Blog

Fifteen years ago, the American Library Association established the I Love My Librarian Award as a way to recognize the dedication and achievements of MLIS-level library staff members. Specifically, this annual, national honor is intended to celebrate “librarians who have made a difference in your life and/or gone above and beyond to serve your community.”
Registration is now open for the 2023 conference of the Minnesota Library Association. Join library staff, trustees and supporters at the Saint Paul RiverCentre on October 4-5 for dozens of panels, keynote talks and networking opportunities. Friends rates start at $85 if you register before August 17. Cost jumps to $110 after the early bird cutoff. 
ICYMI: Minnesota lawmakers closed out the 2023 legislative session in late May. The approved budget is chockfull of increases and other updates which should come as welcome news to library supporters. Liz Lynch, legislative co-chair for the Minnesota Library Association, recorded a legislative update to refresh us all on the funding streams that support our libraries – and orient us to all the exciting changes in store for 2024 and beyond.
Last year alone, Friends of the Library hosted countywide craft expos, video game-a-thon fundraisers, Día de los Muertos celebrations, and even a dog-friendly 5k walk.
Odds are good that over the next several months, your local Friends of the Library are hosting a book sale, author talk, marquee fundraiser – or some other program open to the public. MALF is here to help you promote! All member organizations are invited to submit their programs for promotion on MALF’s statewide Friends calendar.