Governor Whitmer Releases Updated Workplace Standards for Retail Including Libraries, Reopens More Regions Under MI Safe Start Plan

June 5, 2020

On June 5, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Orders 2020-114 and 2020-115 to reopen more regions and economic sectors under the MI Safe Start Plan.

Starting on June 10, Regions 6 and 8 — which include much of northern Michigan and all of the Upper Peninsula — will advance to Phase 5 of the Governor’s MI Safe Start Plan. Phase 5 allows the reopening of salons, movie theaters, and gyms, subject to safety protocols and procedures designed to minimize the spread of COVID-19.

Please Continue to Reach Out to Legislators

May 27, 2020

MLA continues to reach out to all of our Senators and House members to remind them of the importance of libraries throughout Michigan. Last month we contacted every State Representative and Senator to remind them that while libraries' doors are closed, libraries continue to offer many valuable digital services online. We shared that even though library buildings are closed to the public, many have taken this opportunity to expand access to digital resources and online services, launch virtual programs, and coordinate services with local government agencies. We reminded them that library patrons can access eBooks, audiobooks, online learning and tutoring help. We shared that libraries are engaging readers of all ages by streaming book discussions, author visits and storytimes, offering access to skill-building activities and resume development for those who have been recently unemployed, as well as offering telehealth resources and trustworthy public health information.