Local Library Leaders Advocate at Capitol, Highlight Importance of MeL for Patrons

Library advocates on the Capitol steps- Photo courtesy Michigan Library Association

By Chadwick Walenga

Representatives from White Cloud Community Library made their voices heard during Michigan Library Association’s Advocacy Day at the state capitol on April 30.  Director Amy Stockwell and Youth Services Librarian Chadwick Walenga met with Representative Joseph Fox (R) and Senator Rick Outman (R), highlighting the essential services local libraries provide, especially amid threatened cuts to federal funding that supports Michigan’s statewide digital library, MeL.

MeL, known widely for its extensive databases, job resources, and interlibrary loans, is particularly crucial for local homeschool families. “These families depend on MeL for everything from curriculum planning to research projects,” said Walenga. “The potential loss of MeL funding could severely restrict educational resources available to families in our rural community.”

Federal budget cuts targeting the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) have put over $4.8 million of annual Michigan library funding at risk, prompting urgent calls for state legislators to step in. “Even though we’re early in the state budgeting process for 2026, advocating now is critical,” explained Stockwell. “We must ensure that Michigan steps up to fill any funding gaps left by the federal government.”

The meetings with Rep. Fox and Sen. Outman deepened mutual appreciation and underscored the importance of immediate advocacy. Both legislators expressed understanding and support for libraries, and advocates asked specifically for $6.74 million in state appropriations to safeguard uninterrupted access to MeL’s critical resources.

White Cloud Community Library representatives returned from Lansing encouraged and committed to continued advocacy to protect essential library services for local families.

Youth Services Librarian Chadwick Walenga and White Cloud Library Director Amy Stockwell flank State Rep. Joseph Fox at his Lansing office Photo by Spencer Good