Published: July 15, 2025

Sam Helmick, the incoming president of the American Library Association (ALA), is passionate about advocating for libraries and their essential role in society. In this episode of the SJSU School of Information’s Information Gone Wild podcast, the 2025-2026 ALA president shares insights about advocacy, the importance of libraries, and how library workers can make a lasting impact.

Q: What first drew you to advocacy?
A: I didn’t grow up using libraries, but I realized their value when I volunteered at a library in my small Iowa town. Advocacy connects people with information and opportunities, and it’s all about raising awareness about the importance of libraries.

Q: How do you deal with challenges in library advocacy?
A: I find inspiration in those advocating for libraries, especially during tough times. We are part of a larger community of educators, workers, and creators, and our profession allows us to create goodwill. Reminding ourselves of the public good we’re doing helps keep spirits up.

Q: What can people access from the American Library Association (ALA) for advocacy?
A: The ALA provides valuable resources through its Public Policy and Awareness Office and campaigns like Libraries Transform and Show Up for Our Libraries. These tools help library workers advocate for their communities and secure support for libraries at local, state, and federal levels.

Q: How has ALA’s social media presence evolved in recent months?
A: ALA’s social media now has a stronger focus on advocacy, with tools that help library workers easily connect with policymakers. This includes templates for letters to the editor or Congress and highlighting the value of libraries using data, like the return on investment in libraries.

Q: How does ALA encourage respect and dialogue across political divides?
A: ALA encourages library workers to remain grounded in the importance of their work. By focusing on research, data, and experiences, we can have respectful conversations about challenging topics, like book bans or divisive subjects, while maintaining our integrity and professionalism.

Q: How do you approach complex or adversarial conversations in advocacy?
A: Listening to understand is key. Whether discussing controversial topics like sex education or book bans, it’s important to hear the other side’s concerns. For example, in a conversation with my parents about sex education, I gently helped them understand how library services support diverse communities and needs.

Q: How do libraries create transformative experiences for people?
A: Libraries offer a safe space for learning, where people can explore ideas, make mistakes, and grow. They serve as thought partners and provide opportunities for both education and recreation. The vulnerability of learning is met with support, creating a space for personal transformation.

Q: What trends have impressed you in libraries over the years?
A: Libraries have evolved from being cold storage units for information to community-focused spaces. Today, libraries are human-centered, reflecting the diverse needs of their communities. This evolution highlights the importance of adapting to serve everyone, not just specific groups.

Q: How can library workers be effective in advocacy today?
A: By sharing stories of how libraries have positively impacted their communities, library workers can humanize the work and create greater understanding. Advocacy is not just about providing resources—it’s about showing the broader societal value of libraries.

Q: What advice would you give to students or new librarians pursuing leadership in the field?
A: Start by finding something you’re passionate about and pursue it. Get involved in professional organizations like the ALA and take advantage of programs like Emerging Leaders. Gaining leadership experience early, whether through mentorship or serving on committees, can set you on a path to leadership roles.

Q: Can you share any personal moments that shaped your journey?
A: A key moment for me was when I held a tarantula at a library event as part of a summer reading program. It was a transformative moment that showed me the power of libraries to bring people together, overcome fears, and create lasting connections.

Q: How do you envision the future of libraries and advocacy?
A: The future of libraries lies in their ability to adapt to the changing needs of society. Advocacy will continue to be vital in ensuring that libraries are resourced and supported. It’s important to engage communities, build coalitions, and ensure that libraries remain essential to civic life.

Tune in to the full episode of Information Gone Wild with our special guest Sam Helmick.