May 2026 - Michlib-l - liblists.org

Children Programming Questions
by Jessica Oswald 22 May '26

22 May '26

Good Morning! In the midst of Summer Reading, I'm also putting together my fall calendar & have a few questions & looking for some input on programming! 1. Storytime: Our Storytime has grown over the last two years & now sees on average 50-60 people (adults & kids included) weekly. It can be slightly chaotic. Currently, adding another section is not an option. Any advice on controlling the chaos? Or how to make it less overwhelming & more fun & interactive? Our Storytime is geared towards toddlers/preschool but of course we have all ages that attend. 2. STEAM/Coding Programs: I recently met with our local elementary STEAM teacher & we are looking at offering a STEAM/coding program geared toward elementary students after school. If this is something you offer, what has or hasn't worked for you? Do you focus on just lower or upper elementary or do one large group? 3. Meeting The Helpers Program: We're always looking at involving other professions in the community into our programming & I'm looking at some type of "Meet The Helpers" program. We would have firefighters, police, counselor, or even dentists or doctors come in to talk about what they do for the community in an age-appropriate manner. Debating whether to build this into our Storytime once a month or make it a separate program that older homeschool children & families can attend. Is this something anyone else does? And if anyone has suggestions on professions that could attend, I would appreciate it! Thank you all! [cid:3bcf1147-7d78-4386-8e9e-c8eb8da25aa9] Jessica L. Oswald Children and Teen Services Librarian Alma Public Library 500 E. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801 Phone: 989-463-3966 ex. 9581 Website: Alma Public Library<http://www.youseemore.com/alma/default.asp> Email: joswald(a)myalma.org<mailto:joswald@myalma.org>

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Seeking Advice
by Kristina Knezic 21 May '26

21 May '26

Hello All, This school year, our afterschool patrons have been much more disruptive than in years past. As the end of the school year approaches, the disruptive behavior seems to be increasing. My staff and I do work to enforce our behavior policy and follow the disciplinary steps, but it continues to be a struggle. Are there any other libraries out there (we are a Class III library) that employ a security guard during targeted times to help monitor patron behavior and enforce library policies? If so, do you use a security company, or have you hired someone such as a retired police officer? Has it helped? For libraries that experience issues during after school hours but do not employ a security guard, what solutions have you found to prevent or reduce disruptive behavior? We do try to be welcoming rather than confrontational, and we offer programming during afterschool hours, but we are still facing challenges. Thank you for your suggestions,

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Class 5 & 6 Staff Compensation Information?
by Dan Hutchins 21 May '26

21 May '26

Hi all, I’m starting work on our 2027 budget and I was wondering if there are any class 5 and 6 libraries who would be willing to share their most recent staff compensation information with me? I’m sharing the VBDL’s most recent compensation chart, which is accurate as of January 1, 2026. Thank you, Dan Hutchins Executive Director Van Buren District Library 200 North Phelps Street Decatur, MI 49045 dhutchins(a)vbdl.org ph: 269-423-4771 www.vbdl.org

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Job Opportunity: Library Director // Grafton-Midview Public Library [OH]
by Ryan Sheehan 21 May '26

21 May '26

*The Opportunity* The *Grafton-Midview Public Library *is seeking a community-focused leader to serve as their next *Library Director*. This mission-critical position reports to a seven-member Board of Trustees, guides a dedicated staff of 23, oversees a $1.8 million operating budget, and is responsible for the overall daily operation and oversight of the library’s departments, collections, services, programs, and facilities. The Library Director engages and collaborates with the library’s patrons, staff, Board members, business leaders, community partners, and other stakeholders to advance the library’s mission and goals. In addition to organizing, directing, and evaluating all library operations and activities, the Library Director will: - Prioritize the development of a new strategic plan to guide the library’s future direction and priorities - Oversee budget planning, resource management, and fundraising efforts - Expand and strengthen community partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and stakeholders - Champion staff training, professional development, and a positive, high-performing work culture Most importantly, the next Library Director at Grafton-Midview Public Library will balance respect for the library’s established strengths, community identity, and positive work culture with a forward-thinking approach to new service models and technology, evolving community needs, and organizational improvement. *About the Library and Community* The Grafton-Midview Public Library was established in 1944 as a school district library through the efforts of Harriet Spitzer, who led the push to create a free public library for the Grafton community. Originally housed inside Grafton School on Elm Street, the library later moved in 1971 to a former bank building on Main Street that was purchased for just $1.00. In 1991, the library underwent a major expansion and renovation, increasing its size from just over 2,000 square feet to nearly 12,000 square feet. Today, the library operates as one of seven independent public libraries in Lorain County and serves approximately 24,000 residents located in Grafton Village, Grafton Township, Eaton Township, and parts of Carlisle Township and Elyria. The mission of the Grafton-Midview Public Library is to provide free and equal access to information, knowledge, and ideas; promote personal enrichment and life-long learning; encourage literacy and love of reading and foster cultural and educational programs and partnerships in a welcoming community environment. To learn more, visit: *gmplibrary.org* Located in southeastern Lorain County, Grafton is a close-knit and growing community that blends small-town charm with convenient access to larger metropolitan amenities. Home to a quaint, historic downtown district, established residential neighborhoods, and surrounding rural landscapes, the area offers a welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of community pride and local identity. Residents benefit from a quieter and more affordable lifestyle while still having access to shopping, dining, healthcare, and entertainment options. The community is also well positioned geographically with convenient access to major transportation corridors, allowing residents to easily commute to both Cleveland and Akron. Outdoor recreation and natural amenities are abundant in the region, with nearby parks, trails, and golf courses. Combined with well-regarded schools, a family-friendly environment, abundant regional attractions, and a balance of rural character and suburban convenience, the Grafton area provides an appealing place to live, work, and build long-term community connections*.* *Position Qualifications and Compensation* - Five or more years of relevant organizational or departmental leadership experience in a mission-based organization is required. - Experience in leading, hiring, training, developing, supervising, and evaluating staff is required. - Experience in community engagement, collaboration, and advocacy [i.e., working and partnering closely with civic/community partners, local businesses, government officials, and other key stakeholders] is required. - Experience providing strategic financial oversight and managing budgets in alignment with organizational goals is required. - Experience with strategic plan development is required. - Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage diverse internal and external audiences, are required. - Experience with facilities improvement and/or capital project management is preferred. - A Master of Library and Information Science [MLIS] is preferred. A generous compensation package includes a competitive starting pay range of $95,000 to $105,000; earned time-off allowances; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; OPERS retirement plan; and more. *To Apply* To be considered for this position, please submit your resume and a cover letter [including salary requirements] to: ryansheehan(a)oahumanresources.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

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Revenue Administration Policy Inquiry
by Autumn Smith 21 May '26

21 May '26

Greetings, Library Land! I am taking part in the Financial Management for Libraries Cohort and the final project involves financial policies. If you are a district library and willing to share your revenue administration policy, I would appreciate it! Thanks for your help! Autumn Smith Assistant Director The Schultz-Holmes District Library 407 South Lane Street Blissfield, MI 49228 517-486-2858 517-486-3565 (fax) http://www.blissfieldlibrary.org/

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2026 Adaptive Umbrella Workshop Save-the-Date
by Jen Taggart 21 May '26

21 May '26

Hello, We are happy to share the date for our 9th biennial Adaptive Umbrella accessibility workshop: Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The workshop, sponsored by the Friends of the Bloomfield Township Public Library, will be virtual again to provide greater accessibility. As with previous workshops, we are excited to welcome speakers with a lived disability experience, including our keynote speaker, autistic advocate and author, Chris Bonnello<https://chrisbonnello.com/>. The day will also include sessions on Assistive Technology 101, Radical Accessibility: Building Belonging and Breaking Barriers, and Accessibility Support Collection Indexing for Patrons and Library Staff. All sessions will be recorded and shared with registered attendees following the workshop. Registration and more workshop details are coming soon! Thank you, Jen Taggart and Lauren Catoni-Ellis Adaptive Umbrella workshop coordinators Jen Taggart (she/her), MLIS Department Head, Youth Services Bloomfield Township Public Library 1099 Lone Pine Road Bloomfield Township, MI 48302 T 248-642-5800 x137 www.btpl.org<http://www.btpl.org>

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Job Opening: Part-Time Library Clerk, Spring Lake, MI
by Alison Anderson 21 May '26

21 May '26

Spring Lake District Library is seeking applicants for the position of Library Clerk for 20-25 hours per week. Under the supervision of the Circulation Supervisor, Library Clerks work with computers, handle daily circulation work, work with library materials, handle monetary transactions and reconcile the cash drawer, assist the public with finding library materials and provide information regarding library events. Training is provided. Minimum requirements include a High School diploma or GED. Must be comfortable with technology and have a strong commitment to customer service. This is a part-time position that starts at $16.84 an hour. Evening and weekend shifts are required. First review of applicants is Monday, June 8. Open until filled. Visit the link to apply! https://sllib.org/about-us/employment/ Alison Anderson, MLIS Library Services Manager (616) 840-3756

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Library Law Office Hours TODAY @ 3:00pm EST
by Membiela, Clare (MDE) 21 May '26

21 May '26

Hello! Are you a Michigan library director, board member, or friends group member? Have you ever faced questions involving the law and how it relates to Michigan libraries? Questions like: If a Bride-to-Be takes advantage of a library's picturesque and well-maintained outdoor garden (which has paths for strolling along a picture walk, and a few benches for sitting) to take pictures of themselves in various poses on the grass, (despite the "Keep off the grass" and " Caution, Herbicide Applied Keep Off The Grass" signs ) and develops a severe and unsightly poison ivy rash on their face in the days following the visit, is the library obligated to pay for a make-up session and appropriate cosmetics to mitigate the rash's effect on her Big Day? Join us for a session of questions and information on library legal matters! TODAY, May 21, 2026 @ 3:00 ETA To register, click this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYqdO6uqD8pEt31yRiFFRZkHDc96mWbdi… After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. complete the information, and the Zoom link will be sent! I hope to see you there! Clare D. Membiela, MLS, J.D. Library Law Consultant Library of Michigan MembielaC(a)michigan.gov<mailto:MembielaC@michigan.gov> 517-335-8132 The research and resources above 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 State may not, consistently with the spirit of the First Amendment, contract the spectrum of available knowledge." Griswold v. Connecticut, 381 U.S. 479, 482 (1965). [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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Free Books - 3 Titles
by Jenny Rasmussen 21 May '26

21 May '26

Good morning! We have the following for claim. Title Author ISBN Type Count The Secret Lives of Color Kassia St. Clair 9780143131144 Hardcover 11 A Day in the Life of Abed Salama Nathan Thrall 9781250854964 Paperback 4 I'm Glad My Mom Died Jennette McCurdy 9781982185831 Paperback 2 Please reply with how many you want and your TLN Mailer or RIDES code so that we can get these out to you! Thanks,

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Job Posting: Full Time Youth Services Librarian, Lyon Township, MI
by Jocelyn Levin 20 May '26

20 May '26

Hello All! Due to promotion, the Lyon Township Public Library is hiring a new Full-Time Youth Services Librarian. We would love to hear from any and all of you who would like to join our team in our brand new library building! Please apply by June 10, 2026, with a resume, cover letter, and three references to Jocelyn Levin, Youth Services Manager, at jlevin(a)ltpl.org Details are attached as well as pasted below. Jocelyn Levin, MLIS Youth Services Manager jlevin(a)ltpl.org **Please note new email address** *My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers - See **www.mypronouns.org* <http://www.mypronouns.org/>* to learn more.* Lyon Township Public Library 26076 S. Milford Rd, South Lyon, MI 48178 248.437.8800 www.LTPL.org *Lyon Township Public Library Job Posting: Full-Time Youth Services Librarian* Schedule: 40 hours/week, including weekends and evenings Pay: $50,000 - $55,000 DOQ Benefits: Paid holidays, pension, deferred compensation plan, flexible scheduling, generous PTO, Employee Assistance Program, amazing co-workers, health insurance (optical & dental), membership in MLA & ALA Application deadline: June 10, 2026 Starting date: ASAP Due to an internal promotion, the Lyon Township Public Library is seeking a Full-Time Youth Services Librarian to join us as we open our brand new building in southwest Oakland County where we serve 25,000 residents. Under the direction of the Youth Services Manager, this person will perform a wide variety of duties associated with Youth Services, including programming, outreach, and collection development. We are seeking an energetic and enthusiastic person with experience and a love and dedication for children’s librarianship. A good sense of humor and focus on excellent customer service is a must. *Typical Duties* · Provides direct service to members of the public at information desks, performing reference, reader’s advisory, and technology assistance for all ages · Plans, promotes and implements programming for ages 0-17 and their caregivers in coordination with other Youth Services staff · Assists in materials selection and acquisition, collection development, and weeding for Youth collections · Actively promotes the library in the community, representing the library at community events, and giving presentations to school and community groups · Assist with web content updates · Other duties as assigned *Required Qualifications and Abilities* · Master’s degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited University · Knowledge in presenting age appropriate programs for children and teens aged 0-17 years · Knowledge in the selection of library materials and collection of development of materials for youth · Strong positive interpersonal, organizational and time management skills · Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing · Excellent customer service philosophy · Ability to serve library patrons efficiently and effectively at information desks during scheduled shifts · Ability to use good judgement, initiative and resourcefulness with fellow employees and the public · Ability to effectively use and teach current technology to patrons of all ages · Ability to work independently as well as a part of a team · Excellent understanding of library policies, procedures, philosophy and public service values · Ability to maintain composure in stressful work situations · Knowledge of CARL integrated library system preferred · Course work and concentration in youth and children’s services preferred The above is intended to describe the major responsibilities and requirements for this position. It is not an exhaustive statement of all duties, responsibilities or requirements. Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to Youth Services Manager Jocelyn Levin at jlevin(a)ltpl.org by June 10, 2026.

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