Friends of Michigan Libraries

Talk About Friends

Cascade Branch of Kent District Library

2870 Jacksmith Ave. SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Friday, May 8, 2026

9:00 – 9:30 am – Registration and Refreshments

9:30 – 9:45  am – Welcome and Review of Agenda

9:45 – 10:15 am – “From Vision to Victory: A Library Millage Playbook.”   

Presented by Randy Gobel, Director of Engagement, Kent District Library

The presentation will:

• provide a practical, end‑to‑end look at how successful public library millage campaigns are planned and carried out;
• share an overview of how public libraries are funded and how millage campaigns fit into that landscape;
• explain the two sides of a campaign—informational and advocacy—and outline who can legally do what at each stage; and
• walk attendees through a typical campaign timeline, from early planning and community research to Election Day, with special attention to surveys, market research, and how those findings inform strategy and ballot language.

                10:15 – 10:30 am – Break

10:30 – 11:15 am- Millage Q&A Discussion

11:15 – 11:45 am – Talk Table Session #1

11:45 – 12:15 am – Talk Table Session #2

12:15 – 12:30 pm – Evaluation forms and Closing comments

12:30 pm – Adjournment

NOTE:  Optional Library Tour (to include Friends Bookstore) will be available after adjournment.

Please review the FOML Event Refund Policy.