August 2026 - Michlib-l

Announcing the 2026/2027 LM LSTA Improving Access to Information grant awards!
by Reish, Karren (MDE) 12 Aug '26

12 Aug '26

The Library of Michigan (LM) is pleased to announce eleven Improving Access to Information grants for the 2026/2027 fiscal year. LM received 19 applications from academic and public libraries working to provide further access and services to their students and communities. The awards total $231,709. Congratulations to the libraries! The Improving Access to Information Grant program is intended to help Michigan’s public and academic libraries provide improved services or resources in one of three areas; literacy, local history or special collections, and improving online access for community members who have limited access. Of the eleven grant recipients, two are academic library and nine are public libraries. Six grants support literacy related programs, four grants support local history or special collections programs, and two support improving online access. The project descriptions are below. Capital Area District Libraries - “Continued Digitization of the Stebbins Real Estate Collection” - $25,000 The Capital Area District Library will continue the systematic digitization of the Stebbins Real Estate Collection (1920s-1970s). This collection provides an unparalleled street-level view of Lansing’s industrialization and the systemic housing policies that shaped our modern landscape. By finalizing this digitization, we will complete the transition of this massive, fragile archive into a fully searchable, public-facing digital resource. Charlotte Community Library – “Charlotte Community Library Mobile Unit” - $25,000 The Charlotte Community Library will purchase and outfit a Mobile Unit to provide community outreach opportunities. The Mobile Unit will allow the Library to increase services to homebound community members. It will also double youth and adult community programming and establish a Pop-Up Library Program at local nursing homes, retirement communities, adult foster care, and shelters. Dearborn Public Library – “Maker-prenuers Build Dearborn” - $25,000 The Dearborn Public Library will develop and host the Maker-preneurs Build Dearborn Series. This program provides 12–17 year-olds comprehensive instruction with various pieces of maker equipment. Participants will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to operate this equipment, as well as how to develop a product along with branding and marketing, ultimately culminating in the creation of a product for sale in a mini-fair. Eastern Michigan University Library – “Accessing the Sounds of Michigan: Describing the River Street Anthology” - $24,983 The Eastern Michigan University Library will work on preserving and making the River Street Anthology (RSA) accessible to students and the community. The RSA is a collection documenting the music of hundreds of Michigan artists recorded between 2015–2026 in homes, community spaces, and venues across the state. It includes over 600 audio and video recordings, creating a unique snapshot of Michigan’s independent music culture. Gary Byker Memorial Library of Hudsonville – “Golden Moments Café” - $17,343 The Gary Byker Memorial Library will launch a new program for individuals living with memory loss and their caregivers. This monthly gathering will promote social engagement, provide memory-loss-friendly activities, and foster meaningful connections among participants facing similar challenges and create an opportunity for continued lifelong learning in a welcoming, supportive environment. Gladwin County Library – “ Rural Connectivity” - $6,020 The Gladwin County Library will increase their in-demand digital access service for their rural population. This expansion will ensure that those who cannot access digital connectivity for learning, employment, and personal growth are able to borrow mobile hotspots for digital access. Jackson District Library – “Outdoor Solar Charging Stations for Library Branches” - $25,000 The Jackson District Library will expand access to technology and community space by installing solar-powered charging stations at three branch locations. These will allow residents to charge devices while accessing the library’s Wi‑Fi, even outside of building hours. The spaces will support outdoor programming, provide convenient amenities for families and community members, and create welcoming environments for reading, learning, and connection. Oakland University Educational Resources Lab – “Bridging the Access Gap: Literacy Kits for K-5 Reading Intervention” - $25,000 The Educational Resources Lab at Oakland University will develop and circulate twenty literacy access kits to increase participation in reading intervention for K-5 students. The kits will be used in conjunction with literacy instruction for students participating in the Oakland University Reading Clinic and when not in use in the clinic, will be available to teachers, the university community and community members. Orion Township Public Library – “Orion History Solar Eco-Posts” - $13,250 The Orion Township Public Library will use local history archive to create several interactive displays around the city. These displays will be installations of archival photos at historical sites and recorded audio messages explaining the site’s historical significance. The display will include links to the library's Orion History Archive for more access to digitized newspapers, photos, obituaries, oral histories, etc. Spring Lake District Library – “Spring Lake Storywalk 2026” - $20,113 The Spring Lake District Library will install permanent StoryWalk signs throughout the community to encourage reading, literacy, and outdoor activity for families and residents of all ages. The project will create a literacy experience that promotes early childhood learning, family engagement, and community wellness. Traverse Area District Library – “Camp Roy-El Collection Preservation and Access Initiative: A Framework for Regional Cultural Heritage Stewardship” - $25,000 The Traverse Area District Library will preserve and improve access to Camp Roy-El Collection. Cam Roy-El provided free summer camp experiences for disabled youth for more than 40 years. The collection documents the experiences of disabled children in mid-twentieth-century northern Michigan and the volunteers, donors, and community members who made the camp possible. Through photographs, audiovisual materials, records, and ephemera, it preserves an important and underrepresented history of disability, recreation, and community care. If you would like more information about the Library of Michigan grant programs, please go to www.michigan.gov/lsta<http://www.michigan.gov/lsta> and see the grant programs sections for program descriptions and documentation. The Library of Michigan grant programs are made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library

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Call for Proposals Now Open! Power Up: A Leadership Conference for Youth Services Managers & Staff
by UW iSchool CE 12 Aug '26

12 Aug '26

Power Up: A Leadership Conference for Youth Services Managers & Staff<https://ischool.wisc.edu/continuing-education/power-up/2027-power-up-a-lead…> March 22-23, 2027 In-Person Conference Join us in Madison, WI for Power Up 2027. Call for proposals is now open!<https://ischool.wisc.edu/continuing-education/power-up/2027-power-up-a-lead…> Conference sessions can take one of several formats, and you are welcome to submit multiple proposals. * Lecture presentation: 45-minute presentation and 15 min Q&A * Panel Discussion: 2-4 presenters focused on one big topic and sharing their experience * Workshop presentation: One-hour hands-on learning experience * Programming lightning talk: 5-8 minute mini presentation on or about a successful program Topics may include, but are not limited to: Strategic planning; Project management strategies; Leadership styles & strategies; Advocacy for staff, children, teens, and families; Intellectual Freedom, censorship & book challenges; Community engagement, partnerships, and outreach; Mentorship; Navigating change; Program, services, and staff evaluations; Culturally relevant programming and collection management; Innovative or experimental programming; Interdepartmental collaboration; Intentional staff development and training; Staff morale, retention & workplace culture. Selected presentation, workshop, and panel sessions will receive one complimentary conference registration. Selected lightning talk presenters will receive a discounted conference rate. Submit your idea<https://ischool.wisc.edu/continuing-education/power-up/2027-power-up-a-lead…> by September 7, 11:59 PM CST for full consideration. Roundtable Facilitators In addition to general session proposals, we are also looking for roundtable facilitators<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSecoxYLMS4X6XGKh1Am0gl1uAKPEqE0B7z…> to help moderate conversations about: * Fostering positive teen relationships and engagement in the library * Welcoming and engaging families in the library Roundtable facilitators will prepare discussion questions in advance, introduce the topic, and guide the discussion during a conference breakout session. Selected facilitators will receive a discounted conference registration. Submit your application<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSecoxYLMS4X6XGKh1Am0gl1uAKPEqE0B7z…> by September 7, 2026, for consideration. -- Questions? Email ce-info(a)ischool.wisc.edu

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GoLM - Registration closes August 28th for GoLMCon 2026
by Matt Grayvin 12 Aug '26

12 Aug '26

Hey Library Makers, Registration for GoLMCon 2026 is open through August 28th, just over two weeks away. If you've been meaning to sign up, now's a good time to grab your spot. Friday, September 18th, 9am to 4pm at Southfield Public Library (doors at 8am). Completely free: free light breakfast, free lunch, and travel stipends for Michigan-based folks outside the metro Detroit area (see the map in our last post for the eligibility zone). Whether you're just starting to wonder if a Makerspace could work at your library, or you're deep in the weeds running one already, this day is built for you. All library staff welcome. Conference info: https://bit.ly/GOLMCON2026INFO Register: https://bit.ly/GOLMCON26REG Questions? guildoflibrarymakers.com or guildoflibrarymakers(a)gmail.com See you there, Matt Grayvin (he/him) Executive Director, The Guild of Library Makers

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GoLM - Registration closes August 28th for GoLMCon 2026
by Matt Grayvin 12 Aug '26

12 Aug '26

Hey Library Makers, Registration for GoLMCon 2026 is open through August 28th, just over two weeks away. If you've been meaning to sign up, now's a good time to grab your spot. Friday, September 18th, 9am to 4pm at Southfield Public Library (doors at 8am). Completely free: free light breakfast, free lunch, and travel stipends for Michigan-based folks outside the metro Detroit area (see the map in our last post for the eligibility zone). Whether you're just starting to wonder if a Makerspace could work at your library, or you're deep in the weeds running one already, this day is built for you. All library staff welcome. Conference info: https://bit.ly/GOLMCON2026INFO Register: https://bit.ly/GOLMCON26REG Questions? guildoflibrarymakers.com or guildoflibrarymakers(a)gmail.com See you there, Matt Grayvin (he/him) Executive Director, The Guild of Library Makers

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Open Position - Children's & Teen Services - Assistant Manager, Allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne, IN
by Danielle Gleason 11 Aug '26

11 Aug '26

Do you believe libraries can inspire a lifelong love of reading and learning? Are you a collaborative leader who enjoys mentoring staff while creating engaging experiences for children, teens, and families? The Allen County Public Library is seeking an Assistant Children's and Teen Services Manager to help lead one of the busiest and most dynamic youth services departments in Indiana. In this leadership role, you'll partner with the Children's and Teen Services Manager to help lead one of the Library's largest service departments. You'll provide day-to-day leadership and supervision for a large team, coach and develop employees, coordinate innovative programs, build meaningful community partnerships, and ensure exceptional service for young patrons from birth through high school. Whether your expertise is in children's services, teen services, or both, you'll play a key role in fostering a positive team culture while delivering outstanding library service to our community. What We're Looking For Because this position helps supervise and develop a large, dynamic team, previous leadership or management experience is strongly preferred. We're looking for someone who has successfully coached employees, managed performance, navigated challenging situations with professionalism, and built an engaged, collaborative workplace culture. The ideal candidate leads by example, communicates effectively, and enjoys helping others grow and succeed. Required Qualifications Applicants must meet one of the following: * Master's degree in Library and Information Science (or equivalent) and two (2) years of professional librarian experience or relevant experience in a youth-serving setting (preferred); or * Bachelor's degree and three (3) years of professional librarian experience (required); or * An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience in a youth-serving setting. Additionally, candidates must have: * State of Indiana Public Librarian Certification (LC4), or the ability to obtain and maintain certification. * Valid driver's license. Why Join Allen County Public Library? At ACPL, you'll join a team that believes libraries change lives. We are committed to creating welcoming spaces where curiosity thrives, lifelong learning is celebrated, and every person feels valued. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work alongside passionate colleagues who are dedicated to serving our community. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO<https://acpllibin.applicantpro.com/jobs/4171032> Danielle Gleason Director of Human Resources ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY (260) 421-1234

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JDL Manager II Brooklyn Branch
by Wayne, Danah 11 Aug '26

11 Aug '26

Hello, JDL is seeking a Manager II at our beautiful Brooklyn location. In the heart of the Irish Hills, this branch is surrounded by lakes, shopping, parks, and so much more. Located in the Southeast corner of Jackson County, the Brooklyn branch was newly expanded and updated in 2021. If you think this opportunity might be for you, please check it out at www.myjdl.com<http://www.myjdl.com/> . Danah D Wayne Human Resources Manager Jackson District Library O: 517-905-1306 C: 517-936-7576 wayned(a)myjdl.com<mailto:wayned@myjdl.com> [cid:5b149c42-5f34-43a9-85b9-109daf5de33c]

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Otsego County Library millage passes
by jskinner＠otsego.org 11 Aug '26

11 Aug '26

Good news everybody! The Otsego County Library millage passed 4,281 (67.8%) to 2,027 (32.1%). Have a wonderful rest of your day, Jackie Jacqueline Skinner Director Otsego County Library 989-732-5841 jskinner(a)otsego.org

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Van Buren District Library Position Posting: Bangor Branch Manager Full-Time
by Dan Hutchins 11 Aug '26

11 Aug '26

Position Title: Bangor Branch Manager. Hours & Compensation: Full-time hourly position at 40 hours per week including benefits. Some evening and weekend hours are required. Salary begins at $71,988 annually for candidates possessing a Master of Library and Information Science degree or $60,211 annually for candidates possessing a Bachelor’s degree. Benefits include health insurance (including vision and dental), a 401(a) retirement plan with employer match and optional 457 plan, long-term disability insurance, paid life insurance, and mobile phone reimbursement. PLEASE NOTE: Van Buren District Library does not pay or reimburse for moving or relocation expenses. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree required. Preference will be given to candidates possessing a Master of Library and Information Science degree or currently enrolled in an accredited MLIS program. Preference will also be given to candidates with prior public library experience. Experience in Youth Services and previous supervisory experience are strongly preferred. Nature of Work: At Van Buren District Library, we believe that libraries connect people to the world around them and to each other. We seek leaders who share our commitment to outstanding public service, lifelong learning, and strong community partnerships. Van Buren District Library is seeking an enthusiastic, engaged, and community-oriented leader for its Bangor Branch Library, located in the City of Bangor, Michigan, approximately 10 miles southeast of South Haven, Michigan, and 30 miles west of Kalamazoo in Van Buren County. Bangor is a small city situated at the crossroads of the Lake Michigan coastline and rural Van Buren County, known for its agricultural heritage, small farms, and local farm markets. Van Buren District Library serves more than 44,000 residents through seven branch locations. The Bangor Branch Manager is a position of significant responsibility requiring a versatile leader capable of managing branch operations while providing exceptional public service and fostering strong community relationships. The successful candidate will become an active and visible member of the Bangor community, developing productive relationships with residents, schools, local government, civic organizations, and community partners. The Bangor Branch Manager serves on a full-time basis, including some evening and Saturday hours, with a schedule reflecting the needs of both the Bangor community and the Library District. The position reports directly to the Executive Director. Like many positions within Van Buren District Library, the Bangor Branch Manager will serve in multiple and sometimes unrelated roles as organizational needs evolve. Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to contribute wherever needed are essential characteristics for success. Responsibilities: • Supervise the Bangor Branch Library and oversee its daily operations. • Train, schedule, mentor, and supervise branch staff while fostering a positive workplace culture centered on exceptional customer service. • Maintain a welcoming, safe, and attractive library environment in collaboration with local government and library administration. Report building and grounds issues to local government staff and library administration as needed. • Assist patrons with technology, research, and information needs. • Perform routine troubleshooting and maintenance of public technology and library equipment, including copiers, printers, and related devices. • Develop children’s and adult programs in collaboration with the District Program Coordinator, fellow Branch Managers, and other library staff, consistent with Library District goals and best practices. • Serve as the Library’s primary representative to local government, schools, the Friends of the Bangor Branch Library, community organizations, and other local partners. • Attend Library District meetings, municipal meetings, and community events requiring personal transportation. • Under the guidance of the Collection Development Team, actively manage the branch collection through data- informed weeding, merchandising, rotation, and replacement of materials. • Oversee branch circulation services, including interlibrary loan and MeLCat. • Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director or Administrative Team. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Desire to serve the public in a welcoming, professional, and inclusive manner. • Knowledge of managerial principles and practices related to public library operations. • Excellent organizational, planning, and time-management skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively. • Ability to motivate staff, manage change, and cultivate a positive workplace culture. • Intermediate technology skills, including Microsoft Office, Internet resources, eBooks and eReaders, hoopla, MeLCat, Kanopy, and other digital content platforms. • Ability to establish and maintain productive working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, local officials, community organizations, and the public. • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. • Ability to exercise sound judgment and work independently while supporting district-wide initiatives. • Ability to work evening and weekend hours as needed. • Ability to read fine print with or without corrective lenses; lift up to 30 pounds; bend, twist, crouch, kneel; and shelve library materials up to 90 inches in height. The duties and responsibilities of this position supplement the Van Buren District Library Personnel Policies and applicable work rules and may evolve as organizational needs change. The Library reserves the right to assign work outside an employee’s regular job assignment and to modify work assignments, work locations, or job descriptions as necessary. To Apply: Please submit a resume, references, and a cover letter to: Chantelle Dowling, Operations Manager cdowling(a)vbdl.org <mailto:cdowling@vbdl.org>. Applications accepted until the position is filled. An online version of the position posting may be found here: https://www.vbdl.org/job/bangor-branch-manager/ Dan Hutchins Executive Director Van Buren District Library 200 North Phelps Street Decatur, MI 49045 dhutchins(a)vbdl.org <mailto:dhutchins@vbdl.org> Main: 269-423-4771 https://www.vbdl.org <https://www.vbdl.org/>

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Presentation Recommendation: A Leap from the Clouds: Michigan's Early Aeronauts
by Mick Howey 11 Aug '26

11 Aug '26

Hello Michlib! Last night BPL hosted Jillian Reese for her presentation A Leap from the Clouds: Michigan's Early Aeronauts. The presentation details Michigan's early aeronautic pioneers who daringly, some may say crazily, mixed entertainment and engineering. This was Jillian's first time doing a presentation at a library and she was fantastic! She was knowledgeable and entertaining, speaking with excitement and passion. Her slideshow was well put together. The program was hybrid with 23 attending. Jillian did not charge a fee. Her contact info is below: Jillian Reese (she/her) curator of exhibits Michigan History Center 517-388-9579 reesej2(a)michigan.gov 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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MeL Training - Homeschool Help with Gale Resources for Secondary Students from MeL
by Teft, Sandra (MDE) 11 Aug '26

11 Aug '26

Good Afternoon, Please see below for an upcoming MeL training from Gale on homeschool resources. Please let me know if you have any questions or if there are specific trainings you would be interested in! MeL Training - Homeschool Help with Gale Resources for Secondary Students from MeL Date and Time: Tuesday, August 18th at 2:00-2:30pm Discover how Gale resources from the Michigan eLibrary can support homeschooling families with secondary students. This session highlights key databases that strengthen learning in language arts, science, social studies, and research skills. Participants will explore tools that simplify assignments, enhance independent study, and provide reliable, student‑friendly content. Learn to navigate topic pages, use reading supports, access primary sources, and incorporate multimedia to enrich instruction. Perfect for homeschool educators seeking high‑quality, Michigan‑provided digital resources to guide academic projects, strengthen critical thinking, and support curriculum needs. This session will be recorded for those unable to attend. Registration Link: https://cengage-gale.zoom.us/webinar/register/8917709070711/WN_zRSsKhfZSRmO…<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/cengage-gale.zoom.us/webinar/register/89…> You can find a full listing of Continuing Education opportunities<https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/libraries/ce/intro/lm-continuing…> provided by the Library of Michigan, including trainings on other MeL resources on our website. You can also find additional information on the Gale trainings listed above, as well as support tools for MeL resources on the Gale MeL Support website<https://support.gale.com/mel>. Thanks! Sandra Teft Michigan eLibrary Coordinator | Library Development Library of Michigan, 702 W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing, MI 48915 TeftS(a)michigan.gov | 517-241-0104 https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan [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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