JUNE 25, 2026

Note From Dillon

Summer has arrived in Michigan, and with it comes a familiar busy season for libraries across the state. I’ve enjoyed hearing about the launch of so many wonderful summer reading programs at your libraries, and it’s a meaningful reminder that the hard work of public libraries never stops. There is a sense when summer arrives that time slows down, but library professionals know it marks the beginning of some of the year’s most exciting and impactful work.

For MLA, the summer season offers an opportunity to reflect on our work during the first half of the year while looking ahead to what’s next. Whether we are advocating for library funding, supporting intellectual freedom, or preparing for upcoming events, our focus remains the same: making sure your libraries have the resources and support they need to serve your communities.

Last month, MLA was thrilled to host our 2026 Think Space cohort for their final in-person event this year. Spending time among some of Michigan’s most forward-thinking library directors is always a treat, and it’s an honor to have MLA facilitate such a meaningful convening of library leaders. Participants explored topics including workplace well-being, restorative leadership practices, and building strong relationships with peers facing similar challenges. As with past iterations of Think Space, feedback from participants highlighted the value of the program’s collaborative discussions, networking opportunities, and a unique format that emphasizes group participation. For Library Directors, Think Space continues to be one of the most valuable professional development experiences available in Michigan. Read more

Don't Trust Fish 
By Neil Sharpson
Illustrated by Dan Santat 
Published by Dial Books

Busted 
By Dan Gemeinhart

Published by Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

Death in the Jungle: Murder, Betrayal, and the Lost Dream of Jonestown 
By Candace Fleming 
Published by Anne Schwartz Books

Call for Nominations for the 2026 Michigan Library Awards

Thank you to Shaunna Martz for Serving on MLA's Board!

House Property Tax Overhaul Threatens Local Library Funding

Last month, a bill package was introduced in Michigan’s House of Representatives that seeks to eliminate certain property taxes and limit future property tax growth across the state. The Michigan Library Association stands in opposition to several of the bills – House Bills (HB) 5872, 5878, and 5880 – as they raise significant concerns by reducing local revenue streams that support public libraries and increasing certain administrative costs. MLA recognizes that thoughtful property tax relief deserves real consideration, but these bills would reduce local revenue for public services without providing reliable replacement funding for libraries.

Michigan residents consistently support their local libraries at the ballot box, and any property tax reform should preserve local investment opportunities and local control. Libraries understand that many homeowners are struggling and that Michigan’s state property tax system warrants serious review. A successful reform package should provide meaningful tax relief while also ensuring sustainable funding for the services that Michigan communities depend on every day.

For Michigan’s public libraries, the stakes are especially high. Over 75% of funding for public libraries comes from locally approved property tax millages. Libraries depend on stable and predictable millage levies to fund operations, collections, programming, technology, and the trusted professional staff that deliver necessary learning and information services. When property tax revenues are reduced, libraries are faced with difficult decisions around staffing, open hours, deferred maintenance, and crucial resources provided across the state. Read more

In April, the White House FY27 budget proposal once again recommended eliminating the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), including only $6 million to shut down the agency. While concerning, this reflects the early stage of the federal budget process and does not determine final funding levels. Congress has repeatedly rejected similar proposals, and in FY26, maintained and modestly increased federal library funding.

Following the President’s budget release, Congress reviews agency requests through the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, which hold hearings and establish initial spending allocations. Subcommittees then draft funding bills (the Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittees are responsible for IMLS) that move through committee votes, full chamber consideration, and eventual negotiation between the House and Senate before a final appropriations package is enacted or a continuing resolution is passed to extend funding. On June 5, 2026, the House Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee advanced level funding for IMLS, and the Senate is expected to take up its version of the bill in mid-June.

The American Library Association (ALA) is leading federal library advocacy during this critical window, coordinating “Dear Appropriator” letters and urging advocates to contact their Senators directly in support of sustained investment in IMLS and other library programs. As appropriations work continues, these outreach efforts are focused on influencing funding decisions while they are actively being shaped in Congress over the coming weeks. Now is the time to contact your Senators—use ALA’s Call to Action to email your Senator today and tell them to #FundLibraries in next year's federal budget!

MLA will continue to monitor federal budget developments and share updates, context, and opportunities for engagement as Congress works toward final funding decisions.

MI Right to Read is funded in part by the Mellon Foundation.

Mark your calendars for the third Thursday of every month at 10:00 AM and join us on Zoom for our FREE MLA Connect Advocacy Hours! These timely, one-hour sessions connect you with experts and colleagues to explore the policy, legal, and leadership issues affecting libraries and the communities we serve.

View MLA Connect Advocacy Hours on Demand:

Leading Through Uncertain Times

Scott Duimstra, Director of Hennepin County (MN) Library (and a past MLA President), shares how his system is responding to immigration and DHS enforcement activity, and key lessons learned that may help guide MI libraries.

Williamston Theatre Presents Bad Books

This Advocacy Hour welcomes the Williamston Theatre and features a live excerpt from Bad Books by Sharyn Rothstein, followed by a discussion on book challenges, censorship, and MLA’s MI Right to Read work.

Library Policies and Intellectual Freedom 
Attorney Anne Seurynck reviews library policies tied to intellectual freedom, including patron behavior, collection development, and meeting room use, highlights common pitfalls, and offers guidance for policies.

Governor Whitmer Launches Summer Reading Road Trip

The Governor’s office has launched the Summer Reading Road Trip, a new statewide challenge designed to encourage children and families to read, write, and engage with their local public library throughout the summer. As the initiative was being developed, members of the Governor’s team met with MLA leadership to discuss libraries, literacy, and opportunities to amplify the work libraries are already doing through local summer reading programs and reading challenges. Designed to complement—not replace—existing library programs, the Summer Reading Road Trip offers libraries an easy way to cross-promote a statewide initiative that encourages reading while highlighting public libraries as essential community resources. Learn more and access promotional materials at Michigan.gov/SummerReadingRoadTrip

MLA 2026 Annual Conference Beyond Buzzwords: Call for Sponsors and Exhibitors

Go beyond buzzwords and be part of what endures. Sponsor and exhibitor registration is officially OPEN for the MLA 2026 Annual Conference, scheduled for October 28-30, at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi. This year’s theme, Beyond Buzzwords: An Enduring Public Good, is all about real impact, real partnerships, and real support for libraries and the communities they serve. Why get involved?

• Put your mission in motion: connect with library leaders and decision-makers from across Michigan
• Build relationships that last: not just conversations, but collaborations
• Stand with libraries: champions of access, learning, and democracy
• Show up where it matters: libraries need strong partners more than ever

Click below to explore sponsorship and vendor opportunities and register today.

Upcoming MLA Connect Webinars

Make Your Library's Commitment to Sustainability Official

Cass District Library has announced Kayla Bambrick as the new Branch Manager of its Howard Branch. Kayla earned her Master of Library Science from Wayne State University in 2017 and has served in a variety of library roles, including adult programming coordinator, marketing and communications manager, and circulation manager. In her new position, she will oversee branch operations and help lead workflow and service improvements. Congratulations, Kayla, on your new role!

Cass District Library has announced Molly Welsch as the new Branch Manager of its Edwardsburg Branch. Molly played a key role in opening the district’s newest branch library and now leads the 10,000-square-foot facility, which includes an espresso bar, makerspace, and community room. Since joining the library in 2023, she has demonstrated exceptional customer service and strong community engagement. Congratulations, Molly, best of luck in your new position!

Jeremy Leik, Library Technology Coordinator at Eaton Rapids Area District Library, received the Doug Stevenson Employee of the Year Award at the Eaton Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on May 21. The annual award recognizes outstanding individuals for their contributions to the community. Congratulations, Jeremy, on this well-deserved honor!

Congratulations to Diane DeVries on 10 years of service to the Otsego District Library. As Assistant Director and Programming and Outreach Specialist, Diane helped build memorable programs, strengthen community partnerships, and expand opportunities for local families. Her creativity, leadership, and dedication have left a lasting impact on the library and its patrons. Diane has recently transitioned to a new part-time role as Community Liaison/Customer Service Manager. Congratulations, Diane, on this milestone, and thank you for your years of dedicated service!

Marketing and Communications Manager

Cass District Library - Cassopolis, MI

Children's and Outreach Services Librarian

Chesterfield Township Library - Chesterfield, Michigan

Program & Marketing Manager

Petoskey District Library - Petoskey, MI

Librarian 1 - Local History & Genealogy

Public Libraries of Saginaw - Saginaw, MI

Director of Library and Academic Support Services 

Henry Ford College - Dearborn, MI

Intellectual Freedom Resources

Connect with MLA on social media! Like and Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky 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.

Uniting the Michigan Library Community

MLA is proud to partner with organizations serving the library community.

Our Mission

To lead the advancement of Michigan libraries through advocacy, professional development, and engagement.

Our Vision

Strong libraries,

strong communities,

stronger Michigan.