The California Library Association has announced the roster of candidates for the Board of Directors. Continuing a strong representation of leaders from the San José State University School of Information, the 2022 CLA ballot includes the iSchool’s director and two alumni.

Dr. Anthony Chow, director of SJSU School of Information, is running for president elect of CLA. Chow decided to run on the recommendation of a former CLA president and his experience serving on the CLA board. He also lists his energy and passion for libraries as another reason to run. “When it comes to libraries and coupled with a lot of experience in leadership, libraries, and managing organizations, I am a really strong fit for the position,” said Chow.

Chow notes that no matter what the election results, his work will continue with the organization. “I think we would all do a great job, and I will continue to fight for libraries no matter what my role is with CLA,” stated Chow.

Joining Chow on the ballot are two alumni of the SJSU School of Information, Kris Amaral and Stefanie Gyles, who are both running for the three director at-large open positions.

Amaral, ’16 MLIS, is a managing librarian for the Monterey County Free Libraries. “I have seen the need for a rural library voice, and I would like the opportunity to take a more active role in having that voice heard,” wrote Amaral in her candidate statement.

For Gyles, running is an “opportunity to enhance my professional development and network fellow library staff who are also passionate about their career.” Gyles graduated from the iSchool in 2007 and is looking at the position to “bring a different perspective to the board” as a senior librarian at Mule Creek State Prison.

Voting in the CLA election will open on October 10 and close on October 28, 2022. Only CLA voting members in good standing are eligible to participate in the election. More information about the election and candidates can be found on the CLA website.