These intellectual freedom warriors have been instrumental in helping me serve in this capacity. First, my heart goes out to my husband, Nathan, who gives his all to our family—and as a manager at Johnson County (Kans.) Library (JCL). I am grateful to Team JCL for all their support during this interesting and important time. … Continue reading Honoring Spirits
As we saw with the White House’s executive order calling for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to be eliminated, libraries—and everything we value as information professionals—are under attack. Make no mistake: The American people need to brace for more waves of uncertainty and oppression. And in our role as stalwart information warriors, … Continue reading Information Warriors, Unite
McCauley received 5,483 votes. Her opponent, Lindsay Cronk, dean of libraries at Tulane University in New Orleans, received 2,665 votes. Upon learning the outcome of the election, McCauley provided the following statement: “I am honored to be elected president of the American Library Association for 2026–2027 and grateful to everyone who voted. I look forward … Continue reading McCauley Wins 2026–2027 ALA Presidency
It is with this certainty that I choose to view the world around me: relying on cycles, recognizing the strength of the constants, and respecting the resilience we gain by how we respond to changes. Change is a constant, but it doesn’t always result in upheaval. It can be comforting to create a personal plan … Continue reading Spectrum of Leadership
My hope for the future is that we live in peace among all that is living. I believe in the power of the human spirit, and I offer humble observance to those who left us this past year, the many loved ones who have walked on to another journey. May their journeys be honored by … Continue reading Our Winter Count
September is an exciting time to welcome people into the library as we celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month and observe Banned Books Week, this year scheduled September 22–28. Since 1982, Banned Books Week has been a critical national program aimed at helping everyone see that all stories belong in libraries. October brings TeenTober literacy and … Continue reading We All Belong
Helmick is replacing Raymond Pun, academic and research librarian at Alder Graduate School of Education in Redwood City, California, who stepped down from the member-elected position in June because of health reasons. The ALA Executive Board recommended Helmick, and they received ALA Council’s confirmation on July 23, following a process outlined in the ALA Bylaws. … Continue reading Sam Helmick Selected as ALA President-Elect
As we look ahead to meet the information needs of our membership, it is important that we stand united to remember why we work in this trusted profession. We have some big goals ahead with the hiring of the next ALA executive director, celebrating the Association’s 150th anniversary, creating a strategic plan to elevate the role … Continue reading A Good Way for ALA
“Raymond Pun, in line for the American Library Association presidency, will not assume the role for health reasons. He was to take office as president-elect after ALA’s Annual Conference adjourns in early July, and he would have been president in 2025–2026. The 2024–2025 Executive Board will fill the vacancy within 30 days of taking office, … Continue reading Pun to Step Away from ALA Presidency
Building that collective power is hard work and, as the storied organizer Jane McAlevey says, there are no shortcuts. The heart of any project is listening to one another. We must take the time to open our minds to the perspectives of others, attempt to understand their circumstances, and share what we find. The gift … Continue reading United for Success
But here’s one that’s hard to answer: “What’s your favorite library?” When you’ve seen as many amazing libraries as I have, it’s impossible to choose. For example, I’ve met with Jennifer DeCarlo, director of Easton Library in Greenwich, New York, who maintains an onsite fridge with fresh food for those in need. And Chulin Meng, … Continue reading At Our Core
Pun received 5,611 votes, while his opponent Sam Helmick, community and access services coordinator at Iowa City Public Library, received 2,778 votes. Upon learning the outcome of the election, Pun said, “Thank you to each and every member who voted and became part of the ALA community to make our profession and Association stronger together. I … Continue reading Pun Wins 2025–2026 ALA Presidency
