The Michigan Academic Library Association (MiALA) honored Liz Svoboda, University of Michigan Flint’s senior associate librarian for Instruction and Outreach, as the 2025 Michigan Academic Librarian of the Year.
The award, a prestigious recognition in the field of academic librarianship, was announced during the annual MiALA conference at the Riverfront Conference Center, a key event for library professionals in Michigan. Svoboda received the recognition for her leadership, creativity and long-term dedication to student success. The announcement highlighted her impact on the Thompson Library & Archives.
MiALA recognized her for fostering collaboration among librarians, faculty and campus organizations through initiatives such as joint workshops and interdisciplinary projects. Svoboda said her projects have strengthened the visibility and value of Thompson Library.
Svoboda oversees campus events such as Late Night in the Library and Paws for Stress Relief. “These events are some of my most proudest ideas. I made it my goal to find a way to help students during stressful times.” Svoboda said.
Svoboda has been working at Thompson Library for 13 years. “I was truly humbled when I heard my name called. This award reminds me that the work we do in the library matters to students and helps them feel supported,” Svoboda said. Svoboda added that the recognition reflects not just individual effort but the collective commitment of the UM–Flint library team. Svoboda said this honor motivated the expansion of programs that benefit students.
“Our goal is to create a library environment where students feel confident navigating assignments and research challenges,” Svoboda said.
Elisha Holmes, a new front desk member of the University of Michigan-Flint’s library staff, said meeting Svoboda helped him understand this approach. “She explained how the library works to support students academically while also making the space welcoming and accessible,” Holmes said.
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