Becky Calzada

For ALA President 2027-2028

As a lifelong advocate for libraries and a dedicated public school educator, my professional concerns are rooted in upholding the core values of the American Library Association in every opportunity I am given to serve. These values, Access, Equity, Intellectual Freedom and Privacy, Public Good, and Sustainability, are not only aspirational but essential to the health and longevity of our profession and our democracy.

I believe that we must continue to champion these values by advocating for inclusive policies, defending the right to read, and ensuring that every community, regardless of geography or demographics, has access to fully funded, professionally staffed libraries. Promoting inter-division and roundtable collaboration and communication is key to building stronger networks, increasing innovation, and avoiding siloed thinking. Collaboration strengthens our library ecosystem, allowing us to amplify our collective voice.

My priority also lies in communicating our value. There are many great things happening in our libraries. We must tell those powerful stories of impact happening across all library types because they demonstrate our impact. When we elevate these successes, we not only inspire one another, but we also build crucial public and political support.

Finally, I am committed to executing the goals outlined in ALA’s Strategic Plan by translating strategic objectives into meaningful action. This includes supporting sustainability efforts, operationalizing equity and access at all levels, and engaging in continuous leadership development. Libraries are essential public institutions, and it is our responsibility to ensure they remain vibrant, responsive, and resilient.

Through collaboration, strategic focus, and unwavering commitment to our ALA core values, we can continue to position libraries as pillars of truth, inclusion, and opportunity in every community we serve.