- Michlib-l - liblists.org

Pullout browsing shelves
by Mary Gallup 23 Oct '26

23 Oct '26

We're looking to get some more pullout browsing shelves, before we buy them ($800 each!), does anyone have any laying around you're not using? Thanks! Mary Gallup MLIS Director Clinton Township Public Library 100 Brown St. Clinton MI 49236

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partnership policies
by Jill Rauh 23 Oct '26

23 Oct '26

Hi all, a two-part question: 1) Does anyone have a partnership/collrboration policy they'd be willing to share? Is this even a thing? We get lots of requests to "partner" but they often are extremely vague. 2) Sort of related, is anyone involved with a school that has contracted with Communities In Schools? We've had an informal relationship with our school district wherein we show up at events when asked (such as resource fairs) or put on events when asked. With the third-party Communities In Schools, we would have to sign a contract with them and deal only with them. At present we will not be signing, due to some expectations on our part about what we will provide. I was just wondering if anyone out there had experience with them. Thanks! Jill Rauh, Public Services Librarian Benton Harbor Public Library 213 E. Wall St. Benton Harbor, MI 49022 269-926-6139 www.bentonharborlibrary.com The information and views presented do not necessarily represent those of the Benton Harbor Public Library.

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Saranac Clarksville Director Opportunity
by Carol Dawe 23 Oct '26

23 Oct '26

Posted on behalf of the Saranac Clarksville District Library Board. *Director of the Saranac Clarksville District Library* The Saranac Clarksville District Library serves approximately 11,000 residents at two locations in Ionia County, Michigan and is only 30 miles from Grand Rapids and 40 miles from Lansing. The Library Board is searching for a new director. Under the direction of the board, the director plans, coordinates, and manages the operations of the library, including but not limited to all human resource functions, facilities maintenance and care, fiscal management, budgeting, and oversight, and representing the Saranac Clarksville District Library in both communities, Ionia County, statewide and beyond. The director works closely with the dedicated staff and supportive board to promote the library’s services, programs and collections. The director will be an effective leader, advocate and collaborative partner with all stakeholders and bring innovative ideas and creative solutions to fulfill the library’s mission. *Education and Work Experience: * · Bachelor’s degree with a commitment to life-long learning. · Master’s degree in library and information science from an accredited ALA school is desirable. · At least 4 years of public library experience with at least 2 years of managing staff. · Advanced knowledge of principles and practices of library administration, budgeting, patron services, technology, circulation, collection development and weeding, acquisitions, and processing. · Possession of a current Level 4 and preferably a Level 2 Library Certification from the Library of Michigan or within one year of hiring. · A valid driver’s license or the ability to travel between both library locations and attend meetings in the region, state and nationally. *Desired Qualifications: * · Excellent leadership and communication skills, a visionary perspective, and innovative approaches to organizing and problem solving including completing and implementing a strategic plan. · Develops, administers, and monitors the library budget and is responsible for all financial oversite, including monthly and annual financial reports and audit preparation. · Conducts interviews, hires, evaluates, trains, supervises, and manages library staff and schedules their work hours to create an efficient and collaborative team environment. · Knowledge of current library trends, technologies, and best practices associated with collections, acquisitions, public service, community outreach and other initiatives. · Monitors and adjusts library services and materials per community needs and interests – evaluates existing services and determines program and service needs for all library users and develops new ones as needed. · Assists and advises the library board in policy creation and review, strategic planning, governance, budgets and other topics. Keeps abreast of existing and pending local and state laws concerning libraries and shares this information with the board and staff. · Serves as liaison to the Ionia County Library Association and Lakeland Library Cooperative and attends meetings, conferences, and seminars of national, state, and local professional organizations. · Maintains strict confidentiality of all matters. *The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person in this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties that may be performed by such a person. *Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. *Salary and Benefits:* · This is a full-time, salaried, 40 hour per week, exempt position with the occasional weeknight and weekend hours depending on staffing and programming needs. · The salary range is $58,000.00 to $62,000 depending on qualifications and experience and includes an additional $4,000 benefits stipend. A tiered matching retirement program (beginning at 3%) is available after the first year of employment. · Full-time salaried employees receive 8 paid holidays, one floating holiday and 15 days for PTO and accrue sick time in accordance with Michigan laws after 90 days of employment. To apply: Please send a resume, detailed cover letter describing your experience, reasons for applying and providing examples of your vision for the library and the communities served. Please also include a writing sample from a previous position such as a policy, procedure, promotional material etc. and the name and contact information for 3 professional references. Resumes without a cover letter, writing sample and references will not be considered. Please email your packet to Carol Dawe, Lakeland Library Cooperative Director at carol(a)llcoop.org by noon on November 15th, 2026. The board will interview candidates in early December and hopes to have a new director in place no later than January 15th, 2027. *Carol* *Carol Dawe* *630-207-1205 <(630)%20207-1205> (Cell is preferred.)* *Director* *Lakeland Library Cooperative* *4138 3 Mile Road NW* *Grand Rapids, MI 49534* *616-559-5253 ext 2001 <(616)%20559-5253>*

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FW: [ABOS-Outreach] Alzheimer's Association Speaker at LSDA's Nov. 18 online General Membership Meeting
by Meghan Mott 22 Oct '26

22 Oct '26

Forwarding on behalf of LSDA (Library Services to patrons with Dementia/Alzheimer’s) Join us if you can! All are welcome, there is no cost or membership requirements. Sincerely, Meghan Mott Adult Services Outreach Manager Clinton-Macomb Public Library Main Library Mmott(a)cmpl.org<mailto:Mmott@cmpl.org> 586-226-5055 (she/hers) From: abos-outreach(a)googlegroups.com <abos-outreach(a)googlegroups.com> On Behalf Of Mary Beth Riedner Sent: Thursday, October 22, 2026 3:01 PM To: ABOS-Outreach <abos-outreach(a)googlegroups.com> Subject: [ABOS-Outreach] Alzheimer's Association Speaker at LSDA's Nov. 18 online General Membership Meeting LSDA will hold its Fall 2026 General Membership Meeting on Nov. 18 at 2:00 pm CT. In addition to a membership update, there will be a presentation from the Alzheimer's Association: Libraries as Dementia-Capable Community Hubs Libraries are trusted com Warning: Unusual sender <mbried1714(a)gmail.com<mailto:mbried1714@gmail.com>> You don't usually receive emails from this address. Make sure you trust this sender before taking any actions. LSDA will hold its Fall 2026 General Membership Meeting on Nov. 18 at 2:00 pm CT. In addition to a membership update, there will be a presentation from the Alzheimer's Association: Libraries as Dementia-Capable Community Hubs Libraries are trusted community spaces that foster connection, learning, and inclusion. As the number of individuals living with dementia continues to grow, libraries have a unique opportunity to support people living with dementia and their care partners through person-centered programs, accessible resources, and welcoming environments. This session will explore practical strategies for creating dementia-capable library services that promote dignity, independence, social engagement, and quality of life. Participants will learn about Alzheimer's Association resources that support people living with dementia and their care partners, while also exploring how libraries can serve as trusted community hubs for brain health education, healthy aging, and dementia-friendly engagement. Please click on the link below to register: https://ala-events.zoom.us/meeting/register/zMQ-m15fTjiRYOSqofsMbQ<https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fala-events.zoom.us%2fme…> Mary Beth Riedner, Chair/LSDA -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "ABOS-Outreach" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to ABOS-Outreach+unsubscribe(a)googlegroups.com<mailto:ABOS-Outreach+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com>. To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ABOS-Outreach/1df27cb8-8801-434f-a79d-4cf…<https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fgroups.google.com%2fd%2…>.

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NEW: Executive Director search - Joliet Public Library (IL)
by Beth Barker 22 Oct '26

22 Oct '26

Executive Director - Joliet Public Library (IL) The Joliet Public Library<https://jolietlibrary.org/> (IL) Board of Trustees seeks a forward-thinking, community-focused leader to serve as its next Executive Director. Serving more than 150,000 residents, the library operates two locations and an outreach vehicle, employs 95 employees, and has an annual budget of approximately $7.5 million. JPL provides access to diverse physical and digital collections, museum passes, technology, and engaging programming for all ages. The library is especially known for its annual Star Wars Day, recognized as the largest non-Disney-sponsored Star Wars event in the world, along with a wide range of programs that reflect the interests and needs of its diverse community. Its Digital Media Studio offers 3D printing, audio and video production spaces, video editing, and other resources that encourage creativity and exploration. Building on the library's commitment to responsive, community-centered service, the next Executive Director will have the opportunity to develop a new strategic plan, strengthen community partnerships and outreach, and ensure thoughtful fiscal stewardship and long-term sustainability. Located approximately 40 miles southwest of Chicago, Joliet offers the welcoming feel of a close-knit community with the amenities and opportunities of a larger city. Known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and strong sense of community, Joliet offers a vibrant mix of arts, entertainment, recreation, and educational opportunities. The city's downtown features the historic Rialto Square Theatre, local restaurants and businesses, and the new City Square, a gathering place for community events, festivals, and celebrations. Residents enjoy an extensive park system, scenic trails, and historic Route 66 attractions. With its diverse neighborhoods, active community organizations, convenient access to Chicago's cultural attractions and employment opportunities, and continued investment in its future, Joliet offers a great place to live and work. Responsibilities: The Executive Director will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and direction; developing and implementing short- and long-term plans; working closely with the Board of Trustees on governance and policy development; overseeing library operations, collections, programs, and services; ensuring responsible financial management and budget oversight; leading and developing staff; fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture; advancing technology and service innovation; strengthening community partnerships and outreach; expanding access to underserved populations; supporting fundraising and development efforts; and ensuring the Library remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community. 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: Master's Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited college or university, with five years of progressively responsible public library experience including at least three years in a supervisory capacity are required. The preferred candidate will demonstrate experience in budget development and administration; a commitment to professional development and training for staff; knowledge of emerging technologies and library trends; and excellent communication and customer service skills, foster a positive workplace culture and build strong relationships with staff and the community. Compensation: The hiring salary range is $135,000 - $155,000 (with placement negotiable dependent on experience and qualifications) and an excellent fringe 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 BMA<https://bradburymiller.com/contact/> (https://bradburymiller.com/contact/) This position closes on Sunday, November 29, 2026. Visit the BMA 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/>

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Flat Rock Library Director Posting
by Director 22 Oct '26

22 Oct '26

Please find attached the current posting for the Flat Rock Public Library Director position. Thank You, Michael Cummings, Director Flat Rock Public Library 25200 Gibraltar Road Flat Rock, Michigan 48134 www.frlib.org 734-782-2430

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Shamrocks & Shenanigans
by lkowal otsegolibrary.org 22 Oct '26

22 Oct '26

Any library in Southern Michigan interested in hosting Shamrocks & Shenanigans too and keep travel costs down?? It looks like a fun, family friendly event. Let me know, maybe they’d give us all deal! Leesa Kowal Assistant Director [purple signature] lkowal(a)otsegolibrary.org<mailto:lkowal@otsegolibrary.org> Otsego District Library 401 Dix Street, Otsego MI 49078 P: (269) 694-9690 F: (269) 694-9129 www.otsegolibrary.org<http://www.otsegolibrary.org/> [fb] <https://www.facebook.com/OtsegoDistrictLibrary/> [insta] <https://www.instagram.com/otsegodistrictpubliclibrary/> From: Paul Strickland Bookings <bookings(a)tellstoriesbetter.com<mailto:bookings@tellstoriesbetter.com>> Sent: Thursday, October 22, 2026 9:41 AM To: lkowal otsegolibrary.org <lkowal(a)otsegolibrary.org<mailto:lkowal@otsegolibrary.org>> Subject: Re: Shamrocks & Shenanigans at Otsego District Public Library | Irish Tales, Songs & a Bit of Mischief! Hi Leesa, Thank you so much for reaching out about Paul Strickland’s storytelling programs! My name is Kamryn, and I handle Paul’s bookings. I look forward to learning more about your interests in bringing one of Paul's programs to your library. Paul's programs suit all ages, depending on the event you're interested in. We can do a show for children, adults, or a mix of both! For Shamrocks & Shenanigans, we typically book programs at $499 (or $849 for two programs on the same day) plus travel (for your library: 323 miles × $0.70 = $226, for a total of $725 or $1075). However, we may have some really helpful routing options in March as we secure other bookings. We also offer the option that if you help us find other local libraries in your area to book, we’d love to give you some individual savings on the cost. As always, everything’s negotiable. Our goal is to bring these stories to as many communities as possible, and we’re always happy to try and work with your budget. If you have any dates in mind, let's discuss how we can bring Paul to the Otsego District Public Library. Hopeful we can bring some storytelling and laughter your way this coming year or sometime down the road! All the best, Kamryn Matta Artist Relations and Operations Manager On Wed, Oct 21, 2026 at 12:25 PM lkowal otsegolibrary.org<http://otsegolibrary.org> <lkowal(a)otsegolibrary.org<mailto:lkowal@otsegolibrary.org>> wrote: Hi Paul! This sounds like a great event! We are interested in learning more and possibly booking. Thanks, Leesa Kowal Assistant Director [purple signature] lkowal(a)otsegolibrary.org<mailto:lkowal@otsegolibrary.org> Otsego District Library 401 Dix Street, Otsego MI 49078<https://www.google.com/maps/search/401+Dix+Street,+Otsego+MI+49078?entry=gm…> P: (269) 694-9690<tel:(269)%20694-9690> F: (269) 694-9129<tel:(269)%20694-9129> www.otsegolibrary.org<http://www.otsegolibrary.org/> [fb] <https://www.facebook.com/OtsegoDistrictLibrary/> [insta] <https://www.instagram.com/otsegodistrictpubliclibrary/> From: Paul Strickland, Storyteller <paul(a)tellstoriesbetter.com<mailto:paul@tellstoriesbetter.com>> Sent: Tuesday, October 20, 2026 2:03 PM To: lkowal otsegolibrary.org<http://otsegolibrary.org> <lkowal(a)otsegolibrary.org<mailto:lkowal@otsegolibrary.org>> Subject: Shamrocks & Shenanigans at Otsego District Public Library | Irish Tales, Songs & a Bit of Mischief! Irish folktales, lively songs, and larger-than-life characters—with versions for children, adults, and families!‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ View in browser<https://haxy9.r.a.d.sendibm1.com/mk/mr/sh/6rqJ8GoudeITPxXhQAWsL0haxQn/kfYAJ…> [https://img.mailinblue.com/9897569/images/content_library/original/6ad563f0…] Hello Otsego District Public Library team, Ready for a little Irish mischief? Award-winning, nationally touring storyteller Paul Strickland is now booking Shamrocks & Shenanigans<https://haxy9.r.a.d.sendibm1.com/mk/cl/f/sh/6rqJfgq8dINmNXWZvXJpDcOHFbF/P-L…> for libraries late February and March 2027! A playful mix of Irish folk tales and songs, this lively program is full of mischief, wit, and larger-than-life characters. Get ready to laugh, sing along, and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with stories that bring a little Irish magic to your community! And there’s a version for everyone — with programs tailored for children, adults, or the whole family. Whether you’re planning a special St. Patrick’s Day celebration or looking for a storytelling experience your audience won’t soon forget, Shamrocks & Shenanigans is ready to bring the fun! [Rounded Rectangle: Discover the Shenanigans!] Questions? Just reply to this email. I’d love to help bring a little Irish luck — and a whole lot of shenanigans — to your library! With gratitude for all you do to keep stories alive, Paul Strickland National Storytelling Festival Featured Teller www.AintTrue.com<https://haxy9.r.a.d.sendibm1.com/mk/cl/f/sh/6rqJfgq8dIR6SS6suA8v4oe8WDJ/G_-…> Paul Strickland, Storyteller PO BOX 982 | Covington, KY 41012 bookings(a)tellstoriesbetter.com<mailto:bookings@tellstoriesbetter.com> Follow the Story [https://creative-assets.mailinblue.com/editor/social-icons/original_light/f…]<https://haxy9.r.a.d.sendibm1.com/mk/cl/f/sh/6rqJfgq8dISlUuP2OTYT0Pm49WL/8sz…> [https://creative-assets.mailinblue.com/editor/social-icons/original_light/i…]<https://haxy9.r.a.d.sendibm1.com/mk/cl/f/sh/6rqJfgq8dIUQXMhBsmy0w0tzmpN/_1r…> [https://creative-assets.mailinblue.com/editor/social-icons/original_light/w…]<https://haxy9.r.a.d.sendibm1.com/mk/cl/f/sh/6rqJfgq8dIW5ZozLN6NYrc1vQ8P/64d…> Unsubscribe<https://haxy9.r.a.d.sendibm1.com/mk/un/v2/sh/6rqJ8GqndAnmOWm9SWqgVNCNhNJ/yu…>

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Free Plastic File Cases
by Goulet, Madison - Staff 22 Oct '26

22 Oct '26

Hi all, We have some gently used plastic file cases available free for the taking. [cid:58a60a60-ab5a-4677-b248-3dafdecfd3c9] [cid:820ce225-1ebf-40c5-9689-a07dc6e34d9f] All are frosted white and pre-used. We have a variety of sizes: 14" H x 4" W x 11" D 12.5" H x 4" W x 9" D 11" H x 4" W x 7.5" D 11.5" H x 3.5" W x 8.5" D They are available for pickup at the Delta College Library, located in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Feel free to shoot me an email or give me a call if you're interested! Thanks! Madison Goulet MLIS Personal pronouns: she, her, hers Library Access Services Specialist | Delta College Library<https://library.delta.edu/home> Delta College<https://www.delta.edu/> | 989-686-9013 A130d | 1961 Delta Road, University Center, MI 48710 [cid:e3fdc1a8-6ea4-4ffe-b9e3-e85e5a89facd] CONFIDENTIALITY: This email (including any attachments) may contain confidential, proprietary and privileged information, and unauthorized disclosure or use is prohibited. If you received this email in error, please notify the sender and delete this email from your system. Thank you.

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Youth & Teen Services Updates
by Lancaster, Cathy (MDE) 22 Oct '26

22 Oct '26

CSLP Offers Professional Development for Summer Programming Creating an Accessible Summer Reading November 12, 2026 2pm EST/1pm CST/Noon MT/11am PST Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_FI1QDTE9RX6VJsDnV9dQjg Join Talking Book and Braille Library staff as we explore creating accessible summer reading challenges. During this session, we’ll talk about what it means to begin with accessibility in mind, discuss workflows, and share ideas that can create a more universal design for creative summer programming. This event will be ~1 hour and there is no charge. This webinar will be recorded and posted on CSLP's website if you cannot attend live. [cid:31f9cf62-918e-43f6-91a2-da4fceb282f9]<https://www.cslpreads.org/professional-development/> ***Save the date! The CSLP Summer Symposium<https://www.cslpreads.org/webinar/2026-12-03-summer-symposium-2026/> <https://www.cslpreads.org/webinar/2026-12-03-summer-symposium-2026/> will be Thursday, December 3rd from 11am-4:30pm ET with Keynote Speaker G.T. Karber! The Collaborative Summer Library Program’s 2027 Mysteries Await at Your Library<https://programs.cslpreads.org/2027-mysteries-await-at-your-library/>tm<https://programs.cslpreads.org/2027-mysteries-await-at-your-library/> manual<https://programs.cslpreads.org/2027-mysteries-await-at-your-library/>, graphics, resources, and more are now available online! Public libraries in Michigan are members and so all you need is your access code, which was sent to directors on Friday, October 16th, using the subject line above. Directors, if you have not already, please forward that email to staff working on summer programming. If you are dealing with inbox gremlins or are library staff that might not have received the forwarded message, please complete this form<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfeXo5E0M_2M3r1Rw7Sxr_wnyLwFU2XELP…> using your official public library work email. I will check it about once-a-day, so please be patient while you wait for me to forward the information. Please feel free to contact me directly at LancasterC5(a)Michigan.gov with any questions. This program is supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Additional YS Resources The MiFamily: Michigan's Family Engagement Framework 2026<https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/-/media/Project/Websites/mileap/Documents/E…> <https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/-/media/Project/Websites/mileap/Documents/E…> is officially online. MiLEAP's second edition of the framework is intended to support family-facing professionals, who are anyone who works directly with families, including public library staff. Teen Book & Media Lists It came up that with YALSA and ALSC merging sites people were having trouble finding the Teen lists. They can be found at https://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/teen-media-lists! Books Unbanned Call to Join the Teen Library Advocacy Network! Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) founded Books Unbanned in 2022 to provide teens nationwide with unrestricted access to our entire digital collection, to support their right to read what they like, and to build a network of advocates nationwide to defend and expand the freedom to read. We are seeking partners who can help us achieve our goal of building a network of young community leaders and advocates who are passionate about service, access, and literacy. Go to https://booksunbanned.com/network for details. Your Gaming Search Just Got Easier Registration for ALA Demo Day: Games & Play is Now Open. November 18, 2026 11:00 am - 3:30 pm ET Free to attend. Registration required.<https://www.ala.org/events/demo-day-games-play?_zs=Fu5vg1&_zl=mvWxA> Looking for new games, activities, and play-based resources for your library? ALA Demo Day: Games & Play brings vendors and their products directly to you in a new one-day virtual event. Watch live demos, ask questions, and explore games, puzzles, activities, and play-based learning resources to find new ideas for your library. No travel, no scheduling of multiple meetings, and no searching for solutions on your own. Just log in (for free), explore, and find what fits your library, all in one convenient virtual space. Discover playful solutions that will benefit your library community. International Writing Contest for Students: Calling all teen student writers! The <http://yawpliterary.com/> Youth Alliance for Writers and Poets<http://yawpliterary.com/> is hosting our annual writing contest and exchange, submit by Friday, Jan 15, 2027 * Who: any student ages 13-18 * What: writing in any genre, up to 3,000 words * Cost: no fee, takes 5 minutes to submit * Rewards: every submission gets peer feedback, winners get publication & monetary prizes * Judging: after you submit, you’ll anonymously read and judge two other students’ pieces (rubric & instructions provided) To submit, fill out the form <https://forms.gle/QZZUYsrZAmdzkV376> here<https://forms.gle/QZZUYsrZAmdzkV376>. Rules for submission and information about student judging are in this <https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SRWZgM9EGXxlG0dmc4K9uN9X17JtI-rQKP4TRrJ…> document<https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SRWZgM9EGXxlG0dmc4K9uN9X17JtI-rQKP4TRrJ…>. For more information, go to <http://yawpliterary.com/> yawpliterary.com<http://yawpliterary.com/>, email livia(a)yawpliterary.com<mailto:livia@yawpliterary.com>, or check out our instagram @yawp.literary Request a Free LibraryCon Kit! Interested in starting a LibraryCon at your school or library but not sure where to begin? This kit<https://sites.prh.com/rhcb-teachers-librarians-library-con-kit> <https://sites.prh.com/rhcb-teachers-librarians-library-con-kit> includes tips for getting started, book suggestions, reproducible activities, sticker sheets, and more—everything you need to build your own LibraryCon. In the News... Anti–Book Ban Law Doesn’t Stop Book Removals<https://www.slj.com/story/Anti%E2%80%93Book-Ban-Law-Doesnt-Stop-Book-Remova…> - SLJ, 10/19/26 Chatbots, AI Companions, and Youth: A two-page research snapshot on how youth are affected by social A<https://www.childrenandscreens.org/learn-explore/research/chatbots-ai-compa…>I - Children & Screens, 10/2026 Serving Youth with Dyslexia<https://www.slj.com/story/Serving-Youth-Dyslexia> - SLJ, 10/15/26 Hope to see you at MLA next week! Thank you, Cathy Lancaster Youth Services Coordinator Library of Michigan 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48915 My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers - See www.mypronouns.org<http://www.mypronouns.org/> to learn more. LancasterC5(a)michigan.gov<mailto:LancasterC5@michigan.gov> | 517-335-8129 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan<http://www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan> Follow us: Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/libraryofmichigan/> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/libraryofmich> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/libraryofmichigan/> Join the MiYouth<https://liblists.org/postorius/lists/miyouth.liblists.org/> Listserv, created for Michigan public library staff to share and discuss children and teen programming and services. [Michigan's Top 10 Strategic Education Plan] Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan<https://www.michigan.gov/mde/resources/michigan-top-10-strategic-education-…> provides focused direction to drive educational achievement in support of all learners. [Michigan.gov/Vote logo] 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 PCI Webinars from Library of Michigan
by Vernola, Andrea (MDE) 22 Oct '26

22 Oct '26

Hello Michigan Libraries! If you're looking for free, high-quality continuing education webinars on a wide range of professional topics, check out People Connect Institute (PCI) webinars available from Library of Michigan every Wednesday at 2 pm. PCI webinars are available to the Michigan library community live via the Zoom platform and asynchronously via recordings made available in our Niche Academy<https://my.nicheacademy.com/staffskills> about a week later. You can register for these webinars from the Library of Michigan Continuing Education calendar<https://libraryofmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/libraryofmichigan/publ…>. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link to attend. Register online for upcoming PCI webinars: * Creating Community with "Speed Friending" at Your Library - August 19 * Podcasts, Fandoms, and Booktok, Oh My! Patrons and Non-Traditional Media - August 26 * Stepping Into Management: The Basics - September 2 * Back to Basics with Public Speaking - September 9 * Project Management Essentials for Libraries - September 16 * Microsoft Excel: Back to the Basics - September 23 * Collection Development Basics - September 30 LM Continuing Education To find the full calendar of training and continuing education opportunities supported and offered by the Library of Michigan visit the Continuing Education site at Michigan.gov/LibraryCE<https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/libraries/ce>. Links to WebJunction, United for Libraries, the LM CE calendar<https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/libraries/ce/intro/lm-continuing…>, and the Niche Staff Skills Academy<https://my.nicheacademy.com/staffskills> can all be found there. Questions about LM Training? Contact me at VernolaA(a)michigan.gov<mailto:VernolaA@michigan.gov>. 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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