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.

So what better time than now to begin highlighting our successes…October is the time to celebrate!

Michigan's Senate leadership and Rep. Mark Huizenga in the House declare October as Michigan Library Appreciation Month. MLA is thrilled to take the lead role to help you find ways on a daily basis to celebrate.

It is a time to applaud the contributions of Michigan’s libraries, librarians, support staff, trustees and others, and to promote library use and support. We want to celebrate the work you do to promote life-long learning, serve as cultural hubs, bring together diverse populations, provide access for all, act as the primary point of on-line access, battle illiteracy, narrow the digital divide and so much more.

The House and Senate resolutions will recognize the important work of all libraries throughout Michigan. We encourage you to help spread the word in your community, schools and businesses and help encourage all citizens of Michigan to visit and use their library and explore the wide variety of cultural and educational riches that libraries hold. Through the overall library ecosystem (from cradle to grave), libraries of all types offer abundant opportunities and a promise of lifelong learning for every individual.

A huge thank you to Rep. Mark Huizenga and our Senate ambassadors for being MLA’s champion for Michigan libraries. We are grateful to them both for moving this resolution forward.

Beginning on October 1, watch MLA’s Facebook and Twitter feeds for daily ideas and inspiration to celebrate Michigan Library Appreciation Month. We hope to define a theme every October and continue celebrating with you for many years to come.

Debbie Signatiure