Close up of Education Muse painted on the interior of the Capitol dome in Lansing, Mi

MLA Advocacy News

Written by Claire Meeker, Chair, Advocacy and Legislative Committee

MLA Biannual Advocacy and Legislative Update

A core tenet of MLA’s mission is to advocate for Michigan libraries. MLA’s Advocacy and Legislative Committee, made up of volunteer ambassadors from libraries across the state, meets monthly to strategize and discuss issues facing libraries. As one of MLA’s key steering committees, the group helps set advocacy priorities and raise awareness about issues affecting libraries.

While our advocacy efforts are carried out year-round, much of that work happens behind the scenes. Some results in visible action, but often our advocacy involves monitoring legislation, engaging directly with legislators, researching potential impacts, and consulting with partners and experts. We want MLA members to know what we’re paying attention to and how we’re working to advance and protect Michigan libraries every day. That’s why we’re launching a new biannual Advocacy and Legislative Update to keep Michigan libraries informed about this work.

FY27 Federal Budget Update

The federal government is currently operating under a continuing resolution (CR) that extends fiscal year 2026 funding through December 11, 2026. Before that deadline, Congress must pass all 12 appropriations bills or another CR to avoid a full or partial government shutdown. With negotiations underway and key decisions still ahead in the Senate, there is still time to make sure your Senators hear from you about the importance of federal support for libraries.

MLA and ACLU Partner to Track and Map Censorship Efforts in Michigan

Two years ago, the ACLU of Michigan launched an innovative online mapping tool that tracked book bans and other forms of government censorship throughout the state. MLA is excited to announce a major update in that work. Through our partnership with the ACLU of Michigan, we’ve worked together to complete the first comprehensive update to the map and brought it directly to the MI Right to Read website.

Take Action: Tell the FCC to Save E-Rate

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering changes that could reduce or eliminate E-Rate, the federal program that helps libraries and schools afford broadband and Wi-Fi. Without E-Rate, libraries could face difficult choices between maintaining internet access and funding other essential services. The FCC is now accepting public comments.

Michigan Libraries Secured Increased Funding in FY2027 Budget—Please Take Five Minutes to Thank Your Legislators!

On Tuesday, July 21, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Michigan’s FY2027 budget into law. Thanks to your outreach and advocacy, Michigan libraries secured several key funding wins: While many state departments and agencies saw budget reductions, State Aid to Libraries saw a one-time increase of $375,000.

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