Michigan Library Association

Governor Whitmer Proposes No Increase to State Aid to Libraries in FY26 Budget

As we have experienced for 8 years of the Snyder Administration and the 7th year of Governor Whitmer’s administration, the FY26 State Aid to Libraries budget remains flat. We also saw no increases for Library of Michigan programs/staff.

Dillon Geshel Named Interim Executive Director

The Michigan Library Association (MLA) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Dillon Geshel as the association’s interim executive director, effective May 19, 2025. Geshel, who has served MLA in multiple leadership roles, was selected by the Board following a deliberate and unanimous decision to ensure a seamless transition as current Executive Director Debbie Mikula prepares for her well-earned retirement in July.

"Dillon’s deep institutional knowledge, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication to Michigan’s libraries made him the clear choice to lead MLA during this pivotal time," said Jenny Marr, MLA President. "After careful consideration, the Board determined that his leadership, combined with his hands-on experience guiding MLA’s key initiatives, positions him perfectly to advance our mission. We’re thrilled to see him step into this role and continue driving MLA’s momentum forward."

MLA Statement on Civil Fines and Penal Fines

MLA’s statement in response to bills that attempt to siphon penal fines or civil fines away from libraries.

The Michigan Constitution states that all fines assessed for breaches of penal laws must be exclusively applied for the support of libraries. This provision has been in place since the first state constitution in 1835 and has been reaffirmed in subsequent constitutions. In addition to penal fines, Michigan law specifies that civil fines ordered under section 907 of the Michigan Vehicle Code should also exclusively be applied to support libraries.

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Michigan Library Association’s MI Right to Read Awarded $600,000 Grant by Mellon Foundation

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Library Association (MLA) is pleased to announce that the Mellon Foundation has awarded MLA a $600,000 grant to support the MI Right to Read initiative. For the past year, MLA has worked to secure this pivotal funding to strengthen and expand MI Right to Read and its work promoting intellectual freedom and championing the free flow of information. This recognition from the Mellon Foundation underscores the initiative’s significant impact on libraries, library professionals, and communities across the state.

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