Michigan Library Association

Welcome to MLA's New Social Media Strategist Intern

Earlier this month, the MLA staff welcomed Thejas Varma to the MLA team as our Summer Semester 2023 Social Media Strategist Intern.

MLA Recognized with Two Awards!

We are proud to share that MLA has won the Michigan Humanities Outstanding Humanities Organization Award!

The Michigan Humanities Outstanding Humanities Organization recognizes organizations, corporate funders, foundations, and organizational partners that have made a lasting contribution over time (five years or more) to the cultural life of their communities or our state through their active support of and involvement in promoting public humanities.

Note From Debbie

A new fiscal year, which begins on July 1^st, is coming up fast and MLA is again preparing to look over our strategic plan, priorities and direction. I know you will all agree that our world has changed quite drastically, and the library profession must address challenges that a few short years ago were nowhere on our radar. What was important yesterday, may now be irrelevant. Challenges that once were thought solved…back on the plate.

In 2019, the MLA Board adopted a new mission, and a new vision statement that we continue to believe are relevant, address the needs of the field, and address the achievements of MLA.

MLA’s mission – The Michigan Library Association will lead the advancement of all libraries through advocacy, education and engagement.

MLA’s vision – The Michigan Library Association is an indispensable resource and valued leader, partner and advocate for Michigan libraries.

These statements guide our work. At the same time, we also took time to develop a robust and deep-rooted set of guiding principles and beliefs – diving deep to find commonly held truths that define our culture and beliefs. Our way of working is equally important as what we do. If we are to be effective, we must protect and advocate for these guiding principles in all that we undertake – and right now, our world demands it of us.

Dark Store Legislation

In response to the financial loss dark stores have caused communities throughout Michigan, State Senator Ed McBroom has introduced SB0019 and SB0020 that would change who oversees tax dispute cases.

Across Michigan, nearly 90% of funding for public libraries comes directly from local sources. With continued attempts by big box retailers to secure lowball evaluations of their storefronts, known as “dark store theory,” we have seen disastrous effects on local tax bases, city services, schools, and libraries. when successfully implemented by big box stores, this commonly used but disputed form of property tax evaluation diverts those critical operating funds away from public libraries.

Governor Whitmer’s Budget Recommendation

On February 8, Governor Gretchen Whitmer released her fifth executive budget recommendation of $79 Billion that “will lower costs, grow Michigan’s economy, and build a brighter future for anyone who wants to call Michigan home.” The Governor and State Budget Director Christopher Harkins outlined the proposal to a joint session of the Senate and House Appropriations committees.

More Articles...