Felton Thomas, Jr, director of Cleveland Public Library (CPL) has been elected the 2016-2017 president of the Public Library Association (PLA). The PLA is a division of the American Library Association. PLA’s core purpose is to strengthen public libraries and their contribution to the communities they serve. Its mission is to enhance the development and effectiveness of public library staff and public library services.
“I am very honored to serve our public libraries, and humbled to have been elected PLA president-elect,” said Felton Thomas, director of CPL. “Public libraries have transformed my life and I welcome the opportunity to work with so many folks at PLA, who continue to advance the transformation of public library service.”
Director Thomas has served on PLA’s Board of Directors since 2012 and standing committees since 2006, including PLA’s 2007 National Conference Program Committee and the 2010 Annual Conference Program Coordinating Committee. Most recently, he served as chair of the 2013 Demco New Leaders Travel Grant Jury, and continues to serve on the ALA Chapter Relations Committee.
Director Thomas will become PLA president-elect at the conclusion of the American Library Association (ALA) 2015 Annual Conference this June and will assume the PLA presidency in June 2016 for one year.