CALA Northeast Chapter:
2025 CALA Northeast Chapter Annual Conference (Hybrid): Strengthening Our Resilience and Solidarity in Library and Information Sciences (LIS)

1:30 - 2:25 pm

Lightning Talks: "Chinese American Librarians at the Cutting Edge of LIS" 

1:30 - 1:40 pm

“CALA Members Participation in Chinese Library Annual Conferences 2013-2024”

• • • • • • • • Michael Huang, Director of Global Library Initiatives, Health Sciences Librarian, and Distinguished Librarian, Stony Brook University

              • Abstract: The Chinese American Librarians Association (CALA), officially established in 1973, is committed to establishing closer relationships and collaborations with national and international library organizations, such as ALA, IFLA and the Library Society of China, to advocate equity, diversity, inclusion, social justice, and open access. CALA promotes and supports international library-related activities and programs in accordance with CALA’s strategic plan. In support of the CALA’s global mission, CALA members have strived to engage in global library projects and collaborations including; Think Globally Act Globally, a U.S.-China Librarian Collaboration Project, CALA 21st Century Librarian Seminar Series, CALA academic sessions presented at Chinese Library Annual Conferences, participation in Shanghai International Library Forums (2002 to present), and serving as chairs and members of IFLA divisions and section standing committees and leadership positions of ALA. The current global crisis has highlighted more than ever the importance of our role in promoting international library collaborations for a sustainable future. As Chair of the International Relations Committee and CALA Representative to the Library Society of China, I have organized and chaired seven CALA academic sessions at the Chinese Library Annual Conferences held in various cities in China since 2013. This presentation will showcase CALA members' global library engagement and scholarly achievements, focusing our participation and engagement in Chinese Library Annual Conferences.

1:40 - 1:50 pm

“Identifying Department Priorities During Times of Uncertainty”

• • • • • • • • Bonnie L. Fong, Head for Research & Reference Services/Librarian, Montclair State University

              • Abstract: In times of change and uncertainty, it is crucial for all personnel in a public services department to be on the same page about department priorities. This lightning talk will outline a practical approach for department heads to engage their teams in identifying and refining priorities that align with both library goals and the broader organizational mission. By involving team members in this process, leaders can foster a greater sense of ownership, collaboration, and motivation. This inclusive approach helps ensure the department remains adaptable and united, even when external circumstances shift unexpectedly, allowing the team to stay focused and resilient through change.

1:50 - 2:00 pm

“AI in Library Workflows: Enhancing Productivity and Better Decision-Making”

• • • • • • • • Jia Mi, Electronic Resources/Serials Librarian, The College of New Jersey

              • Abstract: As libraries adapt to evolving user needs and budget constraints, AI-powered tools are revolutionizing workflows, enhancing productivity, and optimizing collection management. This presentation explores how AI improves data analysis, resource allocation, and decision-making, enabling librarians to streamline operations and make informed choices. By integrating AI into library workflows, librarians can reduce manual workload, increase efficiency, and improve overall library operations. Join us to explore how AI-driven solutions are shaping the future of academic libraries and empowering librarians to make smarter, data-driven decisions.

2:00 - 2:10 pm

“AI Hubs in Libraries: Shaping the Future of Learning”

• • • • • • • • Jane Jiang, Director of Libraries, Union College

              • Abstract: AI hubs serve as dynamic spaces where students, educators, and researchers engage with artificial intelligence tools and applications. The hub provides hands-on access to AI-driven research support, data analysis tools, and certification programs designed to enhance digital literacy. By integrating AI into library services, institutions can improve information discovery, automate workflows, and support faculty in embedding AI into teaching and learning. Will discuss how AI hub is shaping the future of academic libraries.

2:35 - 3:30 pm

Lightning Talks: “Balancing Our Well-being & Career Growth”

2:35 - 2:45 pm

“Sustainable Librarianship: Nurturing Yourself for Professional Growth”

• • • • • • • • Cindy Li, Associate Director for Library Tech & Innovation, Pratt Institute

              • Abstract: Library professionals are deeply committed to serving their communities, but how can they ensure their own well-being and long-term growth? Sustainable professional success requires both intentional self-care and strategic collaboration to prevent burnout and stay motivated. This presentation will explore practical approaches for developing self-care routines while leveraging the power of collaboration to foster both personal well-being and professional growth.

2:45 - 2:55 pm

“Finding My Voice: Bridging Multicultural Gaps as a Bilingual Librarian”

• • • • • • • • Hui Liu, Reference Librarian, Thomas Crane Public Library

              • Abstract: In this lightning talk, I will share my journey from a general library assistant to a reference librarian-bilingual community liaison, navigating career transitions while serving a diverse community with 30% Asian residents. While working as a bilingual library assistant, I earned my Master’s in Library Science remotely from UIUC, which led to a promotion to the reference department. Now, having graduated last December, I’m transitioning into a more specialized role of Bilingual Community Liaison. As the only professional librarian representing the Chinese population in my public library, I’ll discuss how my bilingual roles were created to address the community’s needs and how I’ve worked to strengthen multicultural communication through outreach and programs. I’ll also reflect on overcoming imposter syndrome as a minority librarian, finding confidence in my voice, and advocating for more inclusive services. Attendees will gain practical strategies for breaking down cultural barriers, creating inclusive services, and embracing the power of representation in library work. 

2:55 - 3:05 pm

“Early Career Burnout in Libraries: The Importance of Positive Workplace Practices for Retention”

• • • • • • • • Sunny Chung, Health Sciences Librarian and Senior Assistant Librarian, Stony Brook University

              • Michael Murphy, Politics, Policy, and Data Librarian, Seton Hall University

              • Natalie Lau, Scholarly Communications Librarian, Seton Hall University

              • Abstract: As a new generation of librarians enters the field, undergoing significant technological and institutional changes, there are questions emerging about higher turnover and whether it's rooted in generational career expectations contributing to higher turnover or if there is a broader disconnect between institutional and individual expectations. We will discuss the experiences of three early career librarians in various subject specialties and institutions to identify the provocation triggers of burnout in academic libraries. By exploring themes of micro-managing, bullying, and institutional culture, our research seeks to understand how these factors contribute to burnout and how supportive environments and mentorship may prevent it.

3:05 - 3:15 pm

“Navigating Career Transitions – From Staff at Princeton to Manager at Harvard”

• • • • • • • • Yuan Li, University Scholarly Communication Officer and Director of Open Scholarship and Research Data Services, Harvard University

              • Abstract: Transitioning from a staff role to a managerial position is a significant career milestone, requiring shifts in mindset, skill sets, and workplace dynamics. This presentation explores the speaker’s journey from a staff role at Princeton to a managerial position at Harvard, highlighting the motivations behind the transition, the challenges encountered, and the key lessons learned along the way. This presentation is designed for professionals aspiring to move into leadership roles and those looking to navigate career transitions effectively within academic and research institutions.

*The following is the official call for proposals sent out via the CALA email listserv:

Dear [XXX],

CALA-NE (Chinese American Librarians Association Northeast Chapter) is now accepting proposals for presentations at our 2025 Annual Conference on April 11, 2025 (Friday) at Walsh Library, Seton Hall University.

Our theme for this year’s meeting is: Strengthening our Resiliency and Solidarity in Library and Information Sciences (LIS). 

We welcome proposals for lightning talk presentations on a topic or a project related to our conference theme. Topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Dealing with job precarity in the face of downsizing, restructuring, AI, etc.

• Navigating career transitions (e.g., from library school to library work, from staff to manager, from small to large library, from public to academic library, from library to “industry,” freelancing, etc.)

• Managing challenging conversations in the workplace (e.g., salary negotiation, accessibility needs, conflict resolution, etc.)

• Developing self-care strategies and routines for sustainable professional growth

• Overcoming imposter syndrome

• Attracting and retaining talents for library organizations

• Curating professional development and career advancement resources

• Developing community-based knowledge, collections, services, and public programs

• Harnessing collaborations, mentorship, and communities of practice

Format:

All lightning talk presentations should be under 10 minutes and delivered in person.

>>>SUBMIT YOUR PROPOSAL HERE!<<<

Last day of application: March 7, 2025. 

Proposers should expect an update on the status of their proposals by March 15, 2025.

Remember:

• Anyone may propose a presentation; you do not need to be a CALA Northeast Chapter member to submit a proposal!

• All presenters and in-person attendees will be asked to abide by SHU Walsh Library’s Policies & Rules.

• Scholarship option for students: As part of CALA’s goal to promote the development of Chinese and American librarianship with scholarships and grants, the Northeast Chapter hopes to award scholarships to students interested in presenting their work and/or engaging in professional development at our annual conference. Interested students may submit an application here.

Your CALA NE Chapter officers for 2024-2025,

Yuzhou Bai (President)

Amanda He (Vice President/President-Elect)

Jeanie Pai (Treasurer)

Sunny Chung (Program Co-Chair)

Natalie Lau (Program Co-Chair)

Ruth Xing (Web Manager)

Student Scholarship Application: CALA-NE 2025 Annual Conference

As part of CALA’s goal to promote the development of Chinese and American librarianship with scholarships and grants, the Northeast Chapter hopes to award several scholarships to students interested in presenting their work and/or engaging in professional development at our annual conference. 

This scholarship will cover incidentals, including travel and meals to/from Seton Hall University's Walsh Library on April 11, 2025. Recipients will be reimbursed based on the strength of their personal statement and their demonstrated financial need. We strongly encourage applicants to also submit a presentation proposal and concurrently apply for financial assistance from their home institutions.

Eligibility: 

• All currently enrolled students in an LIS (Library & Information Science) program, and students in other academic programs with a demonstrated interest in the LIS field, are encouraged to apply.

• Priority will be given to those who submit a presentation proposal.

• Priority will be given to students based in the Northeast region (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont).

• Upon accepting the award, scholarship recipients must activate their CALA membership prior to the annual meeting. This scholarship cannot be used to cover the CALA student membership fee. For more information on CALA membership, please visit the CALA National website.