Note From Debbie

February 27, 2025

MLA is proud to serve a vibrant and growing membership. Our mission and commitment drive everything we do and as we close in on the final meetings to update our strategic plan, we are even more committed. Every day we are making sure that you are informed through online and in-person events—through our pillars of advocacy, education, and engagement.

With that said, we want to make sure that you know that MLA’s leadership (on the board, staff, and committees) is closely monitoring the fast-paced discussions that are taking place in our country, and we will continue to strongly and loudly advocate for the essential and critical role that libraries play in our communities throughout Michigan.

I can say without hesitation that the kinds of colossal changes that are being proposed on a federal level concern us, as I’m sure they concern you as well. The massive federal layoffs; federal funds from IMLS that play a key role in sustaining statewide services like MeL, educational scholarships, and grants; the E-rate challenges; rapid implementation of AI, challenges to those who support DEI and so much more, will most likely affect us in one way or another. We are in unprecedented times (again) and we want you to know that MLA is paying attention…we are at the table…we are amplifying our voices…adding to our resolve to protect the foundation that we have built and the infrastructure that each of our libraries brings to the betterment of our communities. We must all stay connected.  

You are a vital part of our mission and we hope you never forget how important your voice is. We encourage you to regularly contact your state and federal legislators about those things that affect you, affect your library, and affect your community. If you don’t know your state and federal legislators, here is a link: www.milibraries.org/find-your-legislators. You are resourceful and committed professionals – continue to find the opportunities in this massive shakeup where libraries can step up. We will be needed, more so in the coming months, as the future quickly unfolds. Find your voice – let your concerns be known – find your lane and continue the good work you have always done!

In this rapidly changing environment, it is hard to keep up with all that is happening on a federal level and assess how it affects our libraries...what is true one day, may have changed the next, but we will do our best. We thank you for your work that impacts so many lives in Michigan and for your continued trust in MLA and investment in our steadfast mission.

Deborah E. Mikula
MLA Executive Director