IBPA Publishing University 2026

I have been a librarian in public libraries for 30 years, and in that role I have purchased 1000s and 1000s of books, in a wide variety of genres and formats: picture books, youth & YA fiction, and graphic novels for all ages. I have been a youth, teen, and librarian.. I chaired the 2012 ALA Printz Award Committee and was very active in ALA for 10 years. In 2017, my library started a publishing imprint, and I got to have a new career without changing jobs. It's been a wonderful ride, and I have learned so much and have enjoyed bringing so many books out in the world. Our press has published 65 books for readers of all ages and interests. We have an unusual model, and the best way to describe my job is Coordinator of the Press. I love to travel, try new restaurants, and take walks in the woods. I have been in a book group for 16 years - our name is the Turncoat Spinecrackers, and we have a website! I have two cats, and I love to read literary fiction, memoirs, YA, graphic novels, picture books, and some non-fiction.