July 2026 - Michlib-l - liblists.org

Announcing a 4th Cohort of Conversations Worth Having for Library Leaders with Library of Michigan
by Vernola, Andrea (MDE) 17 Jul '26

17 Jul '26

Hello! We're excited to announce a 4th cohort of the popular Conversations Worth Having for Library Leaders will be held on August 19 and 20, 2026 over Zoom led by Library Development Manager, Michelle Bradley. This 6-hour, highly interactive workshop, designed for library directors, managers, supervisors, and leaders, will help you establish communication practices that support productivity, engagement, high performance, regular feedback, positivity, and a culture of "we". To date, more than 100 Michigan library leaders have participated in a CWH cohort since 2024. We have space for 20 more library leaders in August and registration is open today<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/even…>! This virtual workshop will take place over two interactive mornings on Zoom: * Wednesday, August 19 and Thursday, August 20 from 9 am - 12 pm each day By registering, you are committing to attending both days of training. Upon completion of the training, you will receive a certificate of completion and be eligible to participate in additional opportunities with other Michigan library CWH practitioners. So What is Conversations Worth Having? Communication remains the top issue for organizations, teams, and relationships. Most people struggle to effectively communicate when they are frustrated, angry, hurt, or facing conflict. The effects of poor communication are costly. This workshop will help you establish communication practices that will support productivity, engagement, high performance, regular feedback, positivity, and a culture of "we." Conversations Worth Having includes four modules: 1. The Power of Conversation: Understand the nature of our conversations, how they affect human being and doing, and develop your ability to choose. 2. The Art of Asking Questions: Understand the basics of Appreciative Inquiry and improve your ability to ask generative questions to foster effective communication. 3. Intentional Framing: Use positive framing to intentionally foster effective communication and continue to develop your ability to ask generative questions. 4. Step Up to Feedback: Develop the skill and the motivation to routinely seek out feedback and promptly provide effective feedback, even in the most critical of situations. At the end of this workshop, participants will: * Use generative questions to shift the dynamics of personal and workplace communication problems. * Experience flipping negative conversations to conversations worth having * Use effective feedback strategies with common workplace situations. This highly experiential course is built upon Berrett Kohler's bestseller, Conversations Worth Having: Using Appreciative Inquiry to Fuel Productive and Meaningful Engagement by Cheri Torres and Jackie Stavros. For more information about the Conversations Worth Having Institute<https://www.conversationsworthhaving.today/> visit the CWH Institute website. 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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Seeking Computer Use Policies Regarding Gaming
by Bellaire Public Library Director 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '26

Hi everyone, I'm hoping some of you would be willing to share your computer use policies, especially anything related to gaming. We have a group of youth who enjoy spending time in the library playing Roblox on our public computers. We're happy to have them here and have worked through any behavior issues as they've come up. With Roblox being such a hot topic lately, I thought it would be a good time to take another look at our policies and make sure we're in line with current best practices. If your library has a policy—or even just an approach—that covers gaming, time limits, or anything else you've found helpful, I'd love to hear what you're doing. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences! Dawn DeHeer Director, Bellaire Public Library Connecting our community — one story at a time. _____________________________________ 111 S. Bridge Street P.O. Box 477 Bellaire, MI 49615 Web: bellairelibrary.org Phone: 231-533-8814 Email: bellairelibrary(a)torchlake.com

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Hiring Collections Team Leader
by Gabrielle Kindig 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '26

Hi all! We've got an opening for a Collections Team Leader at East Lansing Public Library. This position serves on the library's Leadership Team, manages the library's collections (including special collections like Travel, Parent/Teacher, Maker, Community Language, Local History, and Library of Things), manages the Collections budget and vendor relations, and supervises library assistants and pages. This is a full-time union position, with a wage range of $63,951.42 - $89,597.04 per year. Master's in Library Science required. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Review of applicants will begin August 3. Learn more and apply: Collections Team Leader | East Lansing Public Library<https://www.elpl.org/collections-team-leader/> Thanks! [cid:image003.png@01DD1536.C8E8F330]Gabby Shalev | Communications Lead East Lansing Public Library 950 Abbot Rd | East Lansing, MI 48823 (517) 643-3003 | gkindig(a)elpl.org<mailto:gkindig@elpl.org> Please note: My usual working hours are 12-9pm Mondays and Thursdays, 10am-7pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and 11am-2pm on Fridays, but as a public library worker my working hours may be variable. While I have sent this email at a time that works for me I do not expect that you will read, respond or address this email outside of your working hours.

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Save Michigan History Disaster Response Workshops
by McDowell, Erika (DTMB) 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '26

Does your library have a local history collection, or any archival records? The Archives of Michigan is hosting three workshop opportunities this year designed to equip recordkeepers and custodians of archival materials with the skills to mitigate the effects of both natural and human-made disasters; respond effectively in a disaster; and salvage/recover and triage affected materials. These workshops are all-day, hands-on events (complete with a water salvage activity!), and lunch is included! The ultimate goal is for attendees to gain enough confidence from this training to join our volunteer "cultural heritage first responders" network, who are trained to take action when a natural or human-made disaster impacts Michigan's historical records. The Archives of Michigan will oversee and manage this cohort, fostering communications and maintaining a network that can be "activated" in times of need. Registration is now open for the 2026 workshops, with options to attend in Marquette (August 11), Roscommon (October 6), and Lansing (October 8). These workshops are in-person only, and attendees need only attend one event to receive the training. Registration costs $25 per person; scholarships are available if needed. For more information, please visit: https://www.michigan.gov/archivesofmichigan/events. To register, visit: https://form.jotform.com/seekingmichigan/smh-workshop. [cid:image002.png@01DD1536.9E9B2D50] Figure 1 - Save Michigan History flyer advertising disaster response workshops from the Archives of Michigan. Erika McDowell Traveling Archivist | Archives of Michigan Michigan Department of Technology, Management, & Budget 702 W. Kalamazoo Street | Lansing, MI 48915 517-897-2848 | McDowellE1(a)michigan.gov<mailto:McDowellE1@michigan.gov> Michigan.gov/archivesofmichigan<https://www.michigan.gov/archivesofmichigan> [cid:image001.jpg@01DD1535.FFEAC990]<https://www.michigan.gov/archivesofmichigan>

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Library Systems Manager role (Great Lakes region)
by Irwin, Kathy M 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '26

The Central Michigan University Libraries is seeking a Manager of Library Systems. This twelve-month, non-tenure track librarian position is responsible for the planning, implementation, and oversight of library systems and serves as an advisor to library leaders on systems strategy, budgeting, and emerging technologies, while also performing hands on configuration and maintenance for core library platforms. The individual in this position will work with colleagues across the library to further library goals and provide excellent service to our users. For more information, see the full position announcement. Please share this posting with anyone you feel may be interested in this opportunity. https://www.jobs.cmich.edu/postings/45098 Best, Kathy --- [cid:68418113-be7b-4f07-829e-a41fa08c73ff] Kathy M. Irwin, Ph.D. (she, hers) Dean of University Libraries Central Michigan University Park Library 407 P: 989-774-3500 E: kathy.m.irwin(a)cmich.edu<mailto:irwin1km@cmich.edu> http://www.cmich.edu<http://www.cmich.edu/>

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Compilation of Michigan Railroad Program Ideas
by Laura Orlowski 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '26

Hi everyone; Thank you for all the great responses to my inquiry about Michigan Railroad Programs. Listed below is a list of the ideas submitted. - *Mark Worral - you can find Mark on facebook @ mark-on-railroad-history* - *Harbor County Museum of History (harborcountymuseum.org <http://harborcountymuseum.org>)* - *Steam Railroading Institute in Owosso (home to the Polar Express Train) - michigansteamtrain.org <http://michigansteamtrain.org>* - *Southern Michgan Railroad Society (no contact info given)* - *Ben Traverse (Traditional Folk Music from the Mitten Land) does a program called "Songs of the American Rail"* - *Kalamazoo Model Railroad Historical Society - kmrhs.org <http://kmrhs.org>* - *Paul Trap (from Holland, MI) has a program called "Great West Michigan Train Robbery" - 616-396-6492* - *Mark Cowles - mkpcowles(a)yahoo.com <mkpcowles(a)yahoo.com>* I also received information about the 18th Michigan Railroad History Conference at Durand Union Station on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 9-5 - for more information email: Michigan.Railroad.History.Conf(a)gmail.com Thanks for all the great resources! -Laura Orlowski, Library Director Jonesville District Library 517-849-9701 info(a)jonesvilledistrictlibrary.org

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Head of Youth Services Opening
by Jessica Luther 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '26

The Alpena County George N. Fletcher is looking for an experienced librarian to lead its Youth Services Department. The library’s youth services are an essential part of inspiring creativity, connection, and lifelong learning in the Alpena community. We are looking for a collaborative leader who will lead a talented team, oversee dynamic programming and collections, and build strong partnerships with caregivers, schools, and youth-serving organizations across Alpena County. If you're passionate about youth engagement, love developing staff, and enjoy turning big ideas into meaningful services, this could be a great fit. This is a full-time position averaging 35 hours per week, including occasional nights and weekends as needed. Starting wage is $18- $20 per hour, depending on education and experience. Full-time employees receive a benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, participation in the Michigan Municipal Employees' Retirement System, and an optional 457b plan. A Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Library Science, or a related field is required; a Master’s Degree in Library Science from an American Library Association-accredited program is preferred. A full job description is attached. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Library Director Christina Markowski, cstjohn(a)alpenalibrary.org. *Jessica Luther (she/her) * Assistant Director *Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library* 211 N. First Ave. Alpena, MI 49707 jluther(a)alpenalibrary.org 989.419.4236 Currently reading: <https://app.thestorygraph.com/currently-reading/sylvia_p77> [image: John of John by Douglas Stuart]

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Workplace Wellness Webinars from LEO FREE
by Membiela, Clare (MDE) 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '26

Addressing Stress and Burnout in Today's Workplace Hello! Please see the webinars offered below by the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). These are FREE! [HWHM Banner] From Awareness to Action: Addressing Stress and Burnout in Today's Workplace A three-part webinar series exploring practical strategies to reduce burnout, support mental wellbeing and build healthier workplaces Chronic stress and burnout are increasingly affecting employees across industries, impacting wellbeing, productivity, and workplace culture. At the same time, organizations are seeing encouraging shifts - more employees are willing to talk about mental health and more managers are engaging in conversations about support. This three-part webinar series explores today's workplace mental health challenges, the role organizations play in creating supportive environments, and the practical steps individuals can take to build resilience and support one another. Through a Mental Health First Aid-informed lens, participants will gain actionable strategies to foster healthier, more connected workplaces. [sfed]The series will be led by Jennifer Cox, MA, NT, manager and national trainer for Mental Health First Aid, which is part of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-1.govdelivery.com%2FC…>. Cox provides oversight and supervision of the certified MHFA National Trainer (NT) consultant pool across all curricula and products. As an integral part of the Office of the Vice President for MHFA-USA, she prioritizes curricula fidelity, quality and outcomes, ensuring the team of NT's model best practices in adult learning techniques and remain current on all program innovations and fulfillment procedures. Additionally, she designs and facilitates specialized learning opportunities across the globe on brain health and wellbeing. Jennifer holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Arts from Columbia College Chicago. Her professional experience spans clinical practice, law enforcement and corrections, community behavioral health, youth and older adult services, county and state government roles and corporate wellness. [https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MILEO/2020/03/3250…] Today: Thursday, July 16 Episode 1: The Burnout Challenge: Understanding Chronic Stress in Today's Workplace [sdef]<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fdl%2F…> Stress is a normal part of life, but when it becomes constant, it can take a toll on employee wellbeing, engagement and performance. In today's rapidly changing world, many workers are navigating ongoing pressures related to work demands, economic uncertainty, caregiving responsibilities and world events. In this session, participants will explore the difference between everyday stress and burnout, learn how chronic stress shows up in the workplace, and better understand its impact on individuals, teams, and organizations. Attendees will also be introduced to practical strategies and Mental Health First Aid concepts that can help workplaces recognize concerns early and foster a culture of support. Participants will learn: * The difference between stress, chronic stress and burnout * Common warning signs and workplace impacts * Why burnout is an organizational issue - not just an individual one * How Mental Health First Aid can support early recognition and intervention Thursday, July 16 2-2:30 p.m. [join the event button]<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fdl%2F…> [https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MILEO/2020/03/3250…] Save the Dates: Future Webinars in This Series (links to join will be provided in the weeks before) Episode 2: Creating Conditions for Wellbeing: The Organizational Response - Thursday, Aug. 20 [fwea] Organizations play a critical role in supporting employee mental wellbeing and reducing the risk of burnout. While stress cannot be eliminated entirely, workplace culture, leadership practices and organizational systems can significantly influence how employees experience and manage challenges. In this session, participants will examine how employers can create psychologically safer workplaces where employees feel supported, connected and empowered to seek help when needed. The discussion will highlight practical strategies leaders can implement to promote wellbeing, reduce stigma and strengthen workplace resilience. Participants will learn: * How workplace culture influences stress and burnout * The importance of psychological safety and supportive leadership * Practical organizational strategies that promote employee wellbeing * How Mental Health First Aid can complement broader workplace wellbeing efforts Episode 3: Thriving Through Challenge: The Individual Response - Thursday, Sept. 17 [ewfa] While organizations have an important role to play, employees also benefit from understanding how to recognize and respond to stress in themselves and others. Building resilience is not about avoiding challenges - it is about developing skills and supports that help people navigate them effectively. In this session, participants will learn practical approaches to managing stress, maintaining wellbeing, and supporting colleagues who may be struggling. The session will also explore how Mental Health First Aid can help employees have supportive conversations and connect others to appropriate resources when needed. Participants will learn: * How to recognize personal signs of chronic stress and burnout * Strategies for building resilience and protecting wellbeing * Ways to support coworkers while maintaining healthy boundaries * How Mental Health First Aid can help create a more supportive workplace community [https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MILEO/2020/03/3250…] Explore Michigan's Workplace Mental Health Reports The 2022 and 2025 reports provide research and practical strategies to help employers create healthier, more resilient workplaces where employees can thrive. Download both reports to learn how supporting mental health can strengthen your workforce. Download the 2022 Workplace Mental Health report<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.michigan.gov%2Fleo%2F-%…>. Download the 2025 Workplace Mental Health report<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.michigan.gov%2Fleo%2F-%…>. [LEO logo] Learn more about Healthy Work Healthy Mind.<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.michigan.gov%2Fleo%2Fin…> ________________________________ Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fpublic.govdelivery.com%2Fac…>. You will need to use your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsubscriberhelp.govdelivery.…>. This service is provided to you at no charge by Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.michigan.gov%2Fleo%3Fut…>. ________________________________ This email was sent to membielac(a)michigan.gov<mailto:membielac@michigan.gov> using Granicus Communications Cloud on behalf of: Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity *105 West Allegan * Lansing, Michigan 48933 [GovDelivery logo]<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgranicus.com%2Fsolution%2Fd…> [https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CI1/0100019f6b3d368d-6de87ed2-41c0-4240-a28…] 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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Library Law Office Hours TODAY at 3:00pm!
by Membiela, Clare (MDE) 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '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 library contracts with a company partially owned by a board member ( a decision which the board member involved was recused from), and a problem develops with the contract that ends up in the company suing the library, is the board member a plaintiff and defendant in the suit? Can they sue themselves? If so, please join me TODAY, Thursday, July 16 @ 3:00pm for the Library Law Office Hours! You can register at https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYqdO6uqD8pEt31yRiFFRZkHDc96mWbdi… Once you register, a Zoom link will be e-mailed to you. Hope to "see" you there! Clare 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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What's a BTBL Demo Site? We're glad you asked...
by Wambaugh, Stephanie (LEO) 16 Jul '26

16 Jul '26

The Braille and Talking Book Library<https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/bureau-of-services-for-blind-…> (BTBL) offers free accessible reading materials in audio and braille formats. Public library Demo Sites help promote this free service. They are generally assigned one of our Digital Talking Book Machines to have on hand to show patrons who come into their branches, and Demo Sites distribute information about our program to patrons. There are no circulating items or specific requirements for Demo Sites. We provide promotional materials like brochures, applications, posters, etc. Each Demo Site functions in whatever capacity best serves its patrons. Here are some ways Demo Sites partner with us: * Outbound Services - some locations take our audio book player with them when they visit local nursing homes or perform home deliveries of materials. If a patron can't physically come to the library to get library materials, it's very possible they qualify for BTBL service. * Display Case - other locations choose to have our materials set out in a visible location in the library and promote it with our posters/flyers. A good place for these materials would be near your audiobook CD collection and/or your large print book collection. Patrons using items from these areas may qualify for our service. * Reference Desk -Many locations keep the player back behind the reference desk and only pull it out if someone asks about audio books or related services. As long as your staff knows the basics of who qualifies and what BTBL has to offer, on-demand promotion works great! * Social Media - Using our digital resources, public libraries can promote our services on their social pages. Reach out if you'd like content to share and follow us @MichiganBTBL on Facebook. Remember - individuals do NOT need to be legally blind to use our service, and library staff CAN certify our applications. Offering our service as a supplement to the audio books you have available can open up hundreds of thousands of additional reading opportunities for your patrons in accessible formats FOR FREE. Our large collection of audio and braille books can be mailed on cartridge and played using our (free) digital talking book player OR patrons can download the free BARD mobile App to get books directly on their personal devices. The best part, no wait lists or check out periods. I am happy to meet virtually for staff trainings or one-on-one discussions. Please contact me directly with requests at wambaughs(a)michigan.gov<mailto:wambaughs@michigan.gov>. I can also get additional promotional materials on the way if you are in need. Thank you for making a difference in your communities by spreading the word about BTBL! #ThatAllMayRead Stephanie Wambaugh, Librarian 12 Team Lead and Outreach Services Michigan Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) Bureau of Services for Blind Persons P.O. Box 30007 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48909 Phone: 1-800-992-9012 Fax: 1-517-284-2885 wambaughs(a)michigan.gov<mailto:wambaughs@michigan.gov> LEGAL NOTICE: This email is for the exclusive use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain privileged and confidential information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or duplication of this email is expressly prohibited. If you are not an intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately, delete the email from your computer, and do not copy or disclose it to anyone else. Your receipt of this message is not intended to waive any applicable legal privilege and does not constitute an electronic signature or provide consent to contract electronically.

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