 NYLA Unit ElectionsThe NYLA Elections run from June 2 to June 16, 2026. To vote in this election, you must be an active NYLA Member and a member of the Unit. To learn about each Unit's slate, please click on the Unit you wish to view below.
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NYLA Unit ElectionsThe NYLA Elections run from June 2 to June 16, 2026. To vote in this election, you must be an active NYLA Member and a member of the Unit. To learn about each Unit's slate, please click on the Unit you wish to view below.
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I am pleased to be able to be a candidate for the position of Vice President of the NYLA Friends of the Library Section. Throughout my career as a library worker - first as a Teen Librarian and now as a public library system staff member - I have been fortunate to work with outstanding friends groups and witness their passion for helping their hometown library services be the best they can be. It would be a true privilege to support these groups as they pursue their mission in changing times, advocate for the development of friends organizations across the state, and to serve the section in its vital work in support of all who treasure their libraries.
I have the privilege of being a Friend helping Friends. Our unit Mission is “FLS creates a network to connect and inspire Friends groups in all types of libraries to support the New York library community.” As a member of the FLS Board (and the precursor Empire Friends Roundtable) since 2012, I’ve met and worked with library Friends, library staff, and civic leaders across the state. All of these people have one common goal; to ensure that libraries thrive! I’m looking forward to another term as FLS Treasurer to continue this work with the FLS Executive Board, Auxiliary Volunteers, state-wide Friends and library workers. There is so much that we can do together – and the more Friends we have, the better!
I am the current FLS Councilor and would be honored to serve another term representing the FLS Section. I believe that Friends of the Library are essential partners in the success of libraries. Their dedication, creativity, and advocacy ensure that libraries remain vibrant centers of learning and community connection. I look forward to the opportunity to continue representing the FLS Section and advancing our shared goals to NYLA.
I am the Executive Director of the Friends of the Saratoga Springs Public Library, where I lead all aspects of fundraising, membership, events, and community engagement. In this role, I have expanded membership, increased revenue, and introduced new initiatives that strengthen our organization's visibility and impact. I am running for a position within the Friends of Libraries Section because I am passionate about the role Friends groups play in supporting and advocating for libraries. I believe deeply in the power of sharing ideas, resources, and best practices to help organizations grow and thrive. Through my professional background in development, marketing, and nonprofit leadership, I bring a collaborative and strategic approach. I am particularly interested in helping Friends groups strengthen fundraising efforts, build sustainable programs, and deepen community connections. I would be honored to contribute to a network that supports and elevates Friends organizations across New York State.
Serving as a member at large for FLS offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the organization's mission. This role provides diverse perspectives to decision-making, collaborate with fellow board members, and help shape initiatives that benefit the broader community. Additionally, it is a chance to expand your professional network and be involved in the governance and advocacy to protect our libraries and librarians. In addition, members at large often participate in committees or projects, ensuring that all voices are heard and that programs are inclusive and effective. Their involvement helps strengthen the sense of community and ensures that the organization's activities align with members' interests and goals.
I am pleased to be nominated for this position. As an existing Member-at-Large, I look forward to continuing to work with this dedicated group of library professionals. As one of the first recipients of the Randall Enos Conference Scholarship, I have FLS to thank for getting me involved with such a committed organization. As a member of my Friends Group, I appreciate their importance and look forward to continuing assisting FLS in meeting their goals and plans for the future.
I am honored to accept nomination for Corresponding Secretary of the New York Black Librarian's Caucus. I am a Children's Librarian with decades of experience in public, school, and special libraries. After graduating from Virginia State University and completing Library Science studies at Pratt Institute, I began my career at the Brooklyn Public Library, working primarily in Children's Rooms and serving young readers and families across diverse communities. This work strengthened my organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to clear, timely communication. My professional background also includes serving as a Library Reference Specialist at Essence Magazine, where I coordinated information services, developed youth outreach initiatives, and organized tours and speaking engagements throughout New York City public schools. These responsibilities required managing correspondence, maintaining records, and supporting collaborative projects. I later worked as a high school Media Specialist in Charlotte, North Carolina, teaching research skills and supporting both general education and special needs students. Currently, I serve as a Children's Librarian in Cambria Heights, where I develop educational programs, communicate with families and community partners, and advance literacy advocacy. I am committed to the mission of the New York Black Librarian's Caucus and would serve collaboratively as Corresponding Secretary effectively.
I've been a public librarian for over 15 years and have worked as a circulation clerk, a children's librarian, and a public library system consultant. I've seen public librarianship from many angles and am deeply invested in library workers getting the support, education, and community they need to be successful. The Public Library Section of NYLA is perfectly placed to develop this kind of community for its members, and I'd love to bring my energy and experience to the party.
As a Youth Services Librarian in an urban library, I am deeply committed to empowering children and teens, fostering a lifelong love of literacy, and creating meaningful access to educational opportunities. Every day, I strive to ensure that young people feel seen, supported, and inspired whether they are discovering the joy of reading for the first time or seeking resources to shape their futures. As a first-year Member-at-Large, I bring both dedication and a fresh perspective to this role. I am eager to champion innovative, inclusive approaches that reflect the diverse needs of the communities we serve. I believe public libraries are not just spaces for information, but vital hubs of connection, creativity, and growth. I am passionate about collaborating with colleagues to strengthen youth services, advocate for equitable access, and amplify the voices of young people. Through this work, I hope to help build library environments where every child and teen has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and imagine what is possible.
I am currently pursuing the advanced certificate in public library administration through Long Island University and am eager to become more involved in the library community. In my current role as Adult Services Librarian at the New Rochelle Public Library, I manage multiple collections, deliver reference and instructional services to diverse patron populations, and support adult programming. I am also active in fostering continuous improvement through committee participation. Additionally, I serve as Vice President of our CSEA local unit, representing more than 25 staff members and fostering collaborative labor relations. Prior to becoming a librarian I worked for over twenty years as a music educator where I was a member of several professional organizations and had a leadership role in the teacher's union. I would welcome the opportunity to serve as a member of the PLS leadership during the coming term.
I am honored to run for President of the NYLA/SSL Board. Over 13 years as a school librarian and through progressive leadership at the local, regional, and state levels, I have seen firsthand the challenges our profession faces and the extraordinary dedication of the people within it. That experience has deepened my commitment to advocating for school librarians and the students and communities we serve. As President, I want to amplify member voices, strengthen connections between school librarians across the state, and champion our profession wherever decisions about librarians are being made. I believe in a board that is responsive, collaborative, and focused on practical support for its members. I am grateful for the trust of my colleagues and look forward to serving in this new capacity.
Margo is the district-wide Library Media Specialist at Brasher Falls Central School District and a Secretary candidate for SSL. With six years of prior English teaching experience, she's deeply committed to fostering a love of reading and media literacy among students. Her school and community involvement is extensive, including service on the Technology Committee, Behavior Intervention/Threat Assessment Team, and as an advisor to the Class of 2029, Middle School Student Council, and Speech and Debate Club. She also serves as Secretary for the SLL BOCES SLS Council. Margo champions student choice and agency, creating an inclusive library environment where every student feels welcome. She teaches a college-credit media literacy course for juniors and seniors, addressing a critical skill gap. Through innovative programming, collaborative teaching partnerships, and a welcoming space, she works to engage all students. Her goal is straightforward; get kids to love reading. Margo seeks this SSL position to give back to the profession and continue advocating for libraries and librarians.
Sarah is a Library Media Specialist at Churchville-Chili Central School District and currently serves as the NYLA/SSL Membership Chair and Website Coordinator. She is a candidate for Vice President of Communications and is eager to expand her work supporting the organization through strategic communication, outreach, and a dynamic, accessible online presence for members. An active member of both her school community and the broader library profession, Sarah believes that serving on the NYLA/SSL board is a meaningful way to support and advocate for school librarians and the essential role they play in education. Her work is grounded in a commitment to empowering students through choice, autonomy, and access to diverse perspectives. She is passionate about fostering media literacy, creating inclusive and student-centered learning environments, and cultivating a lifelong love of reading and learning. Sarah values collaboration and is always eager to connect with fellow educators, share innovative practices in school librarianship, and bring new ideas back to her students and community.
Donna Gray is a Library Coordinator for the New York City School Library System. She has over twenty years of experience in K-12 education, library services, and higher education. Donna has previously worked at the New York Public Library as a Senior Young Adult Librarian, at Teacher's College, and the New York City Department of Education. Donna is currently the chair of the Black Caucus of the American Library Association & School Library Journal's Children & Young Adult Literary Awards, an executive committee member of Project Cicero, and an adjunct instructor at St. John Fisher University. She received her Master's in Library Science with a School Library Media concentration at Queens College, CUNY, and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Bankstreet College. Donna has worked in K-12, public, and reference library settings. She is interested in developing strategies and programs that help students become engaged, informed, active citizens and learners in their communities and beyond.
Krista Rozanski has been serving as the Library Media Specialist at Altmar-Parish-Williamstown Jr./Sr. High School for six years. She is an enthusiastic reader of cozy fantasy, a ballroom dancer, and a trail hiker. She has presented at the NYLA/SSL Conference for four years. Additionally, she has participated in panels at San Diego Comic-Con, including one focused on graphic novels in educational settings. She is excited to be part of the 
I have been director of the Kinderhook Library since 2022, and we began the process of becoming a certified Sustainable Library through the Sustainable Libraries Initiative almost immediately. We completed our certification in 2024, and throughout the process it became more and more apparent to me that sustainably is a vital part of the future of libraries. I believe that START is an important part of NYLA and a strong force for encouraging sustainable practices in New York Libraries. I would love the opportunity to take a further role in developing the future of this roundtable.
I currently serve as Assistant Department Head of Young Adult Services at Levittown Public Library and am deeply passionate about the mission of the Sustainable Thinking and Action Roundtable (START). I seek to apply my experience in financial stewardship and organizational leadership to support and advance its ongoing initiatives. I have previously served as Treasurer for both the NCLA Children's Services Division and the NCLA Young Adult Services Division. In these roles, I was responsible for budget management, financial tracking, and the preparation of clear, accurate reports. These experiences strengthened my organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to transparency and accountability. If elected, I will ensure that START's financial records are maintained accurately and with care, that reports are prepared in a timely and accessible manner, and that all financial matters are communicated clearly to the board. I am committed to supporting responsible decision-making, ensuring the effective use of resources, and upholding the trust placed in this position. Thank you for your consideration. It would be an honor to serve.
My name is Katherine Pizzuto, and I currently work at a haunted, 100 year-old library called the Lackawanna Public Library. In the five years I've been a librarian I've fostered a passion for community, art, advocacy, and of course books! I've shown this passion through programs, committee work, and TikToks! I live in Buffalo, NY and like most Buffalonians, am very proud of it. Throughout the years NYLA has given me so many wonderful opportunities to grow as a person and as a Librarian. I'm a proud member of the 2025 NYLA Developing Leaders Cohort, and I recently joined the NYLA YSS Conference Committee. The experience has been electric! From finding an author, collaborating with members, and managing the day of conference, I loved every minute of it and it's given me invaluable experience in management and networking. NYLA has given so much to me, like-minded colleagues have become cherished friends, wonderful new ideas have become fully-fledged realities, and I've been fortunate enough to play a part in some wonderful growth and community outreach. I’d love nothing more than to help bring those gifts both to new members, and to the communities we serve. It is with that desire that I humbly submit my candidacy for President-Elect of the NYLA Youth Services Section.
My name is Kate Lambert (she/her), and I am a Children’s Librarian at the Saratoga Springs Public Library. I earned my MSIS from SUNY Albany in 2016 and have worked in public libraries for the past ten years. I have worked in teen, adult, and youth services. I am passionate about cultivating an inclusive library environment and creating opportunities for kids to be creative, make connections, and develop a love of learning and reading. I received the 2023 Southern Adirondack Library System Program of the Year Award for Neurodiversity Club and have since been working toward more accessibility in all our library programs and spaces. I deeply appreciate the connections I’ve made through YSS. I believe I would make a good secretary because I am reliable, I have good organizational skills, and people often comment on my fast typing. I look forward to the opportunity to get more involved with YSS.
I am the Assistant Director and Teen Librarian at the Baldwinsville Public Library in Onondaga County. I love leading crafting programs for teens to encourage them to showcase their talents through their art. I focus on showcasing diverse voices, genres, topics and more while curating multiple collections. I’m interested in leading the committee for the 2029 YSS conference because it is invaluable for the youth services community. Connecting and listening to library staff from around the state is essential for our continued improvement, support, and to feel like someone else understands the joys and struggles of the every day in this career. As a frequent attendee and presenter at the YSS conferences, I am excited to bring the 2029 conference to Syracuse! Our city is in the midst of a beautiful transformation and I can’t wait for the NYLA YSS community to see it 2029. There will be multiple options for locations and the committee will focus on selecting an affordable, accessible, and welcoming space for our community to connect and grow together. As a committee member I strive to work in concert with other library staff and with NYLA to make the 2029 conference another absolute success!