Michigan Library Association

06/09/2026

What could 5–10 minutes of reading a day do this summer?

It could spark a child's imagination, help a teen discover a new passion, transport an adult to another world, or create a special family memory.

Reading helps build literacy, strengthen focus, expand vocabulary, reduce stress, and grow empathy—and summer is the perfect time to make it a habit. Whether you love novels, graphic novels, audiobooks, magazines, or picture books, there's something for everyone.

Visit your local library to sign up for Summer Reading, get personalized recommendations, discover great books, and join a community of readers of all ages. This summer, every page, chapter, and story counts. And yes, Summer Reading (and reading in general) is for adults too!

06/08/2026

Libraries are more than buildings—they're community lifelines. Proposed trial court funding changes could eliminate millions in constitutionally protected library funding without a replacement, impacting services, programs, technology, and access for Michiganders statewide, particularly in small and rural communities.

Read more about proposed trial court funding diversion in our fact sheet here:
https://ow.ly/w99850Z8uZQ

For more information about all of our Legislative priorities, please visit our website:
https://ow.ly/p9jJ50Z8uZP

Questions? Contact us: [email protected]

06/08/2026

On April 3, 2026, the White House released its budget proposal requesting the elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) program in the Department of Education. Read ALA's statement and background on the announcement: https://ow.ly/qOkT50Z8v3B

With pressure from the Executive Branch in full swing, it's more important than ever that Congress fund libraries in next year's budget.

In the U.S. House of Representatives, the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies voted to approve level funding for IMLS on June 5, 2026. The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee is expected to take up its own version of the appropriations bill in mid-June.

Read more here: https://ow.ly/UrYb50Z8v3J

ALA is calling on us to spread the word about on social media and share the impact of IMLS funding in your library or state. Remember to tag your posts with .

06/08/2026

Know someone making a difference in Michigan libraries?

Nominations for the 2026 Michigan Library Awards are now open through July 10, recognizing excellence, innovation, leadership, and service across the state. Self-nominations are encouraged—help celebrate the outstanding people and organizations strengthening Michigan libraries and communities.

Learn more about the Michigan Library Awards, view guidelines, and submit a nomination at milibraries.org/michigan-library-awards.

06/08/2026

Free to attend today at 10 am!

TOMORROW!

Learn about the important role poll workers play in supporting fair and accessible elections and how individuals can get involved, with Dan Papineau, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. This session will provide an overview of what poll workers do, why they are essential, and the steps to becoming one.

Participants will explore ways libraries can partner in poll worker recruitment efforts through programming, newsletters, displays, website resources, and social media outreach. Join us to discuss practical partnership opportunities and how libraries can help strengthen civic engagement in their communities.

This virtual session is free to attend. Register: https://ow.ly/LyS950Z8vjZ

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

06/07/2026

Some of the reasons people go to libraries include borrowing books and movies, but also...
- to feel more connected to their community when feeling isolated
- to participate in a library project
- to find out about local volunteer opportunities
- to spend time with their families & friends
- and more.

06/07/2026

TOMORROW!

Learn about the important role poll workers play in supporting fair and accessible elections and how individuals can get involved, with Dan Papineau, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. This session will provide an overview of what poll workers do, why they are essential, and the steps to becoming one.

Participants will explore ways libraries can partner in poll worker recruitment efforts through programming, newsletters, displays, website resources, and social media outreach. Join us to discuss practical partnership opportunities and how libraries can help strengthen civic engagement in their communities.

This virtual session is free to attend. Register: https://ow.ly/LyS950Z8vjZ

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

06/07/2026

A Michigan House leader is pushing to reinstate the state’s third-grade reading retention law as part of the budget process, arguing it could help address ongoing literacy challenges among young students. The proposal revives debate over a policy that previously required students who are not reading at grade level to be held back, a rule that was later repealed in 2023. Supporters say it could strengthen accountability and improve reading outcomes, while critics caution against the harms of retention and stress the need for broader literacy interventions.

Summarize from article by Colin Jackson, Michigan Public Radio:

The law was repealed a couple of years ago while the legislature was under Democratic control. It required kids to read proficiently by third grade, or face being held back in school.

06/07/2026

The Chelsea District Library is preparing to unearth a 50-year-old time capsule originally buried during America’s bicentennial celebrations in 1976, offering the community a chance to reconnect with its local history. The event on June 26 from 5 - 7 PM is designed as a public gathering where residents can reflect on the past while discovering what artifacts and memories were preserved for half a century.

Read the full article by Matt Rosentreter, The Sun Times News:
https://thesuntimesnews.com/chelsea-library-to-unearth-50-year-old-time-capsule/

Chelsea District Library

Chelsea residents celebrate America’s bicentennial in 1976. Photo courtesy of CDL Vern Otto Historic Photo Collection The Chelsea District Library (CDL) will host a community lawn party on June 26 for the unearthing of a 50-year-old time capsule that was buried in celebration of America’s bicent...

06/07/2026

The Loutit District Library in Grand Haven has introduced major improvements at the library, including new creative spaces like a makerspace and art studio designed to expand hands-on learning opportunities for residents of all ages.

Read more, by Zach Avery, WoodTV:
https://www.woodtv.com/westmichiganguide/grand-haven-library-plans-open-house-for-new-makerspace/

Loutit District Library

On Saturday, visitors to the Loutit District Library in Grand Haven can attend the location’s newest addition during a free community open house: The Makerspace.