Honoring Leadership and Collaboration: NLM Update at MLA ’26
Submitted by: Shenita Peterson
MLA ’26 will conclude with the NLM Update and Closing Session, held from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. in Baird Ballroom DEFG. The session will bring together leadership from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM), and the Medical Library Association to reflect on current initiatives and look ahead to future priorities.
The session will open with welcoming remarks from Emily J. Glenn, AHIP, and Shenita Peterson, 2026 NPC Cochairs. Their introduction will frame the program and acknowledge the shared work and energy that have shaped the conference.
NLM Update Highlights Collaboration and Strategic Planning
The 2026 NLM Update is set to offer attendees insight into evolving partnerships and upcoming planning efforts.
Speakers include:
- Dina Paltoo, PhD, Deputy Director (Acting), Policy and External Affairs, National Library of Medicine
- Ken Koyle, NNLM Program Director (Acting)
- Lisa Federer, Director (Acting), Office of Strategic Initiatives, National Library of Medicine
Dina Paltoo, PhD, and Ken Koyle will share how NLM and NNLM are working together to strengthen library services, expand outreach to new and underserved audiences, and explore the role of emerging technologies in a rapidly changing health information environment. NLM and NNLM aim to emphasize an approach to collaboration that will be grounded in mutual learning and collective impact across the health sciences library community.
Lisa Federer will provide an overview of upcoming NLM strategic planning activities, including anticipated timelines and opportunities for engagement. Her presentation will outline how the planning process will support NLM’s mission and guide future initiatives.
Closing Session Marks Leadership Transition and Shared Accomplishments
The conference will conclude with a closing session that brings together NPC leadership across two program cycles, along with MLA leadership. Speakers include:
- Heather N. Holmes, AHIP, MLA President
- Emily J. Glenn, AHIP, and Shenita Peterson, 2026 NPC Cochairs
- Shannon D. Jones, AHIP, and Rikke Ogawa, AHIP, 2027 NPC Cochairs
- Katrina Holland, MLA Executive Director
The closing remarks will recognize the accomplishments of the 2026 conference, highlight leadership transitions, and look ahead to future NPC initiatives. The session offers an opportunity to reflect on shared goals, acknowledge contributions from across the community, and build momentum for continued collaboration.
Together, the NLM Update and Closing Session will serve as a meaningful conclusion to the 2026 NPC, connecting national perspectives with community experience and setting the stage for the work ahead.