July 2026 - Michlib-l - liblists.org

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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Upcoming Organizational Change Webinars with WMU Professor - Register Today!
by Vernola, Andrea (MDE) 05 Aug '26

05 Aug '26

Hello, We're looking forward to two upcoming webinars with Dr. Vanessa Hills from Western Michigan University in August. Dr. Hills will present two webinars for Michigan library staff meant to support libraries in building successful teams and improving workplace culture even as they face continuous change and transformation. These webinars will also be recorded and made available in the Library of Michigan's Niche Academy. We hope you can join us! Group and Team Dynamics - Thursday, August 6, 1:00 -2:30 pm EST<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> Behind every effective library is a team that knows how to work together. This 90-minute webinar explores the often-invisible forces that shape how library teams function: group norms, power dynamics, covert processes, psychological safety, and the developmental stages that every group moves through. Drawing on applied group dynamics theory and psychodynamic perspectives, this session helps library professionals understand what's really happening in their teams and what to do about it. This 90-minute webinar explores the often-invisible forces that shape how library teams function: group norms, power dynamics, covert processes, psychological safety, and the developmental stages that every group moves through. Change Management for Leaders - Thursday, August 27, 1:00 - 2:30 pm EST<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…> Libraries today operate in an environment of continuous transformation. Shifting community needs, evolving technologies, funding pressures, and changing workforce dynamics demand that library leaders navigate change with strategic clarity and human sensitivity. This 90-minute webinar equips participants with a research-grounded framework for understanding, planning, and leading organizational change. Instructor Bio: Vanessa Hills, PhD is a faculty member at Western Michigan University teaching courses in Organizational Change Leadership within the Department of Educational Leadership, Research and Technology. Dr. Hills received her MA in Communication and PhD in Organizational Change Leadership from Western Michigan University. Her research focuses on how psychosocial dynamics shape organizational life, organizational change, groups, and leadership. She is a Co-Editor of the Research in Management Consulting book series published by Emerald and has published in leading journals, including the Journal of Organizational Change Management, Employee Responsibilities and Rights Journal, and the Journal of Managerial Issues. Dr. Hills is also a practicing change consultant and a board member of the Midwest Academy of Management and the Management Consulting Division of the Academy of Management. These webinars are 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 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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Upcoming Program at the Dearborn Public Library
by Daniel Lodge 05 Aug '26

05 Aug '26

Everyone - We've got some great programs coming up here at the Dearborn Library: - Author Kathryn Jezer-Morton will be joining us virtually on Thursday, August 20th at 6:30pm to talk about her new book *The Story of Your Life: How Social Media Shapes The Way We Experience Everything*. Ms. Jezer-Morton's book is an eye-opening look at how social media shapes the stories we tell and the lives we lead. You can register for either an in-person spot or a Zoom link for this program on our Library Website dearbornlibrary.org. Let me know if you have any questions! Dan Lodge Library Supervisor Dearborn Public Library Dearborn, MI

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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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Pet Policies
by Abby Ollila 05 Aug '26

05 Aug '26

Hello, library world! I was wondering if anyone is willing to share how their library handles pets / any pet policies you have. The topic was recently raised by a patron, and before I bring it to my board, I'd love to hear how other libraries approach it. If you have a written policy or any insight into what has worked (or not worked) for your library, I'd really appreciate it. I'm also curious whether anyone had an attorney review or help draft their policy, or if you developed it internally. Thank you! Abby Ollila Director St. Ignace Public Library 110 West Spruce Street St. Ignace, MI 49781 (906) 643-8318

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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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NEW: Library Director search - Jackson County Library District (OR)
by Beth Barker 31 Jul '26

31 Jul '26

The Library Director - Jackson County Library District (OR) Jackson County Library District (OR) seeks a professional, proactive, and community-centered leader to serve as its next Library Director. The Library Director will bring a strong commitment to public service, sound fiscal leadership, and the ability to inspire staff, strengthen community relationships, and advance forward-thinking strategic priorities for one of Oregon's vibrant public library systems. Jackson County Library District operating as Jackson County Library Services (JCLS), serves more than 220,000 residents through a network of 15 unique community libraries, including an 84,000-square-foot Main Library. The library employs 133 FTE and operates with a $17 million budget. JCLS offers a diverse collection of physical and digital resources for children, teens, and adults, along with outreach services that extend the library's reach throughout the county, including book talks for elementary and middle school students, homebound delivery services, and partnerships with local childcare centers. Reporting to a five-member Board of Trustees, the Library Director will provide strategic, administrative, and operational leadership for the district. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative and relationship-focused leader who builds trust with staff, community members, partners, and stakeholders; communicates a clear and compelling vision for library service; listens actively to diverse perspectives; and balances strategic leadership with effective day-to-day management. This leader will guide the development and implementation of the district's five-year strategic plan while serving as a visible ambassador for JCLS throughout Jackson County and the broader library community. Located midway between Portland and San Francisco, Jackson County, Oregon enjoys more than 200 days of sunshine each year. Nature enthusiasts enjoy the region's diverse landscapes such as rafting the Rogue River, hiking the iconic Table Rocks, or exploring Crater Lake National Park. The area offers scenic valleys, mountain lakes, award-winning wineries, and convenient access to the Redwoods and the Oregon coast. The region's vibrant arts and cultural scene features the Craterian Theater at The Collier Center, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and the Britt Festival, the Pacific Northwest's premier outdoor summer performing arts festival. The area's warm, sunny summers and mild winters support a thriving agricultural system, making it a prime destination for world-class wine tasting and artisan food. Responsibilities: Responsibilities include developing the district's vision, goals, and strategic objectives in partnership with the Board of Trustees; establishing operational priorities aligned with those goals and applicable legislative requirements; administering district policies, recommending policy updates, and providing executive support to the board; cultivating strong relationships throughout the community and with state and national organizations; and collaborating with the Jackson County Library Foundation and Friends of the Library to strengthen fundraising and volunteer engagement. The Library Director will also prepare and oversee the district's annual budget, remain current with emerging library trends and technologies, and ensure that library collections, facilities, and services continue to meet the evolving needs of Jackson County residents. For a full list of responsibilities, see the links in the job posting on the Bradbury Miller Associate website<https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/> (https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/) Qualifications: The minimum qualifications for this role include a Masters of Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution and seven years of supervisory and leadership experience in a public library. Compensation: The hiring salary range is $150,000 - $180,000, with placement dependent on experience and qualifications, plus an excellent benefits package. Interested candidates should submit their resume through the application portal<https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/> (https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/) by selecting the position and then the "Apply" button. For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates<https://bradburymiller.com/contact/> (https://bradburymiller.com/contact/) This position closes on Sunday, September 6, 2026. Visit our website<https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/> (https://bradburymiller.com/open-positions/) to access the latest version of this announcement in full, along with all related links. - Beth Barker (she/her) Director of Finance and Communication Bradbury Miller Associates 330-340-7115 | Dover, OH | bradburymiller.com<http://bradburymiller.com/> Sign up for our newsletter<https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?llr=myy6mkoab&p=oi&m=11148931…> for updates on available positions!

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Mi KidLib Unconference
by Julie Moore 31 Jul '26

31 Jul '26

Welcome to MI KidLib, an annual FREE unconference for youth services staff (current, aspiring, retired) in Michigan. Registration is currently open! Unconference is here and it is returning September 16, 2026! Register for your spot at the 2026 Mi KidLib Unconference. This years' unconference will be held at: Kent District Library Cascade Township Library at 2870 Jacksmith Ave SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Register here.<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScxv6Xs8jRhb7mqnNX7D28jtrV_-tYP0xA…> MI KidLib is run by Dena Moscheck (Saline District Library), Julie Moore (Clinton Macomb Public Library), and Leigh Verburg (Kent District Library). MI KidLib was started in 2014 by Lisa Mulvenna, Andrea Vernola, and Anne Clark. Please feel free to reach out with any questions at mikidlib(a)gmail.com<mailto:mikidlib@gmail.com> Julie Moore Clinton Macomb Public Library Outreach Manager - Children and Teen Services 40900 Romeo Plank Rd. Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-226-5033 Check out CMPL's services for teachers and students at https://cmpl.org/services_specialties/children/students_and_teachers.php

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Youth & Teen Services Updates
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 31 Jul '26

31 Jul '26

CSLP Updates Summer Programming Survey To support CSLP’s vision to ensure vibrant summer reading programs are available to everyone through their library, the Statistics Committee is requesting your library’s data on your summer reading program. All public libraries that do summer programming are welcome to complete our survey, regardless of whether you used CSLP’s theme. Survey closes September 11th. Learn more and complete the survey here: https://www.cslpreads.org/stats/. Theme & Slogan Listening Sessions Help determine the Slogan for 2029's nature theme, and the Theme for 2030! Listening Session Option #1 Thursday, August 13 at 1pm EST/12pm CST/11am MST/10 am PST Join us on Zoom<https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87115329143?pwd=V6XfiL3HS1TU4YzkTzsNcWjXgmh36N.1> - no need to register Listening Session Option #2 Tuesday, August 18 at 4pm EST/3pm CST/2 pm MST/1 pm PST Join us on Zoom<https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82435533498?pwd=MaltrF2Qi9WnXyG6ETDsX9RVadOayw.1> - no need to register Save the date: CSLP's Summer Symposium will be Thursday, December 3rd. We'll host an in-person watch party or you will be able to register individually to join virtually. All public libraries in MI are members of CSLP thanks to the Library of Michigan, with support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Resources PLA releases “Family Engagement for Spanish-Speaking Community Members” Workbook<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjQyMTU0NiZwPT…> PLA announced the availability of a new practical guide for engaging Spanish-speaking community members<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjQyMTU0NiZwPT…>. Just in time for use in planning Library Card Sign-Up Month<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjQyMTU0NiZwPT…> activities and celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in September, the workbook provides case studies and planning tools to help library workers better engage Spanish-speaking families. The guide is available for free download in English<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjQyMTU0NiZwPT…> and Spanish<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjQyMTU0NiZwPT…>. Empowering Creativity: Exploring Makerspaces and Engaging STEM Programming in Libraries<https://elearning.ala.org/local/catalog/view/product.php?productid=1284&_zs…> With Ellyssa Kroski. A 90-minute webinar. New date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026 2:30 pm Eastern Makerspaces are creative, DIY spaces where people can gather to create, invent, and learn. While some libraries have long-established makerspaces, others are just getting started. In this webinar, aimed at those who are relatively new to makerspaces, we’ll look at how we can put these spaces to work in a practical way. Even if you don’t have a dedicated physical makerspace in your library, you can learn the theory behind makerspaces and programming that will work for you. MiLEAP's 2026 Michigan Community Schools & Family Engagement Conference September 29-30, 2026, Mount Pleasant In the first of its kind in Michigan, The Michigan Community Schools Coalition and the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential are co-hosting a statewide event to spotlight both the work of the 10 Regional MiFamily Engagement Centers and 155 community schools dedicated to building, growing, and sustaining key family engagement and partnership practices across the state. Details and registration here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1L54k75DQP2n6Xo9sWzrIlNg40706I4yG/view MiLEAP 2026-2027 Out-of-School Time (OST) Grant Information On July 21, 2026, Michigan Public Act (P.A.) 25 of 2026, Section 32n<https://legislature.mi.gov/documents/2025-2026/publicact/pdf/2026-PA-0025.p…> was signed into law with $135 million budgeted to provide in-person before-school, after-school, before-and-after-school, or during the summer programming to children in grades K-12. The new legislation defines the eligible applicants, the type of programming, and the priorities that the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) must use in a competitive grant process to award the funds across the state. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply<https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/education-partnerships/out-of-school-time-a…>. Questions? Contact MiLEAP-OST(a)michigan.gov. Children & Screens - Parenting Tip Sheet Before You Post: Tips for Sharing Your Child's Life Online: https://www.childrenandscreens.org/learn-explore/research/before-you-post-t… In the News... Working with Teens at tthe Library<https://www.alsc.ala.org/blog/2026/07/working-with-teens-at-the-library/> <https://www.alsc.ala.org/blog/2026/07/working-with-teens-at-the-library/> - ALSC Blog, 7/28/26 SLJ Survey: Cell Phone Bans Boost Reading, Library Use<https://www.slj.com/story/SLJ-Survey-Cell-Phone-Bans-Boost-Reading-Library-…> - SLJ, 7/23/26 ALA Just Released Its First Comprehensive AI Guidance for Libraries. Here's What Every School Librarian Needs to Know<https://aischoollibrarian.substack.com/p/ala-just-released-its-first-compre…> - The AI School Librarian Substack, 7/30/26 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… Enjoy the start of August! 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. [A picture containing logo Description automatically generated] Do you know an outstanding Michigan educator? Nominate them for 2027-28 Michigan Teacher of the Year! The Michigan Teacher of the Year Program is accepting nominations through September 23. Nominate an educator using the online form<https://mde.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3VO6y33yPJYG0t0>. For more information, visit www.Michigan.gov/mtoy.<https://www.michigan.gov/mtoy> [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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The Anxious Generation Community Read
by Andrus, Miriam 31 Jul '26

31 Jul '26

Hello Wonderful Library Folks, The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library is planning to focus on community mental health during the 26-27 school year by doing a community read focused on "The Anxious Generation" and other similar books. If your library has done a community read surrounding the same topic or book, I would love to hear how it went, what worked, and if you had any great programs that really helped drive home the themes of the book. Please send me an email of your ideas and resources, and "Thank you" in advance!! Miriam Andrus, Director Grace A. Dow Memorial Library

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