Open Meetings Act Changes for Libraries Introduced in the Michigan House as HB5689

Allowing library boards to meet remotely has taken on a new purpose with increased engagement/attendance of the public in remote meetings, and recognizing the extreme geographic distances traveled by many board members to participate at in-person meetings. 

The Michigan Library Association (MLA) is pleased to inform you that yesterday, Representative John Damoose (District 107) has introduced House Bill 5689 which will update Section 3a (MCL 15.263a) as amended by 2021 PA 54 of the Open Meetings Act to allow cooperative library boards and local library boards to meet virtually if they choose.  The bill was referred to the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee.

How Libraries Can Help You Celebrate the Holidays

December 3, 2021

The holiday season is finally here! Looking for a way to jazz up your family traditions or looking to create new ones? Your local library can help you do just that

There are so many ways your library can help you celebrate!

Letter From MLA Staff

November 18, 2021

At this time of thanksgiving as the holidays approach, the MLA staff took a few minutes to reflect on our work and why we are thankful for MLA, libraries and library staff. Our days are filled with supporting you and making sure all needs are met to the best of our ability. Each of you brings your own unique talents and wisdom to this profession and it is our honor to work with you every day.

Seeking Database Coordinator for MLA

Jump in and connect with statewide library members! Jump in and connect with statewide library members! 

The Michigan Library Association (MLA) is a statewide advocacy and service organization with close to 2000 members throughout Michigan. Our mission is to lead the advancement of all libraries through advocacy, education and engagement. MLA is seeking a Database Coordinator to work in a team-oriented remote environment. 

The Database Coordinator is an entry-level position and will assist senior staff members of MLA working primarily with MLA’s Association Management System to maintain the member database including member, vendor and sponsorship records; build and troubleshoot elists, forms, and registrations; and update the MLA website.  Also responsible for support of MLA events and other general operations. A full job description can be viewed here:  MLA Database Coordinator 2021.pdf

Movement on the MLA Board of Directors

October 28, 2021

It is with regret that MLA has accepted the resignation of Kelly Richards as the MLA Board President. Kelly has accepted the position of Director of the Free Library of Philadelphia. While Kelly won’t be leaving Michigan until the middle of January, he let us know that his concentration would need to be focused on closing down his role at the Muskegon Area District Library and putting his full energy into preparing for his new role in Philadelphia. 

Penal Fines Distributed to Public Libraries

October 28, 2021

While it is true that penal fines have never been intended to be a primary source of a library’s budget, some Michigan public libraries rely on penal fines as an important and reliable “piece of the pie.” Linked here is the chart of penal fine distributions for public libraries compiled by Kathy Webb at the Library of Michigan.