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Welcome to the MPLA community!

The Mountain Plains Library Association (MPLA) is a twelve state association of librarians, library paraprofessionals and friends of libraries. Its purpose is to promote the development of librarians and libraries by providing significant educational and networking opportunities.

Not a member? Investigate the advantages.  
 

 

Libraries & Legislators: Practical Advocacy Strategies

Join the MPLA Advocacy Committee on Nov 5 for an online training focused on practical approaches to library advocacy. Three librarians will share experiences building relationships with elected officials and advocating for libraries in their communities.
The program will explore three approaches: inviting a legislator into the library, supporting local advocacy through a Friends group, and testifying before the Legislature. Presenters will discuss what worked, what didn’t, and lessons learned along the way.
 Register  --  November 5 | 1 p.m. CST | 12 p.m. MT | 11 a.m. PST

Librarians

Kirsten, Tricia and Shay, clockwise from top, at Oklahoma Library Association conference in 2026.  

MPLA supports librarians, library assistants, library associates, and students of library science.

Libraries

Picture of the Leach Public Library in Wahpeton, North Dakota. Taken by MPLA member Rachel Kercher.
 

MPLA supports libraries with joint conferences and significant educational opportunities.

State Associations

A stylized terrain map of the MPLA member states.
 

MPLA supports state associations of libraries with joint conferences and inter-community facilitation.

Regional Experience

Teton Range, Wyoming. Photographer: Judi Boyce, Board Member.
 

Our members understand the unique obstacles of working in the Mountain West.

Upcoming Events

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Latest News

2026 Membership Meeting
10/15/2026
Date/Time
Thursday, October 15th at 12:00 PM Central Time (Nebraska time), 11:00 am Mountain Time, 10:00 am Pacific Time.
 
Location
MPLA/NLA Joint Conference, taking place at the La Vista Hotel and Conference Center, 12520 West Post Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska.
 
It will also be broadcast over Zoom.
 
Details
including agenda, proposals and links can be found here.
View the October/November Newsletter
10/1/2026
MPLA Newsletter Editor
  • President's Desk 
  • Kudos from the Pres! (pg. 2)
  • Leadership Institute applications due by Oct. 4th (pg. 2)
  • Advocacy Committee Professional Development (pg. 3)
  • MPLA / NLA Conference (pg. 4)
    • We can't wait to see you there!
  • Community Stories (pgs. 10-16)
    • Join Chew and Chat (pg. 17)
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FAQ

  • How often does MPLA hold conferences?

    MPLA meets annually, typically in partnership with one of its 12 member state library associations. These joint conferences rotate among states and include professional development sessions, networking events, and committee meetings. 

  • Can I find MPLA neighbors?

    Certainly! Log in, and go to the member directory. Using 'Advanced Search,' you can search for members in a city, state, even a zip code.

  • What is MPLA?

    The Mountain Plains Library Association is a regional organization serving librarians, library staff, and supporters across 12 states. It promotes professional development, collaboration, and innovation in library services. MPLA connects with the member states' library associations through the vital liaison of the state's representative.  You can find contact details for each state's representative on MPLA's State Representatives page.

  • Who are MPLA's officers?

    Leadership details are available here.

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