This year, we are focused on SB5102, in relation to our grassroots #K12Librarians4AllWA campaign, to ensure ALL students in ALL districts have access to a school library information technology program with a trained, certified teacher-librarian. Issues such intellectual freedom, e-book licensing, and levy passage requirements are also expected to be on this year’s agenda.
By attending WA Library Legislative Day, you can expect to:
Connect with library supporters from all types of libraries around the state.
Hear from special guests 2023 WLA Board President Johanna Jacobsen Kiciman, Washington State Librarian Sara Jones, and Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs.
Attend sessions and hear testimony from fellow library professionals along with WLA lobbyist Carolyn Logue.
Meet with State legislators and their staff to discuss the value of libraries and the impact laws have on them.
Understand how to track and search for bills, give effective testimony, and advocate for libraries, to better support them in years to come!
This free event is a great way to become involved in library advocacy and help WLA push its legislative goals over the finish line!
We hope you can complete your registration by Friday, Feb. 3. If you have any questions, please contact the WLA Office. We look forward to seeing you in Olympia!
Check in and social time: coffee, tea, light bites available
9:00am – 9:10am:
Welcome & introductions
Johanna Jacobsen Kiciman, 2023 WLA Board President
9:10am – 9:45am
State of Washington Legislative Overview
Steve Hobbs, Washington Secretary of State Dave Elliott, Policy Director, Washington Secretary of State
9:45am – 10:15am
State Library Legislative Update
Sara Jones, Washington State Librarian
10:15am – 10:45am
Issue briefs & priorities
Carolyn Logue, WLA Legislative Lobbyist & Consultant Abby Moore, Public Libraries of Washington Lobbyist
10:45am – 11:30am
Special Guests
Sen. Lisa Wellman
11:30am
Group Photo
Meetings with Representatives in the Afternoon
#K12Librarians4AllWA
Washington schools need Teacher Librarians! We hope you use this website to learn about the importance of all school libraries for Washington students.
Join us in urging Washington State elected officials to support school library programs for all Washington students.
Appointments with Legislators
As WA Library Legislative Day draws near, familiarize yourself with your district representatives and check out tips for effective advocacy below, presented by Leah Griffin!
As soon as possible after registering, it is important to contact any district representatives with whom you would like to meet on Library Legislative Day. You will receive guidance on how best to approach those meetings. If you need to verify your representatives, visit the State District Finder, which will direct you to the email addresses for your district’s State Representatives and Senators.
Here is a sample meeting request:
Dear Representative <name>,
I am <name> with <organization>. I will be attending Washington Library Legislative day in-person/online, , and would like to request a virtual meeting with you to discuss some library-related concerns (or library issues within my district; or the importance of libraries; etc). I can be available to meet any time that week after 11:30 a.m. What time would work for you?
Sincerely, <name>
Advocacy Orientation
Learn how to track and search for library-related bills, give effective testimony, and advocate for libraries at WA Library Legislative Day. Presented by Leah Griffin, Teacher Librarian at University Prep.
Nearby Hotels
TownePlace Suites 900 Capitol Way South Olympia, WA 98501 (360) 753-8770
The Governor Hotel 621 Capitol Way South Olympia, WA 98501 (360) 352-7700
Parking in Downtown Olympia
Please consult the following resources to find nearby parking.
Schedule