Announcing a New Publication: The VLA Blog

VLA Blog

The Virginia Library Association (VLA) has launched the VLA Blog, a new online platform designed to connect members and provide a space for sharing ideas, expertise, and experiences from across the Commonwealth’s library community. The launch of the VLA Blog expands the association’s long tradition of supporting professional development, collaboration, and communication among library professionals. The blog is hosted by Substack to offer members the opportunity to receive posts directly to their email.

The VLA Blog will serve as the organization’s official blog and a hub for timely discussions on librarianship in Virginia and beyond. Members can expect posts on current issues in the field, innovative initiatives, professional experiences, practical resources, and emerging ideas shaping library services today.

Content for the blog will be developed collaboratively by VLA’s forums, members, and leadership. Forum members will contribute monthly posts highlighting topics relevant to their objectives, while additional submissions will be invited through periodic calls for member contributions. The VLA Executive Committee and VLA Staff may also share updates, announcements, and calls to action related to the association’s work. By sharing perspectives and experiences from professionals across the field, we hope to strengthen our community and highlight the important role all library employees play in supporting access to information. Posts are intended to be timely, accessible and practical, offering insights and ideas that benefit library workers across all types of institutions.

The blog is managed by VLA’s Communications and Member Engagement Manager who oversees content coordination and supports member contributors. A special thank you to the forum chairs who will oversee and coordinate member contributions:

Collections and Technical Services Forum (CaTS) - Anita Rose, Blackwater Regional Library
Graphic Novels and Comics Forum - David Titus, Ohef Sholom Temple Library
LGBTQIA+ Forum - Nico D'Archangel, Richmond Public Library
Librarians of Color Forum - Brea Gilliam, Arlington Public Schools
Local and Family History Forum - Annie Hatton, Library of Virginia
Makerspace Forum - Natasha Payne Brunson and Cammy Richards, Henrico Public Library
New Members Roundtable - Joy Doukas, Chesterfield Public Library
Youth and Family Services Forum - Taylor Foreman, Alexandria Library

The launch of the VLA Blog complements the association’s existing publications, including its scholarly journal, Virginia Libraries, and reflects VLA’s continued commitment to fostering communication, professional growth, and collaboration within Virginia’s library community.
To learn more and read the latest posts, visit the VLA Blog directly. 

More Information About Blog Policies, How to Contribute, and How to Opt Out

All current members are currently subscribed to receive new posts directly in their email inbox and stay informed about developments within the association and the broader library profession.

Members may unsubscribe at any time or read posts directly on their desktop by accessing the blog's url. Click this link to learn more about VLA's decision to use Substack, about the platform, or how to unsubscribe. Answers to your questions can be found by scrolling to the bottom of the page for frequently asked questions.