June 2026 - Michlib-l - liblists.org

MI PR Group upcoming meeting reminder - Tuesday, April 16
by Kelly Rembert 10 Sep '26

10 Sep '26

Hi Everyone, Here is your friendly reminder about an upcoming roundtable meeting of the MI PR Group on Tuesday, April 16 at 10am on Zoom. The MI PR Group was created to bring Michigan library marketers together to share successes, learn from non-successes and to tackle industry issues together. Whether your job title is "Marketing", or promotion is just one of many hats you wear, this group is here to support you! We will have a roundtable meeting so bring questions, concerns and successes to share! Southfield Public Library is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: MI PR Group meeting Time: Every month on the Third Tue, 5 occurrence(s) April 16, 2024 10:00 AM Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system. Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tJAoceCsqT0rE93Q3ZNCTzdMrQlvVVQ1VL8Z/ics?ic… Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/94569476199?pwd=aVVBV2J5aXlEcDAxZk9vMkRjZ280Zz09 Meeting ID: 945 6947 6199 Passcode: 152088 One tap mobile +13017158592,,94569476199#,,,,*152088# US (Washington DC) +13126266799,,94569476199#,,,,*152088# US (Chicago) Dial by your location +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 436 2866 US (New York) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Meeting ID: 945 6947 6199 Passcode: 152088 Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kcEzRnEqCy Much thanks, Kelly Kelly Ireland Rembert Outreach Librarian Southfield Public Library 26300 Evergreen Rd. Southfield, MI 48076 (248) 796-4367 krembert(a)southfieldlibrary.org<mailto:krembert@southfieldlibrary.org> www.southfieldlibrary.org<http://www.southfieldlibrary.org/> she/her/hers

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Michigan Reconnect Scholarship - information for your library community!
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 09 Sep '26

09 Sep '26

Hello, MiLEAP is asking for Michigan libraries to ensure that Michiganders are aware of the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship opportunity so people in your communities can access affordable education, improve their career prospects, and contribute to the economic growth in both the state and your communities. The Michigan Reconnect Scholarship is an opportunity that provides a tuition-free pathway to community college for Michiganders who are 25 years or older and do not have an associate or bachelor’s degree. The scholarship allows individuals to earn an associate degree or skills certificate. MiLEAP would like to encourage you to access their Michigan Reconnect Scholarship Toolkit<https://www.michigan.gov/reconnect/toolkit> and here<https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19IP2lHAF3xnhUWPDrKFPyf3jeVb1naNZ?us…> are some additional informational flyers and images to use for promoting this wonderful opportunity out to your community. Please contact Michelle Cyrus, CyrusM(a)Michigan.gov if you have any questions. 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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For Sale Donation Bin
by Sherri West 09 Sep '26

09 Sep '26

The Friends of the Westland Public Library are selling this donation bin. It is in great shape. It comes with a manufactured ramp, as shown. Suggested price is $650, but reasonable offers would be considered. Cash, check, or credit accepted. Must bring a trailer and an extra helper to load. Please contact Sherri West (sherri.west(a)westlandlibrary.org<mailto:sherri.west@westlandlibrary.org> or 734-326-6123 ext. 2827) for more details. [cid:image002.png@01DCCD6F.FCE3BE40][cid:image003.jpg@01DCCD6F.FCE3BE40]

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Practical Puppetry for Powerful Programs workshop registration is now open!
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 02 Sep '26

02 Sep '26

Ready to Read Michigan Presents... Practical Puppetry for Powerful Programs! Adding puppetry to library programs can engage learners, promote inclusive environments, breathe life into timeless classics, lift up diverse stories, and ignite imaginations. But who has time for memorizing lines, the budget for exotic supplies, or the opportunity to implement long-term lesson plans? You can do it all without complicated puppet stages, formal scripts, expensive materials, or midnight oil! Experience practical puppetry activities in action. Learn what makes puppetry well-suited to library learning and which types of puppets are best-suited to different activities. Adapt a story, song, or game to include puppets. Practice your crafting and performing skills. Return to your own library inspired and prepared to add puppetry to your own programs. Participants will learn to: * Define puppetry and list five basic styles of puppetry. * Summarize the benefits of incorporating puppetry into library learning. * Consider the role of puppetry to create engaging and inclusive experiences. * Employ frameworks to match the type of puppet best suited to a given opportunity and adapt existing stories, songs, and content to puppetry. * Interpret and present an existing story, song, or fingerplay using puppetry. * Apply examples of practical puppetry in programs. Registration Details: This in-person workshop runs from 9:30 - 5:00 pm EST, with lunch provided. Space is limited and there is a $35.00 fee to attend, payment for either workshop location is due by September 7th. * Monday, September 14, 2026, at the Delta Township District Library<https://maps.app.goo.gl/8Lk3hPuKGboAsqBc6>, register here: https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even… * Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at the West Bloomfield Township Public Library<https://maps.app.goo.gl/FedCQNFqQzGn1Zcv6>, register here: https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even… Instructor: Katie George (she/her) has been working in public libraries for over 20 years. She is currently the Professional Development Instructor at Howard County Library System in suburban Maryland, but she began her library career in the children's department. Katie has incorporated puppetry into library programs and events for children, teens, and adults. Before moving to library land, Katie performed with puppets at Walt Disney World and constructed puppets at VEE Corporation in MInneapolis. For two years she was the Resident Puppet Builder at the Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta. Katie earned her MA from the University of Connecticut's Puppet Arts Program and her MLS from the University of Maryland's College of Library and Information Studies. Katie has presented puppetry workshops for the Puppeteers of America, the Maryland Library Association, the American Library Association, and in other venues. This program is made possible by the Library of Michigan and supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. 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. [cid:9b6c60ff-92bb-4e53-ad1d-f191b9fd0c4e] Nourishing Michigan’s Future during the summer! Find a Summer Food Service Program site nearest you and encourage Michigan’s children to Meet Up and Eat Up! Michigan.gov/MeetUpEatUp<http://www.michigan.gov/meetupeatup>. [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 State Librarian's Excellence Award is now open!
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 26 Aug '26

26 Aug '26

The application period for the 2026 State Librarian's Excellence Award is now open<https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/about/state-librarian/slea>. Application Information The Library of Michigan Foundation's State Librarian's Excellence Award will be awarded to a library of any type (public, academic, school, special, tribal, etc.), including branch libraries, that exemplifies excellence in customer service. One (1) library in the state of Michigan will receive this prestigious award each year. The recipient library will receive a $3,000 cash prize and a trophy for display in its public area. Two (2) Library of Michigan Foundation Citations of Excellence will be presented and the recipient libraries will each receive $1,000 and a small trophy for display. Deadline The deadline to apply<https://bbgm-apply.yourcausegrants.com/apply/programs/346894f2-cf1f-4842-aa…> <https://bbgm-apply.yourcausegrants.com/apply/programs/346894f2-cf1f-4842-aa…> is Friday, August 28, 2026. There will be no extensions. Submissions will be accepted online only. Award recipients will be notified in September. Application details and additional information and critera can be found here: https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/about/state-librarian/slea The award recipients will be recognized by the State Librarian at the Michigan Library Association Annual Conference awards event on Wednesday, October 28 at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi, Michigan. Contact Person Lori Poznanski-Mason, Administrative Assistant to the State Librarian Library of Michigan Email: Poznanskil(a)Michigan.gov<mailto:> Phone: 517-335-1518 ### 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 Seal of Biliteracy] Acknowledge the incredible strength of students’ multilingual abilities. Seek the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy<https://www.michigan.gov/mde/services/flexible-learning/michigan-seal-of-bi…> for graduating seniors. [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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Presenter Recommendation
by Mick Howey 17 Aug '26

17 Aug '26

Hello Michlib! Last night BPL hosted the Soo Locks Chief Park Ranger Michelle Briggs' presentation The Illustrated History of the Soo Locks. The presentation was fantastic! Michelle was knowledgeable, lively, personable, and engaging. She also went above and beyond to make sure her appearance even happened. The presentation was well attended with many folks staying after to chat. Michelle's contact info is below. There was not a fee. Michelle Briggs Chief Park Ranger, Soo Locks U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Michelle.L.Briggs(a)usace.army.mil Please let me know if you have any questions, Best, Mick Howey, MLIS Adult Services Librarian II Baldwin Public Library 300 West Merrill Street Birmingham, MI 48009 (248) 554-4649 https://www.baldwinlib.org/ Currently Reading <https://www.goodreads.com/user/email_signature_destination/72296780?utm_med…> [image: Book Cover] <https://www.goodreads.com/user/email_signature_destination/72296780?utm_med…> [image: Goodreads Logo] <https://www.goodreads.com/?utm_medium=gr_logo&utm_source=email_signature>Get your own email signature <https://www.goodreads.com/user/email_signature_instructions?utm_medium=gyo_…>

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Building Basics for Libraries - August Webinar Series from LM - Registration Open!
by Vernola, Andrea (MDE) 10 Aug '26

10 Aug '26

Building Basics for Libraries Webinar Series The physical building is one of a library's most important assets-yet facility management is often overlooked as a core leadership responsibility. This webinar series equips library directors, managers, and trustees with the knowledge to confidently steward their buildings, plan for the future, and protect public investment. Each session blends practical strategies with real-world examples, helping participants understand not just what needs to be done, but why it matters for safety, efficiency, and public trust. The sessions are designed for decision-makers at all levels, from first-time branch managers to experienced administrators. * Library Facility Management 101 - August 11 at 1 pm<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> EST * Planning Renovations, Expansions, and New Construction - August 18 at 1 pm<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> EST Carlos Baffigo is a library operations, facilities, and technology leader with over 30 years of experience, including roles as Deputy Library Director for Pasadena Public Library and founder of Building Basics for Libraries. He has managed multi-million-dollar capital projects, overseen daily operations for large municipal library systems, and trained library leaders nationwide in facility stewardship, security, and capital planning. Carlos specializes in making complex building concepts accessible, helping non-technical leaders make confident, informed decisions. 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. Andrea Vernola Continuing Education Coordinator | Library Development Library of Michigan, 702 W. Kalamazoo St, P.O. Box 30007, Lansing, MI 48909 vernolaA(a)michigan.gov | 517-335-0123 https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan [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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Crystal Falls District Community Library Director Job Opening
by Tricia Wylie 05 Aug '26

05 Aug '26

Crystal Falls District Community Library Director Position Qualifications: Education College degree preferred. Must have a minimum of high school diploma or equivalent. Qualified candidates must meet the State Aid to Public Libraries certification requirement of a Class 1 library public library director. Performance Requirements Works under the direction of the Library Board. Must possess effective communication skills. Needs working knowledge of the library’s policies and procedures. Must have computer skills. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Managerial, coordination of varied established community literacy programs, customer service, collection management, technology, public relations, financial, professional, and any other duties assigned by the Library Board. 35 hours per week Salary commensurate with experience Position begins immediately for training purposes Please send your letter of interest, resume, list of previous employment positions, and letters of recommendation or list of references and their contact information to: Crystal Falls District Community Library Director Position Attn: Personnel Committee 237 Superior Ave Crystal Falls, MI 49920 Final date of posting is Friday, June 26, 2026, at 4pm. Tricia Wylie, Director Superiorland Library Cooperative 1615 Presque Isle Ave Marquette, MI 49855 906-228-7697 x 1

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Social Work Informed Training Resources from Dr. Beth Wahler Added to LM's Niche Academy
by Vernola, Andrea (MDE) 31 Jul '26

31 Jul '26

Greetings Michiganders! I'm thrilled to let you know we've just added some new resources to our LM Staff Skills Academy on the Niche Academy platform. On the right-side list of courses, you'll now see Beth Wahler Consulting<https://www.swinthelibrary.org/> where you can view 8 asynchronous trainings on topics like staff stress, de-escalation, healthy organizational culture, crisis preparedness and post-crisis debriefing. Beth's most popular trainings have been turned into on-demand, online tutorials available through Niche Academy. We are so excited to make these available and look forward to hearing how you've used them in your own professional development or with your staff. The tutorials available are: * Working in the "Gray Area": Boundaries for Library Staff * Caring for Ourselves and One Another: Supporting Sustainable Practice for Library Staff * Creating a Healthy Organizational Culture * Introduction to Trauma-Informed Librarianship * Defusing and Preventing Behavioral Escalation in Libraries: The Role of Three Core Human Needs * Effective "Debriefing" in the Library Workplace * Reducing and Responding to Workplace Trauma * After a Disaster: Supporting Patrons in Crisis While Caring For Yourself Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) Wahler is a social work consultant, researcher, and trainer specializing in trauma-informed librarianship, the social service needs of library patrons, and reducing library staff stress and burnout. She has worked with libraries of all sizes across the US and internationally to conduct needs assessments, provide training, evaluate programs, and develop and implement strategies for supporting high-needs patrons, improving organizational culture, and reducing staff stress. Dr. Wahler is the author of "Creating a Person-Centered Library: Best Practices for Supporting High-Needs Patrons" and co-hosts the podcast Surviving the Stacks. With 25 years of professional experience in organizational leadership, trauma-informed services, program administration and development, training/education, and working with complex human challenges such as mental health problems, substance use disorders, intimate partner violence, homelessness, and poverty-related barriers/needs, Beth works with libraries to determine their needs, resources, and goals and collaboratively design solutions that work in practice. If you have not used Niche Academy, via the Library of Michigan, you can request an account by clicking on the link from our continuing education page: https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/libraries/cehere These resources are available to all Michigan library staff and trustees. When you request access to Niche Academy, our staff will approve that access within 1-2 business days. Please reach out and let me know if you have any questions! Andrea Andrea Vernola Continuing Education Coordinator | Library Development Library of Michigan, 702 W. Kalamazoo St, P.O. Box 30007, Lansing, MI 48909 vernolaA(a)michigan.gov | 517-335-0123 https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan [Michigan Seal of Biliteracy] Acknowledge the incredible strength of students' multilingual abilities. Seek the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy<https://www.michigan.gov/mde/services/flexible-learning/michigan-seal-of-bi…> for graduating seniors. [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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July Webinars from Librarian and Accessibility Advocate, Renee Grassi
by Vernola, Andrea (MDE) 22 Jul '26

22 Jul '26

Hello! Librarian, author, trainer, educator, and consultant Renee Grassi is an advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in libraries, schools, and communities. As a disabled and neurodivergent librarian herself, Renee has worked in public libraries for nearly twenty years, developing award-winning library initiatives that welcome, support, and include disabled patrons across the lifespan. Learn more at reneegrassi.com<https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r01/___http:/reneegrassi.com___.YzJ1OmFta…>. These upcoming webinars for Michigan library staff will support you and your staff in creating inclusive environments for library users and employees. Please register today at the links below! Striving for Inclusion: Creating Welcoming Experiences for Neurodivergent Library Users<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> Date/Time: Thursday, July 23 at 1 pm - 3 pm EST/12 CST Description: Libraries are for everyone, but not everyone may feel welcome at their library. How can you create positive library experiences for neurodivergent users? This presentation will discuss ways to make customer service, programs, collections, and library services more accessible for neurodivergent people. Leave with ideas for how to create a welcoming environment at your library and an understanding of how to support neurodivergent individuals across the life span. Learning Objectives: * Attendees will understand relevant language and information to discuss disabilities and neurodiversity. * Attendees will gather at least five strategies to make their approach to customer service more welcoming to neurodivergent users. * Attendees will learn at least five ideas to make library programs, collections, and services more inclusive to neurodivergent users. For Managers & Supervisors: Supporting an Inclusive Workplace for Neurodivergent Employees<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> Date/Time: Thursday, July 30 at 1 pm - 3 pm EST/12 CST Description: Managers and supervisors are responsible for creating a trusting, supportive, and safe environment for the staff and teams they supervise. They are also accountable for ensuring compliance and accessibility in the workplace. This presentation will present background information about neurodiversity and an explanation of the strengths of those employees who are neurodivergent. Gain practical strategies for working with neurodivergent employees in your organization and learn about inclusive practices in supporting teams. Learning Objectives: * Attendees will understand relevant language and information to discuss disabilities, neurodiversity, compliance, accessibility, and disability law. * Attendees will learn about at least five unique strengths and five support needs of neurodivergent employees. * Attendees will gather at least five accessible and effective strategies for supporting neurodivergent employees in the workplace. Speaker Bio: Librarian, author, trainer, educator, and consultant Renee Grassi is an advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in libraries, schools, and communities. As a disabled and neurodivergent librarian herself, Renee has worked in public libraries for nearly twenty years, developing award-winning library initiatives that welcome, support, and include disabled patrons across the lifespan. Learn more at reneegrassi.com<https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r01/___http:/reneegrassi.com___.YzJ1OmFta…>. Andrea Vernola Continuing Education Coordinator | Library Development Library of Michigan, 702 W. Kalamazoo St, P.O. Box 30007, Lansing, MI 48909 vernolaA(a)michigan.gov | 517-335-0123 https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan [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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