Day-long Training on Participating in Local Advocacy Efforts
Libraries at the Crossroads of the Constitution and Politics: A Day-long Training for Concerned Citizens and Library Stakeholders
April 12 – 16, 2026
As libraries navigate a rapidly changing landscape, community members play an increasingly important role in supporting access, learning, and intellectual freedom. This session is for community members who value libraries and everyday advocates who are confronting book bans, censorship, and discrimination affecting their communities.
Participants will explore ways to engage meaningfully with their communities; become familiar with the laws that protect libraries, education, and readers; learn strategies for building broad coalitions in their towns, cities, and school districts; and share ideas for working collaboratively while building a new network of mutual support.
MLA is proud to welcome John Chratska, founder of EveryLibrary and a national expert on these issues, to guide discussion and facilitate hands-on workshops focused on locally appropriate approaches to these issues. Participants will also be introduced to practical digital and real-world tools and resources to help them get started, or participate more effectively, in local conversations and advocacy efforts.
No prior advocacy experience is necessary, just a desire to build connections with others who share a commitment to strong, welcoming libraries.
You can register for an event in your region at this link.
Event Dates and Locations
Sunday, April 12 from 12:00 – 6:00 PM at the Novi Public Library in Novi
Monday, April 13 from 10:00 – 4:00 PM at the Kent District Library Meeting and Service Center in Comstock Park
Tuesday, April 14 from 10:00 – 4:00 PM at the Ostego County Library Main Branch in Gaylord
Thursday, April 16 from 10:00 – 4:00 PM at the Peter White Public Library in Marquette