Welcome

We believe that public libraries can and do play significant roles in their communities. A 2013 Pew research study said, “95% of Americans agree that the materials and resources available at public libraries play an important role in giving everyone a chance to succeed.” If you’re ready to stretch beyond serving your existing patrons and, instead, think about how to serve the broader community, we hope you’ll join us!

Our Program
We are an 11-month cohort of library leaders from Classes I-IV public libraries in Michigan. We work together to build our networks, sharpen our management and leadership skills, and strengthen the roles of our institutions in our communities.

Our November 2020 Conference is Available on Demand!
Check out the recordings from our free, virtual conference, Leading Big in Small Spaces, and sign up to be notified when registration has opened for 2021. More here!

Our 2021 Cohort Has Been Selected!
We sent out notices of acceptance on December 7, 2020. As our invitees accept their positions, we’ll post their names on this site.

Thanks to funding from the Library of Michigan and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, it is completely free to participate for those accepted into the program. Each participant’s library will receive a $1000 stipend to be used to cover a laptop, travel expenses, professional growth materials, and/or a substitute to cover for you while you are away. Additionally, each library will receive a $1000 project stipend to support a local library initiative focused on community impact.

Got questions? Email nextlevellibrarianship [at] umich.edu.