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As many of you know, my time with the Michigan Library Association is coming to a close. After nearly seven years as MLA’s Administrative Assistant, it’s hard to put into words what this community has meant to me. Working alongside such passionate, dedicated professionals has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.
From day‑to‑day operations to conferences, renewals, web-events, and the countless phone conversations, and email exchanges in between, I’ve learned so much from all of you. I’ve had the honor of supporting the work you do to strengthen Michigan’s libraries, uplift your communities, and champion the power of access to reading and learning. Being even a small part of that mission has been incredibly meaningful to me.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the MLA staff for their kindness, trust, and encouragement. I have grown both personally and professionally because of this team. And to the members: thank you for your patience, your humor, and for always reminding me why the work we do matters.
While I’m excited for what comes next, I will genuinely miss the relationships and experiences that have shaped my years here. Please know how grateful I am for the support and camaraderie you’ve shown throughout my time at MLA.
I wish you all continued success, growth, and inspiration. Libraries—and the people who champion them—will always hold a special place in my heart.
I’m excited for you to get to know MLA's newest team member Katie Steward as she steps into the role of Administrative Assistant. I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with her over the past several days, and she’s already doing a fantastic job. Katie brings a positive attitude, strong attention to detail, and a readiness to jump right in. You’ll be hearing more from her starting February 1st, and I know she’ll be a wonderful addition to the MLA team.
Warmly,
Lisa Buttigieg
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Check out MLA's Bill Tracker to view a full list of legislation that the Advocacy and Legislative Committee is watching. | | | | | Celebrate March is Reading Month with Your Local Legislators | |
This March, libraries across the state will celebrate literacy, learning, and the lifelong impact of reading during March is Reading Month. It’s also an important moment to showcase the many ways libraries lead and strengthen their communities, from early literacy and beyond.
March is Reading Month is the perfect opportunity to invite your local legislators to visit the library. Bringing your elected leaders into the building is a meaningful way to share your library’s story and demonstrate the vital work libraries do in communities across the state. Whether it’s a brief tour, a children’s story time, or a casual coffee hour with constituents, these moments help legislators see firsthand how libraries support literacy, early childhood development, workforce readiness, and so much more.
It’s also an opportunity to show your local legislators how the library can support their work, through constituent meetings or forums, and direct engagement with residents in a public space that’s freely accessible to all. Even a short visit during regular library hours can help build relationships and leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s your House Representative, State Senator, or City Manager, these visits create positive visibility for libraries and help foster connections that matter when funding and policy decisions are made.
Sending an email to your legislator’s office is a good first point of communication, but it’s always helpful to follow up with a phone call, too. Your elected leaders receive a lot of email communications, and you want to make sure your invitation isn’t lost in the shuffle.
A simple invitation can help spark a meaningful connection for your library, and March is Reading Month is the perfect time to show legislators what your library means to the people they represent. Find your legislators and their contact information using the links below.
| | FY 2026 Federal Budget Update | |
There is cautious optimism for federal funding that supports libraries as Congress works to finalize the FY 2026 budget. Although the President’s FY 2026 budget proposal called for eliminating the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Congress has instead moved to sustain the agency, rejecting the administration’s elimination proposal and maintaining funding near FY 2025 levels. Earlier this month, the U.S. House advanced a bipartisan Labor–HHS–Education appropriations bill that preserves approximately $291.8 million for the IMLS.
However, final funding is not yet secured. The bill is now delayed in the Senate, where disagreements over whether to separate Department of Homeland Security funding, including concerns about ICE operations, have slowed progress and could still trigger a partial government shutdown if Congress does not act by the January 30 deadline.
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Tell Congress to #FundLibraries | |
We know our members and library supporters here in Michigan have been vocal all year in support of IMLS funding in the face of funding threats. As Congress considers the remaining appropriation bills for FY 2026, advocates are encouraged to continue to tell their members of Congress to support full federal funding for Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) programs. Keep an eye out for more details on ALA's advocacy webpage.
| | | | In 2026, we’re excited for the Youth Summit for the Right to Read with BookRiot’s Kelly Jensen, an Intellectual Freedom Summit for 100 library leaders, and regional coalition-building trainings with EveryLibrary. Stay tuned for more information in the coming months. Together, we’re strengthening Michigan libraries, uplifting communities, and championing the right to read in 2026 and beyond! | |
MI Right to Read is an initiative led by the MLA, dedicated to safeguarding 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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MI Right to Read is funded in part by the Mellon Foundation.
| | Don't miss out on upcoming events! 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! | | | Join us on Zoom for our upcoming 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. | | | |
Protecting Library Funding: Trial Court Changes
Thursday, February 12 | 10:00–11:00 AM
Originally scheduled for January, this important session is back. Michigan’s Alternative Funding for Trial Courts Workgroup released a final concept paper proposing that all revenue from penal fines and civil infractions be redirected to trial courts — a shift that could significantly reduce funding for public libraries.
Join MLA for a closer look at the proposal, its potential impact, and how we can remain vigilant in protecting this vital funding source. Featuring MLA lobbyist Samantha Zandee, Governmental Consultant Services, Inc., facilitated by Interim Executive Director Dillon Geshel.
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The Llano Decision & the Right to Read
Thursday, February 19 | 10:00–11:00 AM
What does the Fifth Circuit’s decision in Little v. Llano County really mean for libraries and book challenges? This session welcomes Skip Dye, Chair of Penguin Random House’s Intellectual Freedom Taskforce and fellow taskforce member, Dan Novack, VP Assoc General Counsel, Penguin Random House, as they break down the ruling in plain terms, explores how Penguin Random House is thinking about it alongside its other ongoing cases, and looks ahead to what this legal landscape could mean for libraries in 2026. We’ll focus on real-world implications, open questions, and what libraries and publishers should be watching next.
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Leading Through Uncertain Times
Thursday, March 26 | 10:00–11:00 AM
MLA welcomes Scott Duimstra, Director of Hennepin County (MN) Library, former Director of Capital Area District Libraries in Lansing, MIchigan, as well as a past MLA President. Scott will share his experience in Minnesota, including how his system is responding to immigration and DHS enforcement activity, how they are supporting staff and patrons, and lessons learned that may help guide Michigan libraries.
| | Play It Forward at Spring Institute for Youth Services 2026 | |
Join us March 19–20 in Grand Rapids for two joy-filled days of learning, connection, and play! This year’s theme, Play It Forward, celebrates the magic of play and its power to spark creativity, curiosity, and growth—for kids and the professionals who serve them.
Explore energizing keynotes, interactive workshops, and informative sessions that spark fresh ideas, along with playful networking events designed to help you connect, laugh, and learn together. Reconnect with colleagues from across Michigan, share ideas, and rediscover the delight that play brings to youth services work.
Full conference early-bird registration is only $300 for MLA individual members. Early Bird Rates expire Friday, February 13, 2026.
Come play it forward with us as we explore the power of fun, then pay it forward by bringing new inspiration, practical strategies, and a little extra joy back to your library and community
| | Featured Keynote Speakers Announced! | | Get ready to be inspired at Spring Institute 2026 with a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers celebrating play, belonging, creativity, and the power of libraries. Hear from Maggie Lancaster on why play is serious business, OpenSpot Theatre’s Katie Mann and Annie Klark on using theatre and play to foster inclusion, author and TikTok educator Tony Weaver, Jr. on empowering “weird” and wonderful readers, and author-illustrator Amy Nielander with an interactive, playful drawing experience that builds connection and community. Learn more about our featured speakers and sessions. | | Call for Poster Proposals: Share Your Ideas at Spring Institute! | | |
Working on a new project, pilot, or creative idea you’d love to share—but not ready for a full presentation? Submit a poster proposal for Spring Institute for Youth Services 2026! Poster sessions offer a relaxed, informal way to showcase your work, spark conversations, and connect with youth services peers from across Michigan.
Posters will be displayed March 19-20 in the exhibit area for attendees to explore throughout the conference.
Proposals are due February 16, 2026, and you do not need to be an MLA member to participate.
Submit your proposal today and inspire others with what you’re creating!
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Save the Date: Michigan Library Advocacy Day – April 28, 2026 | |
Join us at the Capitol in Lansing for a day dedicated to advocating for libraries! On Tuesday, April 28, the Michigan library community will come together for MLA’s annual Michigan Library Advocacy Day. Library advocates from across the state will meet with legislators, build relationships, and speak up for the funding and policies that support strong libraries for all.
Whether you’re new to advocacy or a seasoned participant, this is your chance to make an impact. Registration opens in February. Watch for details coming soon!
| | | | Upcoming MLA Connect Webinars | | MLA offers virtual education sessions covering a variety of topics addressing advances in the library field, current and up-and-coming trends and pressing issues affecting libraries. MLA Connect webinars are only $25 for MLA members. Click below to learn more and register for upcoming programs! | | | |
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.
Now FREE On Demand
- What If Libraries Led the AI Movement? AI and Its Impacts on the Library Profession
- Librarian: Profession, Trade or Vocation?
- Blueprints & Budgets: Crafting the Perfect RFP for Your Library’s Needs
- Website Accessibility: Ensuring ADA Compliance for Your Library
- Compassion Over Conflict: Responding to Patron Concerns About Unhoused Library Users
Click here to check out these webinars and more! (MLA membership and login required to view.)
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Discord is a great place to ask questions in real time, share examples including images, gain inspiration, connect with peers, and discuss things going on at your library that perhaps are going on in other libraries!
Visit discord.gg/yM3A9qUsn4 and start chatting today!
| | | | Mentee Applications Open February 1 | |
Are you looking to give your library career a boost? Is your career moving in a new direction? Whether you're a library science student, a new librarian, or anticipating a career change, the MLA Mentorship Program can match you with another library professional to support your career development with encouragement, support, and guidance.
The program is open to all MLA members and was established to provide a method of introducing and encouraging librarians and other library professionals to work together and network within the community. Mentee applications are open until February 28.
Looking for short-term coaching? Try our new mentor directory!
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| Featured Resource from SLI: Climate Action Lab | |
Each month, the Sustainable Libraries Initiative highlights tools and templates libraries can use right away.
As a member of our library association, you're eligible for free SLI membership for your first year, which means full access to resources like the Climate Action Lab
See what’s possible when sustainability becomes part of everyday library practice.
Activate your membership here: https://www.sustainablelibrariesinitiative.org/SLI-Membership
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| Discounted Streamline Website Services | |
Is your library planning a website redesign or exploring solutions to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
Streamline is a website platform that can help your library host a website that is both ADA-compliant and user-friendly. Streamline provides intuitive tools to manage communications, board meetings, agendas, minutes, and policy updates—all in one organized system. Plus, they assist with initial setup and offer ongoing customer support to make the transition seamless.
MLA member libraries are eligible for group pricing that includes significant discounts on Streamline's monthly subscription rates.
Interested in learning more? View the recording of our virtual information session or visit the Library Hub website for more information and case studies, and reach out to Streamline using the contact form. Click below to view our Streamline Informational Session.
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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!
| | | 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. | | | Kudos and Congratulations | | | | Sterling Heights Public Library's PR & Programs Coordinator, Anneliese White, was just named the Full-Time Employee of the Year for the City of Sterling Heights. Anneliese raised over $5,000 in local sponsorships for Summer Reading and library programming, helped increase Summer Reading participation by 75% across all age groups, and contributed to a 50.19% increase in overall program attendance. On top of that, she continues to lead Toddler Time twice a month and Destination Storytime, sharing her deep love for early literacy and our youngest patrons. Way to go, Anneliese! | | |
The Michigan Library Association mourns the loss of Randy Riley and expresses our deepest sympathies to his family and friends, the Library of Michigan team, and his hundreds of colleagues and friends across Michigan’s library community.
As Michigan’s State Librarian since 2014, Randy’s passion, character, and commitment to the betterment of libraries were always evident in his work, and he will never be forgotten. We will continue to honor the life and legacy of our friend and library champion, Randy.
| | | Advertise on MLA’s Job Board |
Members receive deep discounts on job postings through the MLA Job Board. Learn more here.
| | | Intellectual Freedom Resources | |
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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Public Libraries: Many Buildings Are Reported to Be in Poor Condition, with Increasing Deferred Maintenance | |
A new national study from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) provides the first comprehensive look in decades at the condition of America’s 17,000+ public library buildings, revealing significant infrastructure needs despite the essential role libraries play in their communities. While most facilities are functional, 70% report deferred maintenance backlogs, more than one-third have at least one building system in poor condition, and many face accessibility and safety concerns. These challenges are driven largely by aging buildings and limited funding. The report offers critical data to support advocacy for increased investment in safe, modern, and accessible library spaces.
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ALA 2026 Scholarship Application Now Open | |
If you need financial help to get through your graduate program, scholarship funds are now available. The American Library Association (ALA) has more than $300,000 available to students who are studying in library science or school library media programs at the master's degree level. Scholarships range from $2,500 to $8,000 per student per year. The deadline to apply is March 1, 2026.
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Peggy Barber Tribute Grant | The Peggy Barber Tribute Grant is an annual grant of the American Library Association (ALA) that recognizes, promotes, and supports meaningful programs in libraries that have limited and/or no access to budgetary support for programming. | | | | 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.
Read more
https://nrr.ninja/
| | | Don't keep this great resource to yourself!
Please share this newsletter with your colleagues and networks. | | 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. | |
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.
| | To lead the advancement of Michigan libraries through advocacy, professional development, and engagement. | | |
Strong libraries,
strong communities,
stronger Michigan.
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