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A longtime and well-respected member of MLA came up to me at Advocacy Day while I was grabbing a cup of coffee. While I don’t remember her exact words, the sentiment went something like this…”You have done great things for MLA, and while we will miss you, I want you to know that you have set this organization up for success. You have instituted a succession plan for leadership that will guide us well into the future. I’ve been around a long time, and I don’t recall anyone doing this for MLA in the past. You have shown your professionalism and how much you care, from the start of your tenure to the very last day.”
Thank you, Julie Farkas, for your kind words and for validating the work that goes into the forward momentum of MLA. It is always good to hear that our members truly support and know the hard work to solidify the decisions we make.
I promised the MLA board that I wouldn’t leave anything left to chance and would work on behalf of this organization until the last minute of the last day. The most important discussion we had was to develop a succession plan where we thought through every detail, were flexible enough to make tweaks as we went, and we had a plan we were comfortable implementing. I am proud to say that not only did we implement a well-thought-out plan, but this past Monday, the onboarding of our new Interim Executive Director commenced. Read more
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Help Shape MLA’s Future – Join the Strategic Plan Review Session on June 9 | |
As we develop MLA’s new three-year strategic plan in partnership with the Alliance for Library Impact, your perspective is essential to ensuring this roadmap reflects the needs of Michigan’s libraries.
Our strategic planning journey began with your voices. Through member surveys and stakeholder interviews, Alliance for Library Impact gathered member feedback and created a comprehensive learning report. Those insights guided our March 2025 planning retreat with the MLA Board, staff, and Strategic Planning Workgroup. Now, as we prepare to finalize this member-driven blueprint for 2025-2028, we ask for your feedback and help one more time.
Please join us on Monday, June 9, from 10:00 -11:30 AM for a virtual member meeting where we’ll:
- Review the draft strategic plan (registered attendees will receive a copy by May 29)
- Brainstorm activities to support our strategic goals
- Collaborate in small groups to develop actionable ideas
This is your last chance to directly influence MLA's strategic direction before adoption. With your help, we can create an actionable plan that advances library education, strengthens advocacy efforts, and fosters meaningful engagement
Space is limited to ensure productive discussions. We encourage you to register soon to secure your spot. We look forward to your valuable insights as we shape MLA’s future together!
| | | | MLA 2025 Ambassador Orientation | |
MLA Ambassadors: watch your email! You will receive workgroup and committee placement and orientation information soon!
MLA Ambassadors will receive notification of their workgroup and committee placement on June 2. Thank you to all of those who have volunteered to be ambassadors of MLA and share their experience and expertise with the entire library community.
We will be holding a virtual ambassador orientation on Zoom on Wednesday, June 11, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM to go over the basics of your work with us. Ambassadors will also receive training on MLA's Code of Conduct. Mark your calendars – we hope to see you all there!
| | Michigan Library Awards Call for Nominations! | |
Do you know someone who deserves recognition and celebration for their work in Michigan libraries? The Call for Nominations for the 2025 Michigan Library Awards is open through Friday, July 11! We encourage and welcome your nomination for any of MLA's Awards for recognition at the 2025 Michigan Library Awards on Wednesday, October 29, at the Lansing Center in Lansing during the MLA 2025 Annual Conference.
We've made it simple, self-nominations are strongly encouraged, and you can choose to have your nomination considered for the 2026 awards as well.
Learn more about the Michigan Library Awards, view guidelines, and submit a nomination at milibraries.org/michigan-library-awards.
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Check out the latest episode of Chapter & Verse, Creating Safe Spaces: Outreach Inclusion and the Modern Library.
In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula, Executive Director of MLA, and Mallorie DeVilbiss, Director of the Suburban Library Cooperative, talk with Olivia Olson, Head of Community Engagement at the Troy Public Library.
Olivia reflects on her early love of libraries and the path that led her into library work. She shares how the community engagement department came to life and how programs like the bookmobile and the English Language Learners Book Club are expanding the library’s reach.
From serving diverse communities to creating safe, welcoming spaces, Olivia offers insight into the evolving role of libraries and the powerful connections they foster. Her stories of working with patrons and her vision for the future remind us why libraries remain essential pillars of community life.
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".
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Please note, the MLA office will be closed in observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 26. | | | | Michigan Library Advocates Shine at the Capitol! | |
On Wednesday, April 30, more than 150 passionate library supporters from across Michigan gathered at the Capitol in Lansing to advocate for Michigan libraries. Together, we met with an impressive 105 of Michigan’s 148 state legislators—including Senators and Representatives—to share stories of libraries’ transformative impact and advocate for critical funding to sustain and grow essential services statewide. We also welcomed Bookmobiles from libraries across Michigan to line Capitol Ave, inviting exploration and showcasing mobile library services.
Advocates emphasized the urgent need to increase the state’s investment in libraries in fiscal year 2026 to support the Michigan eLibrary (MeL), the Library of Michigan’s interlibrary loan program, and other statewide initiatives, offsetting devastating federal funding losses and ensuring continued access to resources for all Michiganders. Attendees also educated legislators about the irreplaceable value of libraries, from bridging information gaps to fostering lifelong learning and community connection. As the budget process unfolds, we’ll continue advocating tirelessly to ensure lawmakers recognize the value of libraries and the need for sustained support.
A heartfelt thank you to every advocate, legislator, and partner who made this day possible. Together, we’re ensuring Michigan’s libraries continue to light the way!
Relive the Day! Watch highlights from the morning session by clicking on the video below or follow this link. Explore the event photo album on Facebook.
| | Michigan Budget Process Advances Amid Fiscal Uncertainty | |
State officials finalized key revenue projections last Friday during Michigan’s Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference (CREC), a critical step in shaping the next fiscal year’s budget. CREC typically sets the foundation for the governor’s budget proposal in January and updates figures in May ahead of final legislative negotiations. A bipartisan panel, led by top legislative fiscal advisors and the State Budget Director, revised January’s economic forecasts, projecting that revenue will be down by $320 million for the upcoming fiscal year amid warnings of uncertainty tied to potential federal tariff disputes and spending debates. While overall state revenues are expected to dip, the School Aid Fund will likely see a modest boost.
With divided control of state government, reconciling priorities remains a challenge. Though last Friday’s CREC meeting was the last scheduled for this budget cycle, officials left the door open to reconvene if economic conditions shift dramatically. As debates continue, Michigan’s ability to balance competing demands—from education funding to economic uncertainties—will hinge on bipartisan compromise in the weeks ahead. View CREC presentation documents, as well as economic forecasts and summaries.
| | IMLS Update: Current Status and Next Steps | |
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has seen partial restoration of operations following a federal court ruling in Rhode Island v. Trump. On May 13, Judge John J. McConnell Jr. issued a preliminary injunction halting the administration’s efforts to dismantle IMLS under Executive Order 14238, which had terminated staff and grants in March. The court mandated the reinstatement of employees and grant programs, prompting the administration to report progress by May 20, including the return of staff members and the restoration of competitive grants in the 21 plaintiff states.
The American Library Association (ALA) has welcomed these developments but emphasized the temporary nature of the relief, noting that IMLS remains excluded from the administration’s FY26 budget proposal, jeopardizing long-term stability for small, rural, and Tribal libraries.
IMLS is now working to reinstate contracts and resume funding disbursements, contingent on the return of key personnel. Despite compliance with the injunction, the administration has appealed the decision, seeking a stay and arguing the order oversteps statutory limits. Agency leaders, including Acting IMLS Director Keith Sonderling, submitted affidavits citing logistical challenges, such as reversing office relocation plans and managing staffing inefficiencies.
Looking ahead, legal battles will shape IMLS’s future. Plaintiffs in Rhode Island v. Trump must respond to the stay request by May 27, with a reply from the defendants due by May 30. A ruling on ALA’s request for a preliminary injunction in a separate lawsuit (ALA v. Sonderling) is expected by May 29. Libraries are urged to monitor updates and consult legal counsel regarding grant reinstatements. While cautious optimism persists, continued advocacy is needed to secure permanent funding and ensure IMLS can fully meet national library needs.
| | Updates on the Next Chapter of MLA's MI Right to Read Initiative | | |
We have been getting to work putting our Mellon Foundation grant to good use and expanding Mi Right to Read already! MLA recently contracted with EPIC-MRA in Lansing to conduct a new statistically significant poll of Michigander’s opinions on their libraries and the right to read. Once those results are analyzed in the next month, our work on a 6-month statewide marketing campaign will begin in partnership with Bellwether Public Relations.
We’ve also begun to develop some exciting new events scheduled for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 that we cannot wait to announce in the coming months. Keep watch on future emails and MLA newsletters as we continue to unveil these new endeavors.
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. | | 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.
| | | 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! | | | |
MLA 2025 Annual Conference Call for Proposals | |
The Michigan Library Association is accepting proposals for breakout sessions at the MLA 2025 Annual Conference, taking place October 29–31, 2025, at the Lansing Center in downtown Lansing.
This year’s theme—Library Kaleidoscope: Shifting Perspectives—invites sessions that challenge conventional thinking and inspire new ways of viewing programs, services, and library work. What hidden patterns emerge when you turn the lens? What creative solutions come into focus?
We have extended our deadline - proposals are now due Friday, May 30, 2025. Join us in shaping an engaging, thought-provoking conference—submit your idea today!
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Call for Exhibitors and Sponsors
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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.
| | | | 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
| | | Compassion Over Conflict: Responding to Patron Concerns About Unhoused Library Users | |
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Libraries are spaces for all members of the community, including those who are experiencing homelessness. However, library staff are sometimes confronted with difficult situations when patrons express discomfort or concerns about the presence of unhoused individuals. This session will equip library workers with the tools and strategies to navigate these difficult conversations while maintaining a supportive and inclusive environment for all patrons, and how libraries can proactively create policies and resources that support unhoused patrons.
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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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New! MLA is Now on Discord! | |
Discord is an instant messaging app that originally catered to gamers and has gained popularity in the library world in recent years. Whether you already use Discord for your library or the platform is brand new to you, join us and connect with other MLA members through text and voice chat! Topics discussed include youth and adult services, technology, marketing, libraries of things, makerspaces, and more!
Visit discord.gg/yM3A9qUsn4 and start chatting today!
| | | | Discounted Pricing on Streamline Website Services for MLA Members - Available Until June 1! | |
We’re happy to share a limited-time discount for MLA member libraries that sign up with Streamline by June 1. This is a limited-time opportunity for libraries preparing for a new website or seeking a solution to meet ADA requirements.
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.
Note that discounted pricing is available to MLA member libraries that sign up by June 1. After June 1, we cannot guarantee the discount will be available for new signups – discounted pricing will only be available after June 1 for libraries interested in working with Streamline if more than 15 new MLA member libraries have signed up for the service.
| | 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).
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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!
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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!
| | | | 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 | | Presque Isle District Library received the 2025 Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation of the Rogers Theater and the Michigan Historic Preservation Office 2025 Preservation Gem Award. Congratulations PIDL! | | | | |
Nisa Kesseler is celebrating 10 years at Petoskey District Library. Nisa’s dedication, creativity, and deep connection with teens have transformed the library’s teen space into a thriving, inclusive, and empowering community hub. Congratulations, Nisa!
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The Library Network mourns the loss of Douglas A. Whitaker, the former Deputy Director of the Wayne-Oakland Library Federation (WOLF, predecessor to TLN), at the age of 92. Douglas was known for being well-liked by TLN staff and libraries and for the value he placed on his family. He will be sadly missed.
| | Advertise on MLA’s Job Board |
Members receive deep discounts on job postings through the MLA Job Board. Learn more here.
| | | UPDATE: MDHHS Library Partnership for At-Home Tests Program | | Due to the recently rescinded federal funding that supported the MDHHS in purchasing and distributing COVID-19 Over-the-Counter test kits, we will no longer be able to provide these kits to previously supported partners, including public libraries. | | 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/
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Don't keep this great resource to yourself!
Please share this newsletter with your colleagues and networks.
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Rachel Ash
Membership and Communications Director
(517) 881-6652
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Keeley Briggs
Membership and Program Coordinator
(517) 881-0496
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Lisa Buttigieg
Administrative Assistant
(517) 881-1683
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Mackenzie Hanfland
Event Coordinator
(517) 881-7242
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Program and Event Director
(517) 881-3194
| | 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 all Michigan libraries through advocacy, education and engagement. | | To be an indispensable resource and valued leader, partner and advocate for Michigan libraries. | | | | |
