July 2026 - Michlib-l - liblists.org

Open Makerspace Questions
by Sarah Marsack (Roseville Public Library) 22 Jul '26

22 Jul '26

Hello Everyone, Now that our library's renovation has finished and there is a makerspace room, I am hoping to have a few open makerspace hours or events. I have a few questions and concerns and wanted to see what other libraries do. * Are there any supplies for the makerspace equipment that you provide to patrons upon request? * If you sell supplies for the makerspace at the library, how do you handle taxes on the supplies? Does the Friends of the Library group buy and sell the supplies or does your library have a sales tax license? * If you have limited regular hours or scheduled events where patrons can use the makerspace equipment to make whatever they like, do you have registration or is the equipment available on a first come first serve basis? * Do you usually have one laptop or computer available for each equipment that needs it? If not, do some equipment share the laptops and computers? Do you let patrons bring their own laptops to use with the equipment? * If you have a 3D printer, how do you manage patron print jobs? Do patrons submit a file to you online or do they save it to a memory card or usb flash drive? Do you have any limits as to the size, amount of grams used, or the estimated time needed to print? Thanks, Sarah Marsack Systems/Teen Librarian Roseville Public Library smarsack(a)roseville-mi.gov

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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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Register today for Back in Circulation: A Conference for Managers and Staff in Access And Circulation Services
by UW iSchool CE 22 Jul '26

22 Jul '26

Back in Circulation: A Conference for Managers and Staff in Access And Circulation Services<https://ischool.wisc.edu/continuing-education/back-in-circulation/back-in-c…> Oct. 5-6, 2026 Madison, WI $300 Join us in Madison, WI for Back in Circulation 2026! This year's conference will include sessions on inclusive supervision, training student employees, best practices for customer service, streamlining workflows, and more! The conference will kick off with Bobbi Newman's keynote on Monday morning. Bobbi L. Newman, MLIS, MA (she/her) is a consultant who helps organizations create healthier, more equitable workplaces using evidence-based strategies. She is also a professor who teaches future librarians and leaders, integrating research, practice, and compassion to shape healthier workplaces across the profession. Bobbi is the founder of ThriveLib, a virtual conference dedicated to advancing the well-being of library staff and fostering honest conversations about work, care, and sustainability. A certified Wellness Practitioner with nearly a decade of experience in workplace well-being, Bobbi is known for translating research into practical, actionable strategies that support both individuals and organizations. She is the author of Fostering Wellness in the Workplace and the editor of Well-Being in the Library Workplace: A Handbook for Managers, widely used resources for leaders seeking to build healthier work cultures. She writes about well-being in libraries at www.librarianbyday.net, where her work continues to challenge harmful norms and advocate for systemic change. Quick Links * Visit the conference website<https://ischool.wisc.edu/continuing-education/back-in-circulation/back-in-c…> * View the conference schedule<https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sPz10u5LS2TdStTji492neGjTmuo39Cq8rVjmC1…> * Registration Information<https://ischool.wisc.edu/continuing-education/back-in-circulation/circ-2025…> -- Questions? Email ce-info(a)wisc.edu

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Experience with Blackstone Unlimited
by Director 22 Jul '26

22 Jul '26

Good morning, We are looking to end hoopla soon and are considering Blackstone Unlimited as an option for access to no-reserve audiobooks. Does anyone have experience with Blackstone Unlimited? They recommend a 3-year contract, but I don't want to lock us into that if the resource isn't worth it. I can compile and share responses if there is interest. Thank you, Kelsey Rutkowski *--------------------------------------* *Library Director* *Indian River Area Library* 3546 S Straits Hwy PO Box 160 Indian River, MI 49749 (231) 238-8581 indianriverlibrary.org

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Hot Spot Question
by Andrus, Miriam 22 Jul '26

22 Jul '26

Hello Librarians, Do any of you work with Mission Telecom for hot spots? How many do you have? What do you pay per device? Is the wifi coverage good? Thank you for your 2 cents... 🙂 [cid:6aa946bf-ff3d-426a-b648-03e74b96af85] Miriam Andrus, MLS Director, Grace A. Dow Memorial Library 1710 W. St. Andrews Road, Midland, MI 48640 989-837-3431 direct www.gadml.org<http://www.gadml.org/> [cid:cae88956-987d-45ba-b4a5-a9c1fa66c795]<http://www.facebook.com/gracedowlibrary>[cid:0e233470-34ed-4f83-a3a0-cc15a8eea69f]<http://www.twitter.com/cityofmidlandmi>[cid:010c6488-f1a9-4314-a8f6-e52abda28084]<http://www.instagram.com/gracedowlibrary>[cid:7fcbd448-19f3-4d9f-9fd8-ade19933d1b3]<http://www.youtube.com/citymidland>

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old CD's DVD's?
by Jean Fellows 21 Jul '26

21 Jul '26

Help! We're building a dinosaur herd along our fence out of old CD's & DVD's-- and we are running out! Does anyone have any old, used CD's & DVD's you could send to us via RIDES for this project? Thank You-Thank You!-- ZV138, Attn: Jean -- Jean Fellows Programming Coordinator Grand Ledge Area District Library 131 E. Jefferson St., Grand Ledge, MI 48837 517-627-7014 *MelCat & Mel Are at Risk!* saveimls.org A federal Executive Order may cut *all funding* for these essential library services by Sept 2025. MelCat = 34 million items from 435 MI libraries Mel = free eBooks, magazines, research tools & more Small libraries like GLADL *depend* on them!

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CLOSING SOON- Senior Librarian Job- Technical Services St Clair County
by Turbok, Joseph 21 Jul '26

21 Jul '26

We have a senior position closing soon. Apply at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/stclaircounty/jobs/5414211/senior-li… Details below. Senior Librarian - Technical Services Salary $57,208.00 - $75,282.00 Annually Location St. Clair County Library System - Main Job Type FULL TIME HOURLY Job Number 26-094 Department Main Library Opening Date 07/17/2026 Closing Date 7/23/2026 11:59 PM Eastern REQUISITION # 26-094 HOURS Full Time OTHER INFORMATION Open to St. Clair County Employees and the Public DescriptionBenefits POSITION SUMMARY Oversees the operation of the Technical Services Department of the St. Clair County Library System. Serves as the system-wide resource contact person for the online automated library system and the acquisition of library materials. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Trains staff system-wide on the appropriate Horizon software. Provides oversight of department staff functions Oversees, evaluates and coordinates all activity within the department. Coordinates the purchasing and processing of library materials for the main library and the branches. Oversees expenditure of library materials budget and produces appropriate statistical information. Oversees entry of bibliographic data to on-line system and supervises the maintenance of on-line system. Furnish statistical information on the collection and its use. Performs original cataloging. Performs reference desk duties on assigned evening(s) and weekends. Other duties as assigned. SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Work is performed under the general supervision of the Innovation Technology and Collections Coordinator, Library Director or designee. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Oversee, guide and coordinate daily activities of the technical services and assigned support staff. The position is responsible for role-modeling and promoting organizational values as a representative of the St. Clair County Library System. EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, EDUCATION: Master degree in information or library science from an American Library Association accredited school. Minimum of 5 years professional public library experience. A familiarity of the Horizon or other online public access methods system highly necessary. Knowledge, interest, appreciation of Literature and other sources of information available at the Library. A thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of modern library operation. Manage and direct departmental operations, including budgeting, strategic planning. Knowledge of and interpret applicable federal, state and local regulations. Develop, apply and explain department and County procedure and policies. Plan and coordinate work staff activities, prioritize, instruct, set deadlines, objectives, measure success, and make recommendations and resolve issues. Methods of research, planning, conducting and implementing major studies or projects. Design and recommend new forms, reports or procedures. Ability to understand and work in complex data processing system, analyze data and exercise sound financial judgment. Analyze administrative problems, evaluate alternatives and implement sound solutions. Prepare and present reports, speeches or training programs to groups. Provide training and guidance in handling difficult or complex problems or resolving escalated complaints or disputes. Work independently with limited direct supervision. Coordinate activities with other departments. Writing, reading, mathematical principles; proficient computer skills-Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook; exercise sound judgment and decision making in accordance with policies and procedures; ability to research and problem solve independently; knowledge of County operations and functions; ability to prioritize and time manage; handle stressful situations, provide effective and friendly customer service; support the County's mission and values; ability to think critically where necessary. Knowledge or understanding of basic administrative tasks: operate standard office equipment; document management; prepare and maintain records, various correspondences and reports; answer general inquiries and refer as necessary; answer telephone calls, process mail, order supplies/equipment; prepare meeting agendas, attend meetings, record/transcribe/distribute minutes; entering, transcribing, recording, storing or maintaining information in written or electronic form with speed and accuracy; maintain calendars, arrange meetings, schedule rooms and equipment as necessary. Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently with management, co-workers and clients; obtain and communicate accurate information; apply common sense understanding to complex instructions and respond accordingly; communicate complex ideas through graphs, charts, presentations, reports or other professional correspondence. ESSENTIAL ABILITIES FOR ALL ST. CLAIR COUNTY JOB CLASSIFICATIONS: Ability to demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance. Ability to read, write & communicate in English; follow written and verbal instruction and understand basic mathematics and figure checking. Ability to interpret and apply procedures, rules, technical information, instructions, manuals to complete tasks accurately and on schedule. Ability to learn from directions, observations, and mistakes; and apply procedures using good judgment. Ability to use discretion and maintain sensitive and confidential information. Ability to work independently or part of a team; ability to interact appropriately with others such as County officials, employees, vendors and the general public. Ability to work under supervision, receiving instructions/feedback, coaching/counseling and/or action/discipline. Adaptability to change in the work environment, managing competing demands and ability to deal with frequent changes, delays or unexpected events. Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services including customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction Proficient skills using Microsoft Office programs including, but not limited to: Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook required. Proficiency may be tested. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: Prior to starting employment, the candidate must complete a satisfactory background check. The background check is understood to encompass all forms of pre-employment screening, including but not limited to: drug screen, physical, criminal background, driving record, sex offender registry, education, training and licensing verification, employment history, credit check, and professional and personal references. Must possess a valid State of Michigan operator license and maintain this license throughout employment in this position. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without accommodations. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to: Speak to others to convey information effectively. Read, interpret and understand procedures, rules, technical information, instructions and manuals. Hear and understand information presented through spoken words and sentences. Specific vision requirement includes close vision, distance vision, color and depth perception. Use hands to operate a computer, handle materials and operate equipment. Push or pull carts, reach with hands and arms forward, above and below shoulder level. Lift, move or carry objects, equipment and supplies weighing up to 35 pounds. Sit, bend, stoop, crouch, crawl and kneel in an ergonomically correct manner. Stand and walk, climb stairs. The noise level in the work environment is moderate with many interruptions. The position requires working with the public.

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Gov. Whitmer Announces Summer Reading Road Trip
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 21 Jul '26

21 Jul '26

Hi all, The Press Release<https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/press-releases> from the Executive Office of Governor (EOG) is out: "Gov. Whitmer Announces Summer Reading Road Trip, Partners with Public Libraries to Keep Students Reading All Summer." (It might not be loaded to the Mi.gov website yet, but you can access my copy here<https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AM2Q0ACPR3yDLmZggy2v3OjCY-wP7BiV/view?usp=…>). Below is a "Summer Reading Road Trip Quick Facts" write-up I received from the EOG for libraries. Libraries can find the official rules, FAQ's, and the Stop #1 flyer (in both color and black & white) available for you to print and share through my library folder: https://bit.ly/OGsrc26. The official links for the public to find the challenge<https://mi.gov/summerreadingroadtrip> <https://mi.gov/summerreadingroadtrip> are listed below. Libraries should note that Stop #3 will be "Visit Your Local Library." These stops & the flyers relating to them will be rolled out in 2 week increments throughout the summer on the EOG's social media pages, and I will be sharing the flyers for libraries to have on hand in the library folder<https://bit.ly/OGsrc26> as I receive them. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions. As my email stated yesterday, this initiative is intended to complement—not replace or compete with—existing library summer programming. Participation is entirely optional, and families can decide for themselves whether they wish to take part in the challenge. SUMMER READING ROAD TRIP QUICK FACTS What is it? The Office of the Governor’s Summer Reading Road Trip is an 8-week long summer reading program designed to engage Michigan kids of all ages in reading, writing, and visiting their local library. The challenge will consist of four “stops”, distributed every 2 weeks, with each “stop” containing a new set of 5 challenges for students to complete. Challenges were intentionally kept broad and simple to encourage all ages to participate however best fits their age and ability. What are the themes? Stop 1: Start Your Engines (easy challenges designed to ease kids into the challenge and build a habit of reading) Stop 2: Explore Michigan (challenges designed to highlight Michigan authors/illustrators and showcase everything that makes Michigan special) Stop 3: Visit Your Local Library (challenges designed around getting kids on site at libraries and exploring everything they have to offer) Stop 4: Destination: Imagination (challenges designed to amplify other forms of reading and writing, like song lyrics, cooksbooks, and other fun ways to read) What are the prizes? By participating, students are eligible to win a prize pack containing a custom tote, a book, a map of Michigan, and bookmarks! Each challenge completed is another entry, so students are encouraged to complete as many challenges as possible. How do students submit their challenges? When challenges are complete, students can visit Michigan.gov/SummerReadingRoadTrip<http://michigan.gov/SummerReadingRoadTrip> or scan the QR code on the flyer to submit their accomplishments. The form will need to be resubmitted for each unique challenge completed. Is there anything libraries are expected to do? No! While we encourage libraries to make the posters publicly available and promote this as they see fit, this challenge is intended to amplify the work of our library partners, not create more of it. Libraries are free to do as much or as little as they’d like to promote the challenge. Quick Links Submission Form: Michigan.gov/SummerReadingRoadTrip<http://www.michigan.gov/summerreadingroadtrip> Rules and Regulations Document: https://somgovweb.state.mi.us/SummerReading/Rules.pdf Best, 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:6285c879-8bfe-4736-8062-5273e4655881] 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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Muskegon Area District Library - Hiring a FT Library District Manager (Closes July 31st)
by Mariel Chandler-Nash 21 Jul '26

21 Jul '26

Hello, We are reposting this new full-time position at MADL with additional details! Become a District Manager to help others find information and learn, create community spaces, promote literacy and equity, and support the preservation of knowledge. This position will be most rewarding for those with a passion for learning, helping others, and creating community relationships, offering diverse opportunities in various library settings and a positive community impact. The Library District Manager has responsibilities including: · Manages (plans, organizes, directs) daily operations of multiple library facilities: Egelston Branch, Muskegon Township Branch, Ravenna Branch (view location information at www.madl.org<http://www.madl.org/>). · Implements and monitors policies and procedures. · Collaborates with coworkers on appropriate services, developing outreach strategies and materials to engage with the community. · Professionally executes or facilitates services in a safe and responsible way. · Builds and manages a portfolio of community partnerships, including schools, neighborhood associations, and other groups for the purpose of expanding library services into the community as well developing new programs through innovative connections to the assets of community partners. · Organizes and hosts public events and works as part of a team to create and facilitate the agenda in a range of settings or locations. · Communicates and builds strong community bonds by working with local community leaders. · Selects and hires/contracts with vendors, authors, or other outside agencies to assist with programs or services. · Attends local municipal meetings representing MADL. · Works with the Library Board and Friends of the Library groups as necessary. · Acts as liaison with township maintenance/ supervisors and the library administrative staff to assure proper building maintenance and operation. · Develops, writes, or coordinates grant functions, stipends, and financial aid opportunities. · Develops and implements goals, programs, and procedures for the branch(es), coordinates activities and essential tasks. · Recruits and interviews for open staff positions. · Manages and supervises staff and volunteers in day-to-day activities, including scheduling, training, disciplining, and conducting performance evaluations. · Responds to requests or refers the questions to Administration when appropriate. · Resolves complaints and requests with discretion and good judgement in keeping with MADL policies. · Markets the library by developing and/or assisting with public service-oriented programming and press interviews. · Prepares and maintains required reports and records using approved formats in a timely fashion. · Actively participates in ensuring the Code of Conduct and Library Privacy Act is followed. · Participates in general functions for library cleanliness and appearance. · Customer service via phone or in-person. · Incumbents holding MLIS professional degrees may also participate in collection development or other appropriate library services or functions. Job Type: Full-time, Non-Union Job Status: Exempt Hiring Salary Range: $62,000 - $70,000 Education/ Experience: Master's Degree preferred, or equivalent & relevant work experience in lieu Benefits: * Medical Insurance * Health Savings Account * Employer paid Dental Insurance * Employer paid Vision Insurance * Employee assistance program * Flexible schedule * Employer paid AD&D, STD, LTD, Life Insurance * Additional voluntary Critical Illness and Accident Insurance * 4 weeks Paid Time Off * Parental leave * Professional development assistance * MERS Defined Benefit (Pension) * MERS Health Care Savings Program * MERS 457 Plan * Mission Square 457 Plan * 12 Paid Holidays * Awesome coworkers! Please submit resume directly to the HR Manager at mchandler(a)madl.org, through the employment page at www.madl.org<http://www.madl.org/> or also via Indeed. Mariel Chandler-Nash HR & Payroll Manager 231-737-6248 x112 | madl.org<http://www.madl.org> 4845 Airline Rd. Suite 5 Muskegon, MI 49444 [https://madl.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/160/2026/06/2026-Q2-MADL-logo-lar…]

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Photography Program Recommendation
by Emily Sherman 21 Jul '26

21 Jul '26

Hello, Recommending Corey Seeman if you are looking for a photography program which provides a useful and fun intro to the world of photography as a hobby. Corey is passionate about photography and very knowledgeable about digital photography management, when to use a phone vs. a digital camera while out taking photos, as well as nature photography and many other topics. NDL has hosted Corey a few times in the past but most recently he was here to talk about Nature Photography and it was a great presentation--patrons learned a lot and had some really good questions. Corey is the director of Kresge Library Services at the Stephen M. Ross of Business at the University of Michigan. His website can be found here: https://www.squirreldude.com/photography-programs --Emily Sherman Adult Services Librarian Northville District Library

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