Michigan Library Association

MLA Advocacy - April 26, 2018

Interior image of the Michigan State Capitol Dome On Tuesday, the Senate Health Policy Committee took testimony on SB 828 and 829, which would provide liability protection for libraries when providing the life-saving opioid antidote naloxone, common brand name Narcan, to an overdosing patron.

Kristin Shelley, MLA Legislative Committee Chair and MLA President-elect gave an excellent overview of why the bills are needed. She also provided a heart wrenching story of a death that occurred at a library where she worked years ago. The committee heard first hand how a life might have been saved if naloxone had been available then.

Effective Immediately, All Michigan Libraries to Remain Closed to the Public Through May 28, 2020

April 30, 2020

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY - LIBRARIES TO REMAIN CLOSED THROUGH MAY 28, 2020.

On Thursday, April 30, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-69 which extends her previous order that temporarily closes certain places of public accommodation such as libraries, theaters, bars, casinos and more.

Read Executive Order 2020-69

This information sheet provided by the Library of Michigan contains details on the recent Executive Order 2020-69 and how it, in conjunction with EO 2020-59 (Stay at Home Order) and EO 2020-48 (Virtual Public Meetings) may affect library activities.

Please note that this document is only for research and information and is not to be considered legal advice. Libraries with questions or concerns regarding how executive orders may affect their operations should consult their attorney for advice.

Advocacy and Legislative Priorities Survey

We want to hear from you! Share your input on your library's biggest challenges and highest priorities by Friday, February 14.

The Michigan Library Association has made advocacy one of its highest priorities. It has never been more important for librarians, staff members, trustees, and others with a vested interest in their libraries, to convey and address their challenges and successes. We hope you will take time out of your busy day to help us pinpoint the highest priorities that face our field.

MLA Advocacy - May 24, 2018

Interior image of the Michigan State Capitol Dome

House Bill 5090 Reduces Library Funding

Thank you to everyone who contacted their Senators regarding HB 5090. There have been nearly 300 responses to our request urging your Senator to talk with Sen. Tom Casperson, chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. After a meeting with the Senator's office today, we learned the bill will not move until the fall. The Senator has agreed to work with us to help address our concerns and MLA will testify at the committee hearing next week.

Curbside Service and Reopening Plans for Michigan Libraries

April 30, 2020

Updated - EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY - LIBRARIES TO REMAIN CLOSED THROUGH MAY 28, 2020. On Thursday evening, April 20, 2020 Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-69 which extends her previous order that temporarily closes certain places of public accommodation such as libraries, theaters, bars, casino, and more.

You are all amazing! In just 24 hours, MLA heard from 331 library directors who stated that they will be ready to offer curbside services in their phased-in plans to reopen - 71% will offer curbside, 23% are unsure, and 6% will not offer it at all.

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