The group met 4-6 times this reporting period.
After reviewing the current PLA Strategic Plan, please tell us:
Describe the current work of this committee and how it supports our strategic goals. Include work accomplished, decisions made, and any recommended follow-up actions.
The Advocacy and Strategic Partnerships Committee continues to support the Public Library Association's Strategic Plan by advancing advocacy efforts through collaboration, relationship-building, and information sharing among members. Since advocacy has taken on renewed urgency across the library profession since 2018, the committee continues to focus strengthening PLA's role as a platform for highlighting the impact of public libraries and supporting local advocacy initiatives.
Throughout the year, committee members have worked collaboratively to exchange ideas, identify emerging advocacy opportunities, and share successful practices from their communities. Regular discussions have provided a valuable forum for members to learn from one another, explore strategic partnerships, and discuss challenges and opportunities affecting public libraries nationwide.
The committee's work aligns with PLA's strategic goal of championing the good work occurring in libraries at the local level while providing resources, connections, and support that empower library leaders and staff in their own advocacy efforts. By fostering communication and knowledge-sharing across diverse library systems, the committee helps strengthen the collective voice of public libraries and contributes to a more informed and engaged advocacy network.
In addition, the committee hosted an open Member Lounge session, Get Loud for Libraries, during the PLA Conference in Minneapolis. The session provided an informal and engaging space for conference attendees to connect, share advocacy successes and challenges, and discuss effective strategies for elevating the visibility and value of public libraries in their communities. The conversation reinforced the importance of peer learning and collaboration, enabling participants to exchange practical ideas, build new professional relationships, and strengthen their capacity to advocate for libraries at the local, state, and national levels.
Do you see opportunities to better align committee work with those goals?
There are opportunities to further align the committee's work with PLA's strategic goals by continuing to strengthen information sharing, advocacy capacity, and strategic partnerships. Committee members have expressed a strong interest in understanding the evolving public policy and political landscape and in sharing ideas, resources, and best practices for advancing public library priorities with state and local elected officials.
At the same time, the committee has encountered challenges in identifying and navigating pathways to meaningful national partnerships that align with PLA's advocacy priorities. Continued coordination with ALA's Committee on Legislation (COL) and state library association chapters remains important to ensure consistent messaging, avoid duplication of effort, and leverage existing advocacy networks.
What recommendations do you have for in-coming committee members? Are there particular streams of
work in progress to be carried over into the new committee year? (January–June reporting period only)
As the committee moves forward, it will be important to focus on activities that produce tangible outcomes and actionable information while honoring the time and expertise contributed by committee members. Prioritizing collaborative efforts that result in practical resources, shared learning, and stronger advocacy connections will help maximize the committee's impact and support PLA's strategic objectives.
What specific activities will this committee undertake over the next six months to support that alignment? (July–December reporting period only)
Are there other PLA or ALA committees whose partnership and collaboration would accelerate meeting PLA strategic goals?
ALA COL, ALA Chapter Relations, ALA COLA
Is there anything else about your committee experience you’d like to share?
Thank you to the Advocacy and Strategic Partnership committee members and PLA staff for their collaboration, commitment, and willingness to share ideas and experiences. I especially appreciated the opportunity to help facilitate the Get Loud for Libraries conversation at the PLA Conference and to work alongside colleagues who are passionate about advancing advocacy for public libraries.
Submitted by Susan Hempstead on 06/10/2026