Dr. Maria McCauley, Director of Libraries, Elected President of the American Library Association

Cambridge, MA, April 8, 2025—The City of Cambridge is proud to announce that Dr. Maria McCauley, Director of Libraries, has been elected 2026-2027 American Library Association president. The American Library Association (ALA), established in 1876, is the only non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated entirely to America's libraries and library professionals. In June 2025, McCauley will begin her duties as ALA president-elect. During her term, McCauley will continue to serve as the Director of Libraries.

McCauley joined the City of Cambridge in 2016. Under her leadership, the Cambridge Public Library has expanded its branch hours by 54+ hours per week, opened the award-winning Net Zero Valente Branch library, and launched a STEAM at the Library program, including the first free public maker space in Cambridge. The Library has also eliminated fines, led an opt-out kindergarten library card campaign that resulted in a 95% registration rate, started a social work program, deepened the reach of the library’s digital equity work, and prioritized the library’s inclusion efforts.

McCauley was previously a member of the ALA executive board and is past president of the Public Library Association. As a member of ALA’s Committee on Legislation, she represents Massachusetts in legislative fly-ins to articulate funding and legislative asks to Congress.

McCauley said, “I am honored to be elected President of the American Library Association for 2026-27 and grateful to everyone who voted. I look forward to working with library workers and advocates across every type of library in the United States and internationally. We can support, inspire, and learn from each other as we seek to improve the excellent library services that we provide for our communities. We will also continue to advocate for and celebrate the power of libraries to transform lives. I thank the Nominating Committee, supporters, and volunteers, as well as running mate, Lindsay Cronk, and former running mate, Dr. Andrea Jamison, for inspiring me along the way.”

"We are excited for Dr. McCauley,” said Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang. “Being elected the president of the American Library Association is a significant accomplishment and a testament to the great work she has done leading our public library. We are proud for her to represent Cambridge on a national level.”

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About the American Library Association: 

The American Library Association (ALA) is the only non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated entirely to America's libraries and library professionals. For almost 150 years, ALA has provided resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. The ALA serves academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library's role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.

About the Cambridge Public Library:
At the Cambridge Public Library, we welcome all, inspire minds, and empower community. We support a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, people live their best lives and democracy thrives. The Library’s programming provides an opportunity for civic dialogue, conversation, and learning, which includes exploring a wide range of views. Visit our website to learn more. Subscribe to our email list to stay up to date on our events here. 

The City of Cambridge does not discriminate, including on the basis of disability. We may provide auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to people with disabilities. For more information, contact us at library@cambridgema.gov, 617-349-4032 (voice), or via relay at 711.