Dr. Anthony Chow, a distinguished professor and director of the San José State University School of Information, has been elected president-elect of the California Library Association. Chow secured 52% of the vote, surpassing opponent Migell Acosta, who received 46%.

Chow’s election holds personal significance. Losing his father to COVID-19 is a daily reminder of his family’s journey as immigrants and the central role libraries played in their lives. “Libraries are the great equalizer,” Chow said, emphasizing their value across communities regardless of race or socioeconomic status. His term allows him to honor his parents’ sacrifices and further his lifelong passion for libraries.

In the first year of his term, Chow will serve as president-elect under current CLA President Genesis Hansen, an SJSU alum. “My role in Year 1 will be to support Genesis Hansen and her vision for the association,” Chow explained. “Then, in Year 2, from October 2025 to September 2026, I will focus on initiatives to strengthen and grow CLA’s membership and expand our reach.”

Chow’s vision for his presidency centers on expanding CLA membership through targeted marketing strategies, including leveraging Google Ads, enhancing the CLA brand, and delivering tailored services to California librarians and Library and Information Science professionals. “We need to ensure all types of libraries and librarians feel represented, which should increase our membership and the overall value of CLA,” he said.

In addition to growing membership, Chow aims to integrate innovative technologies within CLA, exploring how tools like robots, eLearning, and extended reality technologies—such as Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality, and Augmented Reality—can enhance the association’s offerings and professional development opportunities. “Technology is evolving rapidly, and we must stay ahead by providing our members with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate these changes,” he said.

With a background in systems thinking, strategic planning, and technology integration, Chow is well-positioned to address California libraries’ challenges. “We will continue to advocate for libraries at the state level in Sacramento and ensure our members have access to professional development opportunities, including a focus on AI and other emerging technologies,” he added.

One of Chow’s most ambitious goals is implementing CLA’s new strategic plan. He plans to leverage his experience to raise funds, build relationships, and bolster support for libraries and librarians. “My goal is to develop resources that keep CLA a strong voice for libraries throughout the state,” Chow said.

Chow’s commitment to libraries’ evolving role is evident in his current projects, which include early literacy and digital preservation initiatives for Indigenous communities. “I live every day in my father’s honor by dedicating myself to education, the common good, and advocating for libraries,” he emphasized.

Joining Chow on the CLA Board of Directors is Sharon Tani who ran for director-at-large. Tani, an SJSU alum, received 55% of the vote on the recent CLA election. She expressed her excitement about joining the CLA Board and her commitment to representing California’s diverse library community. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the association’s growth and to advocate for libraries of all types,” Tani said.

As a new member of the CLA Board, Tani’s initial responsibility is to familiarize herself with the association’s ongoing activities and support current initiatives. She acknowledged the progress made in recovering from disruptions to library services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She noted other challenges, such as the rise in book challenges, dwindling funding, work-life balance, and the personal safety of library staff. “The continuity of CLA as an organization is important right now, as is ensuring financial stability and enhancing opportunities for California libraries through responsible governance and valued partnerships,” Tani said.

Tani was co-chair of the recent CLA annual conference, one of the best-attended events in recent years with over 1,600 participants, more than 90 exhibitors, and two sold-out ticketed events. “We’re moving in the right direction, providing a meaningful experience for our profession,” she said. “Collectively, we’ve worked hard in our libraries to keep the momentum going and have earned our successes, self-respect, and optimism.”

Reflecting on her time as a student at SJSU, Tani shared how her education and experience in the Master of Library and Information Science degree program shaped her approach to her new role. “My graduate education through SJSU’s MLIS program was enjoyable and worthwhile,” she said. “In addition to working part time in libraries, my program provided a solid foundation for progressively more responsible roles.” She emphasized how shared experiences and values among SJSU alums support her work within CLA.

Over the years, Tani has contributed to CLA on several committees, including the Finance, Awards & Scholarships, and Conference Planning Committees. She has also helped evaluate applicants for the Catalyst Leadership Development program and advised CLA+CA State Library’s CALL Academy. As chair of the CLA PRExcellence Awards Committee since 2016, she has enjoyed highlighting outstanding marketing campaigns that communicate library messages effectively.

Looking forward, Tani aims to encourage new and returning members to get involved in CLA initiatives. “Every member can serve as an ambassador and contribute their talents to the group,” she said.

Tani’s experience in public, academic, and special libraries throughout California and her creative arts background informs her approach as director-at-large. She emphasized the importance of addressing key issues, such as advocacy, legislation, and funding while celebrating libraries’ achievements. “There’s a need to revisit our forward progress and reflect on what we’ve gained to rejuvenate our profession and support our library leaders, managers, staff, allies, and supporters,” Tani noted. “As libraries, we’ve survived and thrived for centuries, doing honest, good work with genuine goodwill, and there’s a lot of high-fives to be had for that!”

Congratulations to Chow and Tani and all of the CLA election winners.