DEADLINE EXTENDED! Nominations for the 2026 Michigan Library Awards Due July 31

We’ve extended the deadline! There’s still time to shine a spotlight on the outstanding people and libraries making a difference across Michigan. MLA Award nominations are now due Friday, July 31!

Nominate a colleague, library leader, advocate, staff member, or library for an MLA Award and help us celebrate the people and organizations whose leadership, innovation, dedication, and service strengthen libraries and communities across Michigan.

The 2026 Michigan Library Awards will take place on Wednesday, October 28, during the MLA 2026 Annual Conference at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace (formerly the Suburban Collection Showplace) in Novi. Join us for an evening of dinner, entertainment, and awards presentations celebrating the accomplishments of Michigan’s library community.

Self-nominations are encouraged! Nominators may also choose to have submissions considered for the 2027 awards cycle if they are not selected in 2026.

To learn more about MLA Awards as well as criteria and qualifications, click the links below to view the guidelines (pdfs):

• Support Staff of the Year Award
• Rising Star Award
• Heart of a Champion Award
• Public Librarian of the Year Award
• Lifetime Achievement Award
• Frances H. Pletz Award for Excellence in Service to Youth
• Intellectual Freedom Award
• NEW in 2026! MLA LEAD Award: Library Excellence in Access and Diversity

Don't miss this extended opportunity to submit a nomination and celebrate the amazing individuals and libraries in the Michigan library community!

Submit a Nomination