MLA’s “Primary Source” is an exclusive, first-hand account of the latest news and announcements from the staff of the Michigan Library Association.

In November, MLA’s President Ryan Wieber announced he was moving out of state for a new opportunity and resigned from the MLA Board. The MLA Board of Directors has appointed President-Elect Scott Duimstra to step into the role of President a little early. 

Scott has been engaged in public libraries for more than 18 years which has given him a broad vision of how public libraries function in Michigan. He began his career in Los Angeles Public Library as an adult services librarian and between 2005 to the present, he has moved up the ranks at the Capital Area District Libraries from Public Services Librarian to Training Specialist to Associate Director of Public Service to Senior Associate Director to Executive Director. Scott is well-rounded and possesses a big-picture focus and global outlook. He is a change agent, he has the ability to present, persuade and influence as evidenced by his time as the Secretary/Treasurer and short-stint as President-Elect, and he is just an overall really nice guy.

Not only did the MLA Board need to replace Ryan’s position as President, but they also needed to appoint someone to his term of office which will not expire until June 2024. His departure also left a vacancy on the MLA Executive Committee. We are proud to announce that we have found perfect replacements for both of these leadership positions and the MLA Board has unanimously voted to approve the appointments.

Jenny Marr, Director at Ferndale Area District Library, was appointed as a Member-at-Large Director with a term expiring June 2024. Christine Peele, Public Service Librarian at Detroit Public Library was appointed to serve on the MLA Executive Committee. 

Do you know an awesome library professional or library supporter who deserves recognition for their work in Michigan libraries? You can submit a nomination for any of MLA's awards year-round. If you have someone in mind that you know deserves recognition and celebration, we encourage and welcome your submission now for any of MLA's Awards!

Submit a nomination (self-nominations are also strongly encouraged) for the 2023 MLA Awards, or read through the criteria so it's top of mind the next time you or someone in your library goes above and beyond. Check out the complete criteria by downloading the guidelines linked below.

Learn more about the Michigan Library Awards and how to submit a nomination, plus check out the recording of the 2020, 2021 or 2022 shows on our website at milibraries.org/michigan-library-awards.

With a turnover of 52% for the 110 members of the Michigan House of Representatives, the House will have 56 new members in 2023 and control rests with the Democratic party on a narrow 56-54 margin. Rep. Joe Tate (D-Detroit) has been voted in as Speaker of the House. The House has not been under Democratic control since the 2009-2010 legislative session.

In the 38-member Michigan Senate, Democrats also have gained the majority by a margin of 20-18. The Michigan Senate will have 16 new members in 2023, for a turnover of 45%. Senator Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) has been voted in as the Senate Majority Leader. The Senate has not been under Democratic control since 1983.

We congratulate all those who stepped up, added their name to the ballot, and worked throughout the fall to share their views and values with Michigan citizens. The second Wednesday in January 2023 will be a historic day when the incoming members of the 102nd legislature begin their work. Congratulations to all that will be working on our behalf.

As the November election results were announced, the Michigan Library Association (MLA) was disheartened and saddened to learn that continued funding for the Patmos Library in Jamestown was defeated again. A local tragedy with national implications, the Patmos Library is the only library in the country that has essentially been defunded by the vote of its citizens due to its refusal to comply with censorship. The push to defund the Patmos Library was rooted in objections to one (1) challenged book that was put behind the desk in December 2021 and four (4) challenged books that were returned to their shelves in October. Some members of the community continue to demand that all books containing LGBTQ+ themes be removed, a selection that represents about 90 books, or less than .01% of the library’s collection. Read MLA's complete statement on the 2nd failed attempt to pass a 10-year millage in Jamestown MI.

Thanks to library partners, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Over the Counter COVID-19 Testkit Program continues to be a success. This map shows participating libraries across the state.

Currently, 213 libraries are participating in the program and as of November, they have distributed approximately 177,368 COVID-19 tests to their local communities. MDHHS has shared that they continue to receive positive feedback from these libraries and are very grateful for their partnership.

Northern Michigan and UP library partners are needed! MDHHS is seeking library partners in areas that currently do not have any participating libraries or free testing locations, mainly northern Michigan/the UP. Libraries from anywhere in Michigan can also still sign up to be distribution sites. If you have an interest in participating, please fill out this form and MDHHS will be in touch to get you started: Interest form (Site Enrollment) for new partners.

Join MLA and Lobbyist Bob DeVries, GCSI for an update on how the outcome of the November 2022 Midterms and Michigan’s new Democratic Trifecta will influence our work in the next two years. Bob will discuss the importance of relationship building, and how to get to know your legislators, plus get a refresher on how a bill becomes a law, and hear updates about what’s been happening during this year’s lame-duck session.

Advocacy Hour conversations are always free to attend but registration is required.

Mason County District Library – Scottville, MI

Midwestern Collaborative for Library Services – Lansing, MI

Saint Joseph / Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library – Saint Joseph, MI

View these jobs and more at the MLA Career Center.