Public Library Association (PLA)

PLA expands Digital Literacy Workshop Incentives for public libraries, with support from AT&T

CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) is pleased to announce new digital literacy opportunities and resources for public libraries with generous support from AT&T. Applications are now open for libraries to apply for PLA incentives to host digital literacy workshops, as well as a new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) workshop.

PLA programs and events at the 2023 ALA Annual Conference

CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) will host more than 20 programs, two preconferences, and a President’s Coffee Catch-up during the 2023 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition, at the McCormick Place Convention Center and surrounding hotels in Chicago, Ill., June 22–27.

Michael Lambert named PLA 2024-2025 president 

CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) has announced the results of its 2023 Election. Members elected Michael Lambert, City Librarian, San Francisco (Calif.) Public Library, to the office of 2024–2025 PLA president.

Public Libraries magazine announces 2023 Feature Article Contest winners

CHICAGO - Public Libraries, the official magazine of the Public Library Association (PLA), is pleased to announce the 2023 recipients of the Feature Article Contest for articles published in the previous year.

PLA now accepting proposals for PLA 2024 Conference

CHICAGO — Today, the Public Library Association (PLA) opened the Call for Proposals for educational sessions to be presented at its next biennial conference, to be held April 3-5, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio. The PLA 2024 Conference will highlight innovative, inclusive, and collaborative work and ideas that address diverse and changing community needs through our nation’s public libraries.

PLA to host virtual forum featuring 2023 presidential candidates March 21

CHICAGO — Members of the Public Library Association (PLA) are invited to participate in a free, virtual forum on Tuesday, March 21, at 1 p.m. Central to get to know the candidates standing for president in the 2023 PLA election. The forum will be facilitated by PLA President Dr. Maria McCauley and will feature candidates Jessica Dorr, Director, Boise (Idaho) Public Library, and Michael Lambert, City Librarian, San Francisco (Calif.). Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions during the live Q&A.

ALA, Capital One invite rural libraries to apply for Community Connect: Fostering Digital Access grants

The American Library Association (ALA) with support from Capital One today announces a new grant opportunity for rural public libraries in select states to support digital access in their communities. Through Community Connect: Fostering Digital Access, the second phase of a pilot program, 12 public libraries in rural areas will receive resources and support to assist patrons in establishing affordable and high-speed home internet connections.

PLA seeks member volunteers for the 2023-2024 service term

CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) is seeking member volunteers for the 2023—2024 service term. Volunteering for a committee or advisory group is one pathway for members to expand their professional development and make an impact in the public library field. Member volunteers help select conference programs, develop the annual survey, plan the Public Libraries magazine’s editorial calendar, and more. A complete list of opportunities is available with a wide range of opportunities.

PLA announces candidates for 2023 board election

CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) 2023 Nominating Committee has unveiled the slate of candidates for the Association’s 2023 Election. This year, eight nominees will stand for four positions on the PLA Board of Directors: 2024-2025 president, two director

PLA to host free virtual Town Hall to address threats in public libraries

CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) in collaboration with the Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL) and the Urban Libraries Council (ULC) will host a free virtual town hall titled “Spotlight on Safety: Addressing Threats in Public Libraries” on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. CT.