Hero Story

As a professional organization for librarians and library staff in Michigan, the Michigan Library Association (MLA) plays a critical role in promoting education and healthy futures for residents of this state.

The MLA has worked tirelessly to foster a deeper understanding of the humanities and support initiatives promoting civic and cultural vitality in the state. Through its advocacy for libraries and resources such as MI Right to Read, MLA's outreach and advocacy efforts are exemplary. They support access to education while contributing significantly to the community and the state by promoting civil discourse and community engagement. MLA's advocacy initiatives are bringing awareness to current issues that libraries, communities, and the people they serve are dealing with.

The Michigan Library Association, like Michigan Humanities, also has a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in their advocacy for libraries and resources. The organization recognizes the importance of providing all community members equitable access to diverse information, resources, and services. MLA also strives to provide training and support for librarians, trustees, and other staff members to ensure they can serve diverse communities and support the development of inclusive programs, through conferences, classes, and webinars. Through these support services and all of its efforts, MLA supports libraries in promoting understanding and appreciation of education, which aligns with the criteria for the award.