Note from Scott

March 24, 2023

As the list of candidates for MLA’s Board of Directors is released, I wanted to say a special note of thanks to those of you who put your name forward to run for an open seat on the Board. It isn’t the easiest thing to do, but as in life, you learn the most from those things that are most challenging. As you know, MLA relies on the work of their volunteers, and for those of you who are volunteering for the Board, a lot is required of you. But, professionally you receive a lot as well. What do you receive? Well, you receive the assurance that the work you do matters for libraries in our state. In your role, you work with MLA’s Executive Director Debbie Mikula and MLA staff to ensure that the organization is functioning to the best of its ability to fulfill its mission to “lead the advancement of all Michigan libraries through advocacy, education and engagement”. That is done by making sure MLA follows its strategic plan and priorities along with fulfilling its efforts in Intellection Freedom, Open Access, and Equity, Diversity, Accessibility, and Belonging.

As I said before, the work isn’t easy. It takes an engaged individual who is willing to dedicate the time and energy needed to help MLA grow, and in turn, help Michigan libraries advance to meet the needs of their communities. It takes an experienced individual who brings the knowledge and wisdom from their professional position in libraries to the Board. It takes an individual who understands their fiduciary responsibility as a Board member and is willing to work with fellow Board members and MLA staff to ensure that MLA is there for its members.

So, as you can see, it takes a lot, and it also gives a lot. I started on the Board in 2019 and first served as a Member-At-Large and then President-Elect and now President. Through my experience on the Board, I not only learned about MLA, but I also learned about myself as well. I feel that it allowed me to grow as a professional and gave me an experience I wouldn’t have had if I didn’t take the chance to put my name on the ballot.

For all MLA members, please take the time to read about each candidate and vote, because the MLA members you see on the ballot took the courageous step to put their names forward. For past and current Board members and MLA staff, thank you so much for the work you do and have done. Due to your dedication and work, Michigan libraries are in a better place now and in the future.

Scott Duimstra 
MLA President