American Library Association Presidency: Leadership and Advocacy under Hohl
The presidency of the American Library Association (ALA) serves as a pivotal platform for shaping the future of information science and public access. During Hohl's tenure, the organization focused on the intersection of sustainable decision-making, professional resilience, and the fierce protection of public institutions.
Key Facts
- Hohl published a series of presidential columns in American Libraries from July 2024 to June 2025.
- The ALA successfully obtained a temporary restraining order on May 1, 2025, to stop the dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
- Hohl advocated for the defense of accurate information and the recognition of societal helpers.
- The presidency included a strong endorsement of Dr. Carla Hayden's legacy as the Librarian of Congress.
Presidential Columns and Vision
Throughout the presidency, Hohl utilized the American Libraries publication to communicate a vision of empathy, sustainability, and courage. These columns served as a roadmap for the profession, addressing both the emotional and political challenges facing modern librarians.
Timeline of Presidential Themes
The columns progressed from a focus on global sustainability to a call for professional unity in the face of misinformation.
- July 2024: Emphasized the necessity of sustainable decisions for the benefit of all living beings.
- November 2024: Titled "We All Belong: A Change in Season Brings Inspiration and Action," this piece celebrated Library Card Sign-Up Month.
- January 2025: "Our Winter Count: With the New Year, Let’s Honor Those who Protect the Human Spirit" reflected on the profession's role in uplifting humanity.
- March 2025: "Spectrum of Leadership: Finding Ways to Embrace Change—for Ourselves and Others" explored the resilience gained through adapting to change.
- May 2025: "Information Warriors, Unite" urged librarians to defend the public's access to accurate information.
- June 2025: "Honoring Spirits Recognizing Wisdom, Hope, and Service" paid tribute to the mentors and helpers who support society.
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Legal Battles and Institutional Protection
A defining moment of Hohl's presidency was the ALA's legal intervention to protect the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a federal agency that provides grants and support to libraries and museums. The ALA filed a lawsuit to block the Trump Administration's efforts to dismantle the institute.
This legal effort reached a critical milestone on May 1, 2025, when a Federal Court issued a temporary restraining order, effectively halting the dismantling process and preserving the agency's operations.
Advocacy for the Librarian of Congress
Hohl also addressed the termination of Dr. Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress. In a formal statement, Hohl praised Dr. Hayden for exceeding the expectations of the advocates who supported her 2016 nomination.
The ALA highlighted that Dr. Hayden possesses a deep understanding of what a library can be for every community, regardless of age, socioeconomic status, or connectivity, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in a diverse and complicated country.
| Date/Period | Event/Publication | Core Focus |
|---|---|---|
| July 2024 - June 2025 | Presidential Columns | Sustainability, Resilience, and Information Defense |
| May 1, 2025 | Federal Court Order | Halting the dismantling of the IMLS |
| Post-Termination | Statement on Carla Hayden | Recognition of inclusive leadership at the Library of Congress |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary goal of the "Information Warriors, Unite" column?
Published in May 2025, this column called upon librarians to actively defend the public's access to accurate information for the greater good of society.
How did the ALA respond to the dismantling of the IMLS?
The ALA brought a lawsuit against the Trump Administration, which resulted in a Federal Court issuing a temporary restraining order on May 1, 2025, to stop the dismantling.
What did Hohl say about Dr. Carla Hayden?
Hohl stated that Dr. Hayden exceeded the expectations of her advocates and understood how libraries can serve all users—including the poor, the unconnected, and diverse communities—at their best.
Which publication featured Hohl's presidential columns?
The columns were published in American Libraries.