2022 WLA Candidate Statements

Board Candidate Statements | Division Candidate Statements | Section Candidate Statements

Candidates for WLA Leadership Positions were asked to answer four questions for their candidate statement:

• What skills and experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
• What past involvement have you had with WLA?
• Where would you like to see WLA and the Division/Section in the future, and what would you do to move it toward that vision?
• WLA is committed to promoting EDI (equity, diversity, and inclusion) within the library profession, our association, and our communities. How do you see yourself upholding these values as a leader?

Voting is open to WLA Members Aug. 18-Sept. 15. Please review all candidates statements in their entirety before casting your votes.

Thank you to all of the 2022 WLA Elections Candidates!

Board Candidate Statements

Vice President/President-Elect

Johanna Jacobsen Kiciman

There are at least three concrete skills I think a VP needs to have: 1) collaboration through deep listening; 2) outcome-driven initiatives grounded in community needs; and 3) socio-emotional grounded leadership and management experience.

My work as editor of Alki touches on all of these points and are described in the answers below. Additionally, my work as co-founder and co-facilitator of two major book clubs at my university, in collaboration with the Center for Equity and Inclusion, demonstrates my community-needs grounded approach to librarianship. In these book clubs, we practice anti-oppressive communication skills and deep listening, creating spaces for vulnerability and growth. I do a lot of reflective work for accountability, and additionally strongly believe that qualitative examinations of community needs move the field forward.As outgoing editor of Alki, I have had the honor of collaborating with library workers from across library types and across the state. This has been especially humbling during a pandemic where individuals have shared their stories of struggles and successes with the journal (publicly) and with me (privately).  Through this experience I am aware of the overlap in needs that we see across library types (funding, staffing--to name a few), and the unique needs that come out of special libraries, tribal libraries, school libraries, academic libraries, and from MLIS students. I also know that the strength the WLA has comes from its warm community of lifelong learners.

I'd like to center my work on a triptych of values: EDI work, opportunity building, and library advocacy.

The EDI work done by previous WLA presidents over the past few years has been extraordinarily timely and important; leadership in the WLA has to continue this integral work by interrogating our organizational practices, creating pathways for retention and leadership opportunities for BIPOC library workers, and making sure conversations are happening between library workers across library types and employment status. I would very much like to host more critical conversations such as those I recently published in Alki, especially with individuals who do not often have the opportunity to publicly weigh in on our profession (e.g., students, pro staff, etc.). These opportunities create a more nuanced and rich understanding of our field as well as platform opportunities for publication and conversation. And while I am new to the world of library advocacy, I recognize that without telling our story(ies) the right audiences, we are doing ourselves a disservice. Advocacy creates funding opportunities which lead to the growth of a field. I would be honored to learn and lead.

The majority of my work is conducted through a lens of anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion that is actionable and accountable. This means working to improve access and success for diverse and historically marginalized populations by pinpointing community needs, developing a vision and strategy, launching initiatives that are grounded in community collaboration, and anchoring AEDI approaches in the culture of an organization and the identities of those who are a part of it.

My experience as editor of ALKI has honed my understanding of how to think about and effect change on a community level. Together with a stellar editorial committee, we have launched an AEDI column, have surveyed our constituents to understand the needs of the community, and have reframed our editorial policies and practices to be transparent, accountable, and antiracist (recognizing that learning will be ongoing and evolving). At my university, I was part of a ground-up effort to get funding for and pursue an anti-racist audit for our Library.

Continuing in this vein, I am committed to the constant reexaminations and understanding of power dynamics within an organization and creating the spaces for feedback and change: in so doing, I hope that our organization can learn and grow together.

Board Director, Public Library Division Representative

Barbara Walters

Throughout my 27-year public library career, I have had the opportunity to build extensive knowledge of current issues facing libraries from a variety of perspectives. In addition to years spent working in direct patron services and technical processing, my career included 12 years in an IT role, which has led me to currently volunteer time on the NCW Technology Alliance board as the vice-chair. I have spent the last 3 years as Executive Director of NCW Libraries, leading an incredible and resilient staff who serve five rural and distressed counties in the state with 30 public libraries, two bookmobiles, and a one-of-a-kind mail order service. I have developed, and continue to develop, leadership skills and experience related to library funding issues, change management, and organizational development, and have focused much of my energy on understanding the unique needs and issues related to reaching underserved populations and providing rural library services.

I am fairly new to WLA! In 2017 I advocated for NCW Libraries (then North Central Regional Library) to end a long-term institutional absence from the association and become a member. This has led to our organization and members of our staff becoming more actively involved in WLA conferences (attending and planning) and serving on committees. For the last year I have served on the Legislative Committee representing the Public Library division.

I believe that WLA is doing an excellent job at keeping the library community informed of current issues facing libraries. I would like to bring my knowledge of serving rural Washingtonians to the table to advocate for equitable access and opportunities for our most remote residents. I’d also like to work on building stronger partnerships among libraries so that we are equipped to collaboratively solve real issues, and think there is room for improvement in this statewide. There’s no need for each of us to keep reinventing the wheel!

To me, inclusion means learning to have constructive, respectful discussions with people who have very different ideas and opinions. Against the backdrop of major global challenges, I believe strongly in working with others to create places – like libraries – where people can come together to solve problems by engaging in fact-based civil discourse. That is my aspiration. Libraries across the State can (and do) serve as conveners of these difficult conversations - bringing together people with diverse knowledge, experiences, and points of view that can foster real change. That’s how – together – we build pathways to the future. 

Board Director, School Library Division Representative

Sarah Logan

As a teacher librarian, I have served in both secondary and elementary schools in two states, giving me multiple perspectives on the roles of school libraries and librarians.  I am organized, focused, and not afraid to ask questions or do the work to make progress happen.

I am currently serving as chair of the School Library Division.  This year, my focus has been on increasing BIPOC membership through the ScLD BIPOC membership scholarship, continuing to serve our members through Round Table discussion opportunities, streamlining processes, and creating opportunities for members to get involved (such as a first-year TL mentorship program).  We are currently focused on updating our division website to create a site that will better meet the needs of our members.  I also just wrote an article for the upcoming Alki.

One thing that is essential to me as a school librarian is that all WLA programming includes an opportunity for clock hours for our teacher members.  This is an easy process that I am able to facilitate and will cost WLA nothing.  I continue to believe that all K-12 students in Washington deserve to be served by a qualified teacher librarian and will work with our WLA lobbyist and state leaders to advocate for our students.  I believe the WLA mentorship program is an essential component to supporting those new to our profession and creating opportunities for growth for all our members.  I will continue to facilitate the teacher librarian component of that program, using feedback from participants to improve the process.

I actively tried to welcome members from diverse backgrounds to join WLA through our BIPOC membership scholarship.  At #WLA2021, some colleagues and I will present about the "Windows and Mirrors" program we are developing for my district to support having discussions about EDI with students.  Advocating that all Washington students have access to quality school library programs is another form of equity that I support.

ALA Councilor

Steven Bailey

I have served as the ALA Chapter Councilor for WLA for the past three years, and would love the opportunity to continue to serve. ALA is in the midst of a large-scale restructuring of their governance model, work that begin just as my previous term was starting. I’ve been immersed in the details of this restructuring work, from the original Steering Committee on Organizational Excellence to the more recent Forward Together Working Group (see forwardtogether.ala.org), and Council is at a critical juncture in the process, as we finalize the structure of the association and work to rewrite the bylaws in the coming months.

Outside of my work on ALA Council, I have previous ALA experience with the Chapter Relations Committee, and the Business Reference and Services Section (BRASS). I am a graduate of the ALA Leadership Institute class of 2015, the Leadership Institute of South Puget Sound class of 2015, and I have 15 years of public library experience with the King County Library System, 14 of which I’ve spent in management roles, including my current position of Librarian Services Manager for six libraries in South King County.

My involvement in WLA began in 2013, when I was asked to write an article for Alki. That article led to a position on the Alki Editorial Committee (2013-2017). In 2018, based on my work with ALA’s Chapter Relations Committee, I was invited to run for WLA’s “ALA Chapter Councilor” position, a board-level position that I have held for the past three years. I have attended quarterly board meetings, annual leadership retreats, and several WLA conferences, and I look forward to the upcoming WLA Conference in Bellevue!

I would love to see library workers across the state of Washington find a home in the Washington Library Association. WLA is an incredible resource for knowledge-sharing, networking, professional development and library advocacy. In my ALA Chapter Councilor position, I will encourage the board to find ways to tell our success stories to WLA members and non-members, and to highlight pathways for increased involvement in the association.

Additionally, I would love to see Washington library workers have an increased understanding of the American Library Association, including the work of ALA in steering public policy through legislative advocacy at the federal level; defense of intellectual freedom; endorsement of the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion; and continuing to offer robust professional development and learning opportunities. I will continue to seek ways to communicate the work of ALA to library workers across the state.

Equity, diversity and inclusion are core principles of libraries, and should be reflected, upheld, and celebrated in all aspects of our work, from hiring practices that reflect our communities, to collections that celebrate diverse perspectives and seek to elevate underrepresented voices, to programming that is community-driven and centers accessibility for all. As a leader in my organization, and in WLA and ALA, I strive to identify missing voices and perspectives, to include all stakeholders in conversations that affect them, and to work to overcome systemic barriers to access and participation.

Dave Sonnen

This position represents Washington (WLA) on the ALA Council. I have the skills and experience that would make me successful at this position.  I have served on the AASL (American Assoc. of School Librarians) Board (a division of ALA) and have familiarity with the ALA governance structure.  Having served on the WLA Board, I am also aware of the needs and concerns of Washington libraries. This position melds the two.  Through these positions I’ve used many of my skills: I have had to communicate with others, report back information, and work within organizational structures/timelines.  I received my MLIS degree from the University of Washington in 2006. I have also served as a WLMA President and Chair of the Puget Sound Council for the Review of Children’s Materials.

I have been a WLA/WLMA member my entire library career. I have served on the WLA Board of Directors as the School Library Division representative (2018-19).  I have also been on the WLA Professional Development Committee, School Library Division Steering Committee, and School Library Division’s Washington Children’s Choice Picture Book Award Committee (currently serving as co-chair). In 2018, I was selected WLA Teacher-Librarian of the Year.

This position is a connection between the state and national levels.  I would work to bring more information to the librarians of Washington about issues that are being discussed at the national level, as well as, bringing issues from our state to the national level.  I would work closely with the WLA board and listen to members in order to understand issues that impact the libraries and librarians in our state.  I would use the Alki, WLA Wednesday, and other communication tools to inform our members.

Equity, diversity, and inclusion is very important work.  I have spent a great deal of time on my own journey of discovery in these areas. I would take the time to listen to our membership and view the discussions and decisions on both the WLA Board and at ALA Council through a lens of EDI.  In the end, decisions must be made with everyone in mind and organizations should be welcoming to all.

Student Representative to the Board

Lauren Califano

I have been on boards before, so I understand the meeting and reporting schedules and requirements. I currently serve as a board member for Woodinville Community Bands as the librarian and I am the co-chair for the Youth Literacy committee for the Seattle Junior League. Also, I have worked as an AmeriCorps and in non-profit fundraising so I am familiar with community outreach.

As an online MLIS student who also works full time, I bring that student perspective. As a strong believer in professional organizations, I would be interested in recruiting more students to WLA. I like to look for opportunities for connecting with other students and resources such as mentorships, scholarships, and professional learning opportunities.

This is my first year in WLA, I’m excited to attend the conference in the fall. I am an MLIS student at the University of Washington. I am applying for the student representative position.

As a new member of WLA, my understanding is that WLA is a place where librarians can find meaningful connections with other librarians, leadership opportunities, industry news and guidance, recognition, and continuing education. I think it is important to keep doing this work in the future. To me, moving towards that vision means more marketing for future librarians to know about WLA and join early in their career.

As the student representative, I would bring the information and resources from WLA to other students by posting events in student channels, bring other student ideas and perspectives to the WLA board by attending other student events, and advocate for student membership in WLA.

I believe promoting EDI means amplifying, uplifting, and intentionally seeking diverse peoples and talent. As student representative for WLA, I would reach out to students to meet them where they are and would want to support programs for sharing resources, mentorship, and scholarship.

Jacob Lackner

I have experience with student advocacy during my past year, both with the WLA and in graduate school at UW. I am a good communicator and I am passionate about representing student interests. I am skilled at networking and building connections, and I think I can use those skills to connect students with the library community of Washington.

During this past year, I served as the secretary/communications officer and then interim chair of the Library and Information Student Section. My time with LISS has given me a great background in understanding the work that the WLA does and how students fit in to that ecosystem.

I would like to see more student input and more student representation across WLA. I believe that students are eager to serve, but many are unaware of the opportunities available. I would do my best to publicize groups, committees, and activities that would benefit from a student presence, and try to recruit students if I think they would be a good fit.

During my time as the interim chair of LISS, I worked with my fellow officers to offer an emergency COVID-19 scholarship. We incorporated EDI into our decision-making process and strove to award the scholarship to someone who did not fit the standard library student background. In addition, LISS is prepared to support the WLA's BIPOC conference grants. I believe the strongest ways to uphold EDI values are by direct financial contributions and giving resources to underrepresented individuals and groups directly.

Ashley Corbaley

From my three years of experience volunteering at public and school libraries I learned the skills of problem solving, customer service, and adaptability. As a Children's Services intern, I learned the importance of teamwork and creativity. In my years as a MLS I have learned time management and organization skills. I am a hard worker and motivated to do the best job possible. I will bring all of my skills to the position of WLA Board Student Representative.

I recently moved to Washington and am a new member.

I would like to see the WLA become even more inclusive to all members and provide more opportunities for student/new members to get involved.

I will uphold these values as a leader by taking time to develop empathy for everyone I come in contact with.

Division Candidate Statements

Academic Library Division/ACRL-WA - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Lydia Bello

I have two years of experience in local professional organizations. I have been the Secretary for ALD/ACRL-WA since January 2021. Before that I was the Secretary for ACRL-WA, a role where I took internal and public meeting minutes and assisted with the planning of the 2019 Joint Conference.

I have been involved with WLA since January 2021, when the Washington Chapter of ACRL (ACRL-WA) merged with the Academic Library Division (ALD) of WLA. Before the merger I was the Secretary for ACRL-WA.

I would like to see the ALD/ACRL-WA Division continue its work of meeting the needs of its members. I think this is especially important after a year and a half that has included an organizational merger on top of all the other challenges that academic library workers are facing. I would work with the rest of Steering Committee to listen to members and then synthesize those needs into a path forward for the Division.

I see myself promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion within the library profession by listening to the needs of all ALD members and academic library workers throughout the state, and working with the Steering Committee of ALD/ACRL-WA to develop programming and other initiatives that reflect those needs. I also see myself upholding these values by working with WLA and the ALD/ACRL-WA Steering Committee to advocate for affordable professional development and other opportunities for academic library workers to connect with others in the state. 

Academic Library Division/ACRL-WA - Secretary/Communications

Estelle Reed

Good and responsive communication is an integral aspect of good leadership and I work hard in all aspects of my professional and person life to communicate as effectively as possible. I have a passion for creating and maintaining records.  In 2014, while In college, I served as my sorority's secretary where I was in charge of keeping meeting minutes as well as sending out communication from the leadership council to the general membership. During my time working as a library assistant at Yale University from 2017-2019, I volunteered to keep, maintain, and send out meeting minutes for my departmental meetings as well as those for Ares and ILLiad user group meetings.  I have been the social media and communications chair for the Northwest ILL Conference for the last two years. In this position, I manage all the social media accounts and respond to all emails for the committee. This past year I have also had the honor of serving as the Secretary/Communications for the CLAWS section. In that position, I prepared and maintained meeting minutes for steering committee meetings. If elected to the ACRL/WA Division Secretary/Communications position, I would bring my skills of effective and responsive communication, time management and dedication.

I am the current CLAWS Section Secretary/Communications. I would love to see more communication and collaboration between WLA divisions and sections in order to promote a sense of community.

I believe it is very important to participate in efforts to address and work to dismantle barriers that can lead to inequity and impede diversity. In the weeks after the killing of George Floyd, the University of Washington focused more  on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in the libraries. Working groups were formed across all the libraries and campuses to discuss and address how the libraries can promote EDI. I joined the “How we do EDI work” working group where our goal is to recommend sustainable organizational models and systems for advancing ongoing EDI work in the libraries.  Within my own department, I started a discussion group with the student workers to see what their opinions were on how our department promotes EDI with the goal of being able to provide suggestions for improvement that the department can implement. I do not see promoting EDI in libraries as a static mission. I do not see promoting EDI in libraries as a static mission. It is a goal which will continue to expand over time as new technologies and methodologies develop and evolve. In order to continue to uphold the values of EDI, I make sure to do research into the different ways that EDI values are promoted at institutions across the world so that I may bring those methods into my daily life and practice.

Academic Library Division/ACRL-WA Communications Manager

Rhonda Kitchens

I have an undergraduate degree in Mass Communications. I have served as a social media and public relations librarian for public and academic libraries. My strengths are in design and using various technologies to promote, share, inspire, and communicate the many facets of library efforts to a variety of stakeholders.

I am currently serving as Communications Manager. I am new to Washington State. I would love to see an outreach to librarians out of state about Washington and Washington libraries. Also, as a new Washingtonian, let's get rid of this East vs West thing - we are a community.  In my current role as Communication Manager I am trying to bring these ideas into the mix as well. I want to be able share more about individual, heroic efforts that librarians make everyday themselves, through collaboration, and holding up others.

 I find I need to model respectful and open communications as it is a beginning point for breaking down stereotypes, differences, and old ways of thinking that have no place in new ways of being.

Academic Library Division/ACRL-WA Member-At-Large

Greg Bem

I have been committed to academic librarianship and academic libraries for 6.5 years. While my largest body of experience has been with Community and Technical Colleges, I have been ever-curious and connected with university and private college libraries, particularly in the context of scholarly communications, open education, and special collections. This generalist approach would make me a great team member for the ALD leadership team, and allow me to learn more about what ALD's commitments are. Ultimately I hope to continue to be involved with ALD and support the division in additional ways. My own background and levels of support will hopefully be of great use to the division as a whole.

I have been a founding member of CLAWS, and have also served as chair and member at large for CLAWS. I have supported ALD's Alki magazine. I currently am on the conference planning team for WLA, and am supporting efforts to make the WLA 2021 Conference a reality. Additionally, I have attended and presented at multiple WLA conferences in the past.

I believe that we need to continue to think about the transitions during the COVID-19 pandemic. A new chapter is opening, as we see more of the state and the country reopen thanks to vaccination rates and lower cases/deaths. That does not mean the transition for academic libraries will be easy, however. I believe conversations and crucial and the more social events that can take place for the division, the more support individuals will feel as they engage the division with their stories and experiences. I would also like to see Alki continue, and it would be great if there was another Academic Libraries conference for ALD and CLAWS to organize. As with any team, the ideas come from everyone--so I believe it's important to think about how my energy and efforts can support the great ideas of others within the division.

As I believe my experience with CLAWS has shown, academic libraries have a strong role to play in the context of libraries broadly, when it comes to justice and liberation. I want to continue to have conversations around neutrality, especially as we see the trendiness of the George Floyd movements slowly transition into another chapter of work for many of us. In WLA and beyond, EDI is a strong value system that is consistently evolving. Selfishly, I would look forward to further growth by working in the context of EDI within WLA; selflessly, I would look forward to continuing to support my BIPOC colleagues and providing education to all colleagues around my own experiences and ongoing commitments as I have developed them for years.

Elizabeth Stephan

I’ve been a librarian at Western Washington University for 13 years and an academic librarian for 17 years. I'm new to WLA. I've generally been involved with national library organizations (specifically ALA’s RUSA). At this point in my career, I am more interested in being involved with state and regional service because I think it has a greater impact on the regional institutions than national service.

My experience in ALA was at a Division (RUSA) and Section (BRASS) level, where for close to ten years I chaired committees, including a BRASS grant committees, a RUSA task force focusing on professional development and the RUSA Publications committee. Additionally, I’ve edited online newsletters for BRASS and RUSA.

I'd like to see WLA to evolve but also take a lead within with the profession. I think it's important for professional organizations to represent, advocate, and support library workers — we’ve seen the importance of this in the last 17 months as libraries and their staff have learned how to operate in new and very difficult settings. Additionally, libraries have been built on a system that favored the majority, I want to work to make sure WLA, our members, and our libraries, are able to discuss some of the systemic oppression that have harmed historically underrepresented populations. This involves difficult conversations, but it is something that we need to do in order to move forward provide the best environment for both library staff and our communities.

Academic Library Division/ACRL-WA Student Representative

Skyler Corbett-Hecocta

As a University of Washington MLIS student and the current diversity officer of the SAA UW Chapter, I feel that I represent the bridge between a traditional WLA officer and the outlands that I think the WLA touches but doesn't traditionally hold as the center. I think my ability to organize and reach out to both interdisciplinary community and to Indigenous, Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Chicano, Latino, and other People of Color is going to be important in this year of transition and upheaval among communities of color.

Over the last year I've had the WLA parallel my time at school. The WLA was present during orientation, I've watched members of my co-hort join WLA, and I've had members of the WLA mentor me in my path as a MLIS student.

In the future I would like to see more interaction from Students and Archivists with tribal and rural populations, including extra-city communities such as Renton.

As a Native American First Nations tribal citizen, my commitment to EDI is inhabited within my culture and my community.

Kate Hovda

I have a history of leadership, especially in academic spaces. I served on the board of my undergrad sorority for three years including a year as President, I led an on-campus singing group my senior year, and I served as a board member of my campus' senior honors & service society. Since college, I have largely worked in customer service, which has greatly improved my communication and problem-solving skills.

I became a WLA member this Spring after I was accepted to and registered to start in the MLIS program at UW. Serving as a student rep for WLA would be a terrific way to become more involved in WLA and I'd do my best to bring new perspective and learn as I go.

Admittedly, this would be my first big jump into WLA. I would like to work on making WLA members more active in our online workshops and creating a greater sense of community and communication for us all.

Libraries can be a uniquely egalitarian and welcoming community space. I have a fair amount of volunteer service in my community and I pride myself in a continuing effort to learn and understand the lived experience of others, especially those with fewer privileges than I have had. As a leader, I would have a virtual open door policy and keep an open mind to every concern and critique brought to me. I would enjoy the opportunity to promote EDI with my actions as Student Representative as well as my voice.

Public Library Division - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Georgia Reitmire

I have over 15 years of public library service. I started my career as a school librarian, then in military libraries before becoming a managing librarian with Yakima Valley Libraries.

I have been on the conference planning committee for the last four years. I believe WLA has an important role in fostering the growth and inspiration of future library leaders. Being a member of WLA is one of the first steps in staying connected with peers in the library world.

It is vital that libraries are safe welcoming spaces for staff and patrons. This can only be accomplished by making sure that everyone is included and treated equitably. I treat everyone the way I would like to be treated.

Public Library Division - Secretary/Communications

Ashley Calixto

In my job as a Online Services Coordinator at Pierce County Library Systems, I am constantly working to maintain our current website, following timelines and negotiating with stakeholders to equitably determine what content should be represented on our website. This position intrigues me because I believe it will give me the platform to utilize my meticulous  planning skills, academic background and passion for  promoting access to resources. I take a lot of pride in my work ethic, organizational skills, innovative ideas and ability to leave a space better than I found it. If given the opportunity, I would love to become a source of encouragement and support for all individuals I may serve through this position.

I have attended the WLA Conference and learned so much through that opportunity. It made me want to become more involved with the work that WLA does.

I want to do my part to ensure that staff at various Washington State libraries can collaborate and work together towards connecting communities to resources/services. I would like to help inform efforts to ensure that the voices of staff members with historically marginalized identities can be represented.

Prior to working in library systems, I spent four years working for higher education institutions. My work revolved around advancing equity efforts for folks with historically marginalized identities. I would like to take that knowledge and bring them to a library setting. As a  person of color, I am invested in upholding principles that align with my own personal vision. I try and see everything from this lens and unafraid to point out areas of improvement.

School Library Division - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Elizabeth Roberts

As a curriculum developer and leader in my school district, who has also been on the steering committee the last 2 years, I feel like I have great background knowledge about how our association works and the kind of work that needs to be done to support all school librarians in our state.  I have successfully shepherded my own district librarians through some of the most challenging years of our teaching career through constant communication and gathering of feedback which I hope to extend statewide to continue to shed light on how our association is there to support each and every librarian in our schools.

I have served for two years as secretary/communications of the School Library Division.

I would love to see our membership grow by providing clear, support for our members.  This includes advocating at the state level for certified school librarians in all WA schools. Additionally, I would like to see an continued growth of mutual support and sharing of ideas and resources among our librarians.

As a white women, I recognize my privileges and hope that my work towards anti-racism is evident in the questions I ask and policies and procedures I advocate for.  I believe we need to reach out and support BIPOC members so that we can continue to grow a diverse membership that in turn will only support our students. 

John Marino

I began my career as a school library teacher in 1998; as a lifelong learner, I pursued graduate studies at the UW iSchool before accepting a faculty position at the University of North Texas near Dallas where I taught courses in the School Library Certification program. I'm now happy to be back in WA as a school library teacher and excited about current trends in the field.

Having recently returned to WA, I'm looking forward to meeting WLA members and becoming more involved in the efforts of WLA.

Our recent experiences with effectively serving WA students during a pandemic have challenged us to develop skills in tech integration, remote instruction and reading advocacy, and information problem-solving. We have also become aware of the imperative to address the interests and needs of our diverse students and families. The WLA School Library Division must provide leadership in creating forums for discussions and training opportunities for preparation to address these trends.

School Library Division - Secretary/Communications

Jennifer Altena

Prior to becoming a teacher, I was a marketing major and specialized in creating campaigns for promoting small companies. Lately I've been using social media to promote the library and was chosen to be part of the social media team that reported on the 2019 AASL Conference in Louisville. I assist with posts on Twitter for my school. I have held the secretary position on numerous occasions with PTA and am always the notetaker for staff meetings at my school. I am thorough and detail-oriented.

I have been a member of WLA from 2009-2011 and again since 2018. I attended the WLMA conference back in 2010 (?) and I promote all of the WLA Book Awards with my students every year - even while I was out of the library and teaching in the classroom. In 2019, I applied for and received the Sharon Bates Scholarship for Professional Growth and used the funds to attend the national AASL Conference in Louisville.

I would love to see teachers be more knowledgeable about WLA and what it does. Currently only librarians know about our organization. Wouldn't it be great if everyone knew? We have so much to offer teachers in addition to librarians. I would like to see WLA be more of a well-known organization by publicizing it more. We can create ways to help librarians talk to teachers about WLA and what it does by making a talking points document, creating social media points that can be shared, and reaching out to teachers directly.

As a leader in my school, I make sure I offer a library that shows diversity in its collection. When I teach, I focus on including all of my students in the books that I read - all students need to see themselves reflected there. It's not about the "classics" anymore. It's about literacy for all students so that all students feel included and represented.

Jamie Moffett

As a National Board Certified Teacher Librarian, I believe I bring a multitude of resources, experience, and training to the School Library Division. I am detail-oriented, organized (aren't librarians best at this!), and encompass a wealth of knowledge regarding 21 century learning skills and standards for school librarians.

I have presented several times at WLA, including last year on Diversifying your library fiction section! I have presented several times when we were still WLMA and have attended most year's conferences.

I'm excited to see WLA continue in the path of equity in libraries, and am excited to move forward with diversity in school libraries. I believe a willingness to look forward to changes is what keeps WLA moving in a great direction!

I admire WLA's approach to equity and within my district have taken great strides to do the same in my library collection. Along with a colleague, we ran a diversity report of our fiction collection to determine if diversity was actually happening in our libraries. Once we had our reports, we went through some training and self-awareness to determine next best steps- consistently reminding ourselves that our books need to be mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors for our students. I feel like I align with WLA's, and the school library division, on this value and it's ever-changing status in the library.

Special Library Division - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Kelsey Smith

I am the newest reference librarian with the Secretary of State/ Washington State Library’s Central Library team. Before WSL, I worked as a public librarian and a supervising librarian for the Timberland Regional Library district for 15 years at both the Olympia and Lacey branches. I recently finished up a four year term as a member of the Alki Editorial Board. I have been praised by peers for my collaborative and adventurous approach to library services, and as a newbie to the world of special libraries, I feel that my perspective could serve as an asset to the Special Library Division of WLA.

I previously served for four years on the Alki Journal’s editorial board. I have been a member of WLA for 5 years and have attended multiple WLA conferences, including the wonderful WLA/OLA joint conferences of yore. I was one of the initial mentors for the recently formed mentorship program, which was unfortunately cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic.

I have really been enjoying some of the special sessions that have been happening with WLA- for example, the Career Lab sessions and the anti-racism workshop series. I’d like to see WLA continue with these kinds of innovative offerings now that COVID has shown that online sessions can be an effective, affordable, and equitable alternative for those unable to travel regularly. I also like the direction WLA is heading in terms of anti-racism work, and I'd like to see those efforts continue to inform  all WLA work. 

I have been engaged in EDI work for many years at my former place of employment, where I consistently prioritized and amplified underrepresented voices through readers advisory, programming, work groups, and collection development. I also engage in EDI work in my personal life in a number of ways, including as a volunteer organizer for the Olympia Zine Fest and as a collective member at Community Print, a community letterpress shop that I help run. I intend to continue to bring this philosophy into my work as a reference librarian for a special library by highlighting underrepresented people in Washington state history.

Special Library Division - Secretary/Communications

Interested in serving as the Special Library Division Secretary/Communications? Contact [email protected]!

Section Candidate Statements

Collection Development & Technical Services (CATS) 

Interested in serving on the CATS Steering Committee? Contact [email protected]!

Children & Young Adult Services (CAYAS) - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Stephanie Zero

I have been a public librarian for 13 years, serving as a Teen Services Librarian in both rural and urban communities. I embrace the community led model of public program development, working to give voice to under-represented populations and bring diversity into the library. I love serving youth and I want to share that passion with fellow Children’s and Young Adult service providers.  In addition to my deep knowledge of Teen Services and Public Library service, I bring committee leadership experience from Co-Chairing the Washington Young Adult Readers Group, and serving as Project Manager of the KCLS Innovation & Continuous Improvement Project Team. I have also served on the KCLS Game Changers Committee, Volunteer Analysis Committee, Teen Booklist Committee, and KCLS Future Services Committee. 

I currently serve on the CAYAS Board Steering Committee. I have presented at WLA on serving LGBTQ+ youth in rural communities, and I will be hosting a CAYAS workshop on best practices for serving LGBTQ+ youth later this year. 

I would like to see CAYAS continue to offer amazing continuing education and networking opportunities that give Children’s and Young Adult Service providers the resources they need to stay relevant in their communities. I believe we stay relevant by educating ourselves on equitable practices and developing our knowledge of diverse communities, to create ever expanding circles of inclusion. People turn to books to see themselves reflected and to see into the world of others – mirrors and windows. I want CAYAS to reflect this ideal – to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves to strengthen cultural competency for working with communities that are different from our experience, making the library an inclusive space for all.

I uphold EDI values by continuously educating myself on issues of racial justice, disability justice, and queer justice. I attend webinars, workshops, read books and articles, host discussion groups to practice normalizing conversations around race, and intentionally stretch my comfort zone to put myself in learning environments. The more I bring these exercises into my practice, the more I expand my vison of what inclusive library services mean.

CAYAS Position #1    

Sara White

After graduating with my Masters in Library and Information Science from the University of Washington in 2010, I worked as a Youth Services Librarian at the Olympia Timberland Library for more than a decade. I have a deep knowledge of youth services work, and I am especially skilled at working with 0-5 year-olds and teenagers. In my previous position I was one of the participants in the University of Washington's VIEWS2 study, I had an active and robust Teen Library Council, and I served as a leader on multiple districtwide committees. In recent years I have discovered my passion for helping my colleagues have the tools they need to do their jobs effectively and serve the youth in their communities. I love bringing people together to talk about their work and make connections with colleagues across the state -- this is one of my favorite things about my new job as the Youth Services Consultant at the Washington State Library.

One of the most important skills I can bring to this position is the ability to connect with library workers and others who serve youth across Washington. In my current position I have the unique ability to facilitate communication between all types of libraries and library staff -- urban and rural, small and large, school and tribal. Magical things happen when we all work together, share ideas, and connect.

I also have a lot of experience developing and coordinating training for youth services workers. I have been involved in the YALSA/IMLS funded Transforming Teen Services training since 2019, teaching library workers about the educational frameworks of Connected Learning and Computational Thinking and helping staff create more equitable learning opportunities for teens in their communities. In my position, I do needs assessment for youth services professional development in Washington, and coordinate trainers to meet those needs.

I believe my drive to provide equitable services for youth across our state, my skills at bringing people together to learn to from each other, and my project management and training skills make me very well suited to a CAYAS committee position.

When I was working on my MLIS at the University of Washington, I was one of the students who book-talked during the Booktalking the Best session at WLA. Besides that experience, I haven't had the opportunity to be more involved in WLA simply because of my job workload!  I think it's really important that as the new Youth Services Consultant at the Washington State Library I am tuned in to the needs of library workers across the state, and serving in a CAYAS committee position would be a perfect way for me and the Washington State Library to be more involved WLA.

"One of my biggest goals in the first few months in my new position at the Washington State Library has been to break down silos. Working in libraries, it's easy to become focused on your library, your district, your community. I would love for youth services workers across our state to feel like more of one large community, all working together towards the common goal of creating high quality experiences in libraries for all youth in Washington.

In addition to bringing people from vastly varied geographic regions together, I'd like to create more of a statewide community of youth serving organizations. There are so many amazing organizations, departments, agencies, and non-profits who serve Washington youth. Library workers should be at the table for non-library conversations, and vice versa. I want to help library staff become more aware of and involved in the ecosystem of services for youth.

One way I would like to facilitate this is by having trainings and meetings that do not only involve library staff. I would love to invite people from Washington non-profits, government agencies, and organizations who serve youth to speak at our conferences and attend our meetings. I'd also love to facilitate more library staff speaking at non-library conferences and trainings, and attending non-library meetings and conferences. Services for youth in Washington will be stronger if we band together and combine our efforts with other people working toward similar goals.

Like many of you, I have spent the last several years reading and learning. I am currently working through the Project READY curriculum (https://ready.web.unc.edu/) with a cohort of staff, and the Transforming Teen Services training I co-facilitate is taught through an educational equity lens.

While reading and learning is important, I feel deeply that it is time for action. We need to embed equity, diversity, and inclusion into our practices and take concrete steps to make our libraries more welcoming to everyone in our communities, especially Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. We also need our libraries to be more welcoming and supportive places for the BIPOC folks who work or aspire to work in them.

As a leader, I will never make any decision without considering whether it is working toward the goal of making our libraries more equitable and inclusive. EDI is not a tag-line or a buzzword, it is something that should be sewn in to the fabric of our work. I will consider EDI when deciding what trainings to offer (and who offers those trainings), when facilitating meetings, when taking stands.

In my current position, I am in the planning steps of facilitating statewide cohorts of library staff to work through the Project READY Curriculum, hiring trainers to teach library staff about accessibility, and more. I will lead by example in my job, in my life, and in this position.

CAYAS Positions #2, #3, and #4

Interested in serving as in a CAYAS Position #2-#4? Contact [email protected]!

College Libraries Across Washington State (CLAWS) - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Interested in serving as CLAWS Vice Chair/Chair-Elect? Contact [email protected]!

College Libraries Across Washington State (CLAWS) - Secretary/Communications

Intellectual Freedom Section (IFS) - Chair

Rickey Barnett

Having served as both Secretary/Communications of the WLA Public Library Division and Co-Chair of the WLA Advocacy Committee this past year, I would bring my leadership, planning, and facilitation experience to the Chair position of the Intellectual Freedom Section (IFS). I would use these experiences as an elected WLA leader to ensure the section’s work and objectives are effectively realized. Further, I would leverage this experience to foster collaboration with WLA, its internal groups, and members to align efforts in support of intellectual freedom across the state.

I would also draw from my experience and knowledge as a Public Librarian. I have worked extensively with the public and my librarian colleagues to address matters of censorship, access, and other aspects of intellectual freedom as they arise in the library.

I am the current Secretary/Communications for the Public Library Division and have served on the WLA Advocacy Committee for two years now. I have been the Co-Chair of the Advocacy Committee for a year now.

Intellectual freedom is a core tenet of librarianship; therefore, I would like to see the IFS’s work again rise to an increased area of focus and engagement at WLA. The IFS has been somewhat inactive the last few years, and having the section’s work resume would be something I would really like to see occur. This work would include increased member engagement and recruitment, collaboration with other WLA groups, supporting colleagues who face challenges to intellectual freedom, and offering training opportunities.

In order to move the IFS toward this future vision, I would draw on my WLA leadership experience to engage and recruit WLA members to become involved with the section. I would also work with members to fill leadership roles, establish goals, and facilitate necessary meetings to carry out the section’s work effectively. Close collaboration with the WLA President and Leadership to align goals organizationally would also be critical to fulfilling this vision.I believe that in order to fulfill the purpose and goals of the IFS, it is essential to include the multitude of diverse voices, identities, experiences, and perspectives that make up our communities and profession. Moreover, safeguarding intellectual freedom and protecting the basic rights of library users directly aligns with the guiding principles of our EDI-centered work. This is especially true in our work to make our collections and services more diverse and inclusive, while also eliminating barriers to access. As the Chair of IFS, I would strive to include a diverse range of folks in our work, so that we can advocate for these rights in every community and library type. I would also prioritize work focusing on underserved and marginalized communities, such as combating censorship and raising awareness of creating more accessible, welcoming libraries.

Leadership Is for Everyone (LIFE) - Chair

Katy McLaughlin

As Branch Manager I conduct training for my staff and have coordinated trainings across the library system for the last nine years; recently I'm been part of Mid-Columbia Libraries' DEI Taskforce.  I've been a local Leadership group board member since 2012, and the process of refining our curriculum has enriched my understanding of leadership development for myself and staff. I've also been on the Board of the local Rotary Club since 2018, bringing together a large group of people from many industries and talents.

I was LIFE Secretary in 2019-20 and Life Chair 2020-21. I would like to be able to connect LIFe members with resources and networks that help them achieve their professional goals; the goals we developed this year included regular newsletter tips and resources. I like the idea of providing opportunities to connect and develop leaders across the profession, in ways that work for busy and budget-conscious libraries.

I would like to seek out people with different experiences and backgrounds to give a more well-rounded view of what leadership looks like for them, and seek out way to develop leadership skills through an EDI lens.

Leadership Is for Everyone (LIFE) - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Interested in serving as LIFE Vice Chair/Chair-Elect? Contact [email protected]!

Leadership Is for Everyone (LIFE) - Secretary/Communications

Todd Vandenbark

My library career has involved managing websites and the social media presence of small, medium, and large academic libraries. I served regularly on various academic committees in the role of secretary and chair, and provided information literacy instruction to undergrads, grads, and community organizations. When hiring student employees, my commitment to equity and diversity guided my efforts to make my tech support team as diverse and inclusive as the student body itself. I have given presentations at multiple professional conferences both in and out of my profession, and have had several research articles published in peer-reviewed journals. Communicating about the library and what it has to offer our patrons has been central to my work. Since moving to Washington to serve as a public library director, I am excited about the opportunity to serve our small, rural community by communicating what the library has to offer and learning what our patrons want and need.

I am excited about WLA's LIFE section and want to support its goals and aspirations by keeping peers and colleagues informed about all the ways they can grow and enrich their leadership skills.

Library & Information Student Section (LISS) - Chair

Stella Haynes Kiehn

I bring the following skills and experience:

• About 3/4 of a term as the appointed WLA LISS chair for 2021
• Proficiency and excellence in external and internal library communications (1 year as the communications student specialist who worked directly under the UW Libraries communications director)
• Over 5 years of experience working in academic libraries (started employment as a circulation student assistant at UW Bothell in 2016)
• Previous undergraduate leadership roles in Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society, and Sigma Kappa Sorority
• Completion of the first year of UW's MLIS program and entering into the second
• Passion and commitment to the LIS field as evidenced by my academic and professional trajectory

I currently serve as the Vice-Chair of WLA LISS, however, I am not eligible to be automatically appointed to WLA LISS Chair since I was appointed to the position in Spring of 2021 and did not participate in the previous year's elections. In my current position, I have participated in WLA events such as the Program Selection meetings and helped coordinate many events for my LISS section chapter at the University of Washington. Alongside the rest of the current WLA LISS officers, I have helped to establish our contribution to the WLA scholarships, as well as help plan our engagement activities for next fall. Outside of my involvement with WLA LISS, I frequently attend WLA information sessions and keep up with WLA news. As a future LIS professional, I continuously try and stay updated and knowledgeable about our state library community, and I am grateful to have had WLA as a resource during the first year of my MLIS. My past involvement has sufficiently prepared me for the role of WLA LISS chair, and I am excited to guide my section into a post-pandemic world.

As WLA LISS Chair, I would have three main goals for my section. First, I would seek to increase first-year MLIS student participation and involvement within our organization. My section of WLA has a chronic problem where students only become involved in the organization during their second year. While any involvement is great, we often hear that students wished that they had known about us for longer, so that they could have better used our resources, and then ran for leadership positions in their second year. I could change this in my section by holding more events at the start of each quarter, and by making clear what the benefits of joining WLA LISS are. This will also be a great way to practice community engagement strategies that I have learned in some of my courses. The second goal of my WLA LISS section would be to clarify the purpose of this organization to students. UW has several LISS organizations (ex. WLA, ALA, sALA, etc.) and oftentimes students feel overwhelmed with having to choose between them. I would seek to abolish the feelings of "choice" associated with joining a LIS organization, and encourage the idea that membership is not exclusive - WLA works in tandem with other LIS groups too! I think this could also be accomplished by working on my third goal, which is to hold more events next year that connect the WLA LISS section to the entirety of the WLA. Last year, and because of Covid-19, it was difficult to connect students to the professional community, something that I would seek to address during my term as chair. This improvement could look like; holding professional development sessions, coordinating job shadowing opportunities, hosting relating to different LIS jobs, etc. My past involvement as Vice-Chair to WLA LISS has prepared me to succeed in the role of chair for the 2022 year.

I see myself upholding EDI values as a leader in WLA by not positioning myself above my peers because I hold a leadership role, but rather by using my leadership role to promote EDI values within my section's organization. This looks like listening to my peers, taking the initiative to plan EDI events, hosting events with librarians from all specialties and backgrounds, and working with my MLIS program to overall make joining student organizations more accessible. As WLA LISS chair, I would use my past experience in communications roles to support open and conscious dialogue in my program about EDI topics within the LIS community. Furthermore, I think it would be a productive idea to coordinate with other WLA sections (ex. WLA SRRT, WLA LIFE, etc) in order to provide and produce relevant discussions in my student chapter. As WLA LISS chair I would clearly follow WLA EDI standards, as well as those of the UW iSchool, and seek to foster an environment that promotes the growth of everyone with WLA and my MLIS program.

Library & Information Student Section (LISS) - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Interested in serving as LISS Vice Chair/Chair-Elect? Contact [email protected]!

Library & Information Student Section (LISS) - Secretary/Communications

Sarah O'Hare

Serving on the commission since 2017, I am currently co-Chair to the City of Spokane’s Ethics Commission where we hear complaints lodged against elected city officials and city employees and we determine if a violation of the city’s code of ethics has occurred. I am a recent MLIS graduate as of May 2020. Fresh from the LIS student experience, I’m ready to help prospective and current LIS students during their preliminary interest and journey towards work in GLAMs (galleries, libraries, archives, and museums).

My past involvement includes:

• WLA member since 2018
• Attended WLA/OLA joint conference as my first library conference
• Presented at WLA 2020
• Presented on the “Library School 101” panel for the WLA Career Lab 2021
• Wrote articles for WLA's "Alki" in 2018 and 2021

I would like to see this section continue to grow and provide outreach mentorship to current LIS students. As a relatively new section to the WLA arsenal, there is plenty of room to grow and reach out to potential and/or prospective students that may not already see librarianship and LIS work as a career option as well.

As the LISS Secretary/Communications Representative, I hope to specifically ensure that both respect and equal weight are provided to all voices in meetings, events, publications, and presentations. WLA can be more inclusive by reaching out in new ways, and the LISS section is in a unique position to connect with the potential and/or prospective LIS professionals of tomorrow. I hope to support the current, and propose new, scholarship opportunities for students with disabilities, BIPOC students, and opportunities for foreign and study abroad students visiting Washington to become involved in our Washington Library Association activities and events. Patricia Montiel Overall’s proposal for a Conceptual Framework for LIS Professionals’ Cultural Competence is top of mind and plays a part in one of my reflective workplace habits. [Overall, Patricia Montiel. “Cultural Competence: A Conceptual Framework for Library and Information Science Professionals.” The Library Quarterly 79, no. 2 (2009): 175–204. https://doi.org/10.1086/597080.]

Serving Adults in Libraries (SAIL) - Chair

Interested in serving as SAIL Chair? Contact [email protected]!

Serving Adults in Libraries (SAIL) - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Cheryl Martin

I have worked in public librarianship for more than 8 years, completed my MLS in 2020 with a focus on Older Adult Services, Health Literacy, and Technology. I have also earned my Community Health Information Specialist 2 certification through the Medical Library Association. My primary position currently is responsible for providing Outreach Services and Library Programming. Outreach Services will be expanding in 2022 with the addition of a Bookmobile, in which I have a pivotal role in planning and operations. I am a member of the library's EDI team, exploring actionable ways to make real change within the library and our community.

I have extensive experience with library programming for patrons of all ages and abilities. Most recent programming included a year long Virtual Reality program (pre-pandemic) and since the onset of the pandemic, taking library programs virtual with great success. I am most looking forward to following up NCOA Aging Mastery discussions I facilitated last year with a new program starting in September on Intentional Again.

In my career at NOLS I have also worked extensively in Interlibrary Loans and customer service. My experience in my position have led to multiple conference presentations (WLA presentation- 2018, ALA Programming Speed Dating - 2019, PLA Spark Talk - 2020), a contributing author for a chapter in a recent ALA publication (32 Virtual, Augmented, & Mixed Reality Programs for Libraries - 2020). I will also be presenting as part of a NOLS team at WLA on hybrid programming post pandemic "Make Room for Zoom".

Outside of the library, I spent my early career in science and genetics research. I am an active community volunteer with more than 15 years involved as a volunteer superintendent and now a board member for the Clallam County Fair. My leadership experience is diverse and I have previously worked as the Executive Director for a regional Camp Fire USA council in Clallam County.

I am a regular attendee at WLA and WALE. I will be presenting this fall for the second time at the WLA conference. This will be my first time getting involved with WLA at this level.

I am very passionate about services to adults, in particular the aging adult populations. I believe as an organization and section, we need to always be looking forward, have a growth mindset, and be willing to change and adapt to changing service needs and interests of our community members. I view myself as a "change agent" with ideas and passion, but I also am very open to the ideas of others and believe that collaboration and support of each other is how we facilitate positive change. My experience and knowledge provides me with the skills needed to advance new ideas, be a mentor for other library staff, and be a coordinator, educator, and facilitator. As we move to a post pandemic world, I feel it is important to focus our efforts on increasing literacy, training, resources, programs and education on inclusivity, information, health and technology.

As an active member of my library's EDI team, I spend time researching, learning and promoting EDI practices through actionable items in hiring, staff communication, how we serve and interact with our patrons, by creating and maintaining diverse collections, and through representative library programs for all patrons our library serves. Most importantly, I am aware of my privilege and actively work to improve how I work and interact with those around me through reading, training, and open conversations. Open dialogue is key. I prioritize education and have recently participated in WLA's "The Journey to Becoming an Anti-Racist Organization Workshop" in April. I seek out and complete trainings, webinars, and workshops on EDI and LGBTQIA topics.

Serving Adults in Libraries (SAIL) - Secretary/Communications

Joanne Percy

I've worked in the library field for over 20 years. i started out as an academic librarian assisting students & faculty & moved into corporate libraries after that. I provided research assistance to government entities as well as NGOs but preferred working with students & moved back into the academic world until I found my true calling: public library work. I'm the adult & teen librarian at a small public library in Eastern Washington & I love everything I do including collection development, programming, outreach, reference & everything in between. I provide support to our senior community & have partnered with the national council on aging to offer resources during the COVID shutdown. I would love to be elected as the secretary/communications member for SAIL to both grow as a librarian & offer any experience I can.

I've only ever been a member that attends conferences but would love to become more involved. I'd like to make sure SAIL and other similar sections get their message out to more people. That we get more resources into the hands of library staff who may not have heard about this organization before.

This is an incredibly important part of being a librarian. Too often we think we are automatically inclusive because we see libraries as the great equalizer but we all have our own biases & recognizing those & moving to be as diverse & inclusive as possible on a continuing natures is important. I am committed to doing everything I can to help empower the LGBTQ community as well as the BIPOC community.

Social Responsibilities Round Table (SRRT)

Interested in serving on the SRRT Steering Committee? Contact [email protected]!

Washington Library Employees (WALE) - Chair

JoLyn Reisdorf

I was the WALE chair in 2021 and the secretary/communications for WALE in 2020.  In addition to my experience with WLA, I have been a volunteer with Girl Scouts of Western Washington (GSWW) for many years.  My current roles with GSWW are facilitator, Spotlight Coach which helps established leaders to include topics such as EDI or girl led into troop meetings, and trip advisor for a trip to Belize in 2023 of 36 girl scouts.  The skills I would bring enthusiasm and positivity to the position of WALE chair.  I also have strong determination to complete some of the goals I had in 2021 that did not come to fruition because of the chaos of the pandemic such as regular meetups and communications.

I would like for WALE to once again be the space in which library workers are able to connect and learn.  2020/2021 were difficult years for everyone but especially library workers.  I hope in 2022 WALE can build a strong community that is the support and sounding board I think everyone is still looking for as we continue to change our service models as the pandemic continues. 

One of the ways I will promote EDI is by having conversations with others that inspect the way libraries conduct business and the foundations we have used to build our services.  There are many systems in place that are based on systemic racism, and I feel like until we discuss these systems openly the library profession will struggle to move toward action. 

Washington Library Employees (WALE) - Vice Chair/Chair-Elect

Interested in serving as WALE Vice Chair/Chair-Elect? Contact [email protected]!

Washington Library Employees (WALE) - Secretary/Communications

Michelle Massero

I have been a member of WLA for several years and have recently served in the Secretary/Communications position for CAYAS.

I would like WALE to be a valuable resource for all library employees to find networking and continuing education opportunities. I would work hard to find what the specific continuing education needs are and find creative ways for members to participate in them. For example, in person, online or asynchronously.

I would also like WALE to be a conduit for networking across different library systems and professions to help employees reach their career goals. I would work towards providing informal social opportunities as well as more structured programming to share experiences and brainstorm new ways to best meet the needs of our communities.

Washington Library Trainers (WALT)

Interested in serving on the WALT Steering Committee? Contact [email protected]!