Christopher Ilitch, president and CEO of Detroit Tigers owner Ilitch Holdings, Inc., presented Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL) Director William Anderson with a check for $15,000 at the Tigers-Angels game on May 15. As part of the "Ernie and Tram Go to Bat for Michigan Public Libraries" fund-raiser, the Tigers generously donated back to the Library of Michigan Foundation $10 of every $20 ticket sold at a Michigan public library. The proceeds will be used to create or expand existing library endowment funds.

Some of those joining Dr. Anderson and Mr. Ilitch for this presentation on the field at Comerica Park were Hall of Fame broadcaster Ernie Harwell, Detroit Tigers Manager Alan Trammell, Acting State Librarian Nancy Robertson, HAL Deputy Director Mark Hoffman, and some of the library co-operative directors around the state who spearheaded the sales effort, including Mideastern Michigan Library Cooperative Director Roger Mendel, The Library Network Director Eileen M. Palmer, Suburban Library Cooperative Director Tammy Turgeon and Woodlands Library Cooperative Director Jim Seidl.

Of the 1,500 tickets purchased by Michigan library supporters, nearly 100 were donated to underprivileged children in the Detroit are who might not otherwise have an opportunity to attend a professional baseball game.

Although the Tigers unfortunately lost the game, the day was certainly a big win for Michigan libraries!