The NYLA Voice has a new format. Click 'Read More' to see the new menu.
Welcome to the NYLA Voice January 2026 issue! Below is a quick links menus that will take you right to your favorite articles. When you are done simply click ‘Back to menu’ to return to the top. Happy reading!
Happy 2026, NYLA Members!
As you may have noticed, we’re using the new year to introduce an updated version of the NYLA Voice. In addition to the member columnists you’ve come to know and love, we hope to offer updates from all NYLA Units and Committees in each issue. The Voice will now be published quarterly and will include news from the NYLA office, sharing what’s happening across the association and behind the scenes.
Our focus in the coming year is to increase transparency and engagement with all our membership, and hopefully this new format will make it easier for you to see places where you might get more involved in the work we’re doing. If you read about a Committee or Unit and think it sounds like a good fit for you, we could certainly use the help! Many hands make light work, so reach out to me or Becky Czornobil and we can connect you with the right people to speak to.
The world is a tumultuous place right now, and everything can feel overwhelming. I find the antidote to that feeling of helplessness is to get involved in actively doing something, even something small. Our professional association is what we make of it, and being in community and advancing our core values of intellectual freedom, equity of access, and strengthening communities goes a long way to reinvigorating my spirit and reviving my hope for what’s to come. I have all the faith in the world in our field, and I know that just like the Care Bears, we make the biggest impact when we all work together. Nobody accomplishes anything alone, so I hope you will join your fellow library workers at NYLA in fighting the good fight and making a difference in your own communities and across the state.
On that note, please don’t miss the chance to participate in NYLA’s Pre-Advocacy and Advocacy Day activities and meetings on Monday, February 2 and Tuesday, February 3! All the information on these days can be found on the website. The continuing education offered at Pre-Advocacy Day is free, but you do need to register so we have an accurate headcount. Come make your voice heard and let your legislators know that they need to invest in libraries this year and every year!
Happy New Year NYLA Members!
With so many things to be excited about in 2026, the office staff is looking forward to a year full of committee meetings, events and professional development. We appreciate all of the new volunteers who will be actively participating in NYLA and helping us develop and reach new goals for the association.
While we have continued to build a solid foundation for stability over the past few years, we know the work continues. Please feel free to email [email protected] with any thoughts, ideas, edits, updates, etc. We will do our best to accommodate what we can!
MEMBERSHIP IN THE NEW YEAR
This is a reminder NYLA now has a fixed membership year. This means that all members have the same membership year, regardless of when they join the system. The new membership year is June 1st – May 31st.
Renewal for the 2026 – 2027 membership year will open approximately 45 days before the May 31st expiration date. All members will be sent a renewal reminder with a link to the renewal form. More information about the renewal process can be found on website. This information will also be provided in member communications, on the website and on NYLA social media. Please note if you did not renew your existing membership for the 2025-2026 membership year, your profile is now lapsed, and you will no longer have access to it. You will need to contact the office for assistance getting your membership up to date.
If you have yet to join the 2025–2026 membership year, you can take advantage of our half year Prorated Membership Fees! Beginning December 1st, membership fees will be discounted. All fees can be reviewed on the website.
Interested new members can use the Join Form available on the NYLA homepage to create their new member profile. Personal members can use the form to enter their profile and payment information. As in our past database, organizational members should make sure that the past rep (Key Contact in the new system) on their membership enters the information in the Join form for their membership. This should not be completed by any members that are included in the organizational membership.
Just a reminder, the office did not transfer any past member data into the new database. If you have not entered the new system since our transition in 2024 and created any login credentials, you should be entering as a new user.
As noted, the current Join Form will be creating your membership for 2025-2026. Anyone who joins from December – Open Renewal Date will be required to renew when the renewal period opens prior to the May 31st deadline for the 2026-2027 membership year. New members who join during the open renewal period will “roll” into the new membership year.
Personal membership paid with a credit card will automatically be made active. Invoiced membership payments will be placed in a pending status until payment is finalized. Organizational memberships will be placed in pending status until the office reviews the included members and provides them with access to their profile. We kindly request 1 - 2 business days for the office to review your form. Accounts are made active. Organizational account included members will be sent a welcome email with their new username and instructions to create a password.
REMINDER - Members who have yet to pay outstanding invoices for joining the new system for 2025-2026, please complete payment of your membership. Failure to pay these invoices may result in the deactivation of your membership account. Invoices can be found in your profile and email reminders will include a link to access open invoices.
JOINED THE WEBSITE AND WANT TO KNOW MORE?
The office has developed a Membership and Website Guide available in the Quick Links Menu and in the Form and Guide Center. We strongly recommend reviewing this guide as it provides information about new features of the website and how to use the new Join Form. This guide will continue to be updated as changes are made to the website.
Office Hour Updates!!! The office will be closed on January 19th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Normal business operations will resume January 20th. Check out this reminder and other important dates in the new Calendar . Stay up to date on all events, webinars, office announcements and more using this new feature.
The new system provides automated reminders, announcements, etc. Keep an eye out for all communications in your inbox!
2026 DEVELOPING LEADERS PROGRAM
Thank you to those who have registered to participate in our 2026 Developing Leaders Program! The Developing Leaders Program applicants have received their acceptance emails from the office along with payment information. Please remember payment for the program is required and due by January 30, 2026.
The 2026 New York State Legislative Session will arrive before we know it and we need our advocates! #LAD26 will be held on February 3, 2026, at the LOB, with Pre-Advocacy Day on February 2nd, 2026 at the NYS Museum. This year we have a full schedule that includes meetings, continuing education sessions and our Developing Leaders will have their first session! Lunch will be provided for all registrants.
Registration is required for Pre-Advocacy Day attendance. Registration for this event closes on January 26th. Hotel information, schedule and more are available on the NYLA website.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR PRE-ADVOCACY DAY!
CONFERENCE WRAP UP
The 2025 conference was a success! Thank you to all our attendees, presenters, volunteers and vendors. We enjoyed seeing everyone and look forward to planning next year’s conference in Saratoga Springs.
Get your CE Information if it is needed!
All received CE requests have been processed, and credit instructions were sent out in December.
Credit is now uploaded into the current NYLA profile of all submitters.
Please note our CE policy has been updated, and requests will only be taken one (1) year following an event. You can review this full policy on our website. If you have not completed your CE information for the 2025 conference, please reach out to Misha Bader, NYLA intern, at [email protected]. Misha can assist you with getting your credit.
Who’s ready to go to Saratoga Springs! Without skipping a beat, we are back to planning for our 2026 Conference in Saratoga Springs, New York at the Hilton and City Center.
Proposal submission forms for the 2026 Conference will be available in mid-January. Fillable PDF planning documents will be made available on the NYLA website for anyone interested in planning their submission. Please note these documents should just be used for submission preparation and cannot be used to submit your official proposal.
The 2026 YSS Conference, Joy in the Library will be held on April 17, 2026 in Buffalo, NY. Information about the event is now available on the YSS Conference website. Registration for this event will open in mid-January. You must be an active member before you complete your registration form to receive member rates.
The 2026 SSL Conference, Find the Flow will be held on April 30 – May 2, 2026 in Ithaca, NY. Information about the event is now available on the SSL Conference website. Registration for this event is now open until April 10th. Click here to register for this event! You must be an active member before you complete your registration form in order to receive member rates.
Communication Reminder
Going into the new year we want to remind everyone, the office staff are here to answer all the questions and requests our membership has. NYLA members who wish to communicate with the office should send an email to the desired staff member address listed below. We kindly ask that email be the primary form of communication with staff and calls be reserved for necessary follow-up.
Emailing the office is our preferred form of contact because:
The NYLA office does not have an official office administrator to aid in receiving phone calls. While the staff does their best to answer calls as they come in, we often miss them due to meetings, daily tasks, remote work, etc.
- During high periods of member requests (member renewal, conference registration, etc.) call and voicemail replies are often delayed. The best way to reach the office during these times is to email and wait for a reply. We kindly ask that members do not leave multiple emails and calls as this delay replies from being provided in a timely manner.
- The office staff typically must send an email with follow-up information after calls, so members have this information. Emailing from the start allows the office to be efficient in providing as much assistance as possible with attached information, links, instructions, etc. that members can be sent and have a record of to refer to later.
- The office is always available to schedule a time to call members following an email if further assistance or help is needed. A scheduled call following an initial email communication allows the staff to be prepared to directly follow up with member requests to make this process efficient.
Please use the menu below to email us!
- Executive Director AnnaLee Dragon at [email protected]
- Communications, Marketing & Digital Advertising, Professional Development Programs to Becky Czornobil at [email protected]
- Membership, finance and general association inquiries to Lauren Hoyt at [email protected]
- Event and continuing education inquiries to Lauren Hoyt [email protected]
- Legislation, Advocacy, and Government Relations Inquiries to Max Prime at[email protected]
We appreciate your continued membership with NYLA and stay tuned for more operational updates in the April edition of The NYLA Voice!
NYLA is beginning 2026 from a position of strength. In the past few years, we’ve updated critical policies, achieved clean audit reports, and begun to reorganize and reconnect NYLA units into a more cohesive union. It is my sincere hope that 2026 will be a year of continued momentum. Let’s focus on deepening relationships across library types so that we can further strengthen our foundation and push forward in the pursuit of shared goals!
I recently attended the ALA’s Chapter Advocacy Workshop in Chicago, and the experience offered both perspective and affirmation. Hearing from librarians across the country underscored not only what NYLA has accomplished, but also what we have successfully prevented from taking root in our state. Unlike others, we have avoided statewide book bans, the criminalization of librarians for collection decisions, and the withdrawal of funding as punishment for resisting ideological censorship. Remember that these outcomes did not happen by chance; they are the result of members like you and me who actively pursue our core professional values of access, equity, intellectual freedom and privacy, public good, and sustainability. These interactions also highlighted a key element of NYLA that I believe gives us great strength. We are a single, united statewide association that embraces librarians, library staff, friends, and trustees from all library types, in contrast to states in which the leaders of separate library professional organizations have never even met and may be unused to advocating as a team.
As we enter the next legislative session, we’ll need to lean on the power of NYLA’s combined, cooperative structure even more. The Freedom to Read Act, which would have strengthened protections for intellectual freedom in school libraries, was recently vetoed by the Governor despite bipartisan support and the backing of both the state teachers’ union (NYSUT) and the New York Civil Liberties Union. This outcome is disappointing, particularly for our school library colleagues and the students and families they serve. However, it’s now critical for us to rally around the Open Shelves Act, safeguarding intellectual freedom in public libraries, in addition to NYLA’s other legislative priorities and budget requests that will strengthen all libraries in New York. I’m hopeful that we can revisit intellectual freedom protections in school libraries again soon, but until that pathway is clear, I’ll be fighting to make sure that my public library partners don’t feel that same disappointment.
As a NYLA Member, I encourage you to support this work in two immediate ways:
- Encourage colleagues to join or renew NYLA membership, which will strengthen our collective voice at a critical time. There are around 11,000 librarians employed in New York, and only about 3,300 of them are members of our state professional organization. You probably know someone who isn’t a NYLA member, so let’s get them involved!
- Get two friends to sign up for NYLA advocacy alerts so that we have supporters that are informed and ready to act when timely outreach matters most. You don’t have to be a member to participate in our advocacy alert system, so please share that link with family and friends as well as colleagues!
Thank you for your membership and your support. Let’s make this year great!
Hello, NYLA members, and welcome to the New York State’s 2026 Legislative Session! On Wednesday, January 7, members of the state Assembly and Senate returned to Albany to gavel in for the first time this year, formally beginning our annual five-month sprint to secure budgetary and legislative victories for New York’s libraries.
Next week, Governor Kathy Hochul will unveil her FY 2027 Executive Budget. This proposal will outline her spending priorities and set the stage for budget negotiations that will culminate with the passage of a final budget in April. Since the summer, NYLA has worked to make the case for increased library funding, communicating with the Division of Budget and members of the legislature, collaborating with library-focused elected officials, and mounting post-card and email campaigns to Governor Hochul herself in preparation for the present moment.
On Tuesday, February 3, just two weeks after the Executive Budget’s anticipated release, library advocates from across New York will continue this effort in Albany on Library Advocacy Day 2026. There, we will gather together and join our voices together in support of funding and policies that address the urgent needs of our state’s libraries, library workers, and millions of library users.
Throughout the month of January, NYLA is holding weekly virtual prep sessions to help prospective advocates ready themselves for Advocacy Day and feel equipped for action once they reach Albany. Two sessions remain, the information for which is provided below:
Don’t worry, we at NYLA know our members have packed schedules that might not allow for attendance at either of the remaining sessions. For those who can’t attend in real time, the January 23webinar will be recorded and made available to view on demand. Furthermore, information about all of NYLA’s FY 2027 Budget Requests and 2026 legislative priorities can all be found by visiting the 2026 Legislative Session page of NYLA’s website. This page will be updated regularly with breaking developments from Albany and new advocacy materials as they become available in the run up to Advocacy Day itself.
If you are interested in attending Pre-Advocacy Day programming on Monday, February 2, the deadline for registration is Monday, January 26. More information about the sessions and schedule for Pre-Advocacy Day can be found on the Advocacy Day page of NYLA’s website.
On a separate note, with the sting of Governor Hochul’s disappointing and severely misguided veto of the Freedom to Read Act on December 19, 2025 still fresh NYLA is pressing on and bringing the fight for intellectual freedom in New York to 2026. We are helping to lead a group of dedicated advocates, associations, organizations, and others who are committed to realizing passage of a new version of the Freedom to Read Act (S.8630 - May), as well as the Open Shelves Act, this year. If you have any questions about the veto or NYLA’s continued efforts on this matter. Please do not hesitate to contact me directly. I will be happy talk through any thoughts, ideas, questions, or concerns.
Our collective efforts as a unified community of library advocates will be essential for success in the coming year. Thank you all for your continued advocacy work across New York. As always, please do not hesitate to reach me by emailing [email protected] or calling (518) 432-6952 x 102.
Do you have an exciting career update you'd like to share with NYLA members? Submit for the April issue here.
A Detour from Memeland: Dispatches from Outreach Beach
When I usually write this column, I’m talking about social media marketing, how libraries show up online, how tone and humor can reduce anxiety, and how digital presence can make the library feel more human before someone ever walks through the door. Memeland is creative, fast-moving, and visible in cyberspace.
This month, I’m taking a short detour; I’ve packed up and headed out to Outreach Beach. Memeland and Outreach Beach may look like different destinations, but they’re both situated at the foot of the same place: Marketing Mountain. They are not competing paths or optional steps but integral pieces of how academic libraries (and all libraries, really) communicate who we are, what we offer, and why it matters. One is digital. One is in person. Both are essential.
Outreach Beach is where academic library outreach becomes about presence and connection. It’s not about promotion for promotion’s sake. It’s about showing up in tangible ways: at the campus resource fairs, behind folding tables with stickers and informational takeaways, at library game nights where the conversation is easy and informal, or through programs that invite people into the library without requiring them to already know how it works. In academic libraries, outreach is often framed as secondary to what we consider our core services, things like: research consultations, reference work, instruction, and collection building. Those services are foundational, but they don’t happen in a vacuum; they rely on awareness, approachability, and trust. Without outreach, many students and faculty never learn what services exist, or feel comfortable enough to take full advantage of them.
In-person outreach creates a low-stakes point of contact. When librarians are visible outside of formal appointments, laughing over a game, chatting at a table, or facilitating a program, it changes how the library is perceived and the institution suddenly becomes more than paper, it becomes human. Low-stakes outreach can also happen in less obvious ways. This past semester I joined my campus community chorale, an open, credit-bearing course (for students) that includes students, faculty, staff, and members of the broader external campus community. I used to sing in my campus chorale when I was an undergraduate student and was looking for a way to return to the stage, so this did not start out as a strategic outreach move but rather a more personal one. But over the course of a semester spent making music together, conversations with the students there happened naturally. I talked with students about citation tools between vocal warm-ups, helped them identify subject specialists, shared information about library events, and encouraged research appointments. None of this happened across a desk or during a scheduled consultation; it happened through shared joy, trust, and repeated informal interaction. Now I’m not suggesting that everyone needs to join a campus chorale to do outreach. What this experience underscored is how powerful connection can be when it’s grounded in shared humanity rather than service transactions. Outreach creates opportunities for these moments to happen. As an aside, I now also have a connection with the director for the chorale, and we are currently planning music performance opportunities in library spaces!
I routinely speak with undergraduate students, often in their third or fourth year, who tell me they didn’t know they could meet one-on-one with a librarian or get research help beyond a single instruction session. These students didn’t opt out of library services; they just missed a connection, and once that connection is missed early on in their academic careers, it’s difficult to build without intentional outreach. This is why our time on Outreach Beach matters. Outreach work builds the conditions that allow deeper engagement to happen later. A casual conversation at a campus event, or rehearsal space, might lead to a research consultation months down the line. A faculty member who attends a program might reach out later for collaboration. Outreach rarely produces immediate results, but it makes future outcomes possible. This labor can and should be human, relational, and sometimes emotional. It requires consistency, empathy, and energy. Because this work resists neat quantification, it’s often undervalued or treated as an “extra” rather than as critical infrastructure. Outreach is not separate from reference or instruction; it is the connective tissue that allows those services to function in a more visible way.
Thinking back on Memeland – it plays a parallel role. Social media marketing extends visibility into digital spaces where students already are. It reinforces familiarity, helps to lower anxiety, and keeps the library present in between in-person interactions. Outreach Beach and Memeland work best together, each amplifying the other at the base of Marketing Mountain. So, keep creating, experimenting, and finding joy in the creative side of academic library marketing, but don’t forget to take frequent trips to the beach. I know that for me, creation fuels my work, but its connection that sustains it, brings me joy, and gives me purpose.
Happy creating (and connecting)!
Happy New Year!!
Today I’m continuing my countdown of my Top 10 games with number 9: The Voyages of Marco Polo, a game for 2–4 players designed by Simone Luciani and Daniele Tascini. Voyages of Marco Polo is a dice-placement game where players place dice on different spaces of the board to perform actions. The goal is to score the most victory points, which are earned primarily by fulfilling contracts and traveling to cities on the map. At the start of each round, players roll their dice and take turns placing them on action spaces. If another player has already used a space, you’ll need to pay extra coins. The value of the die matters—a higher roll generally results in a better reward. For example, placing a 1 on the silk space gets you one silk, while placing a 6 gets you significantly more. One of the most important actions in the game is traveling. To travel, you place two dice on the travel space and spend coins based on the lower of the two dice. If you place a 1 and a 4, the lower value is 1, limiting how far you can move unless you pay extra. Traveling also requires camels and additional money, but it’s essential because players begin the game with cards showing specific cities they need to visit. Traveling also provides ongoing income, such as coins, camels, or other resources each round. Other actions include earning money and gaining new contracts. The game is played over a fixed number of rounds, and the player with the most victory points at the end wins. One major aspect of the game is that every player starts with a unique—and often seemingly overpowered—special ability. For example, one player may have the ability to freely set their dice to any value they choose. The game is challenging and moves very quickly, but that’s part of what makes it so engaging. That said, it lands at number 9 on my list because while I really enjoy the depth and unique player powers, it can feel a bit unforgiving and overwhelming for newer players.
Occasionally, we will get a generous donation of LEGO from a patron. Until recently, we dumped these LEGO into a bucket, to be hauled out for any number of LEGO programs - often drop-in programs for families. Recently, we reached a critical mass of bricks where we asked ourselves “Do we have enough LEGO?” And, “Should we stop accepting donations?” or “Hey, we have so much LEGO now - maybe we should go all-in for programming? ”We chose the latter. First things first, how do we organize this boon?
Sorting
We decided to sort the LEGO by color. A simple search online, will yield hours of material on the best way to sort LEGO. Some choose to organize by type, some by size, function, etc. Color makes the most sense for our needs at Youth and Parent Services, little eyes and hands seeking to build with bricks of their favorite colors. It is a strong visual statement that invites users to engage. After programming, LEGO will be quickly sorted back into their color bins. Pages and Life Skills Students have performed the bulk of sorting, when there are no other pressing projects to complete. Throughout their progress, they provide feedback on a dozen little observations that we consider and adjust for the next sorting session - it’s been a very insightful endeavor! Storage Storage is limited, and we have two buildings to consider. We decided on Sterilite 6 Qt. ClearView Latch Box. With a depth of 4 7/8", these containers are shallow enough that a patron can rummage around to the bottom searching for a piece, but their compact dimensions of 14 1/8" x 7 3/4" with a latching lid make them easy to move around and to spread out among tables for programs of different sizes. We are retrofitting a utility cart with a lip around the edge, to store the LEGO containers. Having our LEGO collection mobile will make it easier to move up and down elevators, or towards a back door for loading to move units between buildings.
Programming
This will be a new frontier. On the one hand, we can host LEGO programs as usual - only now there will be an ease of use for patrons to find what they need, and to discover new pieces they may have not used yet. On the other hand, we can now experiment with more sophisticated LEGO builds, and we may need to change programming format to accommodate this. Also, Teen and Adult Services may want to program for LEGO, and this new ease of use and sophistication may be the difference between a so-so program, and a stand-out one. We currently have two LEGO programs slated for YPS for our March/April Newsletter. One will be a family drop-in program where we will debut our new system, and the other will offer 3in1 kits for tweens Grades 3-6 to build in-house and get to keep.
Policy
Ideally, we will grow our LEGO collection through donation - occasionally supplementing LEGO oriented programs with our own programming budget. I would like to make most of these programs open to all, to help build our community of LEGO enthusiasts throughout Suffolk county. The cost for these programs is essentially $0. If we lose some, or a few “walk out the door”, it doesn’t really affect the collection by much. LEGO Library? Can we lend out LEGO? How would we accomplish this? By weight? By type? What would a return policy look like for that, or, if we needed to offload some LEGO, might this be a handy release valve? The future is uncertain - but now we have the material to experiment.
My final thought on this, or maybe it’s more of an anxiety: Is there such a thing as being too organized when it comes to LEGO? Will all these colors and containers be more stressful than rummaging around a few big, wide and shallow storage bins filled with random bricks? Once again, only trial and error will tell. With any luck, you will be reading an update here in a few months about what a success our LEGO experiment has been!
See you in April!
Happy New Year! For me, the beginning of the year is a good time to reflect on programs that went well and programs that didn’t do as well. When a program does not have the attendance I hoped for, I consider many factors. For example, what was the weather like? Was there anything else going on (sports games, plays, concerts, etc.) Was the topic not of interest?
A teen program I was super excited about was the Hunger Games Party. I had it coincide with the release of the new book. Only 4 teens attended, but those teens had a blast. While I would have liked a higher attendance, 4 was better than 0!
Another program I was excited about was a Wicked Crafting party, that of course coincided with the release of Wicked for Good. This program had over 50 people attend! Did the Wicked program have better attendance because people like Wicked better? Or was it because the Wicked program was for all ages? Or was it because the weather was nicer the night of the Wicked Party? I’m leaning more towards it was an all-ages program. I had a mix of attendees from ages 2-18!
As we all know it can be hard to get teens to come to the library. I have had moderate success (8-12 teens) with cooking programs but I wanted to try something different. I thought since it was the Hunger Games, it would be a hit! There was lots of excitement and buzz before the program but sadly, it did not have the outcome I hoped for. However, I don’t regret having the Hunger Games Party. As I said the 4 teens who came had fun and you never know what will happen with a new kind of program unless you try.
For 2026, I want to try and have more programs that are different, especially for teens. If I get low attendance, or no attendance, at least I’ll know I tried!
See you in April!
Hello, dear readers!
It feels like only moments ago that we started the school year, that our libraries changed from the brighter summer vibes to the cooler tones of fall, to the bittersweet countdown of our many different seasonal holidays and new year’s.
And what a year it has been.
Within the span of even a few months of an administration change, the entire pillar of librarianship within the United States significantly faltered, and equally, for many professionals, their loved ones, and an entire community within our country, the fear of ICE agents and unabashed hatred and bigotry has infiltrated every moment of our lives.
As far as moments of reflection go, this past year has been one collective moment of and for it, and as the new year begins, I find myself at a loss at what well intentioned positive outlook I can glean to bring forward with me into 2026.
And so, I instead hold dear the names of people who fight, and have fought for more, within our field, and within our country, for the rights of our profession and the rights of others.
And so I honor the protestors, the local and national organizers, the librarians who spoke loudly and in defiance of the March 14’s executive order to eliminate IMLS (amongst other governmental entities), and March 31’s fateful day of placing nearly all IMLS workers on leave.
I am proud, so incredibly proud, that our profession and its members have met each and every challenge to these intended stages of eroding the fabric of our very democracy (though this democracy has historically not offered each of us and the identities we hold, the same promise, nor the same rights, since its inception) with wisdom and a renewed sense of purpose and pride.
And so, as the new year begins with the most brutal of beginnings, instead of attempting to connect makerspaces with some larger social issue, I say instead, as librarians, to take extra care of the people in our libraries who come to seek refuge in a troubled world, and to check in on the many libraries whose rooms are quiet due to fear of ICE agent raids. And to check in on the patrons we know and their family members who are terrified of leaving their homes, of going to school, of going to work, of doing anything more than staying hidden.
I say instead to pause for a moment of gratitude for those who fight, and continue to relentlessly fight for our rights as people.
And I say instead to honor those in our profession (and beyond) who remarkably continue to bear witness to the pain and suffering of others, to those do not turn away from the many faces of injustice; and that in walking towards a more difficult, but righteous path, we can support the humanity to be found within each and everyone of us.
Until next time!
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”
- Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
Audit & Finance
Update submitted by Committee Chair Matthew Bollerman
The Audit and Finance Committee is charged by the New York Library Association Council to oversee all audits and the overall fiscal affairs of the Association. The Committee shall develop a budget for approval by the Council; propose policies governing the finances of the Corporation for adoption by the Council; and, endeavor to assure that all the Corporation’s institutional funds are deposited, invested and withdrawn in a manner consistent with all applicable statutes, regulations and contractual obligations, if any. The Committee shall assure that proper federal and state compliance and tax filings are submitted, and that any taxes due have been paid or, otherwise, addressed. It shall periodically review the Association’s internal and financial controls, and the adequacy of the association’s insurance coverage. It shall also assure that proper policies and procedures are in place to ensure that all newly-received and annually-submitted Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statements, an unexecuted copy of which is annexed to these By-Laws as Appendix “B,” and any case-specific Related Party Transaction reports, together the minutes of any related meetings, are promptly provided to the Chair of the Committee and shall subsequently see to it that they are properly considered for auditing purposes.
The members of the committee are subject to appointment by the Council, the Audit & Finance Committee may consist of the President, the Vice President-Elect, the Immediate Past President, the Treasurer and the Treasurer-Elect, provided these members are found by resolution of the Council to be “Independent Directors”(as defined by Appendix “A”); however, under no circumstances shall the Corporation’s “Independent Auditor” (as defined by Appendix “A”) or a partner, employee of business associate or “Relative” (as defined by Appendix “A”) of the Independent Auditor’s firm, serve on the Committee. The Treasurer will serve as Chair of the Committee.
Our first meeting is scheduled for after the release of this article. If you have questions about what we are planning on doing this year, I will have more information by the end of the month. Find me at Advocacy Day on Tuesday, February 3 in Albany and I would be happy to fill you in.
Awards
Update submitted by Committee Chair Derek Ivie
A new year means the Awards & Recognition Committee will be looking for a new batch of nominees for NYLA’s awards and stipends. The Awards & Recognition Committee is responsible for the promotion, coordination, and administration of NYLA’s honors. The committee is made up of members from different sections of NYLA - this year I am lucky enough to chair the committee. My name is Derek Ivie and I am the Youth Services Coordinator at the Suffolk Cooperative Library System in Bellport, NY. I have been a part of SCLS for 12 years and NYLA for just as long. In my career, I have been lucky enough to be a part of national award committees like the Michael L. Printz Award Committee, the Stonewall Committee, and We Need Diverse Book’s Walter Award Committee. I am hoping my past experiences will aid me in leading this great group of committed NYLA members.
The Awards & Recognition Committee is dedicated to honoring those who have infused passion into their work, shining a spotlight on the phenomenal library workers of New York. The five major awards are the Mary Bobinski Innovative Library Director Award, the Distinguished Service Award, Academic/Special Librarian of the Year Award, Public Librarian of the Year Award, and the School Librarian of the Year Award. We will also be considering the nominations for the Empire Academic Scholarships and First Time Conference Stipends. Please click the hyperlinks to learn more about each honor. Nomination forms will be going out later this year. If you think someone you know should be recognized for their wonderful work, please keep an eye out for those forms. I’m looking forward to seeing and recognizing the incredible work you all are doing for your patrons and communities!
Continuing Education
Update submitted by Committee Chair Matt Corey
Hi everyone! My name is Matthew Corey and I’m a Library Consultant here at the North Country Library System. I’ve been assisting our 66 public libraries for almost 15 years now, while also trying to keep my sidewalk shoveled. I’ve been working with the Continuing Education Committee for a couple years but am chairing the committee for the first time. The Continuing Education Committee fosters ongoing professional development for library personnel, trustees, and Friends across New York State through the annual NYLA Conference, as well as regional and remote programs. I’m looking forward to collaborating with the committee to continue the trend of high-quality programs that inform and inspire. Additionally, there will be extra focus on developing more virtual opportunities, so we can reach even more people. Thank you for being a member of NYLA and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone’s submissions for the conference this year!
Communications
The communications committee had their first meeting on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. They reviewed the committee's charge and began sharing ideas for 2026. The committee will continue to meet the second Wednesday of every month.
Fundraising & Sponsorship
No update provided.
Governance
No update provided.
Intellectual Freedom
No update provided.
Membership
Submitted by Committee Chair Ruth Pozo
Membership Committee Charge
The Membership Committee works to develop strategies for the recruitment and retention of NYLA members, both personal and institutional, through communication with Section and Roundtable leadership, and in concert with the NYLA staff
Membership Chair Introduction - Ruth Pozo
Ruth Pozo is a library professional with over 20 years of experience at the Brooklyn Public Library, where she began her career as a part-time employee and advanced through continued education, earning her master's degree in library and information science. Her career reflects a strong commitment to excellence, fostering growth, and enhancing the library experience for both internal staff and external patrons. Compassionate and culturally competent, Ruth effectively serves the needs of diverse communities and continues to excel in her work while serving her community with grace. She is a graduate of NYLA’s 2025 Developing Leaders Program
2026- Membership Committee Goals
- Increase membership
- Improve membership retention
- Strengthening member engagement
- Create membership committee handbook
Nominating
No update provided.
As the new year begins, the Sustainable Libraries Initiative (SLI) looks forward to continuing its work alongside NYLA member libraries across New York State, supporting their efforts to lead with sustainability, resilience, and community engagement. The start of the year offers a natural opportunity to reflect, plan, and recommit to practices that strengthen our libraries and the communities they serve. Below are a few recent highlights from New York libraries, along with an upcoming educational opportunity later this month.
John Jermain Memorial Library Earns Sustainable Library Certification
Congratulations to the John Jermain Memorial Library on earning Sustainable Library Certification. Long a cornerstone of the Sag Harbor community, John Jermain has demonstrated a strong and thoughtful commitment to sustainability through both its operations and programming.
Completing the certification process in under two years is a notable achievement and reflects the dedication of library staff and leadership. Throughout the process, the library expanded community partnerships that support childhood literacy, ongoing food pantry donations, and outreach programs held in non-traditional spaces—such as a local brewery—to connect with new audiences.
The library’s commitment is also visible on its grounds, which feature a no-mow clover lawn and native plantings that support pollinators and help manage stormwater. Indoors, an innovative community gardening program provides fresh produce and resources directly to patrons. Together, these efforts highlight how John Jermain Memorial Library continues to serve its community in practical, meaningful ways and sets a strong example for libraries across Suffolk County.
For more information, please view the John Jermain Memorial Library final presentation or reach out to SLI staff by emailing [email protected].
Upcoming Webinar: AI and the Environment
SLI invites library workers to join an upcoming webinar, “AI and the Environment,” on Thursday, January 22, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern. This session will be presented by Sarah Tribelhorn, Sciences and Sustainability Librarian at San Diego State University.
Tribelhorn will offer a foundational overview of artificial intelligence—what it is, how it works, and how it is increasingly embedded in everyday life—followed by an exploration of the environmental impacts of AI, including energy use, data center demands, and electronic waste. Participants will gain practical insights to support informed conversations with their communities about responsible technology use and its role in a sustainable future.
Click here to register for this webinar.
Newsday Showcases Libraries Advancing Sustainability
The Sustainable Libraries Initiative was featured in a cover package of Newsday’s LI Life section article published in print on Nov. 9 and Newsday.com. Reporter Ellen Yan highlights how many libraries on Long Island are using the SLI framework to advance sustainability practices while strengthening community resilience.
The article showcases inspiring examples, including Harborfields Public Library’s community garden and “hippie bees,” Lindenhurst Memorial Library’s creative “swap station,” and Comsewogue Public Library’s “Borrow Me” bike program. It also explores how certified libraries are reducing waste, modeling environmental stewardship, providing essential services during emergencies, and creating inclusive spaces for all patrons.
The full article is available on Newsday.com(subscription required).
ASLS
No update provided.
FLS
FLS creates a network to connect and inspire Friends groups in all types of libraries to support the New York library community.
What Does FLS Do?
Our purpose, as outlined in our By-Laws is to:
- promote cooperative efforts and the exchange of information among individuals active in community Friends groups and others interested in library service in New York State
- encourage the establishment of Friends groups throughout New York State and to assist in their formation
- present programs at the NYLA Annual Conference that pertain to and enhance the mission of this Section
- provide leadership and assistance in advocacy for libraries, library Friends, and library users throughout New York State
If you support this purpose and our Mission (stated above) please add FLS to your NYLA membership. If you have a Friends of the library group at your library, encourage them to become NYLA and FLS members. There is strength in numbers and the more Friends we have, the more we can do! One major membership benefit for your Friends of the library is a significant registration discount to attend the NYLA annual conference. Something to think about!
2025 Casey Award Announced
The 2025 FLS Daniel W. Casey Library Advocacy Award recipient is the Friends of Ridgewood Library, Queens Public Library.
In her nomination, Jerrie Grantham, Assistant Director of Civic Engagement for the Queens Public Library, outlined a rich history of service that the Friends of Ridgewood (FORL) have performed within the Friends of Queens Public Library network. Formed on February 28, 1998, this chapter has established a well-known presence in the Ridgewood neighborhood. Jerrie stated, “They have evolved into a strong group supporting their neighborhood branch and become an inspirational advocate of Queens Public Library.”
Congratulations to the Friends of Ridgewood Library! On October 23, the group was surprised with the award, receiving a plaque honoring their achievement during the Ridgewood Friends Communi-Tea Reading Social, a popular event where community members gather to share book recommendations and their love of reading. The celebration, hosted by the library Friends and QPL staff, was held during National Friends of Libraries Week. The Friends of the Queens Public Library also received a one-year organizational membership in the Friends of Libraries Section, NYLA.
(left to right: Queens Public Library Director of Civic Engagement Scott McLeod; QPL Assistant Director of Civic Engagement Jerrie Grantham; officers of the Friends, President Michaeline Von Drathen, member Leslie Tu, Vice President Carol Benovic-Bradley, Secretary Marsha Fromowitz; QPL Chief Librarian Nick Buron.)
Read more about the Friends of the Ridgewood Library in the November/December issue of Friends News and Notes. FLS newsletters are available online. FLS members may view archived issues and everyone can read the current issue.
We hope you’ll start thinking about a volunteer or a Friends group deserving of this award. Please nominate them in 2026!
FLS Awards and Scholarships: Call for Nominations and Applications
Would you like an opportunity to honor an active library supporter, a community volunteer, or a Friends of the Library organization? The Friends of Libraries Section (FLS) offers the FLS Daniel W. Casey Library Advocacy Award to honor the efforts of a volunteer member or group within the library community who have contributed to the growth of libraries or Friends of the Library organizations.
Are you a member of a Friends of the Library group? Do you serve as the Staff Liaison to your library's Friends group? Do you have a stellar Friends group at your library? Could you or one of the Friends volunteers benefit from a professional development opportunity at the NYLA Annual Conference? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, please consider applying for the FLS Randall Enos Conference Scholarship (RECS) to attend the 2026 NYLA Annual Conference. You must be an FLS member to apply for this scholarship.
Updated packets for both the FLS Daniel W. Casey Library Advocacy Award and the FLS Randall Enos Conference Scholarship will be available in January on the FLS Awards and Scholarships page. (Please be sure to use the 2026 packets.)
Membership in a Minute!
We know memberships are the lifeblood of Friends groups. We also know you are incredibly busy and if you had time to read a book on how to grow your Friends group, you’d do it. So we’re going to bring the membership tips to you, straight to your inbox.
The second half of this subscription service is now coming directly to the inboxes of FLS members. Each email has a quick tip in a one-minute read and then the option to dig deeper into the topic. This is just one more reason to become a member of FLS.
Friends News and Notes, November/December 2025
The November/December 2025 issue of Friends News and Notes is available on the FLS Newsletter page. This newsletter contains the FLS Annual Report to the Membership.
FLS Newsletters:
Read the current issue of the FLS newsletter, Friends News and Notes, at https://www.nyla.org/friends-of-libraries-section---newsletter. (www.nyla.org/Friends > Our Newsletter) FLS members may read past issues by clicking on Archived Issues and then logging in.
Contact FLS at [email protected] www.nyla.org/Friends
LAMS
No update provided.
LTAS
Happy New Year to all library trustees – may this be a year of great library service and programs, an excellent financial situation, and outstanding work on your board!
Here is some of what the Library Trustees Association Section is working on for this calendar year.
We gave four Velma K. Moore awards in 2025 – the awardees were announced in the program at the NYLA Conference reception but over the winter, we actually take a plaque and a $1,500 check to the library of the awardee. Those receiving the award are:
Diane Arcieri, Trustee, Florida Public Library, Florida, NY
Lucille Renwick, Trustee, New Rochelle Public Library, New Rochelle, NY
Joe Caparulo, Volunteer, Steele Memorial Library and Friends of the Chemung County Library District. See the great photo of Joe and Jean at Steele Memorial Library.
The Board of Trustees, Mooers Free Library, Mooers, NY
Congratulations to them all. Later in the spring, watch for the announcement for nominations for the award in 2026.
Even though the 2025 NYLA Conference is only just over, we are already planning programs for 2026 in Saratoga Springs. There will be a pre-conference on how to have the best board meetings ever to be provided by the inimitable Stephanie Cole Adams – you should not miss this! There will be programs that include roundtables on aspects of being a library trustee and another on employee counseling and evaluation.
All the best for 2026.Jean CurrieLTAS PresidentPLS
No update provided.
SMART
Join SMART on the second Tuesday of every month at 1:00pm EST for informal Zoom discussions focused on digital services, library technology, and technical services. These open conversations are open to all. Join SMART for additional discussion and engagement opportunities.
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82329343232?pwd=cNa8JOis9J9rlhcVpnY58gAPg908To.1
Meeting ID: 823 2934 3232Passcode: 851103SSL
No update provided.
YSS
No update provided.
CLWCRT
No update provided.
CORT
CORT had a very successful dinner-meeting at Jacob & Anthony’s during the NYLA Annual Conference and Tradeshow in Saratoga Springs. A new logo was voted on and a silent auction was held to raise funds for future events. 
Maggie Foster, Outreach Coordinator, Onondaga County Public Library System, Amanda Schiavulli, Coordinator for Member Services, Onondaga County Public Library System and Tor Loney: Equity, Access and Opportunity Coordinator, Division of Library Development presented a program during NYLA, “No, I’m not scared: and inside look on the inside.” Picture is courtesy of Meaghan Doyle.
ESRT
No update provided.
IFRT
No update provided.
MLRT
No update provided.
MPRRT
No update provided.
MSRT
No update provided.
NYBLC
The New York Black Librarians Caucus: Carrying a Legacy Forward
For more than five decades, the New York Black Librarians Caucus (NYBLC) has served as a vital force within the New York Library Association, advocating for equity, representation, and professional support for Black library workers across New York State. Founded in 1970, the caucus emerged during a period of profound social and institutional change, responding to the urgent need for spaces where Black librarians could organize, mentor one another, and collectively address systemic barriers within the profession. That founding purpose continues to guide NYBLC today.
At a time when libraries are increasingly asked to confront questions of access, inclusion, and public trust, the role of affinity caucuses remains essential. NYBLC’s work is rooted in the understanding that equitable library services are inseparable from the well-being, leadership, and visibility of the professionals who serve our communities. Supporting Black library workers is not separate from serving the public, it is foundational to it.
This commitment was powerfully reaffirmed at the 2025 NYLA Annual Conference and Trade Show, where NYBLC celebrated its 55th Anniversary. The milestone offered an opportunity not only to commemorate the longevity of the caucus but to honor the individuals whose careers have helped shape librarianship in New York and beyond. During the award breakfast celebration, NYBLC recognized three distinguished Black male librarians- the legends of information science that include Sekou Jackson, Dr. Stanton Biddle, and Richard Ashby Jr., for their lifelong dedication to service, scholarship, leadership, and community uplift. Their work stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Black leadership in libraries and continues to inspire future generations.
In keeping with its long tradition of investing in emerging professionals, NYBLC also awarded scholarships to three rising Black library leaders: Fayola Fair, Brianna Brunson, and Le’Andre Peoples. These recipients reflect the talent, creativity, and commitment that will shape the future of the field, and NYBLC is proud to support them as they continue their professional journeys. You can read more about our scholarship here and make a donation here.
Today, NYBLC remains a collective of library workers, students, administrators, and allies dedicated to advancing the representation, leadership, and well-being of Black people across all areas of librarianship. The caucus continues to serve as a space for mentorship, advocacy, professional development, and collective care, building on decades of work while responding to the evolving needs of library communities statewide.
The caucus is currently led by a dedicated board committed to sustaining this legacy while expanding opportunities for engagement and impact. The current officers are Taina Evans, President; Tara Somersall, Vice President; Tova Harris, Treasurer; Victoria Lowe, Recording Secretary; and Danielle Robinson, Corresponding Secretary.
Together, the board is focused on strengthening community connections, supporting professional growth, and ensuring that Black voices remain central in conversations about the future of libraries in New York.
NYBLC Programming
NYBLC participated in Total Equity Now’s 13th Annual Literacy Across Harlem March, “Leading Lights of Literacy and Liberation,” that took place on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Celebrating 17 years of community service and long-standing partnerships with Harlem library branches and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, the march culminated in an intergenerational literacy celebration at the Marcus Garvey Park Amphitheater, where NYBLC was formally recognized for its contributions to librarianship, literacy, and community empowerment.
The Handbook of Black Librarianship Zoom Series
Throughout the coming year, NYBLC will continue to foster community through regular programming and dialogue, including monthly virtual sessions featuring contributors to the Handbook of Black Librarianship. This ongoing online series explores a wide range of topics - from professional development and leadership to cultural programming and historical context - and is open to all who wish to engage with the work.
On Friday, January 16, 2:00 - 3:30 PM EST, The Handbook of Black Librarianship - Black Librarianship in Academia zoom session explores the history and impact of Black librarianship in academia through the lens of the Handbook of Black Librarianship, featuring contributors from its newly published third edition. Katie Perry will discuss her chapter on the historical chronology of Black LIS education, Rashida Scott Blades will examine pathways into academic library positions, and Gemmicka Piper will reflect on early-career experiences in alternative academic roles, followed by a moderated conversation and audience Q&A.
Similarly, Friday, February 20th, 2 - 3:30 EST, The Handbook of Black Librarianship zoom series will continue with Regina Bain, Executive Director of the Louis Armstrong House Museum, who will discuss her contribution to the Handbook of Black Librarianship and reflect on the intersections of archives, cultural memory, community-centered leadership, and Black librarianship in practice.
Looking Ahead
Additional efforts of NYBLC include mentorship opportunities, skills-based workshops, and ongoing advocacy to ensure that library policies, programs, and leadership reflect the lived experiences of Black New Yorkers. We ask that you look out for forthcoming library tours, our joint conference with REFORMA, and tabling events at the Long Island Library Caucus and ALA 2026 Annual Conference in Chicago.
As NYBLC looks ahead, it is grounded in history and guided by purpose. The 55th Anniversary celebration served not as a conclusion, but as a reminder of the work that remains. Whether long-standing members, new professionals, or allies, all are invited to connect with the caucus, participate in its programs, and contribute to a more equitable and empowered future for libraries across New York State.
The work continues, and the next chapter is already being written.
NYBLC 2026 E-Board:
Taina Evans, President
Taina K. Evans is a Regional Director at Brooklyn Public Library and currently oversees a portfolio of ten library branches. She is the current Secretary of the Reference and User Services Assn. (RUSA). She is also active in New York’s Library Association, serving as the President of the New York Black Librarian Caucus. As an adjunct professor in the Division of Library and Information Science Program at St. John’s University, Mrs. Evans teaches a Collection Development & Management course. Mrs. Evans has a B.A. in Government and Politics and a Master’s Degree in Library Science from St. John’s University.
Tara Somersall, Vice President
Tara Somersall is a branch administrator with over 25 years of experience. In addition, she was also a Consumer Health Librarian and part time Government Documents specialist at Lehman College. Tara is an only child born in Harlem to West Indian parents from Barbados and St. Kitts. She later was raised in the Bronx. Tara worked in many facets of the library ranging from library page, clerical, and library technician. She is an extremely passionate individual who believes in providing quality customer service and equitable access to the patrons. She thrives in community outreach and really enjoys speaking with members of the community. Tara is also co-chair of the Diversity Equity and Inclusion committee at Yonkers Riverfront Public Library. A committee that she strongly advocated for. When not working, Tara enjoys spending quality time with family here in the states as well as her family in Barbados. She also loves traveling, movies and trying out new restaurants. Tara was named 2024 Library Journal's Mover and Shaker - Innovators award.
Victoria Lowe, Recording Secretary
Victoria Lowe, School Librarian - NYC Department of Education
Victoria Lowe is a 20+ year teacher in the New York City Department of Education. She is currently a School Librarian in a campus school in the Bronx. She is a former literacy coach, mentor, and ELA teacher. She is a Microsoft Educator, Google for Education Certified Trainer, and a WQED Digital Media Innovator. She is on the AASL CAEP Coordinating Committee, AASL Member Engagement Committee, ALA NMRT Executive Board, and Membership Committee Chairperson for AMLE (Association Middle Level Educators).
Ms. Lowe earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Mercy College New York, a Master of Art in Psychology from John Jay College, CUNY, and a Master of Science degree in Elementary Education from Lehman College, CUNY. She is currently working towards a degree in Information Science School Library at Suny Albany.
Tova Harris, Treasurer
Tova Harris (she/they) is completing her MILS at the University at Buffalo. She has been part of the New York Library Association’s (NYLA) Voice 2024 Cohort, as a writer of the news column, A Tale of Two Makerspaces, which attempts to write on social and equity issues that American public library makerspaces face. With a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, their research interests lie at the intersection of information science, digital literacy, and educational innovation, with a particular focus on library makerspaces as sites for formal and informal learning, creativity, and community engagement.
Danielle Robinson, Corresponding Secretary
I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, in a diverse community called Park Slope. After graduating from Virginia State University, I enrolled at Pratt Institute to study Library Science. I started working as a volunteer and then as a General Librarian Trainee for Brooklyn Public Library in the late 1980s. The experience was gratifying because I was able to help kids from various backgrounds and neighborhoods improve their reading skills.
During the summer of 1995, I left Brooklyn Public Library for a library reference job at Essence Communications, Inc. During my time at Essence, I created weekly tours of the different magazines owned by Essence Communications Inc. Plus, I did speaking engagements throughout New York City Public Schools to talk about careers in publishing as well as to promote the magazine.
I eventually left New York City to work in Charlotte, North Carolina. While living in Charlotte, I became a Media Specialist at a local high school. I work with the graduating students and teach them research skills. After school, I worked at A Child’s Choice Day Care Center. I worked on programs for the babies during the summers, such as Story Time for Tots, etc. Plus, I created programs for school-aged children.
I have returned to New York City and work as a Children’s Librarian for Queens Public Library in Cambria Heights. I create programs for elementary-aged children while promoting the Library. Working with children of different ages can be a challenge. This forces you to be quick and helps with detecting what a child may have an interest in instead of suggesting books that might not interest them. Throughout my career, I have worked with children and teens. Moreover, the reward is seeing the happy faces of children when they return to the Library to tell me the title, I selected for them was a good recommendation.
PCRT
Update submitted by Michelle Lettus
The Pop Culture Round Table is all about geeking out—and using that enthusiasm to create meaningful, engaging library programs. From gaming and television to movies and, of course, books, our group explores how pop culture can be used as a powerful tool to connect with patrons and reflect what they are genuinely excited about. By sharing ideas, successes, and challenges, the Pop Culture Round Table supports librarians who want to meet their communities where their interests already are.
In 2026, we are focused on establishing and growing our presence within NYLA and the wider library community. We plan to host more virtual events throughout the year to make participation accessible regardless of location. We also aim to increase our visibility by attending library conferences and other professional events, helping librarians discover how the Pop Culture Round Table can support their programming goals.
You can click the following link to sign up for our first 2026 event: Jackbox! In addition, we are working on expanding our branded materials and strengthening our identity as a Round Table. We’re also becoming more active on social media—currently on Facebook, with plans to expand to additional platforms in the near future.
START
Happy New Year! Are you ready to start thinking about sustainability?! The START Board is here to help! We have some wonderful, engaging opportunities for our members and any interested non-members to talk and share how they’re using sustainable practices in their libraries.
Our first meeting of 2026 is scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 5:30pm on Zoom.
Join us for a conversation about Library Advocacy Day, and meet fellow START member, Joanna Goldfarb, from Ramapo Catskill Library System, as she shares their “America the Beautiful: RCLS Celebrates America 250” LibGuide.
SAVE THE DATES for future meetings! Thursdays at 5:30pm (on Zoom*).
- May 7, 2026
- August 6, 2026
- November 5, 2026 (*at NYLA, in-person)
If you would like a calendar invite for any/all of the meeting dates, please email Maggie Foster ([email protected]).
Interested in getting more involved in START? We’ve got opportunities available! Contact the board at [email protected].
Yours in Sustainability,~ Maggie Foster, Sharon Berg, Amanda McCormick, Emily Spizzirri