In-person workshops, 10:00 am ET - 5:00 pm ET for the following dates/locations:

Looking for affordable and engaging Teen programming? From outreach to in-building programs, this workshop is for you! Food literacy is essential for teens to understand and learn about food in a positive way, including food skills and best food practices. Young Adult library library staff will benefit from this workshop designed to guide libraries to in turn support teens as they explore the impact of food on so many levels of their lives.

Many people over the years have requested more training around food programming, so now is your chance to register! 

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.

A Child-Friendly Digital World: AAP Releases New Media Recommendations
The AAP offers recommendations for families, pediatricians, clinical practitioners, educators, researchers, industry and policy makers. The statement and technical report replace prior AAP guidance on communications and media. Learn more here. Highlight from the recommendations: For families, the AAP recommends various strategies such as creating a Family Media Plan, modeling healthy media habits, and employing the "5 Cs of Media Use," as described by the Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health. The 5 Cs offer a framework for families to consider media in the context of their individual child; content of media; calm or self-regulation; what other activities media crowds out; and communication. Parents cannot carry the weight of digital media management on their own, Dr. Parga-Belinkie said. But they can carve out spaces that are free of digital media—in the car, in the home at dinnertime or on weekends for activities. Also important is that parents model good behavior when using their own devices.

Unbanned Books Network

The Unbanned Book Network from We Need Diverse Books is designed to improve literacy rates at K-12 public schools and fight book bans that have disproportionately targeted diverse voices. In 2026, we will select 20 public school classrooms located in communities heavily affected by book bans to join the Network. Details and application: https://www.diversebooks.org/programs/unbanned-book-network. 

Scholarship for Public Service

Applications are now open for the 2026-2028 Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service. The Obama Foundation is looking for current college sophomores and community college transfer students interested in pursuing a career in public service. If you are seeking a transformative leadership development and scholarship program that includes financial aid to ease the burden of college debt, an immersive work-travel experience, and access to a powerful network of mentors, then this program is for you! The application closes on March 17, 2026, so help to spread the word to your community. 

‘Blindsided’ by budget cut, Michigan early childhood programs fight to survive - Bridge MI, 1/26/26

With the Child Poverty Rate Expected to Climb, New Efforts Emerge to Respond - The 74, 1/14/26

‘Tough decisions’ coming as Michigan faces $1 billion budget hole - Bridge MI, 1/16/26

Trump Administration Appeals Decision in IMLS Lawsuit Brough By State Attorneys General - Book Riot, 1/19/26

Cathy Lancaster

Youth Services Coordinator

Library of Michigan
702 W. Kalamazoo St.
Lansing, MI 48915
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers - See www.mypronouns.org to learn more.

LancasterC5@michigan.gov | 517-335-8129 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan
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