|
The voters have spoken and Michigan will again see a change in House leadership when the 103rd Legislature takes over on January 1, 2025. The short-lived, two-year trifecta of democratic control will come to an end, and while our Governor is a Democrat and the Senate continues to have a democratic majority, the House now has a solid 58-52 Republican majority.
With that in mind, it is even more critical that we do all that we can before year's end to pass the Freedom to Read legislation (House Bills 6034 and 6035) that MLA has been supporting for the past two years.
Two weeks ago, Rep. Glanville (D-Walker) and Rep. Paiz (D-Harper Woods) introduced tie-barred legislation that simply requires libraries to adopt collection development policies that incorporate both the principles of the First Amendment and the rights afforded and upheld in civil rights protections. By incorporating both principles into standard library policy, libraries can 1) protect citizen’s rights to receive and express diverse ideas without censorship, and 2) put to rest baseless challenges targeting authors or the subject matter, content, or viewpoint of material based on protected class. READ MORE
| |
Support MLA Future Pathways Grants | |
As we approach the end of the year, many of us look for meaningful ways to give back. This year, we invite you to support the MLA Equity Fund. Our goal is to raise $3,000 by year-end, and with your help, we know we can achieve this!
We are thrilled to share that we are already close to our target, thanks to the incredible generosity of MLA 2024 attendees. Through the Silent Auction, we raised $760, and an additional $154 from sticker sales. Thank you to everyone who participated and donated so far!
MLA is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The MLA Equity Fund is powered entirely by donations from people like you—those who believe in empowering future leaders and fostering a diverse and equitable library profession.
Future Pathways Grants, funded through the MLA Equity Fund, offer up to $1,000 for projects and professional development opportunities for Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, North African, or Middle Eastern individuals. By reducing financial barriers, we aim to encourage the participation, engagement, and leadership of racially and ethnically diverse library workers who are currently underrepresented in the library profession in Michigan.
These grants can be used for memberships, attendance at workshops, educational events or conferences, or other purposes that enhance the grantee's ability to impact and transform the library profession.
Together, we can make a difference. Every donation counts and brings us closer to our goal. Thank you for your generosity and support!
| |
MLA Strategic Planning Survey | |
We need to hear from you! This fall, MLA is working with Alliance for Library Impact to develop a new strategic direction and 3-year plan for our work to educate, advocate, and engage libraries and library workers throughout Michigan.
Please take a moment to let us know how we might better serve you in the future by sharing your input. The survey should only take 10-15 minutes and will be open until Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Thank you in advance for your time and assistance!
| |
Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks | |
Tune in to the second episode of Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks on December 12! December's episode will be hosted by Linda Adams from the Northland Library Cooperative and feature library worker and award-winning photographer, poet, and author, Peter Wurdock from Newberry in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
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.
Listen to the podcast and subscribe on Podbean, Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts, just search "Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks".
| |
|
Peter Wurdock is a celebrated poet and author who has drawn significant inspiration from the Upper Peninsula. His intimate knowledge and love for the region are evident in three of his books, all set in the UP. As the Poet Laureate of Luce County, Wurdock has become a prominent voice in capturing the essence of the area through his literary and photographic works. His six books have been distributed throughout the Midwest with various major distributors to prominent retailers such as Costco, Barnes and Noble, Walden Books, and dozens of independent booksellers. His books combine fiction, photography, poetry, and non-fiction. Wurdock is single and lives in Newberry, MI with his two adopted greyhounds, Petie and Meerah.
| | | | |
|
|
Our inaugural episode premiered last Thursday! It was hosted by the Mideastern Michigan Library Cooperative and features Ryan Tackabury, Director of the Ruth Hughes Memorial District Library in Imlay City.
Listen to the podcast and subscribe!
| | | |
|
|
Please update your records with our new mailing address and make sure the address is corrected in your financial software as well!
Michigan Library Association
PO Box 27337
Lansing, MI 48909
| |
MLA's office will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29. | | | |
Check out MLA's Bill Tracker to view a full list of legislation that the Advocacy and Legislative Committee is watching.
| |
| |
November 5 Election Millage Results | |
We are excited to share the good news that several libraries around Michigan passed millage proposals during the November election! Library millages are the primary source of funding for most Michigan public libraries and at the ballot box, Michigan residents made it clear that they love, support, and VOTE YES to fund their local libraries. It is a great reminder that regardless of where patrons land on the political spectrum, libraries are for everyone!
We are proud of the library boards, staff, and supporters for their work on these campaigns and their dedication to supporting their libraries! The Library of Michigan provides a listing of Public Library Millage Election Results from 2010 to the present. Check out the roundup of the November 5, 2024 election results for millage questions on ballots around the state. View the results (pdf)
| |
|
Last week, MLA Executive Director Debbie Mikula and Jenny Marr, President-Elect and Chair of the MLA Advocacy and Legislative Committee visited the capitol to present awards to MLA's 2024 Legislators of the Year. We are proud to honor State Representatives Angela Witwer and Regina Weiss for their commitment to libraries in Michigan.
The MLA Legislator of the Year is reserved for elected officials demonstrating outstanding leadership in promoting libraries and their important place in our communities. Their steadfast efforts to see that libraries are adequately funded, supported, and serve the community are appreciated not only by our libraries but by all library patrons and Michigan residents.
| |
|
Congratulations to State Representative Regina Weiss (D-Oak Park)!
Pictured left to right: Jenny Marr, MLA President-Elect and Advocacy Committee Chair; Rep. Regina Weiss; and Debbie Mikula, MLA Executive Director.
| |
|
Congratulations to State Representative Angela Witwer (D-Delta Township)!
Fun fact, Rep. Witwer’s office is where the State Library was located back in the 1800s and that's a former State Librarian in the picture hanging in the background of this photo!
Pictured left to right: Jenny Marr, MLA President-Elect and Advocacy Committee Chair; Rep. Angela Witwer.
| |
Intellectual Freedom Resources | |
MI Right to Read is an MLA initiative coordinated through the leadership of the Intellectual Freedom Task Force to protect 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.
| |
Resources for library staff, educators, and board members.
| |  |
Tips and templates for promoting intellectual freedom in your community.
| | |
Request support as you take action to protect First Amendment rights.
| | |
Click the image to view MLA's video emphasizing the critical role of libraries in providing access to diverse perspectives, safeguarding intellectual freedom and protecting the Freedom to Read. Help us advocate for Michigan libraries and protect everyone’s First Amendment rights. | |
| | |
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! | | |
Think Space: Modern Leadership | |
Dec 5-6, 2024
Saint John’s Resort, Plymouth
May 22-23, 2025
(Optional early arrival on May 21)
Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island
| |
|
Ready for a transformative journey in leadership?
Join us for Think Space, an all-inclusive educational and networking experience designed exclusively for library directors! This year, we are focusing on modern leadership, sustaining well-being, and adapting to change.
In our rapidly changing world, leadership isn't just about solving today’s problems—it’s about cultivating the resilience and vision to guide your organization into the future. ThinkSpace offers you the time, tools, and support to do just that. As a participant, you’ll emerge not just as a better leader, but as someone with a renewed sense of purpose and resilience.
Registration is $1695 for MLA members/$3390 for non-members and includes meals, networking events, overnight accommodations, ferry tickets to and from Mackinac Island, and parking.
Don’t miss this opportunity to join the next cohort of forward-thinking library directors. Space is limited.
| |
|
Unlike previous iterations of Think Space, this year will be led by a single facilitator to offer participants a cohesive, in-depth exploration of leadership and provide actionable insights.
We are excited to partner with John McCann, President of Partners in Performance, a renowned leadership coach known for guiding organizations toward lasting, impactful change.
Partners in Performance has a stellar reputation for creating immersive learning environments where leaders reflect, grow, and enhance their effectiveness. With McCann’s expertise, participants will explore how to develop resilience, nurture self-compassion, and elevate their leadership impact in our ever-changing world.
John McCann, President, of Partners in Performance, has more than 30 years of experience in helping leaders work more effectively. In the area of innovation and strategy. Partners in Performance brings highly committed people together from different organizations and across sectors to create intensive and rewarding learning environments where leaders reflect on their own practice, gain insight into their strengths and preferences, and understand more clearly how to increase their effectiveness. Learn more
| | | |
Spring Institute for Youth Services 2025 Call for Session and Workshop Proposals | |
|
Are you ready to develop as a professional and enhance youth library services in Michigan? Submit a proposal for a breakout session or workshop at Spring Institute for Youth Services 2025!
This year, we're celebrating the incredible efforts of library workers who support and strengthen our diverse communities. Our theme, “Celebrate Our Stories,” highlights the innovative work you do all year—launching new initiatives, engaging your community, and honing your skills.
Submit a proposal for a breakout session to share what you’ve learned and contribute to the advancement of youth library services! Breakout sessions are 45-minute presentations highlighting your experiences, knowledge, and best practices.
Have you facilitated a great program, but are unsure about doing a presentation? Submit a workshop proposal to show off your programming skills by modeling your program to other youth librarians. Walk them through what went great and what you would change, as they participate in a real-time demo of your activity. Crafting, escape rooms, STE(A)M, life-sized board games, etc. - let your imagination run wild! This will give us all a chance to play!
Proposals are due Friday, December 13, 2024. Click here to view the guidelines (pdf).
| |
Spring Institute Call for Sponsors | Interested in supporting the premier education and networking event for youth services library professionals in Michigan? Sponsor Spring Insitute for Youth Services 2025, next April 10-11 at the Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth Michigan. To learn more, contact Amber Sheerin, Program and Event Director at asheerin@milibraries.org. | | | |
MLA Connect Webinar Lineup | |
Check out the lineup of upcoming MLA Connect Webinars on diverse topics from marketing to service animals in the library.
MLA Connect Webinars are only $25 for MLA members. View details about the full lineup and register at milibraries.org/mla-connect
| | |
Library Graphics 101 Part 2: Canva Masterclass: Create Stunning Designs With Ease | |
Tuesday, December 3, 2024
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Mark your calendar and join us on Tuesday, December 3 for Library Graphics 101 Part 2!
Join us for the "Canva Masterclass," where we'll take the principles from the first webinar and show you how to apply them using Canva. This hands-on session will guide you through the Canva interface, teaching you how to use its features to create beautiful and effective designs for print and digital use. We'll walk you through step-by-step design creation for various materials, such as social media graphics and flyers while incorporating ADA compliance to ensure accessibility. By the end of this session, you'll have practical skills and time-saving tips to make the most of Canva's powerful tools and create professional-quality designs effortlessly.
Canva Masterclass: Create Stunning Designs with Ease. is part two of a two-part series. You can still register to view a recording of Part 1: Designing For Success: Essentials of Graphic Design!
MLA Connect webinars are $25 for MLA members. Register for Library Graphics 101 Part 1 and Part 2 for only $40.
| | |
Library Graphics 101 Part 2: Canva Masterclass: Create Stunning Designs With Ease | |
|
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.
| | |
Recordings of the opening and closing keynote sessions at the MLA 2024 Annual Conference are now available for conference attendees! MLA Connect On Demand | |
| |
Welcome to New MLA Members | Check out where new members came from in October 2024! It’s our pleasure to welcome new members from all over Michigan, check out the member directory to reach out, connect, and welcome them to MLA at milibraries.org/new-members. | | | |
Update Your Member Profile | |
Changed jobs? Got a new email address? Accidentally deleted a confirmation email? Log into the MLA website to manage your member profile! Visit the member portal to keep your contact and work information up to date, view your messages, manage your invoices and forms, and connect with others through the member directory. Do I have to be a member to register for an MLA event? Is my library an MLA Organizational Member? Do I have an Individual MLA Membership? Check out answers to MLA Member Account FAQs (pdf).
| |
 | |
Want to keep the library peer connection going from the annual MLA conference all year round? Connect with other Michigan librarians and library workers right from your computer with MLA Community forums! MLA Forums provide a platform for members to exchange ideas and resources.
You can get inspiration for problem-solving common issues, creating more efficient and effective flyers/posters, ideas for programs and improving your makerspace, help with processing questions, how to handle patron disputes, and more.
Each forum has a designated topic of discussion: Library of Things, Marketing and Promotions, and Makerspaces.
Share your thoughts and experiences by logging in and posting your answers to this month's questions:
- How do you disprove the argument that makerspaces are not hip or relevant any longer?
- What is something you wish you knew before you started your Library of Things?
- How can small libraries promote their programs and services with little or no budget?
All MLA members are welcome to read and post! Visit milibraries.org/forum and log into your member account to check out the forums today.
Want to add to the conversation, but don’t want to share any identifying information? Use the anonymous submission form to send a message to our forum moderators.
| | | |
|
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!
| | |
|
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!
| | | |
Michigan Library Awards 2024 | Did you miss the Michigan Library Awards this year? Check out the recording on MLA's Youtube channel and get inspired! | | |
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. | | |
Congratulations to Kristen Valyi-Hax on becoming the new Director of MacDonald Public Library in New Baltimore. Kristen is looking forward to collaborating with a wonderful community and staff. Wishing you great success, Kristen! | |
Milan Orozco has recently been appointed as the Covert Branch Manager at Van Buren District Library. Milan comes from Kalamazoo Public Library’s Eastwood Branch, where she served as a Youth Librarian. Best wishes, Milan! | |
Zoe Willoughby-Barker has joined Patmos Library as the new Administrative Director. Zoe is a lifelong lover of reading and learning and is excited to combine her passion for books and public service in this role. Best of luck, Zoe! | |
Kudos and Congratulations | |
|
Erin Schmandt, Director of Caro Area District Library, was honored with the Wayne State University Distinguished Alumna Award at the School of Information Sciences recognition event. At the age of 22, Erin became a library director accidentally on purpose and is passionate about small, rural public libraries. Congratulations to you, Erin!
| |
Canton Public Library has been awarded a Top Workplace 2024 honor by The Michigan Top Workplaces. This award is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by Energage LLC. Well deserved Canton Public Library! | |
Rose Marshall, Library Assistant at Capital Area District Libraries (CADL) Stockbridge has been recognized with the 2024 Dr. L. Robert McConnell Award for Customer Service. The McConnell Awards celebrate CADL staff members who go above and beyond in enhancing library services and fostering community connection. Congratulations, Rose! | |
Jill Abood, Community Engagement Specialist at Capital Area District Libraries (CADL) has been honored with the 2024 Dr. L. Robert McConnell Award for Innovation. The McConnell Awards celebrate CADL staff members who go above and beyond in enhancing library services and fostering community connection. Way to go, Jill! | |
|
After 58 years of dedicated service, Lorraine Butchart, Jackson District Library’s long-time Collection Services Manager, will be retiring. Lorraine started as a page at 16 and has held various positions, ultimately supporting the automation of the library collection. Thank you and congratulations, Lorraine—all the best in your retirement!
| |
Peggy Hemerling, Director of Hastings Public Library is retiring at the end of the year after over 25 years of service. Peggy has been at HPL for over 25 years and has worked mostly with kids as a youth librarian before becoming the director in 2017. Peggy is loved by all and her daily presence at the library will be missed by patrons and staff alike. Wishing you all the best, Peggy! | |
Advertise on MLA’s Job Board |
Members receive deep discounts on job postings through the MLA Job Board. Learn more here.
| | | |
Join Unite Against Book Bans as an Organizational Partner | Unite Against Book Bans welcomes organizational partners who share our core principles and would like to work together to defeat censorship. If your organization is interested in joining the campaign, complete this form and the campaign will reach out to you with partnership details.Learn more at uniteagainstbookbans.org. Join as an Organizational Partner. | |
|
Unite Against Book Bans, in collaboration with the publishing community, launched Book Résumés, a free resource to support librarians, educators, parents, students, and other community advocates in their efforts to keep frequently challenged books on shelves.
Created in partnership with dozens of publishers and featuring information provided by publishers, librarians, and Unite partner School Library Journal, Unite Against Book Bans book résumés are easy-to-print documents designed to support readers’ access to books that are targeted by censors. Learn more
| |
Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities | |
Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities will offer more than $7 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. Applications for Round 3 are currently open and will close on December 11, 2024.
| | | |
|
The American Library Association (ALA) is committed to promoting and advancing the librarian profession. To demonstrate this commitment, the ALA and its units provide more than $300,000 annually for study in a master's degree in library and information studies from an ALA accredited program, or for a master's degree with a specialty in school librarianship that meets the ALA curriculum guidelines for a Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) accredited unit.
You can apply for a variety of scholarships through the single online application hosted by the ALA Scholarship Program.
The scholarship process is open annually from September 1st - March 1st. Applications and reference forms (which must be submitted on-line) are available during that time period. Instructions and general information remain available year round.
| | | |
Apply for a Grant - Science Kit for Public libaries (SKPL) | Grant applications are accepted starting November 1st and ending at 11:59pm on the 3rd Thursday of January. Grant Recipients will be notified by SKPL by the end of March Apply for a grant here | | | |
|
NEA Big Read is a grant of up to $20,000 for nonprofits to host community reading programs that build bridges and encourage dialogue. Programming for the 2025-2026 grant cycle will center around the theme OUR NATURE: How Our Physical Environment Can Lead Us to Seek Hope, Courage, and Connection, 22 titles are available in the NEA Big Read Library to inspire community programming this cycle. Each title explores in some way our relationship with the physical environment. Applicants will facilitate book discussions, writing workshops, and creative programming activities that explore this theme and celebrate the unique aspects of their communities.
Applications for the 2025-2026 cycle are now open. Submit your Intent to Apply by January 23, 2025
| | | |
Digital Equity Competitive Grant | The goal of the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program is to fund initiatives that ensure communities have the access and skills to fully participate in the digital world, regardless of their background or circumstances. This program will complement digital equity activities funded by the Capacity Grant Program. This is the first funding opportunity from the $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, the third of the three Digital Equity Act programs. The Digital Equity Act provides $2.75 billion to establish three grant programs that promote digital equity and inclusion. | | | |
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. You can search regionally by library cooperative or search the entire contents of the database by subject. In order to ensure there is a robust and growing database, submit your positive recommendations today!
| | |
With the severe uptick in local and statewide book challenges, ALA offers this clearinghouse of resources to assist library workers and library advocates in responding to and supporting others facing those challenges. Report challenges to the Office for Intellectual Freedom, and let ALA know if you need assistance.
| | |
Don't keep this great resource to yourself!
Please share this newsletter with your colleagues and networks.
| |
Executive Director
(517) 881-1266
| |
Membership and Communications Director
(517) 881-6652
| |
|
Keeley Briggs
Membership and Program Coordinator
(517) 881-0496
| |
Administrative Assistant
(517) 881-1683
| |
Program and Event Director
(517) 881-3194
| |
Connect with MLA on social media! Like and Follow us on Facebook and X 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.
|
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.
| | |
Uniting the Michigan Library Community
MLA is proud to partner with organizations serving the library community.
| | | | |
