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Written by Steven K. Bowers, 2017-2018 MLA President   

President's Update - April 12, 2018

MLA 2017-18 President Steven Bowers

This month I want to send an encouraging welcome to the MLA Academic Libraries Interest Group! Last month I noted that the group will be led by Monique Oldfield (Wayne State University) and Jill Sodt (Mott Community College) this year. Make sure to check the MLA newsletter to take a look at their article about getting the group started. I want to thank them and the MLA office for all of the work they have already done to help the group get going.

The Academic Libraries Interest Group will serve multiple purposes. First and foremost, the group and their work will be defined by those who wish to participate. The presence of academic libraries in MLA is an important part of our past, our present, and our future. This interest group will be a new way for members to connect and promote academic library initiatives within MLA. Secondly, MLA is also a Chapter of the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL). The interest group will also work to fulfill the purposes of ACRL Chapters.

I am looking forward to the interest group's initial virtual meeting to start the planning for the next year. The group will elect a Chair each year and will also define other positions and work groups as needed. The Chair will continue to serve as the ACRL Chapter Representative for MLA as well, to connect our state to national conversations.

As an ACRL Chapter the interest group will work to promote academic libraries in Michigan as well as ACRL initiatives. Through ACRL they will be able to offer free webinar viewings each year for anyone in MLA that is interested. The group will work to keep the MLA membership informed of ACRL activities and everything that our State Chapter is doing. The Academic Libraries Interest Group (and all others) are invited to provide articles and updates to be sent out in MLA membership communications.

I see the Academic Libraries Interest Group as another way to connect members to each other and to other groups in our communities. We are fortunate to be connected to so many strong professional associations and we are looking forward to working together with MLA, ALA, ACRL, and Mi-ALA to support and promote academic libraries in Michigan and beyond. Get involved now!

Build MLA by asking yourself, What Can I Do?

-Steve

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