Hello! Please see information below from United for Libraries. If you would please pass this on to trustees and friends groups, that would be appreciated! Sincerely, Clare Clare D. Membiela, MLS, J.D. Library Law Consultant Library of Michigan MembielaC@michigan.gov<mailto:MembielaC@michigan.gov> 517-335-8132 The research and resources above are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. "the State may not, consistently with the spirit of the First Amendment, contract the spectrum of available knowledge." Griswold v. Connecticut, 381 U.S. 479, 482 (1965). [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/>. From: United for Libraries <united@ala.org> Sent: Thursday, December 5, 2024 9:57 AM To: Membiela, Clare (MDE) <MembielaC@michigan.gov> Subject: News from United for Libraries, December 2024 CAUTION: This is an External email. Please send suspicious emails to abuse@michigan.gov<mailto:abuse@michigan.gov> If you are having trouble viewing this mailing, please click here<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzNA/index.html> for our online version. [https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/americanlibraryassociation/da...] [facebook]<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzNQ/index.html> December 2024 President's Message [Headshot of Deborah Doyle] As we absorb the results of the 2024 election results, let us acknowledge the importance of this time for our communities, our country and for each of us individually. .This period of uncertainty will be unsettling for many of us and the institutions we support; however, we will be traveling through this together. Traditionally, libraries and library supporters value civic engagement and democratic processes; by focusing on our values and doing what we do best together, we can contribute positively, working with respect, compassion and understanding as we move forward. Now is the time to touch base with your newly elected officials at all levels - local, regional, state and national. If they are new, let them know of the importance of libraries and intellectual freedom before they officially take office. Write, email or visit their new local office. Bring them a book, make them a member and sign them up for your newsletters. Get to know their staff. For those who have been reelected, congratulate them and remind them what your library does for their constituents. Don't forget to thank those who lost or are retiring. Keep in touch with them, too. They may have some valuable suggestions and connections. In this busy holiday season, United continues to provide valuable resources. Mark your calendars for Learning Live<https://www.ala.org/united/training/learning-live> on Dec. 10, and our Dec. 12 virtual roundtable discussion<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzNg/index.html>. If you have requests or have a story to tell, please let us know. We are also very excited about United's collaboration with Penguin Random House that will provide grants that will help rural and small libraries<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzNw/index.html>. Please spread the word and take advantage of this opportunity. If you've found United's resources helpful in the past and/or want to help strengthen our reach, please consider making a gift to United for Libraries<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzOA/index.html> as you make your year-end annual donations. We can't do our work without your encouragement and support. Happy holidays! Deborah Doyle 2024-2026 United for Libraries President News [Logo: United for Libraries Learning Live]<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzOQ/index.html> United for Libraries Learning Live: 'Telling Stories That Inspire Engagement' Dec. 10 and 'Start Planning Now (YES NOW!) for Your Library's Annual Giving Campaign' Jan. 14 The United for Libraries Learning Live<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzOQ/index.html> on Dec. 10 will focus on "Telling Stories That Inspire Engagement" and feature Paul Signorelli of Paul Signorelli & Associates. The Jan. 14 session will be "Start Planning Now (YES NOW!) for Your Library's Annual Giving Campaign" with Amanda Standerfe and Kirstin Gebhart. Learning Live sessions are recorded and available on-demand. Learning Live is free to United for Libraries personal members and those in MA, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OR, SC & VA through partnerships with the state library agency in each location. Register <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0MA/index.html> Join United for Libraries for a Virtual Roundtable Discussion Group Thurs., Dec. 12 All United for Libraries personal members are invited to join the Virtual Roundtable Discussion Group on Dec. 12, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Eastern. Via Zoom, participants will be brought together in small groups facilitated by United for Libraries member-leaders and staff. Attendees will participate in two groups, and topics will be determined based on the interest of attendees. The sessions are offered live only and will not be recorded. Register <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzNg/index.html> Dr. Gordon Baker, Kathy Kosinski, and Madeline Jarvis appointed to the United for Libraries Board of Directors The United for Libraries Board of Directors has appointed three board members. Dr. Gordon Baker, who was 2022-2024 United for Libraries President, has been appointed to Friend at Large. Kathy Kosinski, Member Services and Outreach Manager, Califa Group, has been reappointed to Board Member at Large. Madeline Jarvis, Director, Two Harbors (Minn.) Public Library, and Board Member, Minnesota Association of Library Friends, has been appointed Board Member at Large. Read more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0MQ/index.html> Around ALA ALA launches national search for executive director ALA has reopened its search for an executive director in partnership with executive search firm Isaacson, Miller. The search will be led by a steering committee comprising ALA member leaders. The selected candidate will succeed Interim Executive Director Leslie Burger, who was appointed in November 2023. ALA's Executive Board chose to relaunch its search for the position. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0Mg/index.html> New survey will provide vital data about library facility needs The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0Mw/index.html> is conducting a survey on the physical conditions and facility needs of public libraries in the United States. GAO is sending the survey to a nationwide sample of public library outlets that were randomly selected; ALA encourages those who receive the survey to respond. GAO is an independent federal agency that works for Congress. The information from this survey will help inform Congress about the physical conditions of public libraries nationally. Read more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0NA/index.html> Applications for Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries due Jan. 12 [Logo: Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence in Fiction and Nonfiction 2025 Longlist - Shortlist announced Nov. 12!]<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0NQ/index.html> Two Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0NQ/index.html> will be given in 2025 - one Will Eisner Graphic Novel Growth Grants will provide support to a library that would like to expand its existing graphic novel services and programs and one Will Eisner Graphic Novel Innovation Grant will provide support to a library for the initiation of a graphic novel service, program or initiative. These Grants will support two categorical grants that will encourage public awareness on the rise and importance of graphic literature, sequential art, and comics as a literary medium. Any library or Friends group may submit an application to the Will Eisner Graphic Novel Innovation Grant. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0NQ/index.html> Tools for Trustees Jan. 11 United for Libraries webinar to focus on accessibility and what library Trustees need to know United for Libraries will present Accessibility and Public Libraries under Title II of the Americans With Disabilities Act: What Trustees Need to Know<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0Ng/index.html> on Sat., Jan. 11, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Eastern. The session will be presented by Clare Membiela, MLS, J.D., Library Law Consultant, Library of Michigan. This webinar will provide an introduction to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and a general overview of the legal expectations for public libraries, focusing on the responsibilities of Trustees/Board Members in ensuring that their libraries are truly welcoming to all of their communities - now and into the future. Registration is free<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0Nw/index.html> for those in MA, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OR, SC, and VA, and discounted<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0OA/index.html> for personal United for Libraries and ALA members. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0Ng/index.html> Learn 'Practical Tips for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Libraries' Identifying and addressing issues that affect staff and patrons such as mental health, sexuality and gender, and socioeconomic background, Practical Tips for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Libraries<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk0OQ/index.html>, published by Facet Publishing and available through the ALA Store, provides a selection of ideas to develop a welcoming environment. More importantly, it highlights the varied impact EDI activities can have while introducing a wide range of new and innovative projects to inspire readers. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1MA/index.html> Save the date for United Virtual: July 29-31, 2025 [Logo: United Virtual 2025]<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1MQ/index.html> Mark your calendar for the 2025 United for Libraries Virtual: Trustees - Friends - Foundations July 29-31, 2025. The fifth annual interactive virtual event will feature expert speakers on current topics facing library Trustees, Friends, Foundations, and staff who work with them. Registration will open in April 2025. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1Mg/index.html> Focus on Friends National Friends of Libraries Week Award applications due Dec. 6 [Logo: National Friends of Libraries Week Awards]<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1Mw/index.html> Two Friends groups will be awarded National Friends of Libraries Week Awards<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1NA/index.html> of $250 each in honor of their celebrations during the 19th annual National Friends of Libraries Week<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1NQ/index.html> held Oct. 20-26, 2024. Applications will be judged on creativity and innovation; engagement of Friends, library staff, Trustees, and/or advisory committee; and recognition/promotion of Friends group. The submission deadline is Dec. 6, 2024. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1NA/index.html> Penguin Random House & United for Libraries announce new grants for Friends of Libraries As announced during National Friends of Libraries Week, United for Libraries and Penguin Random House are teaming up to award grants for Friends Groups serving rural and small libraries across the country. Grants of $500 and $1,000 (totaling $25,000), will be awarded to support libraries in need, and in-kind book donation grants of $500 will be awarded to 20 libraries. Applications will open from Feb. 3, 2025. Register for free info sessions<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1Ng/index.html> on this grant program, including webinars on grant writing basics and starting a Friends group. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4MjkzNw/index.html> Save the Date: 'Shaping the Future for Your Friends of the Library' to be held March 22 United for Libraries will host a virtual retreat for Friends group members, Shaping the Future for Your Friends of the Library, on Sat., March 22, noon to 3 p.m. Eastern. Friends groups make a lasting difference for their libraries. Learn how to ensure your library Friends have a bright future and strategic direction in the areas of recruitment, succession planning, board development, advocacy, and membership. Find out how resources from United for Libraries can help as you grow and strengthen your Friends group. Scaleable ideas will be shared for libraries and communities of all sizes. The program will include panel presentations, activities, and idea sharing. Foundations & Fundraising Friends and Foundation of Albany (N.Y.) Public Library awarded a 2024 Judith F. Krug Grant for Banned Books Week Friends and Foundation of Albany (N.Y.) Public Library was awarded a 2024 Judith F. Krug Memorial Fund Programming Grant<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1Nw/index.html> for Banned Books Week from the Freedom to Read Foundation. The grant funding went to support a Banned Books Readout, 'Women: Freed Between the Lines" on Sept. 24. The event featured local actors, poets, and musicians performing excerpts from banned and challenged books written by women, with a strong focus on works by marginalized authors. Read more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1OA/index.html> Jackson County (Ore.) Public Library Foundation funds pollinator garden and beehive The Jackson County (Ore.) Library Foundation<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk1OQ/index.html> is behind an initiative at the Phoenix library branch: a pollinator garden and beehive. The library offers a perfect setting for this ecological and educational project. This effort will not only beautify the space but also serve as a testament to our community's resilience and commitment to sustainability. Read more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2MA/index.html> Broward (Fla.) Library Foundation sponsors 'Books 'n' Bears at the Holidays' The Broward (Fla.) Library Foundation, along with the Florida Panthers Foundation and Community Foundation of Broward, are raising funds for Books 'n' Bears at the Holidays<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2MQ/index.html>. Donations ensure that 3,000 underprivileged preschool children receive a new book and a cuddly teddy bear during the holiday season. The program also features lively library parties, with songs and stories, for children enrolled at child centers in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2MQ/index.html> Good Ideas from the Network New book filled with tips for creating joy in libraries <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2Mg/index.html>[Cover image: 101 Seeds for Library Joy by Rebecca Hass]<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2Mg/index.html><https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2Mg/index.html> Library joy is more than a feeling; it is a choice and call to everyday practices of connection, empowerment, and well-being. 101 Seeds for Library Joy<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2Mg/index.html>, published by ALA Editions, brims with dozens of joy-centering approaches and activities. The book also makes a perfect gift and is sure to bring smiles to library workers, trusted volunteers, board members, and all the book lovers in your life. Read more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2NA/index.html> Charleston (S.C.) Friends of the Library cosponsor 'The Role of AI in Writing, Publishing, Education & Literacy' Charleston (S.C.) Friends of the Library and the Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Center at the College of Charleston collaborated to present "The Role of AI in Writing, Publishing, Education & Literacy." The event explored how technology, and AI in particular, is transforming the roles of authors, the publishing industry, education and literacy among readers across all ages. Learn more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2Ng/index.html> Friends of the Dunnellon (Fla.) Public Library Bookstore offers 'Wrapped & Ready' bundles for the holidays Friends of the Dunnellon (Fla.) Public Library Bookstore offers "Wrapped & Ready," featuring bundles of three of chosen mysteries, histories, and biographies that are all wrapped and ready to gift for the holiday season. Read more <https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk2OA/index.html> Does your Friends group, Foundation, or Board of Trustees have a good idea you would like featured? To submit, visit https://www.ala.org/united/good-ideas<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk3MA/index.html>. United for Libraries News & Updates [Text: United for Libraries News & Updates] Visit http://united.ala.org<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk3MQ/index.html> to read about upcoming events, conferences, updates on United for Libraries resources and initiatives, news about Friends of the Library groups, library Trustees and Foundations across the country, and more. Newsletter sign up: Would you like your staff, board members, or others to receive this monthly newsletter? Sign up is available to all. Learn more and sign up<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk3Mg/index.html> United for Libraries Membership: Some of the resources above are available only to United for Libraries members. Unsure if you are a current United for Libraries member? For your membership status, email united@ala.org<mailto:united@ala.org> or call 312-280-2161. To join, visit www.ala.org/united/membership<https://americanlibraryassociation.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTc5Nzg0MSZwPTEmdT0xMTIwMDM2Mjc0JmxpPTExMjk4Mjk3Mw/index.html>. 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