From Information to Inspiration: The Reason I am Running for ALA President

 

I am running for ALA President because the current climate of censorship threatens to unravel the very fabric of librarianship. Librarians are under attack, facing threats to their safety and professional integrity, while library services are being stripped of their inclusivity. Throughout my career, I have been a staunch advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, working tirelessly to make libraries welcoming spaces for all. Now more than ever, we need radical leadership—someone who will engage in meaningful dialogue with allies and critics alike to emphasize the essential role of equitable library services and social justice in upholding democratic ideals. As ALA President, I will strategically combat misinformation about our profession and help communities understand the dangers of regressing to the exclusionary practices of the past, when segregation and censorship defined too many library spaces. The freedoms of marginalized communities are at stake, and calls to dismantle intellectual freedom further threaten our democracy. I will work to build partnerships and innovative programs that will ensure libraries remain committed to our mission of providing open access to information for all. Together, we will chart a bold path forward, championing the transformative power of libraries in a just society.

 

As ALA President, I envision a future where libraries are celebrated as transformative spaces that empower individuals and communities through equitable access to information, knowledge, and opportunity. Misinformation about the work of librarians is damaging to democracy. Therefore, I am committed to working with ALA's extraordinary leaders and executive members in order to build on progress we have made as an organization. As a spokesperson for the organization, I will lead efforts that make it known that We CAN NOT afford to become neutral to social intolerance.  We CAN NOT afford to allow libraries across the country to deprive community members (and our children) access to information literacy.  We CAN NOT afford to allow the preferences of a few to dictate the selection of many. Therefore, my vision encompasses these core pillars:

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Protection and Advocacy for Library Workers

Drawing on my policy research, I am committed to working with key library stakeholders to advocate for legislation that ensures the safety and well-being of library workers. This includes protections from physical attacks, threats, and all forms of intimidation related to their critical role in providing equitable access to information. Every library worker deserves to feel safe and supported in their mission to serve the public.

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Advancing Equity and Access

Building on the work of prior ALA leaders, I will drive initiatives that continue to expand equity efforts, ensuring equitable access to library resources and services are codified in ALA's guidelines and policies in ways that create greater continuity of service across all library types. Equity must be at the heart of everything we do, from the programs we create to the policies we advocate for.  

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Focused Training to Combat Social Injustice

I plan to support our library workers in creating inclusive and just spaces, I will champion focused training programs that equip them to combat social injustice and address the evolving needs of their communities. Libraries are not neutral spaces—they are bastions of democracy and social progress.

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Organizational Growth and Stability

I will work ALA's leadership team to demonstrate the tangible value of ALA membership by enhancing professional development opportunities, expanding advocacy efforts, and creating more inclusive spaces for library workers at all levels. I will also advocate for targeted recruitment campaigns that engage underrepresented groups and emerging professionals to grow our membership base. I will also collaborate with ALA leadership to conduct a comprehensive review of organizational spending, ensuring resources are allocated toward impactful initiatives while minimizing redundancies. Additionally, I will champion greater financial transparency and accountability, working to strengthen oversight processes that build trust among members and stakeholders. By taking a proactive and collaborative approach, I aim to ensure ALA's financial sustainability and its ability to support libraries and library workers nationwide.

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Partnerships to Combat Censorship

In response to the rising challenges of censorship, I will foster partnerships with organizations, educators, and advocates to protect intellectual freedom and ensure that diverse voices remain accessible to all. Libraries must be champions of free expression and ideas.

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Support for School Librarians

Recognizing the unique and vital role of school librarians, I will work to provide greater support and advocacy, ensuring they have the resources and recognition they need to empower the next generation of learners.

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Countering Misinformation Through Media Engagement

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I will lead efforts to change the narrative about libraries by using media platforms to counter misinformation and celebrate the transformative work of library workers. It is essential to shift public perception to reflect the indispensable role libraries play in fostering informed and thriving communities. Libraries empower people, we do not indoctrinate. 

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Commitment to Social Justice

At the core of this vision is a deep commitment to social justice. Libraries are gateways to opportunity, inclusion, and empowerment, and we must work tirelessly to ensure that every community can access these benefits without barriers.

Together, through collaboration, courage, and innovation, we will build a stronger, safer, and more inclusive library community that continues to uphold the principles of democracy, intellectual freedom, and equity for all.