With a mission to help public, academic, cooperatives, school and special libraries and library professionals succeed, the Michigan Library Association (MLA) is recognized statewide and nationally as the leading statewide assembly with a 128-year record of quality services and programs focused on ensuring the health and vitality of these key cultural institutions. MLA serves as a forum for collaboration, cooperation, and partnerships, cultivating cutting-edge ideas and awareness of best practices in an open and supportive culture.
Since 1891, MLA has been a vibrant and dynamic cultural service organization with a diverse membership of more than 325 libraries and 1400 library professionals in rural, suburban and urban areas. Although some services are exclusive to members, MLA’s oversight of professional development, education and advocacy services broadly assist residents, municipal leadership, business leaders and visitors; all who are invested in building healthy and dynamic communities in all 83 Michigan counties.
Uniquely positioned to be an “umbrella” service and advocacy organization, we support the growth and professional development of library personnel; provide consulting and technical assistance; advocate to our local and state legislators about the value of libraries; and ultimately, unite all libraries through a shared ecosystem, giving Michigan residents the unique ability to connect to our vast wealth of knowledge and information from cradle to grave.
