Cathleen Russ Named 2019 MLA Librarian of the Year

For Immediate Release: October 17, 2019                                                                     
Contact: Deborah E. Mikula (517) 394-2774 ext. 224       

LANSING – The Michigan Library Association (MLA) is pleased to announce that Cathleen Russ has been named the 2019 MLA Librarian of the Year. Russ received the award during the MLA 2019 Annual Conference Awards Luncheon on October 17 in Novi.

Russ is a well-respected leader in the library community. Her letters of recommendation consistently state that she is a leader who inspires, embodies grace under pressure and empowers others to reach their full potential. Her heart for mentoring and educating the next generation of librarians is outstanding. Her enthusiasm for providing great service to the culturally diverse community of Troy is unending. With her vast knowledge of library administration, budgeting, customer service and collection development, Russ is sought out by librarians across the state for advice and mentorship.

Members Adopt E.D.I. Statement at Annual Meeting

October 17, 2019

During the 2019 MLA Annual Meeting that took place Thursday, October 17 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi at the MLA 2019 Annual Conference, MLA's membership received the annual year-end report, recognized outgoing board members and adopted and signed the MLA Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement. Download the MLA 2018-2019 Annual Report.

2019 MLA Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

During the 2019 MLA Annual Meeting that took place Thursday, October 17 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi at the MLA 2019 Annual Conference, MLA's membership adopted and signed the MLA Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement.

MLA 2019 Literary Award Winners

October 16, 2019

The Michigan Library Association is pleased to announce the 2019 literary award winners of the Mitten, YouPer and Thumbs Up! awards. The award selection work groups are comprised of Michigan library staff who consider hundreds of books annually to determine the winners. The awards selection group members worked throughout the year spending thousands of hours reading, reviewing and ranking hundreds of books to establish the top titles published in 2018.

Call for Nominations for the MLA 2020-2021 Elections Now Open

October 3, 2019

MLA Seeks Nominations for Board Service

Do you know someone who would be a great addition to the MLA Board of Directors? The call for nominations for candidates for the 2020 Board of Directors Elections is now open!

The Nominating and Leadership Development Committee (NLDC) is seeking nominations/self-nominations for three member-at-large directors as well as the President-elect position, with terms beginning in July 2020 and ending in June 2023. NLDC will review all nominations and may also seek additional individuals to meet identified needs. All nominees must be members of MLA at the time that the slate is presented to the board of directors for approval. Note: nominations will be reviewed and not all will move forward in the process.

Letter from Debbie

September 25, 2019

Stronger Together. That is how MLA views the impact our members have in communities and throughout Michigan when all types of libraries – school, public, academic and special – work together. In all that you do, your value and importance are increased not only with those that patronize your libraries but also with those that are leaders in your communities, schools, and businesses. MLA’s role…keep all libraries in the limelight and make sure that our successes are celebrated and our challenges addressed.