Published: August 8, 2025 by Lennox Bishop

I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to present on behalf of Reading Nation Waterfall at the ALA 2025 Conference. Alongside other members of the team, I presented at the SJSU Poster Session, as well as at a group presentation session where we had the pleasure of diving into the details of the foundation and history of the project, plus some next steps. 

There was an effervescent energy in the room, one that was clearly centered around a common desire for community support and collective action. We shared about replication and what it looks like to create a Book Ecosystem in one’s own community. I met so many amazing individuals who were interested in taking part in the work, and learned about numerous opportunities for collaboration, further involvement, and contribution to similar initiatives in the LIS field.

I came away from the conference with a renewed sense of excitement and readiness to dive further into the necessary work of literacy support for oppressed communities. I could not have asked for a better opportunity in my first year of the SJSU MLIS program. My experience at ALA was unforgettable. I made connections that I will never forget!

Editor’s Note: The SJSU iSchool highly encourages students to attend professional conferences but also realizes that it can be cost prohibitive. Travel grants are available to eligible students to help lessen the financial burden and increase conference participation. iSchool student Lennox Bishop​ received one of these travel grants.