TLA's Libraries Transform Texas Podcast

Texas Library Association
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This monthly podcast is a production of the Texas Library Association. It’s designed to showcase the amazing work of Texas librarians and the influence of Texas libraries. #librariestransformtx

  1. Connecting Communities to Opportunity: How Libraries Power Workforce Development

    3D AGO

    Connecting Communities to Opportunity: How Libraries Power Workforce Development

    In this episode, guest host Christina Taylor sits down with Emily Hersh, workforce development consultant at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, to explore how public libraries are expanding their role as hubs for workforce and economic opportunity. Emily shares how she supports libraries across Texas through training, resources, and partnerships, helping them better serve patrons seeking jobs, skills training, or support in starting a business. The conversation reframes workforce development as more than employment services, highlighting the wide range of support libraries provide—from resume help and job applications to digital literacy, ESL, GED preparation, and entrepreneurship programming. They also discuss the critical role libraries play as community connectors, bringing together partners such as Workforce Solutions offices, adult education providers, small business development centers, and SCORE. Emily highlights key tools available to libraries, including LearningExpress Library, Udemy, and Gale resources, and shares real-world examples of impact, including a library-led GED program that expanded access through dedicated staffing. Throughout the episode, the conversation underscores how libraries are uniquely positioned to meet community needs, remove barriers, and create pathways to economic mobility. This episode is sponsored by Inchy's Bookworm Vending Machine from bookvending.com. Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

    23 min
  2. Cultivating Community: A Preview of the 2026 TLA Annual Conference

    FEB 25

    Cultivating Community: A Preview of the 2026 TLA Annual Conference

    In this episode, host Katie Loomis of Texas Woman’s University is joined by 2025–26 Texas Library Association President Valerie Prilop and conference planning co-chairs Kate Carter and Brandi Grant for a preview of the 2026 TLA Annual Conference in Houston. Centered on the theme of cultivating community, they share highlights from community-focused sessions, including a Sunday kickoff come-and-go event, “Community Collaboration: Academic, Public, and School Libraries Unite,” and “Effective Networking for Library Professionals.” The conversation also offers practical guidance for both first-time and returning attendees, from using journey maps and the conference app to exploring sessions and the Monday poster presentations. Listeners will hear about nearby Houston attractions, general sessions featuring John Leguizamo, Kate Quinn, and Michael Treviño on “Library Joy,” and popular ticketed events like the BCRT Authors Brunch with Karen Parsons, Texas Tea with the Authors, and Authors After Dark (tickets due March 12). Additional conference experiences include the exhibits hall, author signings, a relaxation station, volunteer opportunities, and a scavenger hunt. This episode is sponsored by Cherry Lake Publishing Group. Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

    21 min
  3. Uncovering the Truth: How Curiosity Changes Stories—and Lives

    JAN 28

    Uncovering the Truth: How Curiosity Changes Stories—and Lives

    In this episode, host Patty Nix, Lead Librarian for Bastrop ISD, is joined by author and educator Marc Tyler Nobleman for a conversation about storytelling, hidden history, and the power of speaking up. Marc shares how his curiosity led him to uncover overlooked contributors behind iconic stories, including the untold history behind the creation of Batman—work that became the basis for his book, Bill the Boy Wonder: The Secret Co-Creator of Batman. The discussion explores why questioning dominant narratives matters, especially for young readers, and how stories can empower students to advocate for themselves and others. Marc reflects on the importance of courage, persistence, and self-advocacy, drawing connections between history, literacy, and personal identity. The episode also highlights the role libraries and educators play in fostering curiosity, encouraging critical thinking, and helping students see themselves as active participants in their own stories. Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

    27 min
  4. Leadership in Focus: Conversations with TLA’s President-Elect Candidates

    JAN 12

    Leadership in Focus: Conversations with TLA’s President-Elect Candidates

    In this special episode of Libraries Transform Texas, host Mary Woodard—2023 president of the Texas Library Association—sits down with Kate Horan and Manya Shorr, candidates for president-elect on the TLA Executive Board. The conversation explores each candidate’s professional journey, the experiences that have shaped their leadership philosophies, and their perspectives on trust, accountability, and transparency. Kate and Manya also share how they would carry these values forward in service to TLA and its members.

    27 min
  5. Serving Texas Libraries: A Conversation with TLA’s 2026 Board Candidates

    JAN 12

    Serving Texas Libraries: A Conversation with TLA’s 2026 Board Candidates

    In this special episode of Libraries Transform Texas, host Brianna Saenz, membership engagement coordinator at the Texas Library Association, sits down with six candidates running for executive board positions in the 2026 TLA elections. The conversation features Cheryl Loewen and Daniel Schwartz, candidates for treasurer; Andrea Schorr and Megan Firestone, candidates for representative-at-large for special libraries; and Nicole Cruz and Wenndy Pray, candidates for representative-at-large for school libraries, as they share their backgrounds, perspectives, and hopes for serving the association.

    40 min
  6. Cozy, Connected, and Creative: Supporting Community Through the Winter Months

    12/18/2025

    Cozy, Connected, and Creative: Supporting Community Through the Winter Months

    In this episode, host Katie Loomis of Texas Woman’s University explores how the Denton Public Library helps patrons beat the winter blues through creative programming and community-centered services. Guests Rebecca Ivey, Kerol Harrod, and WyLaina Polk share how seasonal initiatives—from the Winter Reading Challenge to partnerships with United Way and the Tarrant Area Food Bank—support learning, connection, and access during the colder months. The conversation highlights the library’s role as a warming station for unhoused community members, along with engaging offerings like Cozy Up and Cookies, outdoor story walks, special story times with Santa, and hands-on creativity in the library’s makerspace. They also discuss adult programming, bilingual story times, and the importance of outreach in building meaningful community connections. The episode closes with reflections on the library’s mission to strengthen relationships and serve as a welcoming “third place” for residents of all ages. Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

    22 min
  7. Transforming Access: A Conversation on Read & Publish Agreements

    11/25/2025

    Transforming Access: A Conversation on Read & Publish Agreements

    In this episode, host Michelia Mason, head librarian at the Southwest Research Institute, sits down with Andrea Schorr, associate director of resource management at the UT San Antonio Health Science Center Libraries, for a deep dive into transformative agreements and their growing role in scholarly publishing. Andrea breaks down how these agreements shift subscription dollars toward open access, what implementation looked like on her campus, and why clear communication with faculty is essential for success. She shares the early challenges such as navigating workflows, addressing misconceptions about open access, and building trust; as well as the turning points that led to increased faculty engagement. The conversation also highlights the power of cross-campus collaboration, the substantial cost savings achieved, and how new federal open-access policies are reshaping the future of research publishing. Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

    24 min
  8. From Supporters to Changemakers: Why Every Library Needs a Friends Group

    10/30/2025

    From Supporters to Changemakers: Why Every Library Needs a Friends Group

    In this episode, host Regina Reed, director of the Leon Valley Public Library, sits down with Maryanna Christensen, president of the Friends of the Leon Valley Public Library and chair of the Library Advisory Board. Together, they explore how Friends groups can transform libraries into true community hubs. Maryanna shares how she stepped into leadership and built a thriving organization that fills funding gaps, supports staff, and keeps beloved traditions—like Breakfast with Santa and Mini Golf in the Library—alive. She discusses what keeps volunteers engaged, how to avoid burnout, and why clear communication between staff and Friends is key. Maryanna also offers practical advice for anyone looking to start or strengthen a Friends group, reminding listeners that volunteers are the heart of every successful library community. Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

    20 min
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This monthly podcast is a production of the Texas Library Association. It’s designed to showcase the amazing work of Texas librarians and the influence of Texas libraries. #librariestransformtx

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