Thank you to Shaunna Martz for Serving on MLA's Board!

A sincere thank you to Shaunna Martz of Kent District Library for her dedicated service on the MLA Board of Directors. Shaunna joined the Board in 2023 and has contributed her time, perspective, and steady commitment to advancing libraries across Michigan. At the June 2026 Board of Directors meeting, she was recognized with a plaque in appreciation of her service and the meaningful impact she has made during her tenure.

State Budget Negotiations Are Underway — Continue Speaking Up for Libraries!

After a busy month for Michigan’s legislature, momentum is building to finalize a budget for the state’s next fiscal year. With budget proposals now advanced by the House, Senate, and the Governor’s office, the next phase of negotiations is officially underway, and library advocates continue to play an important role in shaping the conversation around library funding.

Note From Dillon

This spring, I’ve spent a lot of time on the road. One of my favorite parts about working at MLA is that no two weeks look the same, and that’s certainly been true for me in recent months. I’ve found myself visiting libraries, participating in film screenings and panel discussions, hosting events alongside the excellent MLA team, and giving presentations about MLA programs and resources. As I sat down to write this month’s note, I found myself reflecting on my work over the last few months and the connections I’ve made with people across Michigan who care deeply about libraries and the role they play in civic life, education, access, and community.

In March, I had the privilege to visit the Edwardsburg branch of the Cass District Library, a new, purpose-built library that leans into flexible programming areas, inviting interior design, and a dedicated children’s space that prioritizes learning, play, and engagement. It’s a beautiful new library across the street for a local school, and the building was bustling with students when I visited. The Cass District Library’s Edwardsburg branch demonstrates how modern libraries are centering themselves as community and learning hubs.

Save the Date and Submit a Nomination for the 2026 Michigan Library Awards

Do you know someone who deserves recognition and celebration for their work in Michigan libraries? The Call for Nominations for the 2026 Michigan Library Awards is now open through Friday, July 10!

Note From Dillon

In recent years, libraries in Michigan and across the country have found themselves at the center of conversations around intellectual freedom and information access. For MLA, much of our work since 2021 has been focused around these discussions and engagement with libraries, stakeholders, and Michiganders about constitutionally protected freedoms. Our MI Right to Read coalition was founded to provide support to libraries facing book bans, to equip advocates with the tools they need to fight back, and to educate Michiganders on the importance of the right to read. Our experiences here in Michigan mirror much of what we’ve seen in other parts of the country and point to a sustained attack on the First Amendment and civil rights laws long championed by our libraries, communities, and courts.

MLA 2026 Board Election Results

Thank you to the many MLA members who voted in this year’s Board of Directors election. Your participation helps ensure MLA continues to reflect the needs and priorities of libraries across Michigan.

Members elected a President-Elect and four Members-at-Large, selecting leaders who bring a strong mix of experience, perspective, and commitment to supporting MLA’s work and statewide advocacy.