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Note From Lisa
Lisa Waskin, MLA 2025 Annual Conference Chair
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When I think of a kaleidoscope, I have memories as a child of holding up a tube filled with brightly colored glass or plastic to the light and turning the cylinder so that it created endless combinations of symmetrical colors and shapes. I did not then understand the construction of the device, or how prisms precisely placed created the beautiful shapes. I just knew that it was exciting and special, and no two images seemed to be the same. If you look up the word in Webster’s Dictionary, you will find a very cut and dried definition of the word that is similar to what I remember as a child: an instrument containing loose bits of colored material (such as glass or plastic) between two flat plates and two plane mirrors so placed that changes of position of the bits of material are reflected in an endless variety of patterns.
But as you scan further down in the definition, you come to the meanings that I feel are more of the essence of how the committee wanted the 2025 Annual Conference to be interpreted and how we want it to make the attendees see and feel about work in their libraries. These include: a variegated changing pattern or scene, or a succession of changing phases or actions, or finally a diverse collection.
As the Michigan Library Association launches its new Strategic Plan, this year’s Annual Conference in Lansing embraces all three of these concepts as we navigate change this year. The breakouts and keynote speakers were chosen to best speak to these changes, trends, and visions of the future in Michigan libraries. From first-time attendees to long-time members, we are all navigating many changes and challenges this year. In addition, we have listened to your feedback from the last few years of conferences since COVID, and are making sure to add the breakout sessions, keynotes, and events that you told us you would like to see at the Annual Conference. We are also being mindful of things like having quiet spaces, opportunities to network, mental health and wellness, and creating the space for all of you to feel welcome and included. We encourage you to visit the vendors, sponsors, and after-hours events to help round out your experience. This year’s events feature a relaxing evening for early arrivals at Lansing Shuffle, where we will have food, fun, shuffleboard, and a little Trivia. On Wednesday, we hold our Annual Awards Banquet, where we honor our colleagues for their accomplishments. And on Thursday, make sure to attend the All-Conference Reception at our very own Library of Michigan. There will be a costume contest, celebration of former Director Debbie Mikula’s retirement, music by DJ Kevin King, tours of the facility, and of course, food, drink, and fun.
MLA’s Annual Conference has traditionally been the leading professional development event of the year for library staff, and we hope this year exceeds all your expectations with our Kaleidoscope of sessions, events, programs, and activities. I look forward to seeing you all in Lansing on October 29, 30, and 31!
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Check out the latest episode of Chapter & Verse: Literacy and Leadership: Building Community Through Librarianship.
In this episode, hosts Dillon Geshel and Christine Peele sit down with Susan Taylor, Branch Manager of the Edison Branch Library at the Detroit Public Library (DPL). Susan reflects on her two decades in librarianship, beginning with her early experiences in Jamaica and spanning a variety of roles across DPL. She shares powerful moments from her work as a literacy specialist, where she helped adults strengthen their reading skills, and offers insight into the evolving role of libraries in today’s communities. The conversation explores how technology—including AI—may shape the future of public libraries, the importance of listening and adaptability in serving patrons, and Susan’s passion for creating meaningful connections with the community.
Hosted by the Michigan Library Association and the Library Cooperatives of Michigan, Chapter & 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. Chapter & Verse is sponsored by Midwest Tape | hoopla.
With this podcast, we aim to spread good news, highlight inspirational stories of library workers, and spotlight some of the many wonderful things libraries do in Michigan communities. Help us spread the word by sharing each episode with your fellow library enthusiasts and patrons on your social media channels! You can listen to past episodes on MLA’s website at milibraries.org/podcast, or you can link to our podcast webpage in your library newsletter.
Listen and subscribe on Podbean, Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts, just search "Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks”.
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Michigan Library Appreciation Month and MI Right to Read Week | |
Libraries are where curiosity meets opportunity, where questions turn into discoveries, and where every Michigander can explore, learn, and connect with their community. This October, during Michigan Library Appreciation Month and MI Right to Read Week (October 5–11), we are excited to honor Michigan libraries and library staff with the 2025 theme: “Find Out.”
Help us celebrate! Follow us on social media, share our posts, and plan to engage with us as we share questions and photo prompts like "When you think of library, what comes to mind?" or "What’s your library’s most loved cozy corner? Snap a quick pic and share it with us!” Answer the questions or share photos in the comments so we can help the general public "find out" more about Michigan's awesome libraries!
We also encourage you to give a shout-out to your library staff or your neighboring libraries this month! Remember to tag your posts #LOVEMILIBRARIES or #MILIBRARYMONTH so we can find and share your posts!
Plus, don't forget to submit the Michigan Library Appreciation Month proclamation to your local elected officials to secure their support. Download the proclamation.
Stay tuned for more ideas and tools to celebrate, and together, let’s honor our legacy as defenders of the freedom of inquiry and the right to read, and celebrate the vital contributions of Michigan libraries, librarians, and library workers all month long. This October—Find Out at your library!
| | | | Call for Nominations for MLA Board | |
The Call for Nominations for candidates for the 2025 Board of Directors is now open! 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 2026 and ending in June 2029.
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. Learn more about MLA Officer Positions (pdf). Learn more about Board Member Responsibilities (pdf).
Click below to visit the MLA application portal on SlideRoom and submit a nomination or preview the application form. Please note that all submissions will be reviewed by the Nominating and Leadership Development Committee, but not all nominations will be on the election ballot. The Call for Nominations will close on Monday, November 3.
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Notice is hereby given to MLA members that the Annual Meeting will take place during MLA 2025 Annual Conference at the Lansing Center in downtown Lansing on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 3:00 – 4:00 PM. MLA 2025 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. | | | | | MLA Advocacy Action Plan FY2026 | | |
The MLA Advocacy and Legislative Committee finalized the Fiscal Year 2026 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 FY2026 Advocacy Action Plan(PDF)
| | State of Michigan FY2026 Budget Update | | |
With less than a week left before the constitutional deadline for the FY2026 state budget, uncertainty remains around state funding priorities—including resources that are critical for Michigan libraries. The budget impasse between the House, Senate, and the Governor’s office has stalled progress, and with the October 1 deadline looming, Michigan faces a possible government shutdown.
Click below to view the recording of our September MLA Advocacy Hour for an update on the Michigan State Budget. MLA lobbyist Samantha Zandee, Governmental Consultant Services, Inc., shared the latest news, where negotiations stand, and how the budget impasse could impact funding for libraries and related programs.
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Contact Your MI State Representative and Senator TODAY | |
As budget negotiations in Lansing continue, library advocates must continue outreach to their legislators. We must ensure that lawmakers understand the importance of library funding—and that a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) line item must be included in the final version of the budget for federal dollars awarded to support Michigan libraries.
LSTA funds are federal dollars provided annually to the Library of Michigan by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Both Governor Whitmer’s budget proposal and the Michigan Senate FY2026 budget plan retained a line item under the Library of Michigan in the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) budget for spending Michigan’s IMLS funding as allocated. However, the House spending plan passed without the LSTA line item that would allow the Library of Michigan to spend IMLS funding.
The House, Senate, and the Governor’s office must understand the importance of including an LSTA expense line in the FY2026 budget. If the line item is not included in the final signed budget, Michigan will lose access to $5.6 million in federal dollars already awarded for vital statewide programs like the Michigan eLibrary (MeL).
As a constituent, your voice matters most to your locally elected officials. We encourage you to make a personal call to both your Representative's and Senator's offices TODAY. Remember, even if your legislators are not directly involved with drafting the budget, they can still talk to appropriations leadership about the importance of this funding!
- Urge them to voice support for the LSTA line item in a final state budget.
- Encourage them to talk to appropriations leadership about the importance of this funding.
- Highlight that this $5.6 million of federal money supports widely used programs like MeL and MeLCat, which provide a $26.96 return on investment for every $1 spent.
- Remind them of the widespread support across Michigan: 78% of respondents in a recent statewide poll said that IMLS funding from the federal government should remain as part of the federal budget, and Michigan can only access those funds if the LSTA line item is included in the state budget.
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Federal Advocacy: Tell Congress to Fund Libraries in FY2026 | |
The Congressional committees in the House and Senate that decide the federal budget have included funding for library services in the Institute of Museum and Library Services, as well as for the Innovative Approaches to Literacy program in the Department of Education, in their latest bill drafts.
Since we can’t tell exactly what route Congress will take now to fund the government, it’s critical that library supporters urge them to include library funding in whatever version of their funding bills moves forward—and that we keep it up until it’s passed.
Urge your Congressmembers to include the drafted library funding provisions in their final budget for fiscal year 2026 (FY26)!
| | | | Sign the Protect MI Right to Read Petition | | |
The Protect MI Right to Read Petition calls on Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Legislature to defend the freedom to read, support library workers, and protect critical statewide library programs like MeL and MeLCat. Add your name to show your support for Michigan’s public libraries and everyone’s right to access information freely.
Spread the word on your social media channels and encourage your network to sign the petition. Graphics and copy are available for anyone to use. Download the social media toolkit here.
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.
| MI Right to Read is funded in part by the Mellon Foundation. | | MI Right to Read in the News | | MLA leadership continues to share information about the importance of intellectual freedom, the right to read, and supporting Michigan libraries. Check out the Op-ed by MLA Interim Executive Director Dillon Geshel, and MLA Board President Jenny Marr that was published earlier this month in Bridge Michigan. | |
Opinion | Public libraries belong to everyone. Let's keep them that way - Bridge Michigan | |
Public libraries in Michigan are under attack, facing organized efforts to remove books and intimidate library workers. These attempts run counter to what most residents believe: that public libraries should reflect the whole community, not just the loudest voices.
| | | | MLA Launches Statewide Book Ban Tracking Tool | |
For the last four years, MLA has advocated against the rise of politically motivated censorship in libraries. Today, MLA is excited to announce a new effort to systematically track book bans and censorship threats in Michigan libraries. The initiative will ensure that library workers across the state are supported when faced with freedom to read challenges and help identify trends in censorship threats.
“This new initiative is an extension of our Mi Right to Read coalition work, which provides resources and direct support to libraries standing up for First Amendment rights,” said Dillon Geshel, Interim Executive Director of MLA. “Now we’re using a formal censorship tracking system to highlight and identify trends and raise public awareness around the freedom to read. Libraries and library advocates can report a challenge and request support from the association using our new online form.”
Last year, the ACLU of Michigan debuted an interactive mapping tool that pinpoints where book bans and other forms of government censorship have occurred throughout Michigan. MLA’s new tracking tool will build on the ACLU of Michigan’s critical mapping work by collecting details from government records and public reporting that can feed directly into the map.
The new tracking project complements recent statewide polling commissioned by MLA, which found that a growing majority of Michiganders oppose book bans and trust librarians to build broad and diverse collections that serve all people. Alongside MLA’s polling work and new tracking project, MLA is calling on all Michiganders to stand up for the freedom to read by adding their names to a statewide petition opposing book bans and supporting librarians at mirighttoread.com/sign.
| | 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! | | | |
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At the MLA 2025 Annual Conference, new insights, fresh solutions, and unexpected connections all begin with one thing: a shift in perspective. Join us during Halloween week, October 29–31, at the Lansing Center in downtown Lansing for three days of networking, education, inspiration, AND fun.
We've planned an incredible lineup of education sessions, keynotes, and fun events that will help you shift your perspective and see new possibilities–and they're all included.
Full Conference Standard registration is just $375 for MLA members. It includes all keynotes, special events, meals, snacks, your ticket to the Michigan Library Awards, the Thursday night reception at the Library of Michigan, and more! Standard rates end Friday, October 17.
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Enter the Costume Contest | |
Costumes encouraged, creativity celebrated. Get ready for a lively and festive night, Thursday, October 30, at the Library of Michigan!
This year’s all-conference reception is packed with music, refreshments, and plenty of fun, including a Halloween Costume Contest with four frightfully fun categories:
- Individual – Literary Theme
- Individual – Other Theme
- Group – Literary Theme
- Group – Other Theme
Enter the contest and don your best costume for a chance to win, or just come enjoy the festivities!
Interested in participating? Preregistration is required to enter the contest. Prizes will be awarded to the top group and individual costumes in both the general and literary theme categories. Click below to register to enter the costume contest. Note, you'll need contact information for the entry's primary contact, name, and library of all participants, the costume name (how you would like to be introduced), a description of the costume, and names of any designers, supporters, or donors to credit. Questions about the contest? Contact MLA@milibraries.org.
| | | | Apply for Funds to Attend MLA 2025 | |
Don't miss out on the opportunity to attend MLA 2025 Annual Conference because of financial reasons! Michigan public, academic, and school library staff are eligible to apply for continuing education stipends through the Library of Michigan's Library Continuing Education Program. 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 Tuesday, September 30.
View complete program details, eligibility, and criteria, and apply: michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/libraries/ce/scholarships/library-continuing-education-stipend-program
| | Call for Exhibitors and Sponsors | | |
Do you offer products and services for libraries? Don't miss the opportunity to connect with hundreds of library staff and support our upcoming MLA 2025 Annual Conference on October 29-31 at the Lansing Center in Downtown Lansing.
Contact Mackenzie Hanfland, MLA Event Coordinator at mhanfland@milibraries.org
or (517) 881-7242 to learn more about sponsoring or exhibiting.
Download the MLA 2025 Annual Conference prospectus.
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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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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!
| | | | Member Discounts on Streamline Website Services | |
Is your library planning a website redesign or exploring solutions to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
Building an inclusive online environment is not only the right thing to do—it’s now a legal requirement. In April 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a final rule under Title II of the ADA, clarifying the obligations of state and local governments to make their websites and mobile applications accessible to all members of the community. Libraries must take steps to ensure their digital spaces meet these standards.
MLA member libraries are eligible for group pricing that includes significant discounts on Streamline's monthly subscription rates. Streamline can help your library meet ADA requirements and create an inclusive online experience for all
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.
How to Learn more:
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Visit the Library Hub for more information and case studies.
- Request a custom quote using the form on the webpage. Be sure to mention you’re with the Michigan Library Association to receive the discounted pricing.
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Access the recording of MLA's Streamline Informational session here: View the Recorded Session on Zoom
- Passcode: 0D9c?js#
If you have any questions or would like further details, please reach out to Streamline using the contact form on the Library Hub website.
Looking for more information about website accessibility? View our MLA Connect webinar: Website Accessibility: Ensuring ADA Compliance for Your Library on MLA Connect On Demand. This webinar will guide you through the essentials you need to know to ensure your library’s website complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Guest speaker Maria Lara, Director of Product Research and Compliance at Streamline shares best practices for web design and content, and practical tools to assess and improve accessibility and ensure your site is accessible to individuals with disabilities. View the webinar recording on MLA Connect On Demand. Note, login is required.
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Shop our store for MI Right to Read apparel and MLA swag. We have shirts designed by Michigan artists that promote the right to read, plus MI Right to Read and MLA merch like hoodies, shirts, mugs, and totes! Check out our store, order your gear, and wear your support of libraries and the right to read!
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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. | | | Tom Shilts joined the Dowagiac District Library as the new Library Director. Tom brings extensive experience as both a youth services librarian and a director. Wishing you all the best, Tom! | | Elissa Zimmer joined the Kalamazoo Public Library (KPL) in August as the new Head of Branch and Community Services. She is a Kalamazoo native and returning to her home library. Wishing you all the best, Elissa! | | Kudos and Congratulations | | In September, Gloria Coles Flint Public Library launched the Brenda Harris Story Keeper Award, an honor that celebrates exceptional dedication to storytelling, literacy, and community connection. The award was named after Brenda Harris, a beloved former children’s librarian, Flint native, and longtime champion of literacy. The library recognized Brenda Harris as the inaugural honoree and the first recipient of the award and named Grace Tucker as the 2025 Brenda Harris Story Keeper Award recipient. Congratulations! | | |
Van Buren District Library (VBDL) is bridging the digital divide! The VBDL mobile Internet hotspot lending program is Mobile Beacon’s number one distributor of data among its 1,801 public library clients nationwide. From the 420 mobile Internet hotspots, 60 per VBDL branch, VBDL patrons use 45 times the average amount of data and 100 times the median. In the first half of 2025 alone, VBDL patrons used 312 terabytes (TB) of data. Way to go, VBDL! Keep up the excellent work.
| | Congratulations to Phyllis Jose as she departs the Berkley Public Library after 16 years of service. Phyllis spent the bulk of her career at Oakland County Library and has worked at Dearborn Public Library, Novi Public Library, and Livonia Public Library over the years. She was also an instructor at Oakland Community College and Wayne State University. Wishing you all the best in your retirement, Phyllis! | | 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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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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Lois Ann Gregory-Wood Fellows Program | |
The American Library Association announces a call for applications for the Lois Ann Gregory-Wood (LAGW) Fellows Program.
Lois Ann Gregory-Wood worked at ALA for fifty years, and for 27 of those years, served as the ALA Council Secretariat. The Fellows Program celebrates her leadership and accomplishments, while seeking to encourage understanding and participation in the ALA governance processes.
The Fellows Program seeks applications from interested individuals for 2026. Two individuals will be selected to receive a grant totaling $2,500 to cover costs of attending the 2026 ALA Governance meetings and Annual conference in Chicago, IL. The application will be open until October 15, 2025.
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I Love My Librarian Award | Nominate a librarian you love for the 2026 I Love My Librarian Award - they could win $5,000 and the recognition of a lifetime! Nominations close December 15, 2025! | | | |
The Carnegie-Whitney Grant Guidelines | |
The American Library Association Publishing Committee provides a grant of up to $5,000 for the preparation of print or electronic reading lists, indexes or other guides to library resources that promote reading or the use of library resources at any type of library. Applications must be received by November 7, 2025. Recipients will be notified by February 2026.
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Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities | |
Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities will offer more than $14 million in grants to small and rural libraries to increase the accessibility of facilities, services, and programs to better serve people with disabilities.
To be eligible, a library must have a legal area population of 25,000 or less and be located at least five miles from an urbanized area, in keeping with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) definitions of small and rural libraries. ALA will award four rounds of grants to be distributed over the next four years ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. Applications for Round 4 are now open until December 11, 2025.
| | | | 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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