March 2026 - Michlib-l - liblists.org

LM 2026 LSTA Public Library Services Grant Program - Deadline Reminder!!
by Reish, Karren (MDE) 16 Mar '26

16 Mar '26

Just a reminder that the Public Library Services grant program applications are due in a week and a half. The deadline is next Wednesday, March 25th at 5:00 PM. Please reach out with any questions! 02/26/2026 The Library of Michigan Public Library Services grant program is back! LM is pleased to announce the 2026 grant application is open. Applications are due March 25th at 5:00 PM. Detailed information on the grant program, including timeline, applicant eligibility, and the application is available at www.michigan.gov/lsta<http://www.michigan.gov/lsta> in Public Library Services Grant program section. Highlights are below. We recommend reading the documentation thoroughly before applying as there are significant changes from the previous years. Public Library Services 2026 Grant program This LSTA grant program is designed to support public library programming in the areas of literacy, digital access, and/or local history. For 2026, the grant program will fund kits that circulate to the public. Some examples are family literacy outreach backpacks, robotics or electronics kits, digital conversion kits, laptops or family oral history kits. Materials are for circulating to the public but may be used in demonstrations when not in circulation. Sample ideas are available here<https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CahbnKjwoHBZQh6FAWgu_Ea9EqxxpVOptdtrGiW…>. You may request multiple sets of the same kit or multiple types of kits. Grant Details: * Applications are due Wednesday, March 25th by 5:00 PM EST. * Branch locations are eligible for grants, however, ALL branch applications must be submitted and managed by the main or administrative branch. * A UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) number from SAM.gov is REQUIRED on the application. * Funding will be from $500 to $1,500 per location. * Funding is by reimbursement only. * Eligible applicants are Michigan public libraries that are legally established and currently eligible for state aid. * The grant period is from mid-April to August, with expenditures complete by July. An application webinar will be held Monday, March 9th at 2:00 PM. Registration is on the Public Library Services grants page. The grant program is lightly competitive. Applications and all accompanying documents are submitted online. If you have not applied for a grant or stipend since July 2025, please be aware the application system has changed, and you will need to set up a new login. This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services<https://www.imls.gov/>. Karren Reish Library Grants Coordinator Library of Michigan 517-241-0021 / www.mi.gov/lsta<http://www.mi.gov/lsta> [Michigan's Top 10 Strategic Education Plan]<https://www.michigan.gov/mde/resources/michigans-top-10-strategic-education…> [Michigan.gov/Vote logo Description automatically generated]<https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/> Get personalized voter information on early voting and other topics at Michigan.gov/Vote<https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/>.

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2026 Michigan Notable Books List and Author Tour Graphics
by Oster, Adam (MDE) 13 Mar '26

13 Mar '26

Hi All, Just wanted to alert everyone that the 2026 Michigan Notable Books List and Author Tour Graphics are now available on the Library of Michigan's website: https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/public/mnb/promotional-informati… You'll find a combination of social media graphics, posters, and bookmarks that are free for anyone to use for either highlighting the 2026 list of Michigan Notable Books selections or for the Author Tour if your library was selected to host one of the 2026 authors. Nearly everything is available as Canva templates. If you do need a file in a different format (e.g. PDF, JPG), let us know by reaching out at Michigan-Notable-Books(a)Michigan.gov<mailto:Michigan-Notable-Books@Michigan.gov> or 517-335-1477. We appreciate everyone's patience as there were a couple of hiccups along the way of rolling all this out. We will soon announce the full Author Tour on our website soon. There are a few locations still finalizing their program date/time with their assigned author. For anything related to the Michigan Notable Books program, be sure to go to www.Michigan.gov/NotableBooks<http://www.michigan.gov/NotableBooks>. Thanks! Adam Adam Oster, Community Engagement Librarian Library of Michigan Michigan Department of Education 702 W. Kalamazoo St. P.O. Box 30007 Lansing, MI 48909-7507 ostera(a)michigan.gov<mailto:ostera@michigan.gov> | 517-335-1469 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan<http://www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan> Follow us: Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/libraryofmichigan/> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/libraryofmich> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/libraryofmichigan/>

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MCLS Virtual Dialogue is Thursday - Register Now!
by Jenny Kobiela-Mondor 13 Mar '26

13 Mar '26

The Midwest Collaborative for Library Services will continue our Virtual Dialogue series on Thursday, March 19, 10:30 a.m. to noon Eastern (9:30-11 a.m. Central). We will discuss how we can embrace impactful change and move beyond “business as usual” in our libraries and communities. MCLS Virtual Dialogues are designed to provide those in the library industry opportunities to connect and engage around topics that impact the way we work. These dialogues are not workshops or webinars; they are a way to engage with others in the profession through facilitated dialogue. Please plan to have your microphone enabled and camera on to participate. Registration is open at https://www.mcls.org/training-events/events/virtual-dialogues. If you have any questions, please reach out to engagement(a)mcls.org<mailto:engagement@mcls.org>. We look forward to connecting with you! Jenny Kobiela-Mondor (she/her) Library Strategist 517-481-2013 kobielamondorj(a)mcls.org<mailto:kobielamondorj@mcls.org> [cid:8cc0acb3-34ec-4967-a957-fa7dee683b00] Website<https://www.mcls.org/> | Newsletter<https://www.mcls.org/news/enewsletter> | Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/mcls.org> | LinkedIn<https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwest-collaborative-for-library-services>

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Youth & Teen Services Updates
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 13 Mar '26

13 Mar '26

Still time to register... Looking for affordable and engaging Teen programming this summer? Register now for our Food Literacy workshop: Gather 'Round the Table with Teens! In-person workshops, 10:00 am ET - 5:00 pm ET for the following dates/locations: * Monday, April 20, 2026 - Register for this session<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> at Jackson District Library's Meijer Branch, 4699 Airport Road, Jackson, 49202. * Wednesday, April 22, 2026 - Register for this session<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> at Traverse Area District Library's Woodmere Library, 610 Woodmere Ave., Traverse City 49686. * Friday, April 24, 2026 - Register for this session<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> at Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley St., Flint, 48503. Food literacy is essential for teens to understand and learn about food in a positive way, including food skills and best food practices. Young Adult library library staff will benefit from this workshop designed to guide libraries to in turn support teens as they explore the impact of food on so many levels of their lives. Many people over the years have requested more training around food programming, so now is your chance to register! This project is made possible by grant funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) administered by the State of Michigan through the Library of Michigan. Resources No Kid Hungry Join in the 2026 Summer Meals Webinar Series! This year we will be joined by a superstar line-up of speakers, including sponsors, partners, state agency staff, and No Kid Hungry Program experts. We will go in-depth on several topics to help you take your summer meals program to the next level. Tune in to learn the basics of Rural Non-Congregate meal service, menu building, community engagement, delivery models, program advocacy, outreach, and so much more! Session topics, dates, times, and registration can all be found here<https://events.zoom.us/ev/AojSH_2W2p1cM-99T725YvJvoicKcbWDbZbwFIfP8_vOwRRM5…>. Reach Out & Readc Michigan Reach Out & Read<https://www.reachoutandreadmi.org/partnerwithus> is the only organization working directly with pediatric medical providers to share the lifelong benefits that result from families reading with their children every day. By reaching children during the critical early years, we can combat the effects of inequality so that family income, race, and geography are no longer predictors of kindergarten readiness, school, and life success. Recently the MI PR Group for Libraries hosted a webinar with Reach Out & Read, you can watch the recording<https://youtu.be/BNm1l9E_OyU?si=UWO1F0SFCgRI4iCa> and consider partnering opportunities. AI Social Companions and Youth: What Parents Need to Know Parenting Tip Sheets! A significant number of today’s teens are regular users of AI chatbot tools as social companions. It’s not just teens – research also indicates that 20% of preteens and 9% of 8-9 year-olds are using AI chatbots as well. What are the risks to children and adolescents of attachment to human-mimicking bots as social companions and even friends? How can parents and caregivers encourage the development and practice of critical real-world social skills in the age of AI companions? Access: https://www.childrenandscreens.org/learn-explore/research/ai-social-compani… In the News... The Pout-Pout Fish Movie<https://youtu.be/NhQfp1eITTY?si=TKQ3ws02Na-tIWJd> is opening Nationwide on March 20th! (Picture book by Michigan author Deborah Diesen) Michigan may require intensive reading training for elementary teachers<https://bridgemi.com/talent-education/michigan-may-require-intensive-readin…> - Bridge MI, 3/11/26 A Nationwide Book Ban Bill Has Been Introduced in the House of Representatives<https://bookriot.com/hr7661-book-ban-legislation/> <https://bookriot.com/hr7661-book-ban-legislation/> - Book Riot, 2/26/26 Brooklyn Public Library just dropped a powerful new immigration-themed reading list<https://www.timeout.com/newyork/news/brooklyn-public-library-just-dropped-a…> <https://www.timeout.com/newyork/news/brooklyn-public-library-just-dropped-a…> - TimeOut NY, 2/12/26 Stay warm & safe with snow storms coming our way this weekend! Best, Cathy Lancaster Youth Services Coordinator Library of Michigan 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48915 My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers - See www.mypronouns.org<http://www.mypronouns.org/> to learn more. LancasterC5(a)michigan.gov<mailto:LancasterC5@michigan.gov> | 517-335-8129 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan<http://www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan> Follow us: Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/libraryofmichigan/> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/libraryofmich> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/libraryofmichigan/> Join the MiYouth<https://liblists.org/postorius/lists/miyouth.liblists.org/> Listserv, created for Michigan public library staff to share and discuss children and teen programming and services. [Michigan's Top 10 Strategic Education Plan] [Michigan.gov/Vote logo Description automatically generated]<https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/> Get personalized voter information on early voting and other topics at Michigan.gov/Vote<https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/>.

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*new* "Dinosaurs 101" webinar with CSLP & the American Museum of Natural History!
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 13 Mar '26

13 Mar '26

Dinosaurs 101 for Librarians with Raoul Seroy Register to attend LIVE online: https://amnh.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6S0j27rqSQ6GQZIZuy0Oeg#/registrati… Friday, March 27 at 1:30 pm ET Join CSLP for a 30 minute "Dinosaurs 101 for Librarians" webinar on the core concepts and techniques used by the American Museum of Natural History in teaching paleontology to young learners, followed by additional time for Q&A. Raoul Seroy, Children and Family Learning Educator at the Museum, will guide participants through foundational concepts to connect with young learners and get them excited about paleontology. Raoul will share how AMNH teaches large and abstract ideas, such as exploring deep time and fossilization, to elementary-aged students and foster lifelong learning and a sense of wonder for the natural world. This live session, hosted by AMNH and part of a new professional development webinar series for CSLP members, will feature a presentation by Raoul followed by an interactive Q&A session with participants. If you cannot attend the webinar live, then no need to register. The recording will be publicly shared on CSLP's Professional Development<https://www.cslpreads.org/professional-development/> website. AMNH is a new partner<https://mailchi.mp/cslpreads/cslp-newsletter-february2026-6750969?e=[UNIQID]> to CSLP for Unearth A Story(tm)! You can find their new guide just for librarians<https://www.cslpreads.org/amnh-guide/?mc_cid=885520a920&mc_eid=UNIQID#guide> <https://www.cslpreads.org/amnh-guide/?mc_cid=885520a920&mc_eid=UNIQID#guide> on the CSLP website. Public libraries in Michigan are members of CSLP thanks to the Library of Michigan with support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. CSLP Manual codes for Summer 2026 were sent out in October to library directors. If you did not receive your code, feel free to request access using this form<https://forms.gle/dqayaNGXo5JbbdDp9> and inputting a valid work email. Thank you, Cathy Lancaster Youth Services Coordinator Library of Michigan 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48915 My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers - See www.mypronouns.org<http://www.mypronouns.org/> to learn more. LancasterC5(a)michigan.gov<mailto:LancasterC5@michigan.gov> | 517-335-8129 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan<http://www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan> Follow us: Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/libraryofmichigan/> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/libraryofmich> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/libraryofmichigan/> Join the MiYouth<https://liblists.org/postorius/lists/miyouth.liblists.org/> Listserv, created for Michigan public library staff to share and discuss children and teen programming and services. [Michigan's Top 10 Strategic Education Plan] [Michigan.gov/Vote logo Description automatically generated]<https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/> Get personalized voter information on early voting and other topics at Michigan.gov/Vote<https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/>.

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Forthcoming Book: Michigan's First Female State Librarian
by Jim Flury 13 Mar '26

13 Mar '26

Good Morning, Even after all these years the previously TLN only Collection Development Lists (Statewide since October, 2024!) project [ https://tln.org/page/bibz | https://tln.org/page/bibz ] is still a lot of fun to work on. Has your library signed up yet? The really neat part is coming across a book that you just know libraries across the state are going to want to be aware of. One such title is scheduled to be published by Michigan State University Press in November. The book title is In the Charge of a Woman: Harriet Tenney, Michigan's First Female State Librarian by Valerie R. Marvin. Here is a link to the MSU Press info re. the book. [ https://msupress.org/9781611865844/in-the-charge-of-a-woman/ | https://msupress.org/9781611865844/in-the-charge-of-a-woman/ ] Let those author talks commence! Jim Jim Flury Technical Services Manager The Library Network 41365 Vincenti Court Novi, MI 48375 248-536-3100, ext 133 Note New Fax Number: 248-716-5584 Note New Email Address:jflury@tln.org

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Join UMSI's livestream today at noon: Prof. Amelia Acker, author of ARCHIVING MACHINES: FROM PUNCHCARDS TO PLATFORMSJoin UMSI's livestream today at noon: Prof. Amelia Acker, author of ARCHIVING MACHINES: FROM PUNCHCARDS TO PLATFORMS
by Kristin Fontichiaro 13 Mar '26

13 Mar '26

Join UMSI today for a livestream at noon! Data, Archives and Information in Society (DAIS) Seminar: Amelia Acker, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey TODAY: Fri 3/13/26, 12-1:30pm, Zoom This book talk examines how data archiving processes, the computational techniques of storage, exchange, and transmission, have transformed memory practices and created new regimes of asymmetric access. Drawing on fieldwork with historic computing machines, early digital data formats, personal digital assistants and early mobile apps, I trace how ‘archive’ became a verb in computing cultures, and how this shift enabled corporate platforms to assert functional sovereignty over collective memory. While most critiques of big data focus on extraction and prediction, I argue that long-term storage and asymmetric access to data constitute a historically specific regime that determines what counts as memory in a time of platform capitalism. Through key scenes in the history of data management from the 1960s-2010s, I demonstrate how techniques of distancing separate data creators from the archives they create. These distancing techniques operate through embedded practices like automatic saving, cloud storage, and mobile apps that condition users to cede control while experiencing greater device interaction. By examining moments when institutions failed and corporations succeeded in controlling access to data archives, Archiving Machines offers both a critical genealogy of our current condition and grounds for imagining alternative futures for our digital cultural memory. Read ARCHIVING MACHINES for free here https://direct.mit.edu/books/oa-monograph/6055/Archiving-MachinesFrom-Punch… Register for today’s Zoom: https://umich.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oveykIL0QcuF6zdtoQaIag#/registrat… -- Kristin Fontichiaro Clinical Professor University of Michigan School of Information 4466 Leinweber Building 2200 Hayward Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2121 734.647.3593 Book an Appointment <https://calendar.app.google/tiXYA8E8VX9bCQKZ8> *Projects:* Michigan Makers <http://michiganmakers.si.umich.edu> | Making in Michigan Libraries <http://makinglibraries.si.umich.edu> Data Literacy in High School <http://dataliteracy.si.umich.edu> | Public Library Management MOOC <http://ai.umich.edu/portfolio/public-library-management/>

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Cash prizes for contest
by Robin Seymour (Mason County District Library) 12 Mar '26

12 Mar '26

Our library is organizing an essay and art contest this spring, and are considering the prize we will offer to winners. Have any of your libraries offered a cash prize for a program or contest? If so, what was the source of these funds? Legal factors to consider? We have consistently offered gift cards donated from local businesses as reading challenge prizes, but wonder about broadening our scope to larger prize amounts not specific to a business. We have not yet consulted a lawyer, but wanted to pose this on the listserv to learn of others' experiences. Robin Seymour Head of Adult Services Mason County District Library https://www.masoncounty.lib.mi.us/ <http://www.masoncounty.lib.mi.us/> Ludington: (231) 843-8465 Scottville: (231) 757-2588

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Happenings at Laingsburg Public Library
by Sara Danford 12 Mar '26

12 Mar '26

Hi all, We have "local to Laingsburg" author, Julia Arly, coming to visit and all are invited. Her genre is Hockey and Curling Romance. Also, our Sled Dog and Native Art exhibit is coming to a close on the 27th so now is your last chance to make your way over. We had guests from Chesaning come visit yesterday. Thanks for sharing! Sara -- *Sara J. Danford* *Director, Laingsburg Public Library* *2**55 Grand River Rd. * *Laingsburg, Mi 48848* *517.651.6282* *"Go placidly amid the noise and haste* * and remember what peace there may be in silence"* * -Desiderata*

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[JOB] MakeIT Assistant
by Michael McEvoy 12 Mar '26

12 Mar '26

The Northville District Library seeks an enthusiastic candidate with strong customer service skills who enjoys working with new and emerging Makerspace technologies like 3D printing, laser cutting/engraving, vinyl cutting, and more. MakeIT Assistant – Part Time 10 to 20 Hours per week Hours will include weekday mornings, evenings and a regular Sunday shift. Pay Rate: $15.26/hr to start Essential Duties Include: - Answer questions and job requests from makerspace patrons, referring to other Library departments as necessary. - Assist running various job requests using the Library’s Makerspace equipment. - Perform basic equipment maintenance. - Assist library patrons with use of Makerspace equipment (3D printer, laser cutter/engraver, sublimation printer, vinyl plotter, sewing and embroidery machine, etc.) - Other work duties as assigned by the supervisor. Required Qualifications: - Demonstrable aptitude in using and explaining the usage of Makerspace equipment. - Strong familiarity with Windows, Apple, Android, Office, Google, and other popular computing and mobile technologies and environments. - Strong communication skills, including ability to adapt to a variety of age groups and experience levels to provide effective support and guidance. - Patient, friendly, and approachable demeanor. Works well with others. - Excellent problem-solving skills. - Ability to learn to use new technologies, sometimes with little formal instruction or training. - Candidates must be at least 17 years old (all hires under the age of 18 will be required to provide a valid Michigan work permit (CA-7) prior to their first day of work). - Willingness to seek out assistance as needed in answering questions. Deadline for application: Open Until Filled Apply online at: https://northvillelibrary.bamboohr.com/careers/31?source=aWQ9MTg%3D -- Michael McEvoy mmcevoy(a)northvillelibrary.org Head of Information Technology Northville District Library http://www.northvillelibrary.org TEXT ONLY/NO VOICE CALL : (248) 982-4918 Voice Phone via INNOCAPTION: (248) 381-0181 Remember, Technical Solutions to Social issues are inherently flawed! .==. ()''()-. .---. ;--; / .'_:___". _..'. __'. |__ --==|'-''' \'...; [ ] :[| |---\ |__| I=[| .' '. / / ____| : '._ |-/.____.' | : : /___\ /___\ '-'._----' p.s. My working day may not be your working day. Please do not feel obligated to respond immediately. I am the kind of person who answers emails at all hours...

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