiweis' libraries were awarded 5-Star Status and were finalists for the IMLS Medal of Excellence. She was the 2015 recipient of the PLA Charles Robinson Award for Innovative Leadership. In her new chapter as Maxine Bleiweis & Associates, she is being called upon to speak on all things public library, coach managers, and guide strategic planning, all with an emphasis on innovative thinking.
There are only five spots available on Thursday, October 17 at the MLA 2024 Annual Conference. Sessions are 25 minutes each and $50.00 per session, for both members and non-members. REGISTER
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Check out a Preview of the Conference App! | | | |
Apply for Funds to Attend MLA 2024 Annual Conference | |
Continuing education stipends are available through the Library of Michigan Library Continuing Education Program. Michigan public, academic and school library staff are eligible to apply for funds to attend MLA 2024 Annual Conference. Applications may be submitted at any time for a continuing education event that is AFTER the current month end, so make sure you apply by Friday, September 27.
View complete program details, eligibility and criteria, and apply: michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/libraries/ce/scholarships/library-continuing-education-stipend-program
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MLA 2024 Annual Conference Tshirt | |
Get ready to PRESS PLAY! Order your official MLA 2024 Annual Conference shirt from MLA’s online store today! Shirts will not be sold onsite.
Shirts are $26.50, plus $5.99 shipping. Available in dark heather grey, turquoise, and mauve.
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Think Space Registration Now Open | |
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Join the 2024-2025 cohort and experience what makes Think Space a transformative journey for library leaders! Now in its fourth year, MLA’s Think Space is designed to help library directors thrive—both as workplace and community leaders. This year’s focus is on sustaining personal well-being and supporting those around you, all while adapting to evolving challenges.
Since 2021, Think Space has provided a unique forum where library directors and cooperative directors across Michigan come together to engage deeply in issues that matter to our profession. More than just a learning opportunity, it’s a space for meaningful connection—where conversations spill out of formal sessions and continue in hallways, on porches, or even around the bonfire. READ MORE
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MLA Connect Webinar Lineup | |
Check out the lineup of upcoming MLA Connect Webinars on diverse topics from marketing to service animals in the library. Our first webinar focuses on podcasting for libraries.
Join us on November 8 at 11:00 AM for Amplifying Voices: Using Podcasts for Library Outreach and Advocacy. Discover how podcasting can be a powerful tool for your library to engage communities, share stories, and advocate for resources and support. In this session, we will explore best practices for starting a library podcast, choosing engaging topics, and leveraging podcasts to amplify your library’s message. Learn from real-life examples and walk away with actionable strategies to create a successful podcast that strengthens your outreach and library advocacy efforts.
MLA Connect Webinars are only $25 for MLA members. View details about the full lineup and register at milibraries.org/mla-connect
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Check out the MLA Connect On Demand virtual education platform! MLA members have access to dozens of virtual programs and sessions on a wide variety of topics, all available to view on demand. To view available programs, visit MLA Connect On Demand, browse the archives, and log in with your MLA individual login credentials.
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Tashia Miller, Outreach and Engagement Librarian at the University of Michigan, is Michigan’s American Library Association (ALA) Chapter Councilor.
We are very lucky to have such wonderful representation at the national level by our ALA Councilor. Since 2022, she has represented MLA’s interests. Part of her responsibility is to connect Michigan to the national agenda and to represent us at ALA conventions. View the report of Council meetings and activities during the 2024 Annual conference: ALA 2024 Annual Meeting - Michigan Chapter Councilor's Report (pdf)
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Welcome to New MLA Members | Check out where new members came from in August 2024! It’s our pleasure to welcome new members from all over Michigan, check out the member directory to reach out, connect, and welcome them to MLA at milibraries.org/new-members. | | | |
MIRS Subscription Discounts | |
Keep up on legislative and political news at the Capitol with breaking news alerts, weekly podcasts, highlights of the daily legislative results and an in-depth analysis of current issues in the House, Senate and administration with daily updates in an easy-to-read online format.
For a sample visit the MIRS website.
Contact Lisa Buttigieg at lbuttigieg@milibraries.org by October 4 to subscribe at a discounted MLA member rate.
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Update Your Member Profile | |
Changed jobs? Got a new email address? Accidentally deleted a confirmation email? Log into the MLA website to manage your member profile! Visit the member portal to keep your contact and work information up to date, view your messages, manage your invoices and forms, and connect with others through the member directory. Do I have to be a member to register for an MLA event? Is my library an MLA Organizational Member? Do I have an Individual MLA Membership? Check out answers to MLA Member Account FAQs (pdf).
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MLA Strategic Partner members help support our statewide partnerships and collaborations that unite all Michigan libraries, foster healthy communities, promote education and literacy, and advance arts and culture in Michigan. Strategic Partners include library vendors, service providers, community organizations, and philanthropic institutions. Learn more about our partners using our directory search.
Interested in joining MLA as a Strategic Partner? Learn more about the benefits of membership today!
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Do you have news you want to share? Contact Lisa Buttigieg at lbuttigieg@milibraries.org to share news of promotions, new hires, appointments, awards, or a tribute in memoriam. | | | |
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The Parchment Community Library extends heartfelt thanks to retiring Library Director Teresa Stannard for her 23 years of dedicated service. The library also warmly welcomes Jennie Willard as the new Library Director. Wishing both Teresa and Jennie much success and happiness. | |
The Genesee District Library has named Alex Austermann as the new Youth Services Librarian. Alex, who has experience as a government research librarian, is eager to serve the youth and teens in Genesee County. Congratulations to Alex! | |
The Ruth Hughes Memorial District Library is welcoming Ryan Tackabury as the new Library Director. Ryan will join the team at the end of September. Wishing you all the best in your new role, Ryan! | |
Kudos and Congratulations | |
Kudos to Madi Purol for graduating from Alpena Community College and being promoted to Presque Isle District Library’s new Teen Librarian position. Since Madi’s promotion, PIDL’s Summer Reading teen numbers have tripled. Congratulations to Madi! | |
Congratulations to Jennifer Jones-McClain for her 18 years of service on the Marcellus Township Wood Memorial Library Board, including 14 years as Board President. The library staff honors her dedication and enthusiasm for the library and community. Thank you, Jennifer! | |
Advertise on MLA’s Job Board |
Members receive deep discounts on job postings through the MLA Job Board. Learn more here.
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Join Unite Against Book Bans as an Organizational Partner | Unite Against Book Bans welcomes organizational partners who share our core principles and would like to work together to defeat censorship. If your organization is interested in joining the campaign, complete this form and the campaign will reach out to you with partnership details.Learn more at uniteagainstbookbans.org. Join as an Organizational Partner. | |
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Unite Against Book Bans, in collaboration with the publishing community, launched Book Résumés, a free resource to support librarians, educators, parents, students, and other community advocates in their efforts to keep frequently challenged books on shelves.
Created in partnership with dozens of publishers and featuring information provided by publishers, librarians, and Unite partner School Library Journal, Unite Against Book Bans book résumés are easy-to-print documents designed to support readers’ access to books that are targeted by censors. Learn more
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Rural Readiness Grant Program | The Office of Rural Development Rural Readiness Grant Program (RRGP) provides rural communities (via tax-exempt organizations) with up to $50,000 to support collaborative planning and capacity initiatives. | | | |
Join Unite Against Book Bans Freedom to Read Community Day of Action | Saturday, October 19th | Please complete this form to share your plans for action on October 19! Contact UniteAgainstBookBans@ala.org with questions. Voter resources are available now; October 19 supporting materials will be released by September 17. Learn more at uniteagainstbookbans.org/vote | |
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The I Love My Librarian Award invites library users to recognize the accomplishments of exceptional public, school college, community college, or university librarians. Each year, up to 10 librarians are honored at a ceremony held in their honor and receive a $5,000 cash award.
Since the award was established in 2008, 160 librarians have received this distinguished honor. In that time, library users nationwide have shared more than 23,000 nominations detailing how librarians have gone above and beyond in their commitment to inclusivity, literacy, and digital access. Nominations are due September 30!
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Digital Equity Competitive Grant | The goal of the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program is to fund initiatives that ensure communities have the access and skills to fully participate in the digital world, regardless of their background or circumstances. This program will complement digital equity activities funded by the Capacity Grant Program. This is the first funding opportunity from the $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, the third of the three Digital Equity Act programs. The Digital Equity Act provides $2.75 billion to establish three grant programs that promote digital equity and inclusion. | | | |
No Reservation Recommendations |
If you are looking for a vendor or program recommendation, the “No Reservation Recommendations” website provides options that have been submitted by your Michigan-based colleagues. You can search regionally by library cooperative or search the entire contents of the database by subject. In order to ensure there is a robust and growing database, submit your positive recommendations today!
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With the severe uptick in local and statewide book challenges, ALA offers this clearinghouse of resources to assist library workers and library advocates in responding to and supporting others facing those challenges. Report challenges to the Office for Intellectual Freedom, and let ALA know if you need assistance.
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Don't keep this great resource to yourself!
Please share this newsletter with your colleagues and networks.
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Executive Director
(517) 881-1266
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Membership and Communications Director
(517) 881-6652
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Keeley Briggs
Membership and Program Coordinator
(517) 881-0496
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Administrative Assistant
(517) 881-1683
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Program and Event Director
(517) 881-3194
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Connect with MLA on social media! Like and Follow us on Facebook and X for the latest real-time updates from MLA staff, library news, inspirational and educational posts, and more! We also ask that you share this invitation with friends and help us extend our reach so important advocacy updates and calls to action are heard by library supporters throughout the state. |
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Please consider a donation to support our work! With your support, MLA can empower the library leaders of today and tomorrow and continue to enrich the lives of the people that we serve. It takes just a moment to donate here.
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Without our members, there is no MLA. Renew your membership or join our network of hundreds of individuals and organizations from all across the state working together to protect our libraries and advance the library profession in Michigan.
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Uniting the Michigan Library Community
MLA is proud to partner with organizations serving the library community.
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