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Sad News - John MacDonald
by Jody Wolak 23 Jul '26

23 Jul '26

I am so sorry to share the news that long-time library employee John MacDonald passed away last weekend. Many of you knew John. He worked at the current Wayne Public Library since it opened in 1996, and before that at the Wayne-Westland Library. He was well loved by co-workers and patrons alike, and will be sorely missed. A memorial for John will be held at the Harry J. Will funeral home in Wayne on Saturday, August 1. [ https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/wayne-mi/john-macdonald-12975148 | https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/wayne-mi/john-macdonald-12975148 ] ------- Jody Wolak Library Director Wayne Public Library 3737 S. Wayne Rd, Wayne, MI 48184 jwolak(a)wayne.lib.mi.us 734-641-4627

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New director at Richmond Township LIbrary
by Jan St. Germain 23 Jul '26

23 Jul '26

Hello, There is a new Director at Richmond Township Library PO Box 339/304 Snyder Street, Palmer Michigan 49871, could you please update all emails, mailings and business to Chrystal Harless, Director PO Box 339/ 334 Snyder Street Palmer, Michigan 49871 906-401-0316 Thank You, Jan St.Germain Richmond Township Library PO Box 339 / 304 Snyder Street Palmer, MI 49871 906-401-0316

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Fwd: Don't Delay: Register Today for LMCC26!
by Katie Rothley 22 Jul '26

22 Jul '26

Hi everyone, Just in case you were not aware, an annual conference dedicated specifically to library marketing, communications, PR, graphic design, market research, videography, social media, etc., is held every November. It's called the Library Marketing and Communications Conference (LMCC) <https://www.librarymarketingconference.org>. Renowned marketing professionals such as Angela Hursh, Mark Aaron Polger and Cordelia Anderson generally attend annually. If your role focuses on any or all of these responsibilities, you may find this 2-day conference incredibly beneficial. Library staff from all over the US (and from Canada)—including those from public, school, special, and academic libraries -- submit presentation proposals for peer-led sessions sharing their experiences, knowledge, projects, research, and recommendations. The conference also features two inspiring keynotes to begin each day, and a pre-conference workshop on the Tuesday before, which requires separate registration. Attending involves costs for registration, hotel accommodations and travel, but LMCC accepts applications to receive a scholarship for registration - email notice is coming soon. You can sign up to receive the LMCC newsletter on our website at the bottom: https://www.librarymarketingconference.org/. Please let me know if you have any questions! I am part of the Library Marketing Conference Group Board (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit), have volunteered with other library staff who plan and manage the conference, and have attended a few of the conferences. Library staff of all types—from graphic designers to social media specialists, website staff, managers, and professors—attend every year. Lastly, there is also a room, aptly called the "Swag Swap," where libraries are invited to share their pamphlets, newsletters, bookmarks, brochures, and swag so attendees can leave inspired by concrete samples of our peers' work. I've seen some of our awesome library marketing staff at the conference and hope to see more! Katie ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Library Marketing and Communications Conference < libmarcomconf(a)43775221.mailchimpapp.com> Date: Mon, Jul 20, 2026 at 7:55 PM Subject: Don't Delay: Register Today for LMCC26! To: Katie Rothley <krothley(a)northvillelibrary.org> Claim your spot at the premier library marketing conference of the year! View this email in your browser <https://us11.campaign-archive.com/?e=4cbf43360e&u=29f1ba1c0f714205dd223c822…> <https://us.list-manage.com/uXNGu4sUsIF?e=4cbf43360e&c2id=fbeb58768c778023eb…> *Registration for the Library Marketing & Communication Conference is now open! * November 11-12, 2026 at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch The Library Marketing and Communications Conference (LMCC), the only event of its type for this library specialty, is designed for library employees of any level who are involved in marketing, communications, public relations, social media, and outreach in academic, public, and special libraries. Conference sessions will explore issues important to this niche of library work, and the event will include time for attendees to network and discuss mutual challenges. *This conference has sold out in the past, so don't wait to register!* *Registration Rates* Full registration: $550.00 Speaker Registration: $400.00 (special code required) Volunteer Registration $500.00 (special code required) Registration Deadline: October 23, 2026 All payments for registration must be received and processed by the registration deadline for the registration to be complete REGISTER TODAY <https://us.list-manage.com/16qKBIOIBfV?e=4cbf43360e&c2id=fbeb58768c778023eb…> Hear what past attendees say "I love this conference! I learn so much and meet so many like-minded people. I hope I can return again next year; it's a great value and return on investment." "The conference is always an amazing chance to connect with others working in the library field. I always leave with a lot of great ideas and increased motivation." "This was the best conference I’ve ever attended. Every session was relevant and interesting, and every conversation I had was beneficial." "LMCC abounds with networking opportunities, high-quality speakers from public and academic libraries, and practical and applicable content! It’s well-organized and not only that, a delicious breakfast and lunch are provided, and this year they offered a visit from therapy dogs!" [image: Facebook] <https://us.list-manage.com/gnVBJEX7ycg?e=4cbf43360e&c2id=fbeb58768c778023eb…> [image: Link] <https://us.list-manage.com/gU_zC77o_nZ?e=4cbf43360e&c2id=fbeb58768c778023eb…> [image: LinkedIn] <https://us.list-manage.com/n2Y__VX3E4M?e=4cbf43360e&c2id=fbeb58768c778023eb…> *librarymarketingconference.org* <https://us.list-manage.com/ZW_MiGgebvM?e=4cbf43360e&c2id=fbeb58768c778023eb…> *Copyright © 2026 Library Marketing and Communications Conference, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you indicated you were interested in hearing from the Library Marketing and Communications Conference planning committee by signing up on our website, or attending one of our events.* *Our mailing address is:* Library Marketing and Communications Conference 4006 Belt Line Rd., Suite 125 Addison, Texas 75001 unsubscribe from this list <https://librarymarketingconference.us11.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=29f1b…> update subscription preferences <https://librarymarketingconference.us11.list-manage.com/profile?u=29f1ba1c0…>

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PT Circ Assistant
by Cierra Bakovka 22 Jul '26

22 Jul '26

JOB DESCRIPTION: Do you love talking to people? Do you delight in engaging adults in creative and interesting opportunities? Do you get excited when you recommend a book to someone you know they will enjoy? If you answered yes to these questions, Henika District Library is looking for you! Job Type: Part-Time SCHEDULE: 20-25 hrs/wk. Every other Saturday (Friday off when working Sat). Opportunity to pick up extra hours as needed by the library. Sample Schedule below. M 10AM - 4PM Tu 2PM - 6PM W 4PM - 8PM Th 2PM - 6PM F (every other) 1PM - 5PM S (every other) 9:30AM-2PM PAY RATE: Starting at $13.73/hr EXPECTED START: ASAP BENEFITS: PTO GENERAL DUTIES: Provides circulation services as operations require. Duties include, but are not limited to: Serves the public at the circulation desk by checking in and out library materials and issuing/updating library cards. Collects money for overdue fines and lost and damaged materials. Assists Circulation Supervisor with collection maintenance duties. Ensures circulation policies and procedures are followed for the proper handling of patron and materials records for an accurate library database. Sorts, packs, unpacks, and inspects library materials received from or being delivered to other libraries. Runs reports and lists for item hold information and interlibrary loan requests. Searches shelves for requests, retrieves items requested, and routes items appropriately, as well as for overdue items prior to sending overdue notices. Contact patrons or other libraries as necessary. Provides assistance to patrons and staff in the use of library equipment and machines. Familiarizes self with general library policies and enforces them as necessary. Places and fills item hold requests. Provides library and directional information to patrons in person or over the telephone. Assists Adult and Youth Librarians with programs, program prep, and creating displays Other duties as assigned REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Exceptional customer service skills. Proficient computer skills including familiarity with Microsoft Office and Google Drive Ability to work with general supervision and adhere to established policies and procedures. Interpersonal and communication skills for interaction with staff and patrons in an effective and courteous manner. Ability to retrieve materials from shelves upon patron or staff request. Ability to push/pull fully loaded book carts, retrieve or place materials above shoulder or below knee level, and transport materials and delivery bags weighing up to 40 pounds. Ability to operate a variety of equipment including cash register, fax, and copy machines. Valid MI driver’s license and/or available transportation for travel to workshops and library-related meetings Possession of or ability to obtain at least a Level 4 Library Staff Certification from the Library of Michigan High School Diploma required, Bachelor’s degree preferred Related experience orchestrating programs and events for adults preferred Experience working in a library preferred https://www.indeed.com/job/circulation-assistant-40623d325bc69cfc Cierra Bakovka, MLIS She/Her Director Henika District Library 149 South Main St. Wayland, MI 49348 269-792-2891 ext. 309 mailto:cierra@henikalibrary.org

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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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