iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 8h

You don’t have to love every book you read—or even finish it. Libraries make room to disagree, discover, question, connect and choose for yourself. This #MIRightToRead Week, #BannedBooksWeek & #MILibraryMonth, we celebrate the freedom to explore. 💙 What does your library make possible?

Exterior view of a library building surrounded by vibrant purple and pink flowers under a clear sky.

A woman stands on stage at Dexter District Library reading to an engaged group of children raising their hands.

Colorful chessboard with pieces, knitting needles with yarn, and headphones over books against a blue sky with 'Discover Something New' text.

Four bestselling novels float against a blue sky with clouds, surrounding bold text that reads 'SEE YOURSELF IN A STORY'.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

What if cost stopped a MI library worker from their next opportunity to grow? MLA Educational Scholarships help students, new library staff, & under-resourced libraries access vital professional training. Even $25 can help. Donate: MLA (login req.): ow.ly/HU8Z50ZT5Gf GiveLively: ow.ly/vH2z50ZT5Gh

Audience listening to a speaker in a conference room during a Michigan Library Association event promoting the MLA Educational Scholarship Fund.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 27/09/2026

Think Space brings MI library directors together to exchange ideas with peers, and dig into the challenges of leadership, management, and technology. Think Space is changing! Based on feedback, all in-person activities will take place at the May meeting. Look for more info: early 2027

Announcement for Think Space event by Michigan Library Association, registration opens early 2027.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 27/09/2026

Your library doodle could become MLA merch! Submit an original design (up to 5) inspired by books, reading, libraries, intellectual freedom, banned books, or library life for a chance to see it in the MLA Store. 📅 Deadline: Oct. 22! More info & submit: ow.ly/Nfg250ZRZSB

White t-shirt with 'Your design here' text and crown graphic, promoting MLA Merch Design Contest by Michigan Library Association.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

MLA26AC is about a month away! Explore the schedule's sessions, events & more. Registering? Tell us the sessions you'll attend—it helps us choose the right rooms for a better experience for everyone. Not registered yet? Save your spot & join MI’s library community! 👉 Register: ow.ly/2iOs50ZQwwK

Schedule for Michigan Library Association 2026 AC early arrivals welcome reception on Tuesday, 10/27 from 6 to 9 PM, requiring preregistration.

Schedule for Michigan Library Association 2026 AC on Wednesday, 10/28, listing registration, keynote, sessions, exhibit hall, and awards events.

Schedule for Michigan Library Association 2026 AC on Thursday, 10/29, listing event times from registration to reception.

Michigan Library Association 2026 AC Friday schedule listing registration, breakfast, breakout sessions, and closing keynote times.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

The Silent Auction returns to Annual Conference: Help make it a success by donating fun items for attendees to bid on. Let MLA know before the start of MLA26AC & bring your donation to the conference registration desk! Proceeds support MLA’s Educational Scholarship Fund. 📧-MLA@milibraries.org

Graphic depicts a picture of a table with white tablecloth and a variety of several gifts for a silent auction, held during the annual conference's exhibit hours, and asking for donations.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

What are we reading, learning, or returning to the library today?

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Me when my library doesn’t have the book: Fine. I’ll ask the entire state. (LOOK at all of those libraries!) With the Michigan eLibrary Catalog, you can search collections of participating libraries in Michigan & request materials be delivered to your home library. Explore MeLCat: mel.org/welcome

Map of Michigan through milibraryfinder.org that is densely marked with colorful pins indicating various locations across the state and parts of surrounding states.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Sometimes the best part of annual conference is meeting someone who understands exactly what you mean. Share what's working, talk through what's not, meet library people from across Michigan, and go home with new ideas (and probably a few tote bags too). Register: ow.ly/TQms50ZPYuq

Illustration of diverse people holding creative tools above text inviting to a library conference about ideas and printer frustrations.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Join us Thu 9/17 at 10 AM (Zoom) - We’ll share what we learned from June’s Intellectual Freedom Summit, what’s ahead for MI Right to Read, & new resources and strategies to help libraries prepare for and respond to I.F. challenges. 💬 Come learn & ask questions: ow.ly/Y6qp50ZNWaQ

Graphic for MLA Connect Advocacy Hour: “The Next Chapter for MI Right to Read,” Thursday, September 17 at 10 a.m. Background features a collage of signs from Michigan public libraries

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Continuing education stipends are available through the Library of Michigan. Applications may be submitted at any time for a continuing education event that is AFTER the current month- make sure you apply before the end of Sep! View complete program details, eligibility, & apply: ow.ly/t5cC50ZLeu5

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

What you read is your choice. No single person can know which stories another person needs. That’s why the freedom to read matters. We can decide what's right for ourselves & our families. Learn more & join MI Right to Read coalition by pledging your support: www.mirighttoread.com/join-the-coa...

Young woman selecting a book from a library shelf, embodying the freedom to choose reading material.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Your library card isn't just a card. It's a shortcut. To the book you can't wait to read, the audiobook for your commute, to the database that helps you research for work or school. Check with your local library to see what your library card gets you!

Collage of diverse public library logos and building photos from various communities showcasing library names and designs.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

MLA will soon open the call for nominations seeking 2027 Board of Directors nominations. The Nominating and Leadership Development Committee (NLDC) will be seeking nominations for member-at-large directors & the President-elect position, with terms beginning in July '27 & ending in June '30.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

Check out MLA's Bill Tracker to view a full list of legislation that the Advocacy and Legislative Committee is watching: ow.ly/zaCg50ZHVnT

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

Your MLA. Your voice. 💙 The MLA Board has proposed updates to the bylaws—& before the process continues, we want members to have an opportunity to review them and share feedback by Mon. 9/7, 5 PM. Comments will be discussed at the Board's 9/11 meeting. Questions? Contact Dillon: ow.ly/V4eY50ZHV00

Close-up of a bylaws document with a pen, overlaid by a Michigan Library Association message about proposed bylaw updates open for member review.

Announcement about proposed minor updates to Michigan Library Association bylaws inviting member review and feedback.

Member comments for the Michigan Library Association are open until Monday, Sept. 7th at 5 PM for feedback on proposed changes.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

You want to go to MLA Annual Conference. Don’t let your budget end the conversation! Apply for an MLA Educational Scholarship to help make attending possible—and take advantage of early-bird pricing. Both deadlines= Friday, 9/4. Learn more & apply: milibraries.org/scholarships

Save Your spot today for the MLA 2026 Annual Conference and Save $$ with early bird pricing. Calendar graphic and a woman holding a stack of papers.

With early bird pricing (until Sep 4), the member rate is $365 and the non-member rate is &730, for the full conference.

with standard pricing after Sep 4, until Oct 16, the member rate for the full conference is $415 and the non-member rate is $830.

You can also submit an application for the MLA educational scholarship fund, the deadline is Friday, Sep 4th.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

On 9/1/1891, 37 people gathered in Detroit believing Michigan’s library community would be stronger together. 135 years later, YOU keep that idea going. Today, we’re celebrating generations of MI library people showing up for one another. Celebrate with us! Share your MLA story: milibraries.org

Colorful cupcakes with lit sparklers celebrating MLA's birthday against a blue background.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

The Annual Meeting will take place during MLA 2026 Annual Conference at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi on Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 3 – 4 PM. MLA 2026 Annual Conference registration is not required to attend the annual meeting and all members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Large group of Michigan Library Association members holding certificates at the 2025 annual meeting in a conference room.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month! If you’ve been thinking about getting a card, consider this your sign—join your neighbors and discover what your library can get for you. MI Libraries: ALA has content available for you to use: ow.ly/H9RP50ZHonX

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

What could a year of connection, growth and purposeful change look like for Michigan’s library community? Lisa Waskin shares her priorities for strengthening relationships with elected officials, bringing library leaders together, and more. Read Lisa’s full note: ow.ly/Z5Pv50ZHnxP

Portrait of a woman with glasses and dark hair smiling, identified as Lisa, MLA President, discussing priorities of connection and growth.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Grant opportunity for eligible rural Michigan libraries: The Pilcrow Foundation’s Children’s Book Project offers a 2-to-1 match to eligible libraries that raise $200–$400 locally, providing up to $1,200 in new hardcover children’s books. The deadline is 10/1/26. Learn more & apply: ow.ly/LhVI50ZHn3C

Colorful hand-drawn book spines with titles like 'FOUNDATION,' 'OR APPLY,' 'FOR A,' and 'TODAY' arranged vertically.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Grand Rapids Public Library is offering free job-search workshops (resumes, cover letters and interview preparation), along with business and career resources. It's a great example of how libraries offer opportunities to help. Check your library to see what's available. FOX 17: ow.ly/krMG50ZHmtE

Three people engaged in a discussion on a FOX 17 West Michigan news set with a round table in front of them.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

MLA & ACLU of Michigan have updated the Hostile Territory map. It tracks book challenges and other gov't censorship efforts in MI schools & public libraries. Explore the map: mirighttoread.com/map Report a challenge in your community or request support: mirighttoread.com/contact-us

Map of Michigan showing locations tracking censorship efforts with pins in purple, orange, green, and blue representing different outcomes.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

The FCC is reviewing E-Rate, which helps libraries and schools afford internet. Changes could mean higher costs for communities. Public comments are open through 10/13—ALA encourages supporters to comment & contact their reps: ow.ly/Alfm50ZB3ZB from Publishers Weekly, 8/17/26: ow.ly/oPKj50ZB3ZC

Federal Communications Commission seal mounted on a gold-paneled wall beside an American flag, creating a formal governmental atmosphere.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

The MLA online store is getting a refresh! New designs are coming—which means some favorites are retiring. Get yours while you can! 👉 ow.ly/4o9W50ZB1Lh

Three T-shirts displayed with library-themed designs promoting Michigan Library Association's updated store.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

Join MLA online tomorrow, Wednesday, August 19, from 10:00–11:00 AM to hear directly from Illinois library advocates who mobilized to advance eBook pricing legislation through the state House. They’ll share the grassroots strategies, coordination and lessons learned. Signup: ow.ly/lgs350ZzPEO

Collage of various public library signs above a banner promoting MLA Connect Advocacy Hour on Illinois ebook pricing legislation.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

MSU Extension partnerships with libraries are bringing evidence-based health education into trusted, accessible community spaces. For libraries, this represents an impactful programming collaboration throughout the year. Source: MSU Extension. Read the article: ow.ly/3kwG50ZB0jw

A man with glasses and curly hair gives a presentation on mindfulness at Michigan State University Extension.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

Our heartfelt thanks to the American Library Association for honoring the life and legacy of Michigan State Librarian Randy J. Riley with a memorial resolution adopted by ALA Council. We are grateful to see a person who meant so much to Michigan's library community honored in this meaningful way. ❤️

A Memorial Resolution from the ALA honoring the life and service of Randy J. Riley, the State Librarian of Michigan from 2014 to 2026.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 15/08/2026

Jackson District Library's historic Carnegie Library is celebrating 120 years of serving its community with a new Michigan historical designation recognizing the iconic Beaux-Arts building and its lasting role in Jackson's history. Congratulations to JDL! Source: MLive, ow.ly/MAVh50ZA6OQ

Historic beige stone Carnegie Library building with classical architecture surrounded by green trees under a clear blue sky.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 15/08/2026

You spend every day helping others learn, connect, and grow. Now it's your turn. Join 100s of library professionals at MLA 2026 Annual Conference for three days of practical takeaways, inspiring keynote speakers, and connections. Save your spot: ow.ly/CaSw50ZA6I3

A colorful image promoting the Michigan Library Association Annual Conference in October, taking place at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi, encouraging you to register today.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

Congratulations to all of the Michigan libraries whose millages passed on Tuesday, August 4! #MILibraries #LOVEMILibraries P.S. the full list is available to read via the Library of Michigan’s website.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Matt Dinniman has spent weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers list & MI libraries help readers discover why. Across 210 MeLCat libraries, 402 copies of Dungeon Crawler Carl are offered & when we checked, only 3 were available, showing libraries are connecting readers to books they're excited for.

Dungeon Crawler Carl book cover in black with large dark yellow bold font. Matt Dinniman is the author.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Deadline Extended! There's still time to recognize the incredible people and libraries strengthening communities across Michigan. Nominations for the 2026 Michigan Library Awards are now due Friday, July 31: www.milibraries.org/michigan-lib...

Michigan Library Awards Call for Nominations in bold gold shiny font stating that they are due Friday, July 31.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Every Michigan library has people behind it — MLA is here to support them. Your tax-deductible donation supports advocacy for libraries at the state level & ensures ongoing training to empower today's and tomorrow's library leaders. Please consider donating to MLA: www.milibraries.org/donation

Two people featured in the image depicting a handoff of a group of books from the librarian to a younger person, with the focus on the books in the center of the image.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

I understand. Yes, I will post other donation options, thank you.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Founded in 1891, the Michigan Library Association (MLA) is Michigan’s oldest and largest statewide library organization, representing public, academic, school, tribal, and special libraries. MLA serves as the unified voice for over 2,500 libraries and library personnel across the state.

Group of Michigan library staff and MLA staff in a large ballroom holding up signs that promote collaboration.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

A federal book banning bill has been introduced in the Senate. It's time to make our voices heard - protect the freedom to read: Tell your Senators to REJECT pro-censorship legislation like S.4925 that would limit people's freedom to read: action.ala.org/campaign/S4925 Shared from ALA.org

American Library Association graphic asking everyone to show up for our libraries to advocate.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

We’re featured in Target Circle™! Vote for us in the Target app to direct Target funds that support our work. Here’s how: Step 1: Choose “My Target” in the Target app, or visit www.target.com/circle/commu... in your browser. Step 2: Tap ‘Cast votes’ Step 3: Find us & vote

A Target-branded graphic with circles of different colors and text in white that reads: We're a Circle participant. Vote for us.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Explore best practices and policies for dealing with challenges in this free webinar from the Niche Academy on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 2 pm US Eastern, 11 am US Pacific. Register to attend: ow.ly/HVrG50ZlwRe Emily Knox and Shannon M. Oltmann share findings from research on book challenges.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Need a place to cool down? Contact your local library or call 2-1-1 to find the nearest cooling center & available resources. Central and Northern Michigan: ow.ly/71cc50ZnPRp Ann Arbor: ow.ly/AxoF50ZnPRn Metro Detroit: ow.ly/AxoF50ZnPRn

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Cooling centers open in preparation for Michigan heat wave

This week, the National Weather Service says central and northern will see temperatures close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

When extreme heat arrives, Michigan libraries often become more than places to borrow books—they're welcoming community spaces where people can cool off, charge devices, access Wi-Fi, and find relief during dangerous temperatures.

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Cooling centers open in preparation for Michigan heat wave

This week, the National Weather Service says central and northern will see temperatures close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

Your Summer Reading Road Trip continues- Stop #2: Explore Michigan! Discover a Michigan author, read a story set in the Great Lakes State, explore MI history, or enjoy a book outdoors this summer. Complete a challenge from Stops #1 or #2, then submit at Michigan.gov/SummerReadin....

Wooden boardwalk with railing along a sandy beach with rolling waves and grasses promoting Stop #2 to Explore Michigan and read about Michigan authors and Michigan history from July 8th to July 22nd.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 21/06/2026

Your library is eligible for a free one-year membership to the Sustainable Libraries Initiative. Opt in at no cost for access to valuable resources & peer networks. MLA members also receive 20% off the Sustainable Library Certification Program. ow.ly/t00v50ZeY4h

MLA Member Benefit: FREE One-Year SLI Membership, featuring a colorful venn diagram of sustainability: environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically feasible. MLA's and Sustainable Libraries Initiative's logos are at the bottom.

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Reposted by Michigan Library Association

Michigan Association of School Librarians @michiganmasl.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

Shoutout to our MASL members who attended @milibraries.bsky.social’s Intellectual Freedom Summit! 📚

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 18/06/2026

Not every library is the same: Michigan libraries serve different communities, operate under different governance structures, and respond to different local needs. What works in one community may not be the right fit for another. Local libraries. Local decisions. Local impact.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 18/06/2026

Join MLA and attorney Anne Seurynck for our June Advocacy Hour today at 10 AM & learn how to strengthen compliance, protect patron rights, and support a safe, well-managed library. Register to attend: ow.ly/qAxx50Ze8nl

A person highlighting phrases from books, promoting MLA's webinar today on Managing Intellectual Freedom Through Key Library Policies at 10 AM.

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 07/06/2026

TOMORROW Poll workers play a vital role in fair, accessible elections. Join Dan Papineau to learn what poll workers do, how to become one, & how libraries can support civic engagement through poll worker outreach. Free & virtual - register today: ow.ly/aefc50Z8vjt Photo: Element5 Digital

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Michigan Library Association @milibraries.bsky.social · 07/06/2026

What could 5–10 minutes of reading a day do? Reading helps expand vocabulary, reduce stress, & grow empathy. Novels, graphic novels, audiobooks, magazines, picture books-- it all counts. Visit your local library to sign up for Summer Reading, earn prizes, & join a community of readers!

A light green dinosaur reading an orange book against a light blue sky, with white, bold text reading MLA Summer Reading at the top, centered.

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