Michigan Library Association

Note From Debbie

May 22, 2025

A longtime and well-respected member of MLA came up to me at Advocacy Day while I was grabbing a cup of coffee. While I don’t remember her exact words, the sentiment went something like this…”You have done great things for MLA, and while we will miss you, I want you to know that you have set this organization up for success. You have instituted a succession plan for leadership that will guide us well into the future. I’ve been around a long time, and I don’t recall anyone doing this for MLA in the past. You have shown your professionalism and how much you care, from the start of your tenure to the very last day.”

Thank you, Julie Farkas, for your kind words and for validating the work that goes into the forward momentum of MLA. It is always good to hear that our members truly support and know the hard work to solidify the decisions we make.

Youth Literary Awards Top Ten Titles

It is our pleasure to share the Top Ten Titles of the 2025 Mitten, YouPer, and Thumbs Up! Awards!

MLA 2025 Board Election Results

The votes are in! MLA held elections from March 31– April 21. This year MLA members voted for an MLA President-elect and four Member-at-Large Board positions.

One of the benefits and responsibilities of membership is the opportunity to vote for the leadership of the association. Thank you to all MLA members who voted.

And, many thanks to all the candidates for demonstrating leadership by agreeing to run. Our new Directors will serve for three-year terms beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2028.

Meet MLA's new Directors!

ALA Advocacy Alert: #FundLibraries in FY25

The U.S. House of Representatives has proposed a 15% cut to federal library funding. Contact your federal legislators using the ALA action center and tell them we need their help to preserve and expand this critical funding and the services it supports.

MLA Wins PACE Award for MI Right to Read Campaign

In 2023, MLA worked with PR firm Martin Waymire on a six-month campaign promoting the MI Right to Read coalition. This May, Martin Waymire and MLA were honored by the Central Michigan chapter of the Public Relations Society of America for the MI Right to Read campaign.

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