Daniel L. Walters, executive director of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, has been elected vice-president/president-elect of the Public Library Association (PLA). Walters hopes to focus his presidency on a number of library issues, stating: "In many communities, economic conditions have led to reductions or elimination of core library services, layoffs, fewer open hours, and even closure of libraries. As these fiscal challenges erode local services, public librarians struggle to provide the best solution for our communities. In addition, passage of the Patriot Act, and the Supreme Court CIPA ruling have led to intense and sometimes volatile debates within our profession, libraries, and communities regarding long standing approaches to privacy, the parent’s right to choose service options for their children, and other library policy issues. As public librarians face these challenges, it is more crucial than ever for PLA leadership to remain responsive to its members and to ensure vital forums for member enrichment and professional development. I hope to continue that strong tradition."
An active member of ALA for nearly twenty years, Walters has chaired committees in both PLA and the Library Administration and Management Association (LAMA). In addition to his ALA activities, he is or has been an active member in several other professional groups including OCLC, the Nevada Library Association, the Washington Library Association, the Las Vegas Executives Association, and the New York Library Association. He also has served as a member of various civic organizations including as a member of the Executive Committee of the American Red Cross (Inland Northwest Chapter), and on the Board of Directors of the Spokane, Washington, YMCA.
Under his stewardship, the Las Vegas–Clark County Library District has won several local and national awards including "Best Public Sector Employer" and "the 2003 Gale/Library Journal Library of the Year." Walters also is a contributor to professional journals and recently was named the Community Person of the Year, by the Las Vegas (Nevada) Asian Chamber of Commerce.
He earned his master’s degree in librarianship from the University of Washington School of Librarianship and also earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Washington. For more information contact PLA at 312-280-5752. PLA is a division of the American Library Association.
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