Michigan Library Association

Note From Dillon

February 22, 2023

Dillon Geshel

For MLA, the beginning of a new year is an exciting time. As we settle into another year of work in service to member libraries, we reach out with our annual Call for Ambassadors. It’s an opportunity for the organization to remind our membership about the many volunteer opportunities available, re-engage with longtime volunteers, and welcome many new faces to our work groups and committees. As a membership organization, the work and success of MLA is only made possible by a committed membership base that steps up to help us achieve our goals. From conference planning to defending the freedom to read, mentoring new leaders and so much more, MLA ambassadors transform our priorities into real value for the membership through their commitment and hard work. And guess what? MLA is ready to find an ambassador role for every interested member. Everyone is welcome, and the more folks that step up, the stronger we are as an organization.

MLA 2021 Virtual Schedule at a Glance

*Schedule is subject to change.

Wednesday, October 13, 2021

7:45 Stretch in the Stacks

8:00 Coffee with Vendors

8:45 Welcome Remarks

9:00 Opening Keynote with Susan Banks: The Future Can’t Wait: New Fuel for Post-Pandemic Libraries

10:00 Vendor Showcase

11:00 Education Sessions

11:00 Fireside Chat: MLA AMA

12:00 Vendor Showcase

12:00 Discussion Rooms

1:00 Fireside Chat: All About Penal Fines with Hon. Tom Boyd

1:00 Education Sessions

2:10 Education Sessions

2:10 Fireside Chat: LIBRARY GREEN SPACES

4:00 Afternoon Keynote with Jewell Parker Rhodes: Building Connections and Empowering Youth

6:30 Michigan Library Awards Broadcast

Thursday, October 14, 2021

7:45 Stretch in the Stacks

8:00 Coffee with Vendors

9:00 Morning Keynote with Dan Cable: Becoming Exceptional

10:00 Vendor Showcase

11:00 Education Sessions

12:00 Vendor Showcase

12:00 Discussion Rooms

1:00 Education Sessions

1:00 Fireside Chat

2:10 Education Sessions

3:00 MLA Annual Meeting

4:00 Closing Keynote with Bill Baker

Wednesday, September 30, 2020 12:00 AM
MLA Connect Webinar: Findings and Resources From the REopening Archives, Libraries, and Museums (REALM) Project Wednesday, September 30, 2020 1:00 – 2:00 pm As libraries across the country begin to resume operations and reopen to the public, the need for clear information to support the handling of core museum, library, and archival materials has become increasingly urgent. Through the REopening Archives, Libraries, and Museums (REALM) Project, OCLC, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and Battelle are conducting research on how long the COVID-19 virus survives on materials that are prevalent in libraries, archives, and museums. Join this session to learn more about the testing process and results, how project resources can inform your local decisions, and what you can expect from the project in the months to come.
View Webinar Recording

Local Library Funding From Voter-Approved Millages Facing Opposition

What Would Happen if Libraries Were No Longer Funded by Property Taxes?

A small group in Michigan is questioning if property taxes should be eliminated by changing the Michigan Constitution and is actively working to get this question onto the November ballot. Over 446,000 valid voter signatures are needed by July 8, 2024, to make this a reality. And then it would be left to the voters.

2019 Thumbs Up! Award Teen Vote Open Through May 31

We are pleased to announce the top ten titles for the 2019 Thumbs Up! Award. A group of youth and teen librarians worked throughout the year to read from a list of more than 150 titles to identify the top selections using the following criteria: story, setting, theme, voice, accuracy, style, characters and design.