Did you get the August TADL Newsletter? I did, and I was excited to see that TADL has a new collection on Overdrive: MI-83 Digital Library Connection. I was curious about the details, and maybe you are too. Here is what I found out.
What is this project? What is the MI-83 Grant?
“Through the MI-83 Project, public libraries in all 83 Michigan counties are eligible for increased digital eContent from Overdrive, and technology tools and equipment to help facilitate recovery from the devastating economic and health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“The purpose of this project is to enhance safe library services and programs available to the public of Michigan in order to further pandemic recovery efforts in our communities. The goals of this project are two-fold: to foster digital inclusion by connecting communities to online resources through provision of personal computing devices for public use; and to provide resources to libraries to safely deliver services in their communities. “
Wait…the newsletter mentioned ARPA. What is ARPA?
“The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) designated $200 million in pandemic response funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). These funds will enable IMLS to efficiently provide critical funding to State Library Administrative Agencies like the Library of Michigan (LM). Michigan’s total allotment was just over $4 million.”
How were these books chosen for this project?
“The new digital content, including audio and e-books, support the priorities of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 by providing Michigan public libraries with equitable, in-perpetuity access. Digital content topics include workforce development, job seeking skills, health, mental health, and general educational needs.” MI Library is Now
Well yeah, but who chose these books?
TADL staff from each department chose books for each age group. There is something for everyone to learn new skills and bolster existing ones.
How does the survey help?
There are three steps left for us to complete our end of the grant. First, we need to collect staff surveys. Second, we need to collect patron surveys. Third, we need to collect stories to share about your experience with this new digital collection (this step is included in the survey I think).
Are these books any good though?
Yes! As always, library staff were thinking of you when they selected each book. I bet each person can find at least 5 titles that are helpful and enjoyable for their own personal uses.
Can you help me pick one?
Yes! Email the Reference Desk (ask@tadl.org) or call us (231-932-8502) to get help finding a book from the MI-83 Digital Library Connection.
References:
Library of Michigan ARPA Act Grants listing (TADL is included in Midwest Collaborative for Library Services!)
Library of Michigan ARPA Grants Application Info
Michigan Library Association MI-83 Project News
Lakeland Library Cooperative Info Sheet (A big info sheet from another library coop in Michigan)