Remembering Randy Riley

The Michigan Library Association mourns the loss of Randy Riley and expresses our deepest sympathies to his family and friends, the Library of Michigan team, and the hundreds of colleagues and friends across Michigan’s library community.

As Michigan’s State Librarian since 2014, Randy’s passion, character, and commitment to the betterment of libraries were always evident in his work. Today, MLA honors the life and legacy of our friend and library champion, Randy.

Randy brought a calm and thoughtful approach to his work that resonated with peers and colleagues across library types, associations, and organizations. His contributions and collaboration with so many of us have made for a stronger Michigan library community. As an ex officio member of the MLA Board of Directors during his tenure as State Librarian, Randy’s voice and institutional knowledge were instrumental in helping MLA envision what’s possible and how to achieve it in service to all Michigan libraries. 

When MLA needed Randy’s expertise on an issue, he was always there for us. Whether he was on the other end of a phone call or presenting to MLA members online, Randy was quick and eager to commit his time to education and development in the Michigan library community. During a period of significant challenge for libraries over the last several years, Randy’s stable and steadfast leadership will be remembered by many.

The impact of losing Randy feels, in many ways, incalculable. His leadership, integrity, and presence shaped Michigan’s library community in ways that will continue beyond his tenure. While we grieve Randy’s absence, we know his example will continue to guide the work of Michigan libraries. At MLA, as we reflect on Randy’s enduring contributions, we send our condolences to his family during this difficult time.

Please visit the Library of Michigan Foundation website to share memories of Randy with his family and his Library of Michigan team. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, those interested may make contributions to the Randy Riley Memorial Fund through the Library of Michigan Foundation.