Candidate for PLA President (2014–2015)

Larry Neal

Larry Neal, Director, Clinton-Macomb (Mich.) Public Library

Biography

Larry Neal is the director of the Clinton-Macomb (Mich.) Public Library. He believes in “never saying no” when PLA calls and has served in many capacities: PLA Board (2006-09); National Conference (2014 chair; 2010, 2006, 2004 Program Subcommittee; 2002, 2000, 1998 presenter à la “Chef Larry”); CE Advisory Committee; Institutional Scholarship Task Force; Leadership Development Committee; Monographs Subcommittee; Nominating Committee; Recruitment of Public Librarians Committee; and Technology Committee.

Having benefitted from an outstanding mentor, Larry believes firmly in cultivating and championing the next generation of library professionals and has been actively involved with ALA Emerging Leaders, PLA Spectrum Scholarships and “Tomorrow’s Professionals” programs at the state level. In 2009 as the newly-minted president of the Michigan Library Association, his first major task was to lead a rally at the state capital in protest of significant proposed cuts to library funding. After spearheading three millage campaigns in three years on his personal time, he finally succeeded in securing library services for his home city of Bloomfield Hills (Mich.) in 2011. He is a 2007 Library Journal Mover and Shaker. Larry and his partner have two beautiful, rollicking Irish setters.

Personal Statement

“No matter how much time and energy given through service to professional library associations, I always find myself indebted for what I have learned and the expanded network of friends and colleagues I have gained in return. Although there are many challenges ahead, it would be a great honor and privilege to serve as PLA’s next president-elect.”