Raising Library Spirits - Uplifting the Future!
October19-22, 2025
Bayfront Convention Center, Erie, PA
The Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLA) Conference took place at the Bayfront Convention Center located on Lake Erie's Presque Isle Bay. More than 500 librarians, exhibitors and speakers congreated to participate in the 70+ educational sessions, dozens of poster presentationas, a two-day Library Products & Services Expo and numerous opportunities for informal networking and exploration of the Erie area.
With the 2025 conference theme "Raising Library Spirits - Uplifting the Future!" we celebrated how libraries have evolved and adapted in meeting the needs of today's patrons and how we can continue to evolve for the future!
Educational & Networking Opportunities
The 2025 Conference offered a wealth of opportunity for attendees to explore the area, network with their peers and learn from experts in the field, including inspiring keynote presenters. 2025 Conference Program Book
Inspiring Keynotes
Shamichael Hallman, Director of Civic Health & Economic Opportunity, Urban Libraries Council delivered an inspiring opening keynote address. His talk validated the purpose of libraries and the library's role as the place to develop positive outreach in communities of different socioeconomic statuses.
Attendees had the option to pre-purchase copies of Hallman's book, Meet Me at the Library for autographing after the presentation.
Closing Breakfast speaker and library technolgy consultant, Nick Tanzi, provided reassurance that libraries will remain relevant in the age of AI. In fact, libraries will become more important than ever as they offer guidance and resources to validate web content for patrons to discern what is real and what is not.
Tanzi's follow-up breakout session, "Media Literacy in the Age of AI" provided even more information and strategies for identifying AI content.
In addition, keynote presentations taking place during division lunches provided inspiration as well.
Author Shaunta Grimes, received the Carolyn W. Field Award for her book, Here I Am. An honest and uplifting story about the 17-year old character's experience with society's double standard surrounding body image and how to learn to live with and celebrate the body you're born with.
Dr. Milly Romeijn-Stout, guest faculty member of the University of Washington Information School discussed how libraries can incorporate key practices of neuroinclusion to improve library access for all during the College & Research Division Luncheon.
The Public Library Division keynote presentation by Dr. Helen Davis, English Professor, Wilkes University focused on self-care to enable library workers to remain resileint in the face of challenges and change.
Session Handouts
Many conference presenters shared their expertise during the educational sessions that took place throughout the conference. Handouts are available to conference attendees in the mobile app under the session listings.
Contact Kim Snyder Wise if you would like mobile app access to be resent to you.
Library Products & Services Expo
The Library Products & Services Expo offers one of the best opportunities for attendees to connect with library suppliers to learn of the latest innovations for libraries. This two-day show offers a concise schedule in an environment that promotes interaction with attendees through no-conflict exhibit time, exhibit hall activities and informal networking opportunities.
The 2025 Expo was represented by nearly 70 exhibiting companies. Of these, approximately 18 percent were new exhibit partners! Attend the PaLA Library Products & Services Expo to connect with both established and new vendors to assist in your library product & service needs.
Thank You for Your Dedication & Support
The conference wouldn't be possilbe without our dedicated 2025 Conference Planning Committee led by conference chair, Robyn Vittek, Director of the Mt. Lebanon Public Library.
Addtionally, the generous support of conference Sponsors and Friends Group Contributors provides the means to engage top-notch presenters and keep costs affordable for attendees.
We encourage you to reach out and express your gratititude to these wonderful library supporters: