Optimism is a discipline—a practice rooted in critical hope that empowers us to confront challenges and find or forge paths forward. Libraries exemplify this commitment to progress, and the American Library Association (ALA) is uniquely positioned to amplify our impact by supporting the expertise and creativity of library workers.
I seek the office of president to help us meet this moment and shape a future worthy of ALA’s legacy, its promise, and above all, the library workers who make it all possible.
Libraries aren’t just essential—they’re transformational. Whether we’re safeguarding intellectual freedom, ensuring equitable access, or improving financial sustainability, the challenges we face require collective effort. My leadership is rooted in bringing people together to create solutions grounded in collaboration and shared purpose.
Beyond leading a university library system, I have dedicated my career to advancing the mission of libraries through professional organizations. As Core’s president, I helped unite library managers, technologists, and metadata specialists into a thriving ALA division, fostering a shared sustainable future for these distinct communities. With NorthEast Research Libraries, I co-developed the Elsevier Backflip model, making tens of thousands of articles freely accessible worldwide through collective action. As vice chair of the Association of Research Libraries’ Advocacy and Public Policy Committee, I’ve worked to engage publishers and policymakers, addressing critical accessibility challenges and reinforcing libraries’ role as champions of equitable information access. These experiences reflect my commitment to leveraging collaboration and strategic partnerships to advance libraries’ transformative impact.
I also value the power of grassroots leadership to spark change across all library types. That’s why I helped launch PeMento, a peer-mentoring group for mid-career library professionals navigating the complexities of life and career. My commitment to fostering healthier leadership practices underscores my dedication to building community within our profession.
ALA is our collective voice, and its strength lies in all of us. My platform builds on the important work of past leaders and fosters the flexibility and capacity needed to tackle our priorities head-on. I seek to:
- Champion library work: Libraries are powered by people, and those people deserve respect and support. I will advocate for safer workplaces, equitable pay, and greater public recognition of library workers’ expertise.
- Increase public advocacy: I will prioritize sharing impactful stories, mobilizing advocates, and demonstrating to policymakers the essential role libraries play in fostering knowledge, access, and growth.
- Strengthen ALA-APA: By expanding ALA–Allied Professional Association resources, we can better support library workers through higher wages, safer workplaces, and career development opportunities.
The challenges we face are real, but so is our power to overcome them. Libraries are where ideas spark, communities connect, and futures are imagined. We can ensure libraries lead so that communities succeed. Let’s do this—together. I’m ready to serve and hope to earn your support.
