The group met 2-3 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 Advisory group focused on 2 of the goals in PLA's starting plan Professional Growth & Advocacy and Awareness.
The group worked on creating ideas for sharing information on AI thru webinars, best practice and presenting in a session at ALA. A subgroup was developing handouts for best practices on AI with librarians.
Do you see opportunities to better align committee work with those goals?
Collaborating with the Technology Advisory Group on emerging technology such as AI in term of both staff and publics use would be beneficial.
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)
Areas of focus for next year could include working with groups on ensuring E rate funding continues, especially after hot spots were considered eligible and now funding is in jeopardy.
Being informed about changes in FCC both in terms of leadership and regulations.
Creating better communication and information sharing with local libraries and the Digital Library group's work. Knowing what others are providing in services and needs can help inform the group about gaps in order to be able to better meet those need.
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 Digital inclusion Working Group in order to ensure equitable access.
ALA ' s Information Technology Policy Advisory Committee to advocate for libraries.
Communication with National Telecommunication & Information Administration (NTIA) for broadband issues to build awareness and share stories of library's impacts.
Is there anything else about your committee experience you’d like to share?
It is always a pleasure to serve on committees or advisory group. PLA staff are wonderful to work with.
Submitted by Patricia Ball & Julianne Rist on 06/13/2025