March 2026 - Michlib-l - liblists.org

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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Weeding Your Library of Things
by Danielle Hansard 12 Mar '26

12 Mar '26

Hi all, For those of you who have a library of things/tool library/game & puzzle library, etc., what do you do with your items after weeding? Our collection is coming up on three years, and space is limited, so I'd like to remove items that aren't being circulated. My main questions are: 1. Do you repurpose the items for library use? For example, use in programs, crafts, etc., or do you give the items away to patrons & staff? 2. Has anyone tried selling the items? 3. Do you know of any legal issues involving giving away or selling the items? Thanks, Danielle  [A logo for a library Description automatically generated] Danielle Hansard Adult Services Librarian (734) 326-6123 ext 2822 6123 Central City Parkway, Westland, MI 48185 westlandlibrary.org<http://westlandlibrary.org/>

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Upskill: 4 Sessions Left - Cybersecurity Training Opportunity for Library Staff
by Quick, Shauna (MDE) 11 Mar '26

11 Mar '26

Hello, Reminder about this cybersecurity training! ByWater Solutions and Novare Library Services are offering a Digital Defense: Strengthening Library Cybersecurity<https://bywatersolutions.com/news/bywater-solutions-announces-cybersecurity…> Webinar Series this spring. It’s a six-part series featuring expert presenters on practical cybersecurity topics for libraries. All sessions are free, open to anyone, and will be recorded<https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV_OXyJ1D3BhAbJ-skKw88HOqtkBqnTfp>, so you can watch live or later. Here’s what’s coming up: 1. Mar 18 | 2:00 PM EST Best Practices for Securing Public PCs with David Daghita 2. Apr 15 | 2:00 PM EST (Corrected Date) Small Budget, Big Defense: Free and Low-Cost Tools That Protect Your Library with Justin Denton 3. May 13 | 2:00 PM EST Love, Lies, and Loss: A Librarian’s Guide to Romance Scams with Tracy Z. Maleeff (InfoSecSherpa) 4. Jun 10 | 2:00 PM EST Backups and Beyond: Disaster Recovery Planning for Libraries with Justin Denton For more information and to register visit: https://bywatersolutions.com/news/bywater-solutions-announces-cybersecurity… Based on the session descriptions, this series looks like a great way to get clear, practical advice on improving your library’s cybersecurity. The research and resources in this email are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. The Library of Michigan cannot endorse specific vendors or brands. Libraries should contact vendors and other experts for advice and to ensure that their choice reflects the unique needs of that library. Always, Shauna Quick Library Technology Access Consultant Library of Michigan, 702 W. Kalamazoo, Lansing, MI 48915 quicks1(a)michigan.gov<mailto:quicks1@michigan.gov> | 517-335-0126 she/her/hers [cid:d767ce93-fbe1-4bc4-9699-68df73647b79]<https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/05de81e9d972497b8f56a791b405b02e…> Book time to meet with me<https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/05de81e9d972497b8f56a791b405b02e…> [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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Job Posting: Library Assistant – Wacousta Branch (Grand Ledge Area District Library, MI)
by Lise Mitchell 11 Mar '26

11 Mar '26

Love storytimes, STEAM programs, and connecting with families & seniors? The Grand Ledge Area District Library, in partnership with *Grand Ledge Public Schools*, is excited to reopen its *Wacousta Branch*. GLADL is seeking an energetic *Library Assistant (20–30 hours/week)* to help bring vibrant programs, outreach, and library services back to the Wacousta community. This position focuses on *creative programming and community outreach*—leading storytimes, crafts, STEAM activities, and early literacy programs while building connections with families, volunteers, schools, and community organizations. If you enjoy connecting with people, sharing stories and ideas, and helping a library grow its presence in a community, we’d love to hear from you. *Starting Wage:* $14.00/hour to start or higher depending on qualifications *Schedule:* 20–30 hours/week; some evenings and weekends required *Apply by:* March 27, 2026 (or until filled) Learn more and apply: https://gladl.org/wacousta/ Grand Ledge Area District Library – Michigan *An Equal Opportunity Employer* -- Lise Mitchell, Library Director director(a)gladl.org 517-622-3550 Grand Ledge Area District Library 131 E. Jefferson Grand Ledge, MI 48837

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Full-Time Youth Services Librarian Position @Brighton District Library
by Laurie Walters 11 Mar '26

11 Mar '26

See job posting here: https://brightonlibrary.info/employment-opportunities/ Laurie Walters Head of Youth Services Brighton District Library 100 Library Drive, Brighton, MI 48116 810-229-6571 Ext. 209 lwalters(a)brightonlibrary.info

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Director Search
by John Sheridan 11 Mar '26

11 Mar '26

Due to the coming retirement of our current director the West Branch District Library is looking for a new director. DIRECTOR WEST BRANCH DISTRICT LIBRARY The West Branch District Library is looking for a director due to the retirement of our current director. We are seeking a person who has good communication skills, who can inspire and support an engaged staff and lead in the organization of a solid an exciting schedule of programs. The library is funded with two .4 mil millages both of which will expire in December of 2030. It is a class three library with a staff of five people. We have an active Friends group which operates a used book store. We are a district library with a board of six trustees appointed by each township and the city that forms the library district; we have six alternates to sub for the trustees when needed. The director reports to the board at all board meetings. The director is an ex officio member of the board and presents a director’s report at every board meeting. Must attend the New Director’s program presented by the Library of Michigan within the first year. Director’s Responsibilities: Manages the daily operations of the library. Implements policies and procedures of the library. Must have experience developing and working with a budget Oversees staff and performs annual reviews in February. Writes Annual Library Report for the board and public in September. Contacts auditor for annual library audit to be done in October. Fills out and files State Aid Annual Report in October. Reads book reviews and orders titles presented by staff and chosen by the director. Represents library at the White Pine Library Cooperative, Valley Library Consortium, Michigan Library Association and the Library of Michigan and all State agencies. Works with staff to develop programs, speakers and entertainment. Works with staff to develop goals. Recruits, interviews and hires candidates for open staff positions. Resolves complaints and requests with discretion and good judgment within the guidelines of library policies and procedures. Works with the board to set a five year plan. Works with the policies committee to review policies and procedures on a regular basis. Must be computer literate. Hires contractors for the maintenance of buildings and grounds. Member of the Friends of the Library. Counts down the till and the Friends cash box daily. Prepares time cards and bills to be taken to accountant for processing. Expected to take part in community events on behalf of the library. Other duties as assigned by the Board. Job type: Full time Pay: $55,000 to $65,000 depending on experience and education. Benefits: Dental and health insurance. Life insurance. Parental leave. MERS retirement plan. Paid time off. Prefer Masters degree in Library and/or Information Science. Bachelor’s degree is acceptable with library experience. Prefer a minimum of three years library experience. Send resume and cover letter to wbranch(a)westbranchlibrary.org. Closes April 15, 2026

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