The group met 1 time 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 Publications Committee advises on editorial themes and content for Public Libraries magazine, Public Libraries Online, and the FYI podcast. The committee met in August 2025 and January 2026 with a focus on 2026 planning and content for Public Libraries. Recent work has focused on shaping the 2026 magazine themes; identifying and recruiting contributors; advising on feature articles related to AI, equity, access, and inclusion; supporting podcast development; and preparing for the selection of Feature Article Contest winners. This work supports PLA’s strategic goals by elevating practical public library practice, highlighting innovation, and advancing equity and inclusion.
Do you see opportunities to better align committee work with those goals?
The committee sees opportunities to further strengthen alignment by continuing to prioritize contributors from small, rural, and underrepresented libraries, and by identifying stories and voices that directly support PLA’s focus on equity, workforce development, and community impact.
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)
Key work to carry forward includes ongoing contributor recruitment for upcoming magazine issues, continued advisory support for Public Libraries Online and FYI podcast content, and participation in reviewing and selecting winners for the 2025 Feature Article Contest.
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?
Continued collaboration with PLA and ALA committees focused on digital literacy, equity and inclusion, and professional development could further strengthen editorial pipelines and ensure content aligns closely with member needs and strategic priorities.
Is there anything else about your committee experience you’d like to share?
The committee made strong progress during this reporting period, especially supported by the guidance of Kathleen Hughes. Our work naturally highlighted the value of a cross‑platform approach, weaving together Public Libraries Online, the FYI podcast, and the broader PLA conference programming schedule. One of the highlights for me was the mix of perspectives in the committee. Members come from libraries of all sizes and backgrounds, and that range sparked thoughtful conversations. I really enjoyed the collaboration—especially when we met in person at conference.
Submitted by Phyllis Gorshe on 02/04/2026