Note from Wesleyann, MLA 2024 Annual Conference Chair

Greetings! I’m Wesleyann Johnson, Director of the Center Line Public Library and the 2024 Conference Chair of MLA’s Annual Conference. It’s been an immense privilege to helm a workgroup of our amazing colleagues from across the state of Michigan in planning “Press Play”, to be held this October 16-18 at the Grand Traverse Resort in Acme. There is also a Small & Strategic Libraries Pre‑Conference on October 15, at the same location.  

Our vision for the 2024 Annual Conference came to life after hearing of its location, greater Traverse City, which, for many of us, isn’t just a location but a “destination”.  MLA events are meetings of minds, first and foremost, but we wanted the 2024 Annual Conference to offer an escape as well. This is reflected in the roster of events: from the Tuesday evening pre‑conference events (a wine/brewery tour, the tour of the State Hospital and a murder mystery party), the opening keynote speech from award‑winning magician Ben Whiting, the “See You in the Funny Pages” library comic contest with the acclaimed artist Gene Ambaum, the reception at the Traverse Area District Library, our fun “jam sessions” for bouncing ideas and so much more! When we play, we learn. Our objective is to have attendees “press play” and enjoy themselves, while developing professionally.

A tremendous amount of effort went into reviewing and fine‑tuning the breakout sessions in order to bring you a one‑of‑a‑kind experience. It was essential for there to be sessions relevant for and interesting to library workers of all kinds, including library trustees and advocates. Each session has one of three goals: Fast Forward to the Future of Libraries, Rewind and Reflect on the Foundations of the Profession, and Pause for Wellness and Self‑Care. We’re paying homage to the past, taking a breath to appreciate the present and embracing the unknowns of the future. If you haven’t yet presented at one of MLA’s conferences, I would like to take a moment and encourage you to consider it for 2025. We strive to create a positive and confidence‑boosting opportunity for library workers desiring to hone their public speaking skills. Take that leap!   

The workgroup has invested energy in enhancing the experience of first‑time Annual Conference attendees. Those attending on Wednesday will have the option to participate in a New Attendee Welcome Breakfast and meet workgroup members, representatives from MLA, various cooperative directors, and both Library of Michigan and Midwest Collaborative for Library Services (MCLS) staff members. We have thought carefully about signage for wayfinding and communication via the conference app, as well as the different ways the workgroup members can make themselves accessible onsite to anyone requiring support or assistance. There will also be a wrap‑up summit for first-time attendees on Friday. 

MLA’s Annual Conference is the leading professional development event of the year for library workers across Michigan. It’s a wonderful time to (re)connect with colleagues, learn about new trends and theorize best practices when it comes to common issues for libraries. The early bird deadline is September 6. There’s no better time to get involved, so “press play” with me and make sure you’re registered for Annual Conference 2024!  

Wesleyann Johnson
MLA 2024 Annual Conference Chair