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In recent years, libraries in Michigan and across the country have found themselves at the center of conversations around intellectual freedom and information access. For MLA, much of our work since 2021 has been focused around these discussions and engagement with libraries, stakeholders, and Michiganders about constitutionally protected freedoms. Our MI Right to Read coalition was founded to provide support to libraries facing book bans, to equip advocates with the tools they need to fight back, and to educate Michiganders on the importance of the right to read. Our experiences here in Michigan mirror much of what we’ve seen in other parts of the country and point to a sustained attack on the First Amendment and civil rights laws long championed by our libraries, communities, and courts.
That’s why MLA is convening Michigan’s first statewide Intellectual Freedom Summit. Designed to bring together library leaders and advocates, this event is a chance for our community to come together at a pivotal moment to help shape what comes next. When MLA created our MI Right to Read coalition, we knew it would be important to get ahead of the censorship trends we were seeing in other parts of the country before they became as endemic here in Michigan. Our Intellectual Freedom Summit represents the next phase in our work to proactively support Michigan’s libraries. We are thrilled to bring together passionate advocates and offer a collaborative space to chart our course. Our work together will focus on establishing a statewide policy framework, identifying gaps in support, and strengthening cross-sector collaborations that build winning coalitions for the right to read.
We know that this conversation needs to be driven by the librarians and library workers who uphold intellectual freedom every day. The strength of MLA’s support is dependent on the collective insight and experiences of Michigan’s library community, and we’re eager to listen, learn, and ultimately ensure our advocacy efforts reflect on-the-ground needs in communities across Michigan.
Thanks to generous support of MI Right to Read initiatives from the Mellon Foundation, your registration, overnight accommodations, and meals will be provided at no cost to you. We hope you’ll consider joining us at the AC Hotel in Lansing on June 10–11 for the two-day summit. I’m looking forward to working alongside all of you and position Michigan libraries to lead with confidence and purpose when it comes to defending the freedom to read.
| | MLA 2026 Board Election Results | |
Thank you to the many MLA members who voted in this year’s Board of Directors election. Your participation helps ensure MLA continues to reflect the needs and priorities of libraries across Michigan.
Members elected a President-Elect and four Members-at-Large, selecting leaders who bring a strong mix of experience, perspective, and commitment to supporting MLA’s work and statewide advocacy.
Michele P. Howard, Director of Traverse Area District Library, has been elected President-Elect. The newly elected Members-at-Large are Jaci Cooper, Director of Projects and Planning at Kent District Library; Mary Higginbottom-Johnson, Associate Director of Operations at Muskegon Area District Library; Juliane Morian, Library Director at Rochester Hills Public Library; and James Pugh, Director of Cedar Springs Public Library.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all of the candidates in this year's election. Your willingness to serve, regardless of the outcome, reflects a shared commitment to strengthening libraries and the communities they serve.
Please join us in congratulating our newly elected Board members! They will begin their terms in July 2026, serving through June 2029.
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Michele P. Howard
Director, Traverse Area District Library
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Jaci Cooper
Director of Projects and Planning, Kent District Library
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Mary Higginbottom-Johnson
Associate Director of Operations, Muskegon Area District Library
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Juliane Morian
Library Director, Rochester Hills Public Library
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James Pugh
Director, Cedar Springs Public Library
| | Get Involved! Answer the MLA Call for Ambassadors ☎️ | | |
The Call for Ambassadors for 2026-2027 workgroups and committees is open! Take advantage of this opportunity to make a difference in the Michigan library community, develop your leadership skills, grow your network, and represent MLA. If you're interested in growing personally or professionally, we have a place for you!
All MLA members are eligible to volunteer for workgroups and committees. Nonmembers interested in volunteering are welcome to join MLA by filling out the online membership application or by contacting us at (517) 394-2774 or MLA@milibraries.org.
Applications are accepted through Friday, May 8, for terms beginning July 1, 2026. Ambassadors will receive notification of their workgroup or committee placement on June 1.
Visit us on the web at milibraries.org/get-involved to check out available opportunities and apply!
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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. | | | | | | | |
As the nation’s libraries unite to celebrate National Library Week, and communities everywhere recognize the valuable contribution of America’s libraries and the people who power them, library workers around the country continue to grapple with censorship challenges and threats to their livelihood.
Read more about censorship challenges, literacy efforts, and federal library advocacy in the State of America's Libraries: A Snapshot of 2025.
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Advocates Prepare to Bring Library Priorities to Lansing | |
Libraries make a difference every day, and on Tuesday, April 28, library advocates from across Michigan will be in Lansing to make sure lawmakers hear that message directly. More than 140 library workers and trustees will meet with legislators and staff to share how libraries strengthen education, workforce development, access to information, and community wellbeing—and to advocate for sustained and increased state investment in library services.
This year’s conversations will focus on three core funding priorities: increasing State Aid to Libraries by $500,000 for FY27, protecting and strengthening support for the Michigan eLibrary (MeL) and MeLCat, and opposing any diversion of penal fine revenue without a stable replacement for libraries. Together, these investments support nearly 400 public library systems, statewide resource sharing across 435+ libraries, and critical access to materials and services that millions of Michiganders rely on every year. As budget discussions continue moving through the House subcommittees, advocates will be reinforcing the importance of stable, predictable funding at both the state and federal levels, especially as uncertainty continues around federal support for library services.
For those attending Advocacy Day, and anyone supporting from home, be sure to revisit the Advocacy 101 session with Lobbyist Sam Zandee, which offers practical guidance on preparing for legislative meetings, tailoring messages for Senators versus Representatives, and building effective relationships with policymakers. The training also provides an update on the budget process and strategies for confidently communicating appropriations requests.
As Advocacy Day approaches, this is a key moment to show the strength and coordination of Michigan’s library community—and to continue building momentum for long-term investment in the services communities depend on.
| | | | Watch this recorded Advocacy 101 session with Lobbyist Sam Zandee to prepare for Advocacy Day. The training covers key talking points, tips for meeting with Senators and Representatives, an overview of the budget process, and strategies for building strong relationships with legislators. Whether you’re joining us in Lansing or advocating from home, this session offers valuable guidance for effectively sharing your library’s story and strengthening connections with policymakers. | | | IMLS Funding Again Targeted in Proposed Federal Budget | |
Federal support for libraries continues to center on the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the only federal agency dedicated to supporting libraries and museums. In April 2026, the White House’s FY 2027 budget proposal again called for eliminating IMLS and other library-related programs, but this follows a familiar pattern: Congress has repeatedly rejected prior attempts to cut or dismantle IMLS, and in the FY 2026 budget process, lawmakers preserved and slightly increased federal library funding.
MLA will continue to monitor the federal budget process and share news, context, and ways advocates can stay engaged in support of federal funding for libraries as the process moves through Congress.
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Youth Summit for the Right to Read: Help Spread the Word! | We’re inviting Michigan libraries to help promote the Youth Summit for the Right to Read on Saturday, May 9, from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at the Clinton-Macomb Public Library Main Branch. This free event is for high school and college students interested in intellectual freedom, access to information, and advocacy, and includes lunch, a t-shirt, and up to $100 in mileage reimbursement. Facilitated by Kelly Jensen of Book Riot, the summit will equip students with tools to advocate for their rights in schools and communities. We’d appreciate your help sharing the flyer and social media graphics with students, schools, and youth groups so interested participants across Michigan are aware of this opportunity. | |
Youth Summit for the Right to Read
📅 Saturday, May 9, 2026
🕙 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Clinton-Macomb Public Library – Main Branch
40900 Romeo Plank Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48038
Learn more and register at www.milibraries.org/youth-summit
We want as many students as possible to join the movement for the right to read. You can support the Youth Summit by sharing our graphics on social media, posting the event details, or printing and distributing flyers in your community, library, or school. Every share helps us reach more young advocates who are ready to speak up!
Download Shareable Media:
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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.
| | 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: | | Proposed Changes to Trial Court Funding
Michigan’s Alternative Funding for Trial Courts Workgroup has proposed redirecting revenue from penal fines and civil infractions to trial courts. Watch this session with MLA Lobbyist Samantha Zandee to learn more. | | |
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.
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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.
| | 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! | | | MLA's Intellectual Freedom Summit Registration Now Open! | |
June 10–11, 2026
AC Hotel Lansing University Area
Lansing, MI
Library leaders from across Michigan are invited to gather in Lansing this Spring for a two-day summit focused on intellectual freedom and shaping the future of policy, practice, and advocacy.
Designed for those who are deeply committed to the right to read, this summit will create space for meaningful dialogue and collective action around today’s most pressing intellectual freedom challenges.
Thanks to generous support from the Mellon Foundation, attendance, accommodations, and meals will be provided. Space is limited, and participation will be selective to ensure deep engagement and impactful outcomes.
| | MLA 2026 Annual Conference Beyond Buzzwords: Call for Proposals | | |
You're invited to submit a proposal for the MLA 2026 Annual Conference, taking place October 28-30, 2026, in Novi.
This year’s theme, Beyond Buzzwords: An Enduring Public Good, challenges us to move past trends and talk—to share real-world ideas, programs, and strategies that demonstrate the lasting impact of libraries in our communities.
We’re looking for engaging, practical, and thought-provoking breakout sessions from library professionals, trustees, students, and subject matter experts. Whether you’re exploring topics like AI, accessibility, community partnerships, communication, sustainability, or innovative public services, this is your opportunity to contribute to Michigan’s premier library event and help shape meaningful conversations across the field.
Proposals should be educational, inspirational, or skill-building in nature and designed to actively engage attendees. Sessions will be selected based on clarity, relevance, audience value, and alignment with the conference theme.
Submissions are welcome through Friday, May 15, 2026.
Click here to view the proposal submission guidelines (PDF).
Bring your big-picture thinking, actionable insights, and community-centered innovations to help us move the needle, spark collaboration, and deliver scalable impact across the library ecosystem.😉
We can’t wait to see what you’ll share!
| 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! 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 | | 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! | | |
Starting a Library Newsroom: A Practical Model for Community Engagement and Local Storytelling | |
Thursday, April 30 | 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Libraries are trusted public spaces where people come to learn, connect, and make sense of their communities. Yet many neighborhoods face growing gaps in local information, social connection, and opportunities to participate. The Library Newsroom Project builds on libraries’ strengths to help bridge those gaps by bringing residents together to ask questions, share knowledge, and create something public together.
Developed at the Sunset Park Library in Brooklyn, this model has grown from recurring community gatherings and a simple, structured process into a monthly publication created by residents. Participants will learn how the model works in practice—from the first convening to sustaining ongoing participation—and how it can strengthen community connection, surface local information needs, and support residents in taking part in public life.
The session will include real examples, practical frameworks, and time for questions and discussion. The Library Newsroom Project is now expanding to additional library systems nationwide and welcomes libraries interested in exploring or piloting this approach in their own communities.
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Thursday, May 21 | 1:00–2:00 PM
Struggling to connect with teens? This lively session explores how authenticity—not “coolness”—builds trust and engagement. View details and register.
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Wednesday, June 17 | 2:00–3:00 PM
Communicating the value of your local library to those who have yet to realize that it's actually the most wonderful place on earth! View details and register.
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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.
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!
| | | | MLA Member Benefit: What Can SLI Membership Do for You? | |
Through our partnership with the Sustainable Libraries Initiative, your library can access a free one-year SLI membership—a gateway to tools, templates, and a supportive national network of libraries doing sustainability work every day. Whether you're looking to make small operational changes or lead a system-wide transformation, the SLI community is here to help.
Membership also includes discounted enrollment in the Sustainable Library Certification Program, should you choose to take your work a step further.
Get started today: sustainablelibrariesinitiative.org/SLI-Membership
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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 Katie Steward at ksteward@milibraries.org to share news of promotions, new hires, appointments, awards, or a tribute in memoriam. | | | | | Homer Public Library is pleased to welcome Elizabeth (Liz) Tindall as its new Library Director. Liz has been with the library for two years and brings a background in business administration and marketing, along with experience running her own art business. She is also active in the community, including volunteering with the local high school drama club. Congratulations, Liz, on your new role! | | Kudos and Congratulations | | | | In February 2026, Willard Library celebrated Brenda Birmingham’s 40th year of service. Brenda is known for her exceptional customer service and welcoming presence throughout the library. In addition to assisting patrons, she supports acquisitions work and helps homebound readers through the Books by Mail program. Her warmth and dedication continue to make a lasting impact on the community. Congratulations, Brenda, on 40 years of service and this incredible milestone! | | | | Homer Public Library congratulates Director Trixie McMeeking on her retirement after 31 years of dedicated service. Her leadership has guided the library through decades of growth, strong community connection, and evolving service. Trixie’s commitment to the library and its patrons leaves a meaningful and lasting legacy. Wishing you all the best in retirement and congratulations on 31 years of service! | | 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.
| | | Guild of Library Makers (GoLM) | |
The Guild of Library Makers (GoLM) is a mutual aid organization supporting both established library Makerspaces and those just starting out. With over 200 members across 80 libraries, we shift the focus from individual heroics to collective sustainability, ensuring no library has to figure things out alone. Our Discord serves as a real-time hub for daily problem-solving, while our Wiki acts as a permanent repository for documentation and programming.
Following last year’s success, we are thrilled to host GoLMCon again this year. GoLMCon is our annual unconference specifically for library Makerspace staff to share skills, troubleshoot equipment, and build the community ties that sustain our work. Location and timing are TBD, though it will likely take place in the fall (please reach out if your library is interested in hosting us!). From GoLMCon to our Summer Reading Button Exchange (SRBE), we turn digital teamwork into tangible, real-world support. Keep an eye on Michlib-l for updates on SRBE and GoLMCon.
Ready to join the community? Join us on Discord or reach out at guildoflibrarymakers@gmail.com to see how you can get involved, ask questions, or help us grow.
| | | 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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