Candidate for PLA President (2027–2028)

Aimee Fifarek is the director and CEO of The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) in northeast Ohio. She graduated with dual degrees in English and Library and Information Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. After spending her first professional years at LSU Libraries in Baton Rouge, she moved to public libraries, serving in technology and management positions at Scottsdale Public Library and Phoenix Public Library in Arizona before being selected as director and CEO at PLYMC in 2017.

Fifarek is a passionate defender of privacy and intellectual freedom, especially as they intersect with technology. Much of her philosophy was formed during her early days in ALA, serving in various roles with the Library and Information Technology Association (LITA) and being fortunate enough to be a liaison to the Intellectual Freedom Committee, where she was able to learn from Office for Intellectual Freedom director Judith Krug. Fifarek's move to PLYMC has allowed her to use this background to build a reputation as a strong library advocate for library funding and free access to information. Fifarek lives in Canfield, Ohio with her husband Jason, and they enjoy gardening, yoga, and travels that involve good food, friends, and adventures.

Personal Statement

“I am seeking the position of PLA president-elect because public libraries are facing unprecedented challenges, and I believe our profession must speak with clarity and courage in defense of intellectual freedom and open access to information. I am committed to ensuring PLA remains a safe, supportive space for library workers while we work together to confront censorship, funding pressures, and intimidation. Building on my record of local and statewide leadership, I will bring a steady, collaborative voice to national advocacy on behalf of all public libraries.”