2025 New York Library Association Conference
Saratoga Springs, NY
I recently attended the NYLA Annual Conference in Saratoga Springs, thanks to a professional development grant from CLRC. It was a wonderful experience. I attended a session on “HR in Small Libraries” that was very helpful in my current role. I loved the session on “The State of Libraries” with the New York State Librarian, Lauren Moore. Another very impactful session was on mapping out a professional development plan to reach your career goals. I plan to share this session info with team members here at FCL, to help them create a PDP to meet their own goals.
Other sessions were about innovative library of things collections, engaging with teens, technology assistance, and using makerspace technology to make library signage and materials. I found so many great ideas at all of these sessions and I’m eager to share them with our team.
Other highlights include networking with other library leaders. Many colleagues from the OCPL system were in attendance and it was great to talk with them. I loved the NYLA Trade Show, especially seeing our architect from a recent major renovation at FCL. It was exciting to see that they’ve included pictures of our new library in their trade show display! Our team visited Northshire Bookstore, which was really wonderful to see as someone who is a fan of bookstores. Overall, this one one of the best conferences I have attended.
Thank you to CLRC for supporting these opportunities for small libraries. We are so grateful.
Brenda Shea, Library Director
Fairmount Community Library
Are you interested in being our next Professional Development Award recipient? Check out the award page for the rules & requirements!
