|
How do you show your community your value and importance? How do you know your local libraries have impact? How do you document the economic benefits, the educational benefits, the social benefits and the health and well-being benefits that your library contributes into making your community the thriving and dynamic places that they are?
As Kate Pohjola Andrade from the Woodlands Library Cooperative stated at our most recent Advocacy Hour, collecting appropriate data is the key to knowing the answer to any of these questions – from a national, statewide or local perspective.
On a federal level, we are thankful for the data provided and collected by the American Library Association.
From a statewide angle, the Library of Michigan, Michigan Library Cooperatives and MLA are collecting the kind of data that you may find amazing.
Hopefully you all take an hour or two to digest the most current State Aid Reports and all the tabs that get you exactly what you might be looking for (to be honest, MLA sends a lot of trustees to this site to do salary and benefit comparisons for new directors.)
Read more
| |
Meet the Candidates for the MLA 2024 Board Election | |
Meet the candidates for the 2024 MLA Board of Directors Election and plan to cast your vote April 1–22. | | |
|
The MLA Board election will open on Monday, April 1 and close on Monday, April 22 at midnight. This year, MLA members will vote for an MLA President-elect and four Member-at-Large Board positions for terms beginning in July 2024 and ending in June 2027. Election results will be announced in MLA’s Primary Source newsletter on Thursday, April 25. Meet the candidates!
Eligible members will receive an email on April 1 with instructions and a link to vote.
| |
|
Jenny Marr
Executive Director, Capital Area District Libraries
| | |
|
James Pugh
Director, Cedar Springs Public Library
| |
|
Erin Schmandt
Director, Caro Area District Library; Vice-President, Millington Arbela District Library Board of Trustees
| |
Say Yes to Getting Involved With MLA! | |
|
The 2024-2025 Call for Ambassadors 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. We hope you say YES! 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 [email protected].
Check out available opportunities to get involved on the web and complete the online ambassador application by Friday, April 26, 2024.
| |
|
Why did you first get involved with MLA? Think back, what went through your mind? Did you want to give back? Were you feeling restless in your career and ready to grow? Did someone encourage you? Returning ambassadors, why do you keep saying yes and continue to be involved?
Let us know! To participate, email a short 1-2 sentence answer, your photo, your name, and your library to Rachel Ash, MLA Membership and Communications Director at [email protected]. We will feature you in MLA communications to promote our Call for Ambassadors and on social media to highlight your contributions and the importance of participating in the profession.
| | |
MLA 2024 Annual Conference Call for Proposals: PRESS PLAY! | |
|
The MLA 2024 Annual Conference workgroup seeks proposals for breakout sessions to be presented in person, October 16 -18, 2024 at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Acme, Michigan.
Breakout sessions are 60 minutes in length. Submit your proposals that elevate the ideas of intellectual freedom, networking, equity, diversity, inclusion, collaboration, programming, management, taking control of hot button issues, and more.
The conference theme this year is "Press Play”. Curate a playlist of educational content with the ability to pause for self-care, rewind to learn from the past, and fast-forward to look towards the future. And don’t forget to press play to focus on the movement, reignite your purpose, and dive back into what’s happening right now!
This invitation extends to all library professionals and partners from first-time to experienced presenters as well as professional speakers and subject matter experts.
| |
New Process for Proposals | |
MLA will now be using the Slideroom platform for proposal submission as well as some nominations and applications. This change aims to make it easier to review and organize proposals and applications, shorten the time it takes for applicants to receive a reply, and streamline our internal processes.
Proposal information will still be posted at milibraries.org/call-for-proposals, but from there applicants will be directed to milibraries.slideroom.com. MLA’s slide room homepage will list all open programs – just select the application you wish to complete and setup a Slideroom account. You will be able to login to this account to see updates and submit future applications and proposals.
Creating an Account is easy as 1-2-3
1. Enter your email address
2. Create a password
3. Verify your account via an email link
The application form will be very similar to past MLA applications, and full details can be previewed before beginning your application.
Once you hit submit you are all set and will be notified via email with updates and a decision as it is reached.
| | | |
Future Pathways Grant - Now Accepting Applications | |
|
The Future Pathways Grant, formerly known as the Equity Fund Grant, underwent an overhaul with updated guidelines approved by the MLA Board in December 2023. Applications are now open for the July 2024 deadline.
Through this grant program, MLA reaffirms its commitment to equity, diversity, accessibility, and belonging. Future Pathways Grants aims to empower underrepresented individuals in the library community by reducing financial barriers to career advancement. The grant supports the professional development of racially and ethnically diverse library workers, including Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, North African, and Middle Eastern individuals. Eligible expenses include memberships, workshop attendance, educational events, and conferences.
For complete eligibility requirements, restrictions, and selection criteria, see the Future Pathways Guidelines (pdf). Applications will be reviewed twice per year. Beginning in 2025, deadlines for submission will be January 15 and July 15. Applications are now open and will be considered for the July 15, 2024 deadline.
| |
|
|
|
MLA is preparing to be a fully virtual office! Please update your records now with our new PO Box:
Michigan Library Association
PO Box 27337
Lansing, MI 48909
| | | |
Check out MLA's Bill Tracker to view a full list of legislation that the Advocacy and Legislative Committee is watching.
| |
| |
February Election Results | |
Check out our roundup of the February 27, 2024 election results for millage issues on ballots around the state. 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. View the Michigan Public Library Millage Results 2010 to February 2024 (pdf) | | |
|
Bloomfield Township Public Library
County: Oakland
Millage: Renewal - .5047
Term: 2024-2033 (10 Years)
Result: Passed
YES Votes: 9,319
NO Votes: 3,538
| |
|
Brown City District Library
County: Sanilac
Millage: New - 1.2
Term: 2024-2027 (4 Years)
Result: Passed
YES Votes: 453
NO Votes: 300
| |
|
Munising School Public Library County: Alger
Millage: Renewal - .2950
Term: 2025-2030 (6 Years)
Result: Passed
YES Votes: 1,281
NO Votes: 775
| |
|
Sanilac County Library Millage
County: Sanilac
Millage: Renewal - .2000
Term: 2024-2027 (4 Years)
Result: Passed
YES Votes: 6,180
NO Votes: 2,333
| |
|
Superior District Library
County: Chippewa
Millage: Renewal/Increase - .9976
Term: 2025-2034 (10 Years)
Result: Passed
YES Votes: 3,178
NO Votes: 3,137
| |
ALA Releases 2023 Censorship Data, Reports Record Number of Unique Book Titles Challenged in 2023 | |
The surge in book censorship and the number of titles targeted for censorship during 2023 reached unprecedented levels. According to the American Library Association (ALA), there was a 65 percent increase in the number of titles targeted for censorship compared to the previous year. In 2023, 4,240 unique book titles were subject to censorship efforts, surpassing the previous high of 2,571 titles in 2022.
Several key trends emerged from the data collected by ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom:
Public Libraries Under Pressure: Pressure groups in 2023 not only focused on school libraries but also intensified their efforts against public libraries. The number of titles targeted for censorship in public libraries increased by 92 percent compared to the previous year, while school libraries experienced an 11 percent increase.
Demand for Censorship of Multiple Titles: Groups and individuals advocating for censorship often targeted multiple titles simultaneously, sometimes numbering in the dozens or hundreds.
Representation Matters: Titles representing the voices and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals constituted 47 percent of those targeted for censorship.
Michigan Challenges: Attempts to restrict access to books: 42. Titles challenged in those attempts: 67.
ALA will unveil the list of the Top 10 Most Challenged Books in the U.S. for 2023 on Right to Read Day, Monday, April 8, as part of the release of the State of America's Libraries Report that kicks off National Library Week.
ALA compiles data on book challenges from reports filed by library professionals in the field and from news stories published throughout the United States. Because many book challenges are not reported to the ALA or covered by the press, the data compiled by ALA represents a snapshot of book censorship.
Visit ALA’s website for more information about ALA’s intellectual freedom efforts and a heat map of censorship challenges by state. Learn more at ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/book-ban-data
| | | |
Michigan Library Advocacy Day is SOLD OUT!
| |
Michigan Library Advocacy Day is Tuesday, April 16. Advocates: watch your email for important information to know before the event! | | |
|
During Michigan Library Advocacy Day on Tuesday, April 16 advocates from all over Michigan will be meeting in person with legislators, and we need your help to amplify our message and ask for support.
Not attending? You can still help spread the message: Strong Libraries =Stronger Michigan. On April 16, wear your t-shirt, and plan to email and call your legislators, and don’t forget to record a short video clip asking your legislator to support intellectual freedom and First Amendment rights by supporting the Freedom to Read Legislation.
Watch for our call to action and be ready to call and email your legislators and tell them that Michigan libraries need their support! We will provide talking points and drafts to help you ask legislators to prioritize library funding in Michigan and urge them to protect intellectual freedom by supporting Freedom to Read Legislation.
| |
Wear Your Love MI Libraries Shirt! | |
Can't make it to Advocacy Day? Show your support for Michigan libraries with a Love MI Libraries t-shirt! Yellow shirts are sold out, but other colors are available in our online store.
Wear your shirt on April 16, grab a selfie and share it with us!
| |
| |
Share our Freedom to Read Video | 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 protecting everyone’s First Amendment rights. | | | |
Advocacy Day Sponsors and Partners | |
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.
| | |
Sign-up to Support School Libraries | |
Bills have been introduced in the Senate to support equity of access to fully staffed school libraries. Let our Michigan Senators know that there are many, many supporters across Michigan. The Michigan Association of School Librarians (MASL) Advocacy Committee is preparing for a call to action when the bills are taken up in the Senate Education Committee and then Senator Floor.
Please sign this statement in support of equity of access to school libraries and share with colleagues, family, and friends: bit.ly/supportslib
| | |
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! | | |
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. | | |
Organizational Membership Renewal | Thank you to all of our organizational members for your continued support! We are happy to share that dues will not increase this year. Watch the mail for organizational membership renewal information for the 2024-2025 member year in April. | |
Group Invoicing for an Easy Renewal Process for Your Entire Staff | |
Did you know? MLA makes it super easy for Organizational members to sign up all of their employees as Affiliated Individual members. Instead of having to issue multiple checks for individual dues throughout the year, wouldn’t you love the option of cutting one check that covers the cost of annual dues for all staff ($85 per employee) AND…they will all renew at the same time each year!
We can provide you with one invoice that will cover the cost of the employees you choose to pay for. We will even pro-rate their dues as necessary to eliminate the need for sending multiple checks. Note according to the bylaws, membership in the association is not transferable or assignable, but there is an exception for Affiliated Individual memberships that are paid for by an Organizational member to address staffing changes. This is a wonderful professional development perk for your staff members and increases the “package of benefits” you offer.
If you are interested in taking advantage of this offer, please contact MLA Administrative Assistant, Lisa Buttigieg who will be happy to help answer any questions you may have. She can be reached by phone at (517) 394-2774 ext. 227 or by email at [email protected].
| |
View the Organizational Member Directory |
Search the MLA Organizational Member Directory to view library organizational members of MLA. You can search by library name, address, or zip or view all organizational members in alphabetical order. Need to update your library's info? Library directors can log in to their individual member profiles to access and update their library's organizational membership. | | |
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) and make sure your membership profile is up to date!
| |
Strategic Partner Directory | 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! | | |
Do you have news you want to share? Contact Lisa Buttigieg at [email protected] to share news of promotions, new hires, appointments, awards, or a tribute in memoriam. | | |
Julie Schaefer will be the Library Director at Waterford Township Public Library. Congratulations Julie! | |
|
James Pugh from the Orion Township Public Library has accepted a new position as the Director of the Cedar Springs Public Library. Wishing you great success in your new role!
| | |
|
|
The Midwest Collaborative for Library Services (MCLS) welcomed Miranda Crittenden as their new Accounting Clerk. Congratulations and all the best in your new role!
| |
Kudos and Congratulations | | |
|
The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) announces the release of the latest #proudMIeducator video featuring Carrie Betts, certified library and information specialist at West Maple Elementary School in Birmingham Public Schools. Congratulations Carrie and the West Maple Elementary School! Watch it here: | |
Advertise on MLA’s Job Board |
Members receive deep discounts on job postings through the MLA Job Board. Learn more here.
| | | |
|
Michigan Notable Books Night for Notables | The Night for Notables Reception on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the Library of Michigan is an annual celebration of the Michigan Notable Books selected as well as Michigan’s best writers. This year’s event celebrates 20 notable books and authors, features notable author Stephen Mack Jones as keynote speaker, and is not to be missed! Learn more and register: libraryofmichiganfoundation.com/mnbnightfornotables | | |
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
| |
Bridging Michigan grants provide Michigan nonprofits with up to $2,500 in support of public humanities programming that sparks in-depth thinking and conversation around persistent challenges affecting our communities. We welcome projects that aim to address and deepen understanding of social, economic, cultural and racial inequities, and other pressing challenges affecting communities across our state. | | | |
Libraries Transform Communities: Engagement Grant | The Libraries Transform Communities Engagement Grant is an annual grant to recognize, promote, and support innovative and meaningful community engagement efforts in libraries. Community engagement is the process of working collaboratively with community members - be they library patrons, residents, faculty, students, or local organizations - to address issues for the betterment of the community. | | | |
Building Library Capacity Grants | ALA Library Building Capacity Grants Guidelines- ALA Library Building Capacity Grants Deadline for Submission: April 12, 2024 by 11:59 pm Central Time (CT) Award Notification Date: May 28, 2024 Before starting, read the grant FAQ and carefully review the requirements below in each category for the grant. | | | |
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
| |
Database 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.
| | | | |
