--- title: What We Heard, Shared, and Learned at ALA 2025 description: Your library website's homepage is the front door to your online library. Like your in-person patrons, give your online users a memorable experience. image: https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hubfs/Blog/Blog%20Posts/2025-07-15%20ALA%202025%20Recap/BiblioCommons_Social-Blog-ALA-Recap.jpg --- [Partner Portal](https://partnerportal.bibliocommons.com/hc/en-us) [Support](https://partnerportal.bibliocommons.com/hc/en-us/requests/new) [Careers](https://www.bibliocommons.com/careers) [![BiblioCommons\_logo\_RGB](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Logos/BiblioCommons_logo_RGB.png?width=2000&height=586&name=BiblioCommons_logo_RGB.png)](https://www.bibliocommons.com/) Why BiblioCommons? ## Featured Resources [![64cc72825ae66c58460a5783\_BiblioCommons\_Resource\_Video-Story-Lawrence-Polli\_Thumb](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/64cc72825ae66c58460a5783_BiblioCommons_Resource_Video-Story-Lawrence-Polli_Thumb.jpeg?width=600&height=350&name=64cc72825ae66c58460a5783_BiblioCommons_Resource_Video-Story-Lawrence-Polli_Thumb.jpeg) Lawrence Public Library Creates Personalized Readers Advisory Services to Connect with Patrons](https://resources.bibliocommons.com/access-granted-video-lawrence-public-library-creates-personalized-readers-advisory-services-to-connect-with-patrons) [![Library 2.0: Why Everyone’s Talking About Digital Accessibility-Everyone-Is-Talking-Digital-Accessibility\_Thumb](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/64cc728108678fffccadf55e_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_A11y-Everyone-Is-Talking-Digital-Accessibility_Thumb.jpeg?width=600&height=350&name=64cc728108678fffccadf55e_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_A11y-Everyone-Is-Talking-Digital-Accessibility_Thumb.jpeg) Library 2.0: Why Everyone’s Talking About Digital Accessibility](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/blog/library-2.0-why-everyones-talking-about-digital-accessibility) [See all resources](https://www.bibliocommons.com/resources) ## Why BiblioCommons? [Success Stories Hear how Library Partners are making an impact in their communities](https://www.bibliocommons.com/success-stories) [Our Story A better online catalog was just the beginning](https://www.bibliocommons.com/our-story) [Libraries We Work With Take a look at all the Partner Libraries that subscribe to BiblioCommons](https://www.bibliocommons.com/libraries-we-work-with) [News Stay up-to-date on the latest company updates with news articles, press releases, and announcements](https://www.bibliocommons.com/news) Solutions ## Featured Resources [![How EPL Makes All Formats Easily Discoverable on Its Online Catalog](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/64cc7283a40d493701247bda_BiblioCommons_Resource_Video-Story-EPL-BiblioCore_Thumb.jpeg?width=600&height=350&name=64cc7283a40d493701247bda_BiblioCommons_Resource_Video-Story-EPL-BiblioCore_Thumb.jpeg) How EPL Makes All Formats Easily Discoverable on Its Online Catalog](https://resources.bibliocommons.com/access-granted-video-how-epl-makes-all-formats-easily-discoverable-on-its-online-catalog) [![Library 2.0: Inclusive Images and Text Take Your Website Beyond Technical Compliance](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/64cc728263171ef951dfe9fe_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_A11y-Inclusive-Images-and-Text_Thumb.jpeg?width=600&height=350&name=64cc728263171ef951dfe9fe_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_A11y-Inclusive-Images-and-Text_Thumb.jpeg) Library 2.0: Inclusive Images and Text Take Your Website Beyond Technical Compliance](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/blog/library-2.0-inclusive-images-and-text-take-your-website-beyond-technical-compliance) [See all resources](https://www.bibliocommons.com/resources) ## Solutions [![Discovery Layer](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/6442a211ced7fa857343a5cf_biblio-core-round.svg) Discovery Layer Accurate search results, easier borrowing, and endless discovery pathways](https://www.bibliocommons.com/solutions/bibliocore) [![Discovery Layer Add-Ons](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/6442a211ced7fa857343a5cf_biblio-core-round%20(1).svg) Discovery Layer Add-Ons Unlock more ways to engage with patrons](https://www.bibliocommons.com/solutions/bibliocore-add-ons) [![Mobile App](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/6442a2113ed2327dd1a577c3_biblio-apps-round.svg) Mobile App Deliver engaging content and promote discovery wherever your patrons are](https://www.bibliocommons.com/solutions/biblioapps) [![Website Builder](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/6442a2119e3caf2ea2a27417_biblio-web-round.svg) Website Builder Showcase the best your library has to offer with a fully integrated CMS and webpage builder](https://www.bibliocommons.com/solutions/biblioweb) [![Events Calendar](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/6442a211fe53659fbd9b0c10_biblio-events-round.svg) Events Calendar A patron-friendly way to manage and promote your library's programs and events](https://www.bibliocommons.com/solutions/biblioevents) [![Email Marketing](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/6442a2118a7ef86b347b5dae_biblio-email-round.svg) Email Marketing Email Marketing That’s Personalized, Automated, and Integrated](https://www.bibliocommons.com/solutions/biblioemail) Services ## Featured Resources [![Library 2.0: How Accessible Is Your Mobile App? (Tips to Make It Happen!)](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/64cc72835ae66c58460a58ad_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_A11y-Mobile-App_Thumb.jpeg?width=600&height=350&name=64cc72835ae66c58460a58ad_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_A11y-Mobile-App_Thumb.jpeg) Library 2.0: How Accessible Is Your Mobile App? (Tips to Make It Happen!)](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/blog/library-2.0-how-accessible-is-your-mobile-app) [![Creating Focused Emails That Will Delight Library Patrons](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/64cc7280d4d4629cd9c4467a_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_Email-Structure_Thumb.jpeg?width=600&height=350&name=64cc7280d4d4629cd9c4467a_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_Email-Structure_Thumb.jpeg) Creating Focused Emails That Will Delight Library Patrons](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/blog/creating-focused-emails-that-will-delight-library-patrons) [See all resources](https://www.bibliocommons.com/resources) ## Services [Professional Services Support your library’s team with professional services](https://www.bibliocommons.com/professional-services) [Training and Support Comfort in knowing you're always supported](https://www.bibliocommons.com/training-and-support) Resources ## Featured Resources [![Email Marketing Planning](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/64cc727f70e1ef2a2b0a928b_BiblioCommons_Resource_Template_Email-Marketing-Planning_Thumb.jpeg?width=600&height=350&name=64cc727f70e1ef2a2b0a928b_BiblioCommons_Resource_Template_Email-Marketing-Planning_Thumb.jpeg) Email Marketing Planning](https://resources.bibliocommons.com/template-email-marketing-planning) [![64cc7284d4d4629cd9c44a5b\_BiblioCommons\_Resource\_Blog\_Mktg-PR-to-Visionary\_Thumb](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BiblioCommons%20rebrand%202023/Images/64cc7284d4d4629cd9c44a5b_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_Mktg-PR-to-Visionary_Thumb.jpeg?width=600&height=350&name=64cc7284d4d4629cd9c44a5b_BiblioCommons_Resource_Blog_Mktg-PR-to-Visionary_Thumb.jpeg) Library Marketing: From Building Public Relations to Becoming Visionary Storytellers](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/blog/library-marketing-public-relations-to-visionary-storytellers) [See all resources](https://www.bibliocommons.com/resources) ## Resources [All Resources Access all types of resources like guides, templates, videos, and reports to learn best practices and get new ideas](https://www.bibliocommons.com/resources) [Webinars Register to attend upcoming live webinars and get access to on-demand webinar recordings that cover a variety of topics](https://www.bibliocommons.com/webinars) [Blog Dive into our blog to read about library trends, expert opinions, fresh ideas, and practical tips that you can use in your day-to-day](https://www.bibliocommons.com/blog) [Newsletters Sign up to receive the latest in public library topics, new product features, and upcoming events in your inbox](https://www.bibliocommons.com/newsletters) [BiblioCon Learn from public library staff and leaders that are experts in creating unforgettable, fresh, and engaging experiences](https://www.bibliocommons.com/bibliocon) [Contact Us](https://www.bibliocommons.com/contact-us) # What We Heard, Shared, and Learned at ALA 2025 [July 15, 2025](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/blog/what-we-heard-shared-and-learned-at-ala-2025) At ALA Annual 2025, we connected with hundreds of library staff from across North America. Our booth was buzzing with thoughtful conversations about the future of discovery, AI, and personalization. From shared challenges to bold ideas, it was inspiring to hear how public libraries continue to lead the way in community engagement.   ## Jumpstarting ALA 2025 with New Library Connections We were proud to kick off ALA 2025 by welcoming six new libraries to our growing community of Library Partners across North America. Learn more about them [in this news release](https://www.bibliocommons.com/news/new-library-partners-subscribe-to-bibliocommons). They are embracing digital transformation and providing their communities with intuitive, engaging, and accessible online experiences. We're excited to team up with these forward-thinking libraries to help make their digital services more connected, engaging, and easy to use for their communities.   ## Turning Conversations Into Action Many of our conversations focused on practical ways to improve the online patron journey. Library staff asked insightful questions about how to reduce friction in online discovery, streamline user interactions, and better showcase staff expertise. These discussions, combined with the extensive research we conduct on emerging technologies and user behavior, will help shape our product roadmap. By combining direct input from library staff with proactive, forward-looking research, we aim to design products that meet today's needs while anticipating tomorrow’s opportunities.   ![IMG\_8419-For-Edit](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Conferences/ALA%202025/IMG_8419-For-Edit.jpg?width=5712&height=4284&name=IMG_8419-For-Edit.jpg) ![IMG\_8423-For-Edit](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Conferences/ALA%202025/IMG_8423-For-Edit.jpg?width=5712&height=4284&name=IMG_8423-For-Edit.jpg) *Above: Photos of BiblioCommons team members and customers at the ALA 2025 booth.*   Throughout the conference, we shared the latest updates to the BiblioCommons platform. Our team demonstrated [how the One-Click Experience is coming to life through enhancements like predictive search, personalized reading suggestions, and simplified account management](https://www.bibliocommons.com/news/bibliocommons-brings-the-one-click-experience-to-life-with-new-enhancements). The BiblioCommons team designed these updates to help patrons access what they need more quickly while staying connected to the library's full range of services. We also had many conversations about the future potential of a truly unified digital library experience, one that mirrors the ease and simplicity patrons expect from commercial platforms while honoring the unique values of public libraries.   [![AI, Libraries, and the Democratization of Knowledge AI is already reshaping how people search for, consume, and engage with information. Will public libraries play a central role in this transformation or be left behind?  ](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/8616836/interactive-192719484438.png)](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLJkpDZ2rGiGBNJVDBDXqSBSHg8Kxe2SLG8ORlwMBfuQCU9XnESIciy1zeVaJP8f0%2BaK3ap%2FVJvAMwJ1xhq%2FKrSEvYWXugvG5DNyewPvRzD%2BagdMS3pvHYOalZwOnle%2BgHOOP1%2FabGZvvQ5mc2gv1eAtsVEDK8AN%2BNxF9RDYR8vIOQiUCsrbkWDVGpKfQvldJm%2FIw240YTvon6cGaCJoiMVDmXd8mni6aH8Z%2BBMahHWzjRAiLw%2BKovmHQe9r8nR5yWIMWagodv0D4yeOEvmisdDB2zQ%3D&webInteractiveContentId=192719484438&portalId=8616836)   ## Putting Personalization into Practice Another major theme was on personalization, with a focus on tools that let patrons follow their favorite staff lists, receive tailored recommendations, and explore meaningful topics that foster deeper engagement online. [Our newest personalization enhancements are designed to make every interaction with the catalog feel meaningful and relevant](https://www.bibliocommons.com/news/personalization-designed-to-connect-patrons-to-the-library-udtn6). Attendees expressed excitement about how these tools can support local readers' advisory, promote collection discovery, and spotlight the expertise of library staff.   ## Exploring Responsible AI in Public Libraries A highlight of the conference was our Directors' Lunch, where Marty Tarle, General Manager of BiblioCommons, presented "*AI, Libraries, and the Democratization of Knowledge*." The session explored how public libraries can use AI in ways that align with their values and mission. We discussed the importance of building tools that are transparent, equitable, and grounded in public service. If you missed the presentation, you can [watch it on-demand here](https://resources.bibliocommons.com/webinar-ai-libraries-and-the-democratization-of-knowledge). The presentation focused on the bigger picture and how libraries can approach AI responsibly, aligning with their mission. At our booth, we also showcased demos of features like *Ask the Library* and AI-generated review summaries, showing how these concepts come to life in practice. [You can read more about our approach to AI and upcoming initiatives in this news release](https://www.bibliocommons.com/news/ai-built-for-libraries-centered-on-trust-simplicity-and-impact). Please [reach out if you'd like to see a sneak peek at what we're working on](https://www.bibliocommons.com/request-a-demo). We'd love to show you more.   ![IMG\_8383-For-Edit](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Conferences/ALA%202025/IMG_8383-For-Edit.jpg?width=3568&height=2677&name=IMG_8383-For-Edit.jpg) *Above: Marty Tarle, General Manager of BiblioCommons, presenting about "AI, Libraries, and the Democratization of Knowledge" at the Directors' Lunch.*   ## Let’s Keep the Conversation Going We left ALA 2025 energized by the conversations, inspired by the work of our Library Partners, and excited about what's ahead. If you didn't get a chance to connect with us during the event, we'd love to continue the conversation. [Reach out any time](https://www.bibliocommons.com/request-a-demo) or explore the links above to learn more.   --- #### Sign up to receive the latest in public library topics delivered straight to your inbox!                       Share - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) Newer Post [Discover the Future of Library Technology at BiblioCon ’25](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/blog/discover-the-future-of-library-technology-at-bibliocon-25) Older Post [Guide: Library Homepage Design in 2024](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/blog/building-library-website-homepage) [![BiblioCommons](https://blog.bibliocommons.com/hubfs/BiblioCon%202023/white-logo.svg)](https://www.bibliocommons.com/) Join the *Love Your Online Library* newsletter to stay up to date on features and releases. 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