- Michlib-l - liblists.org

Meet Aram Mrjoian on the Michigan Notable Book Tour
by Emily Schwartz 22 May '26

22 May '26

Hello! Popping in to share an event of interest with the Mich-Lib community! Local author and creative writing professor, Aram Mrjoian, will be visiting the Oak Park Public Library on Thursday, May 28 at 6pm. Mrjoian will be sharing more about his novel, Waterline, and we'll have copies available to purchase/get signed. If you or your patrons are interested in attending, we are collecting registration<https://forms.gle/HaR61PSTMTJL4dzcA> so we have a better idea of how many chairs we'll need to set up. Hope everyone has a great holiday weekend! Thanks for sharing! Emily Schwartz Community Services and Reference Manager Oak Park Public Library 14200 Oak Park Blvd. Oak Park, MI 48237 248-691-7458

1 0

Bed Bug Heating Unit
by Jessica Luther 22 May '26

22 May '26

Hello! We are exploring the possibility of purchasing a heating unit to remediate potential bed bug infestations in returned books. Does anyone have one they recommend? Thanks! *Jessica Luther (she/her) * Assistant Director *Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library* 211 N. First Ave. Alpena, MI 49707 jluther(a)alpenalibrary.org 989.419.4236 Currently reading: <https://app.thestorygraph.com/currently-reading/sylvia_p77> [image: Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood]

1 0

TLN Technology Forum 2026 Cancellation Notice and Statement
by Cole Bratten 22 May '26

22 May '26

Hi everyone, Please see the attached letter from the TLN Technology Committee regarding the cancellation of the 2026 TLN Technology Forum. We look forward to seeing you in 2027! Thank you, Cole Cole Bratten Systems Administrator The Library Network 41365 Vincenti Ct. Novi, MI 48375 Office: 248-536-3100 x114 Helpdesk: 248-536-3100 x134

1 0

Mittens @ the J.C. Wheeler Public Library!
by JC Wheeler Public Library 22 May '26

22 May '26

Hi everyone! We are excited to say that Mittens has finally arrived at our library! He was a great help unpacking MeLCat materials, as well as greeting kids as they entered our new Kids Room, and even spending some time in there coloring with everyone. We had a blast with Mittens and sharing him with our community! He's off to his next adventure 🙂 Abbie LaFountaine JC Wheeler Library PO Box 226 1576 S. Main Martin, MI 49070 269-672-7875 “This week I've been reading a lot and doing little work. That's the way things ought to be. That's surely the road to success.” ― Anne Frank, The Diary of a Young Girl<https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/3532896>

2 1

Job Posting- Commerce Township Community Library Adult Services Librarian, FT
by Trista Reno 22 May '26

22 May '26

Good morning, We are currently accepting applicants for the position of Adult Services Librarian. This is a full-time position including day, evening. and weekend hours. You can view the posting at https://commercetwp.com/library/about-us/employment-opportunities/ Please feel free to share with anyone who may be interested. Application deadline is June 5th. *Trista Reno (she/her)* Head of Information Services Commerce Township Community Library Phone: 248-669-8108 Ext. 113 Fax: 248-387-6240 -- The information contained in this electronic message is intended only for the use of the designated recipient(s). If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, use, dissemination, forwarding or copying of this message is strictly prohibited, and we request that you delete the original message and all attachments.

1 0

Northland Library Cooperative Director Opening
by Ryan Deery 22 May '26

22 May '26

Fellow Michiganders, The Northland Library Cooperative is seeking its next great Director. We are specifically looking for a collaborative, service-oriented, and forward-thinking leader to serve 24 member libraries across spectacular northern Michigan. With an annual budget of over $500,000, this part-time, self-directed role provides a meaningful opportunity to guide a broad-reaching organization committed to strengthening and supporting diverse libraries. With a starting salary range of $45,000-$50,000 dependent upon experience and qualifications and benefits that include a health care reimbursement, retirement contribution, and short-term disability, this role might be your perfect next step. For further information including the job description and information on how to apply, visit the Northland Library Cooperative's website at https://www.nlc.lib.mi.us/ Ryan Deery Director, Charlevoix Public Library and Northland Library Cooperative Board Chair [cid:90cee0af-1a95-4076-b64f-132ef2de5335]

1 0

Children Programming Questions
by Jessica Oswald 22 May '26

22 May '26

Good Morning! In the midst of Summer Reading, I'm also putting together my fall calendar & have a few questions & looking for some input on programming! 1. Storytime: Our Storytime has grown over the last two years & now sees on average 50-60 people (adults & kids included) weekly. It can be slightly chaotic. Currently, adding another section is not an option. Any advice on controlling the chaos? Or how to make it less overwhelming & more fun & interactive? Our Storytime is geared towards toddlers/preschool but of course we have all ages that attend. 2. STEAM/Coding Programs: I recently met with our local elementary STEAM teacher & we are looking at offering a STEAM/coding program geared toward elementary students after school. If this is something you offer, what has or hasn't worked for you? Do you focus on just lower or upper elementary or do one large group? 3. Meeting The Helpers Program: We're always looking at involving other professions in the community into our programming & I'm looking at some type of "Meet The Helpers" program. We would have firefighters, police, counselor, or even dentists or doctors come in to talk about what they do for the community in an age-appropriate manner. Debating whether to build this into our Storytime once a month or make it a separate program that older homeschool children & families can attend. Is this something anyone else does? And if anyone has suggestions on professions that could attend, I would appreciate it! Thank you all! [cid:3bcf1147-7d78-4386-8e9e-c8eb8da25aa9] Jessica L. Oswald Children and Teen Services Librarian Alma Public Library 500 E. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801 Phone: 989-463-3966 ex. 9581 Website: Alma Public Library<http://www.youseemore.com/alma/default.asp> Email: joswald(a)myalma.org<mailto:joswald@myalma.org>

1 0

Seeking Advice
by Kristina Knezic 21 May '26

21 May '26

Hello All, This school year, our afterschool patrons have been much more disruptive than in years past. As the end of the school year approaches, the disruptive behavior seems to be increasing. My staff and I do work to enforce our behavior policy and follow the disciplinary steps, but it continues to be a struggle. Are there any other libraries out there (we are a Class III library) that employ a security guard during targeted times to help monitor patron behavior and enforce library policies? If so, do you use a security company, or have you hired someone such as a retired police officer? Has it helped? For libraries that experience issues during after school hours but do not employ a security guard, what solutions have you found to prevent or reduce disruptive behavior? We do try to be welcoming rather than confrontational, and we offer programming during afterschool hours, but we are still facing challenges. Thank you for your suggestions,

2 1

Class 5 & 6 Staff Compensation Information?
by Dan Hutchins 21 May '26

21 May '26

Hi all, I’m starting work on our 2027 budget and I was wondering if there are any class 5 and 6 libraries who would be willing to share their most recent staff compensation information with me? I’m sharing the VBDL’s most recent compensation chart, which is accurate as of January 1, 2026. Thank you, Dan Hutchins Executive Director Van Buren District Library 200 North Phelps Street Decatur, MI 49045 dhutchins(a)vbdl.org ph: 269-423-4771 www.vbdl.org

1 0

Job Opportunity: Library Director // Grafton-Midview Public Library [OH]
by Ryan Sheehan 21 May '26

21 May '26

*The Opportunity* The *Grafton-Midview Public Library *is seeking a community-focused leader to serve as their next *Library Director*. This mission-critical position reports to a seven-member Board of Trustees, guides a dedicated staff of 23, oversees a $1.8 million operating budget, and is responsible for the overall daily operation and oversight of the library’s departments, collections, services, programs, and facilities. The Library Director engages and collaborates with the library’s patrons, staff, Board members, business leaders, community partners, and other stakeholders to advance the library’s mission and goals. In addition to organizing, directing, and evaluating all library operations and activities, the Library Director will: - Prioritize the development of a new strategic plan to guide the library’s future direction and priorities - Oversee budget planning, resource management, and fundraising efforts - Expand and strengthen community partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and stakeholders - Champion staff training, professional development, and a positive, high-performing work culture Most importantly, the next Library Director at Grafton-Midview Public Library will balance respect for the library’s established strengths, community identity, and positive work culture with a forward-thinking approach to new service models and technology, evolving community needs, and organizational improvement. *About the Library and Community* The Grafton-Midview Public Library was established in 1944 as a school district library through the efforts of Harriet Spitzer, who led the push to create a free public library for the Grafton community. Originally housed inside Grafton School on Elm Street, the library later moved in 1971 to a former bank building on Main Street that was purchased for just $1.00. In 1991, the library underwent a major expansion and renovation, increasing its size from just over 2,000 square feet to nearly 12,000 square feet. Today, the library operates as one of seven independent public libraries in Lorain County and serves approximately 24,000 residents located in Grafton Village, Grafton Township, Eaton Township, and parts of Carlisle Township and Elyria. The mission of the Grafton-Midview Public Library is to provide free and equal access to information, knowledge, and ideas; promote personal enrichment and life-long learning; encourage literacy and love of reading and foster cultural and educational programs and partnerships in a welcoming community environment. To learn more, visit: *gmplibrary.org* Located in southeastern Lorain County, Grafton is a close-knit and growing community that blends small-town charm with convenient access to larger metropolitan amenities. Home to a quaint, historic downtown district, established residential neighborhoods, and surrounding rural landscapes, the area offers a welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of community pride and local identity. Residents benefit from a quieter and more affordable lifestyle while still having access to shopping, dining, healthcare, and entertainment options. The community is also well positioned geographically with convenient access to major transportation corridors, allowing residents to easily commute to both Cleveland and Akron. Outdoor recreation and natural amenities are abundant in the region, with nearby parks, trails, and golf courses. Combined with well-regarded schools, a family-friendly environment, abundant regional attractions, and a balance of rural character and suburban convenience, the Grafton area provides an appealing place to live, work, and build long-term community connections*.* *Position Qualifications and Compensation* - Five or more years of relevant organizational or departmental leadership experience in a mission-based organization is required. - Experience in leading, hiring, training, developing, supervising, and evaluating staff is required. - Experience in community engagement, collaboration, and advocacy [i.e., working and partnering closely with civic/community partners, local businesses, government officials, and other key stakeholders] is required. - Experience providing strategic financial oversight and managing budgets in alignment with organizational goals is required. - Experience with strategic plan development is required. - Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage diverse internal and external audiences, are required. - Experience with facilities improvement and/or capital project management is preferred. - A Master of Library and Information Science [MLIS] is preferred. A generous compensation package includes a competitive starting pay range of $95,000 to $105,000; earned time-off allowances; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; OPERS retirement plan; and more. *To Apply* To be considered for this position, please submit your resume and a cover letter [including salary requirements] to: ryansheehan(a)oahumanresources.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

1 0