FY 2027 State Budget Includes Increased Investment in Michigan Libraries

The Michigan Legislature officially approved the FY 2027 state budget on Friday, July 3, following a nearly 24-hour legislative session that extended through the night as lawmakers worked to complete the budget before the July Fourth holiday weekend. On July 21, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the budget into law.

We are happy to share that the final budget includes $16,567,700 for State Aid to Libraries, along with a one-time $375,000 increase for State Aid and a one-time $375,000 increase for the Michigan eLibrary (MeL)—a total of $750,000 in additional investment for Michigan libraries. The budget also retains a federal authorization line item for library services and technology programs, allowing the Library of Michigan to receive and expend federal funds for statewide services, including MeL and MeLCat. The authorization is essential because, without it, Michigan cannot spend federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds awarded to support these critical statewide resources.

For several years, MLA has advocated for increased state investment in MeL to strengthen and sustain statewide library services while continuing to protect access to available federal funding. The continued inclusion of the federal LSTA authorization, coupled with this year's $375,000 one-time investment in MeL, represents meaningful progress toward ensuring the long-term stability of MeL and MeLCat, even amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding future federal library funding.

Throughout this year's budget process, MLA advocated for a $500,000 increase to State Aid to Libraries and a $900,000 one-time General Fund appropriation for MeL. While the final budget does not fully meet those requests, the funding secured for libraries is significant in a year when many state departments experienced funding reductions.

Thank you to everyone who contacted legislators, participated in Michigan Library Advocacy Day, shared your library's impact, and responded to MLA action alerts. Your advocacy helped demonstrate the value of Michigan libraries and the importance of sustainable funding that strengthens State Aid, protects MeL and MeLCat, and ensures every Michigander has access to high-quality library services. Thank you for staying engaged!

View the signed omnibus budget, Senate Bill 878 of 2026 (Public Act 21 of 2026) (pdf).