Library of Michigan
The Michigan Legislature created the Library of Michigan to guarantee the people of this State and their government one perpetual institution to collect, preserve, and provide access to the story of the State, and to support libraries in their role as essential community gateways to knowledge and culture.
The Library of Michigan Foundation provides opportunities for charitable giving to support Library of Michigan programs, collections, and services otherwise not provided through state or federal funding.
Among the Library of Michigan programs, collections, and services, that you can help support through a generous donation today to the Library of Michigan Foundation are the following:
Michigan Center for the Book
The Michigan Center for the Book is the Michigan affiliate of the National Center for the Book at the Library of Congress. Our mission is to promote an awareness of books, reading, literacy, authors and Michigan's rich literary heritage. The Center draws from the Library of Michigan and its affiliate institutions to encourage and produce local and statewide programs and resources that promote the culture of books.
Michigan Materials
The Michigan Collection consists of current and historical materials from all subject areas which concentrate on Michigan and the Great Lakes. The Collection enhances the knowledge of the State and its people and includes: books, microfilm, microfiche, maps and audiovisual.
Michigan Notable Books
The Michigan Notable Book program highlights 20 new books each year which feature Michigan people, places, and events. The program shines a light on Michigan’s best writers and then shares their stories with residents of the state as well as the nation
State Librarian Excellence Award (SLEA)
The Library of Michigan Foundation State Librarian’s Excellence Award (SLEA) is awarded to a library that exemplifies excellence in customer service. The recipient of this prestigious award will receive a $3,000 cash prize and a trophy for public display. Two Library of Michigan Foundation Citations of Excellence will also be presented, and the recipient libraries will be awarded $1,000 at the Michigan Library Association Annual Conference in October. Online submissions are open and due by Friday, August 11, 2023. Award recipients will be notified in September.
Rare Books
The Library of Michigan has been collecting since 1828. Since that time items deemed irreplaceable have been placed in the Martha Griffiths Rare Book Room. This room was built entirely with donated private funds. These materials can be found via the library’s catalog. They are available for use during regular library hours by appointment.
Ready to Read
The Library of Michigan actively supports public library services for children and teens through a variety of programming, training, and resources. Programming includes Ready to Read Michigan, the Summer Reading Program, NASA @ My Library, among others. Webinars, in-person workshops, programming manuals, and access to circulating kits are all included, for public library staff to better serve their local communities.
For a comprehensive view of the Library of Michigan’s programs, collections, and services please visit the Library of Michigan