- Michlib-l - liblists.org

Public Survey; Library Usage
by Tahquamenon Library Director 19 Jun '25

19 Jun '25

Hello Michigan Librarians, We are seeking to gain a broader understanding of our populace post-pandemic. Has anyone conducted a survey of their service area that was specifically tailored to those who *are not* already Library patrons? Did you have much success? How did you distribute it? What sorts of questions were you asking? I would appreciate any pointers/suggestions you would have, and would welcome any templates you would be willing to share. Thank you, Ross Wine

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MeL Minute: Use Reviews from MeL to Add Value to Library Collections
by Laura Warren-Gross 19 Jun '25

19 Jun '25

[cid:image002.png@01DBDF83.23BB0310]Increasingly libraries are expanding their collections beyond physical books. Finding reliable reviews for books, audiobooks, movies and TV series, video games, CDs/records, and objects for a Library of Things is made easier with the Michigan eLibrary<https://mel.org/welcome> (MeL). Traditional resources librarians use to help with collection development are included in Library & Information Science Source<https://widgets.ebscohost.com/prod/customerspecific/mel/auth.php?database=e…>. Publications such as Booklist<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…>, Library Journal<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…>, School Library Journal<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…>, Publishers Weekly<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…>, Kirkus Reviews (USA)<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…>, and The Horn Book Magazine<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…> are staples of book and media selection that are available to all Michigan libraries as part of MeL. They also include articles that help library workers keep up with professional trends and focus their advocacy efforts. Other publications that recommend books in regular columns include "From the Field<https://research.ebsco.com/c/5h4gt5/search/results?q=JN+%22Flower+Magazine%…> "in Flower Magazine<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…> and "The Books List<https://research.ebsco.com/c/5h4gt5/search/results?q=JN%20%22real%20simple%…>" in Real Simple<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…>. Book suggestions along with reviews of movies, television series, and streaming media, can also be found weekly in “Picks<https://research.ebsco.com/c/5h4gt5/search/results?q=JN%20%22People%22%20AN…>” from People<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…>. The books mentioned in these publications often follow a theme and are forthcoming titles. Many libraries curate video game collections for both youth and adults. PC Gamer<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…> (US Edition) and Edge<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…> provide video game reviews that can help decide which games to purchase and understand which gaming systems are compatible with various games. Articles in these publications might also spark programming ideas. Billboard<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…> and Rolling Stone<https://auth.mel.org/newera/check-direct?url=https://widgets.ebscohost.com/…> can help with selecting music for library collections. Billboard includes charts such as Hot 100, Hot 100 First-Timers, Hot 200, Artist 100, Hot Country Songs, and Tropical Albums. There are also articles such as "One to Watch" which profiles an up-and-coming artist. Rolling Stone has recently begun to include a monthly column titled “Staff Picks: Five Recent Albums We Can’t Get Enough Of” in addition to its articles about musicians, artists, and pop culture content such as movie and television reviews. Many libraries have expanded their collections to include a Library of Things. Finding the most durable and user-friendly versions of air fryers<https://research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=6ebd11df-f260-319a-9fdb-e…> and other countertop appliances, laptops<https://research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=1c9c70e5-23d6-3d8d-9f5e-6…>, cordless drills<https://research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=0da6619d-818f-32d8-87c5-5…> and other useful things that library collections can share is easy with extensive reviews in Consumer Reports<http://widgets.ebscohost.com/prod/customerspecific/mel/auth.php?database=co…>. Patrons will also love using this publication to make decisions about major purchases such as appliances and vehicles. No matter how your library chooses to expand its collection, publications in the MeL eResources<https://mel.org/az.php> can help you find popular, on-trend, and quality books, music, movies, and items for a Library of Things that patrons will be sure to enjoy. If you have any MeL eResources questions or issues, contact melerhelp(a)mcls.org<mailto:melerhelp@mcls.org> for help. Brought to you by Laura Warren-Gross from the MeL Team. Supporting Michigan Libraries by Putting You First. Want more information on MeL?  Stay tuned for the next MeL Minute available on many Michigan library listservs, visit http://mel.org<http://mel.org/>, or sign up for the MeL Minute and other Library of Michigan e-mail lists via GovDelivery<https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MILOM/subscriber/new>. We encourage you to share MeL Minutes with your colleagues and networks. MeL eResources are available to Michigan residents or for Michigan library or school access only. This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library of Michigan. Laura Warren-Gross MeL Engagement Specialist for Public Libraries Midwest Collaborative for Library Services 517-481-2022 warren-grossl(a)mcls.org [cid:image003.png@01DBDF83.23BB0310] mcls.org<https://www.mcls.org/> | Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/mcls.org> | LinkedIn<https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwest-collaborative-for-library-services> [cid:image004.png@01DBDF83.23BB0310]

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Join MLA's Advocacy Hour on Zoom! Today at 10AM.
by Rachel Ash 19 Jun '25

19 Jun '25

Good morning! ICYMI: MLA’s June Advocacy Hour is this morning at 10AM. We hope to see you on Zoom! (It’s free to attend, but registration is required.) Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rc-uoqjkvHdefl6Hdimpzba_BbIb8Po… More Than Books – Why We Fight for Libraries Thursday, June 19, 2025 10:00 - 11:00 AM This Thursday, June 19, at 10:00 AM, join us for an Advocacy Hour on Zoom featuring Skip Dye, Chair of the Penguin Random House Intellectual Freedom Task Force. Skip will talk about some of the current challenges facing libraries, from the proposed elimination of federal funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to the surge in book bans threatening First Amendment rights. Libraries are lifelines for millions, yet with IMLS on the chopping block and censorship escalating, advocacy is critical. Skip will share inspiration and strategies to sustain momentum, defend librarians, and amplify libraries’ proven impact. This event is free, but registration is required: Can’t attend this morning? A recording will be available in the advocacy hour archive on MLA Connect On-Demand: https://mla.mclms.net/en/package/8979/course/17384/view About our Guest Speaker: Skip Dye is SVP, Library Sales, and Digital Strategy at Penguin Random House (PRH) and currently serves as Chairperson, PRH Intellectual Freedom Task Force, where he leads initiatives to champion freedom of expression and support libraries nationwide. Skip has been at PRH for over 29 years and is deeply committed to advocating for library funding and First Amendment rights. He is an active member of the Freedom to Read Foundation, Chair, American Library Association Public Partner Program Steering Committee, and a past-President and current board member of United for Libraries. Skip has participated in many webinars and conferences discussing and advising on First Amendment issues and on advocacy for library funding. This past Fall Skip was named Publisher’s Weekly Notable Person. In June, the American Library Association is set to confer an honorary lifetime membership, its highest honor, upon Skip Dye for his longstanding support to America's libraries and to intellectual freedom. He is a proud board member of the Friends of Lewes Public Library in Lewes, DE (the first town in the first state). Questions? Please contact us at MLA(a)milibraries.org<mailto:MLA@milibraries.org>. [cidimage002.png(a)01D73C4D.ABEAD040] Rachel Adams Membership and Communications Director Michigan Library Association PO Box 27337 Lansing, MI 48909 Phone: (517) 394-2774 ext. 2 Direct: (517) 881-6652 milibraries.org rfash(a)milibraries.org<mailto:%0bmilibraries.org%0brfash@milibraries.org> Follow MLA on Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/MichiganLibraryAssociation> and Bluesky<https://bsky.app/profile/milibraries.bsky.social>!

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The Ohio Frontier: Crucible of the Old Northwest, 1720-1830 by R. Douglas Hurt
by Barbara Beaton 18 Jun '25

18 Jun '25

Has found a home! Barbara Beaton Assistant Director/Reference Librarian Milan Public Library Milan, MI 48160 734-439-1240 www.milanlibrary.org<http://www.milanlibrary.org> she/her

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Any Weeded Manga?
by Sarah Rick 18 Jun '25

18 Jun '25

Hello Everyone, We are doing a manga collage for teen programming next Thursday. I was wondering, if anyone has weeded any manga they would be willing to donate. Our zv code is zv396 but I am also willing to drive in the Lansing area for pick up. If sending it through RIDES, please label if it is for the craft. We will only use material that is designated for the craft, not any MeLCat items 🤣. Sarah Rick Library Director [cid:09624579-f365-42e6-afec-2d80a8985a70]

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Upcoming Program of Interest Dearborn Library
by Daniel Lodge 18 Jun '25

18 Jun '25

Everyone - Attention all fans of Elmore Leonard's work. Author C.M. Kushins will join us virtually here at the Dearborn Public Library on Tuesday, July 8th at 6:30pm to talk about his new biography of Mr. Leonard entitled *Cooler Than Cool: The Life and Work of Elmore Leonard*. I hope you can join us! Dan Lodge Library Supervisor Dearborn Public Library Dearborn, MI

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Program Recommendation
by Autumn Smith 18 Jun '25

18 Jun '25

Greetings, Library Land! We just had a wonderful musical program with Mr. Evan from Music at the Blissful! Evan is based out of Boston but comes to Michigan and Ohio for 4-6 weeks for Summer Reading. Evan provides an engaging, hands-on music program that's fun for all ages. He also does an amazing job of explaining how the elements of the concert contribute to development of motor skills and early literacy. He even kept our most "spirited" young patrons engaged throughout the entire program. Website: https://www.musicattheblissful.com/ He does book up quickly so it's best to reach out to him by early winter to book for Summer Reading! Autumn Smith Assistant Director The Schultz-Holmes District Library 407 South Lane Street Blissfield, MI 49228 517-486-2858 517-486-3565 (fax) http://www.blissfieldlibrary.org/

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JDL Open Branch Manager Position 6.18.2025
by Wayne, Danah 18 Jun '25

18 Jun '25

JDL is looking for an outgoing positive leader to join our Branch Manager Team. Our organization is dedicated to belonging as we strive to create an open and safe space full of respect where everyone can bring their whole selves to work every day. The Brooklyn Branch is in lovely downtown Brooklyn; it has been recently remodeled to include a large meeting and children's area for the community to enjoy. The staff consists of one full time branch manager, and 5 part time Library Assistant I’s serving a diverse community with open hours six days a week. The Branch Manager, along with their team, manages the collection and provides engaging programs and outreach to support the needs of the community. Our Branch Managers are encouraged to participate in work groups, take part in their own professional development as well as that of their staff, and be a valuable resource to the admin team. Benefits include: · Health Insurance · Pension · Sick, Vacation, Personal time · Holidays · Employee Assistance Program · Assurity Voluntary Insurance Options · MERS 457 Cover Letter Required Please apply by June 27, 2025 Apply here: 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:de661a7d-ce40-42fc-a4b3-33d7157ddf1f]

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Employment Opportunity | PT Circulation Clerk
by Miranda Cauchi 18 Jun '25

18 Jun '25

Good Morning, The Wayne Public Library is seeking a detail-oriented and enthusiastic candidate to join our team as a part-time circulation clerk. To apply, please refer to the attached job posting or visit [ https://www.wayne.lib.mi.us/job-postings | our website ] . Thank you! -- Miranda Cauchi (they/them) Information Services Manager [ https://www.wayne.lib.mi.us/ | Wayne Public Library ] 3737 S. Wayne Rd, Wayne, MI 48184 mcauchi(a)wayne.lib.mi.us 734-721-7832 (ext. 705)

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Director Position Available - BCLS
by Jolene Faber 18 Jun '25

18 Jun '25

Open until June 24th The Bay County Library System is accepting applications for a new Director. The Board of Trustees of the Bay County Library System seeks an energetic and visionary leader as its next Library Director to continue a culture of excellence and further strengthen library services to a county-wide community of just over 103,000 people. The Director reports to a five member appointed board. A Class VI library, Bay County Library System includes three branches, a main library, and a bookmobile. The 2025 operating budget is $6.8 million, with an estimated 58 FTE's. The system is funded primarily by an operating millage of 1.75 mills, with a renewal upcoming in 2026. The Bay County Library System is a well-used community resource, seeing increases in foot traffic, program attendance, and circulation over the past several years. Due to the well-deserved retirement of the current director, this is an excellent opportunity to lead a system with an innovative staff and an engaged patron base. Qualifications: Master's degree in library science from an ALA accredited school. Permanent professional certificate from the Library of Michigan as required by state law for a Class VI library. Ten years of public library experience, with a minimum of five years of high-level administrative experience such as managing librarian, assistant director or director. Completion of a successful background check. A complete job description can be located at: www.baycountylibrary <https://www.baycountylibrary.org/about/employment-information> .org Qualified applications may apply for this position by submitting a resume, cover letter, application and 3 professional references to: Jolene Faber, Administrative Assistant Bay County Library System 500 Center Ave. Bay City, MI 48708 jfaber(a)baycountylibrary.org <mailto:jfaber@baycountylibrary.org> Deadline to apply is June 24th, 2025. Jolene Faber Administrative Assistant Bay County Library System 500 Center Ave. Bay City, MI 48708 (989)894-2837 ext. 2225

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