Written by: Adina Vega
Edited by: Genevieve Hammang & Michelle Sosa
The National REFORMA Conference (NRC) is a training and networking event designed for individuals dedicated to providing library services to Latinos and Spanish-speaking communities. The Los Angeles Chapter of REFORMA hosted the eighth edition of NRC from September 18 to 21, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach in Long Beach, CA. This year’s theme, Moving Forward Together: Empowering the Latino Community, reflected a commitment to collaboration and community empowerment.
I was fortunate to attend the RNC VIII, thanks to a scholarship from the organization. From the moment I arrived in Long Beach, I felt the warmth and energy of a community deeply committed to serving Latino and Spanish-speaking populations. It was inspiring to connect with librarians, educators, scholars, and advocates who share this mission and to learn from leaders who are shaping the future of our field. Beyond the professional development, the conference was a true celebration of culture, identity, and community—a reminder of why this work matters and how powerful it can be when we come together with a shared purpose.
I finally got to meet Vivian Zuo, Events and Recruitment Associate for SJSU’s iSchool, and Erin Robinson (current SLASC President) and Laura Dowell (former).
Sessions That Inspired Me
One of the most meaningful parts of the REFORMA National Conference was attending panels and workshops that directly addressed the challenges and opportunities in our field. The sessions explored a range of topics, from innovative outreach strategies to advocacy, equity, and the critical role libraries play in amplifying the voices of underrepresented individuals. Listening to librarians from across the country reminded me that while each of our communities faces unique needs, we are all connected by a shared commitment to information accessibility and inclusion.
Because I am pursuing the academic library track, I focused on breakout sessions centered on academic librarianship. Volunteering as a room monitor added another layer of value—it gave me the chance to connect with presenters personally, which made the experience even more enriching. Some of the sessions that stood out most to me included:
- Becoming the Next Academic Library Leader: Insights from Latine Administrators
- WANTED! More Latinx Academic Librarians—Now More Than Ever
- Engaging Community Cultural Wealth: A Phenomenological Inquiry of Latina/o/e Students and Academic Libraries (dissertation presentation)
What struck me about the program as a whole was its breadth. Many sessions highlighted the importance of bilingual and multicultural programming, strategies for community engagement, and the vital role libraries play in supporting immigrant and refugee populations. Others underscored the need for representation—both in collections and in leadership—illustrating how inclusive practices strengthen not only libraries but also the communities they serve.
Technology was another recurring theme woven throughout the conference. Presenters emphasized how libraries are working to bridge digital divides, offering not just access to devices and the internet but also training and support to ensure equitable participation in today’s digital world.
Equally impactful were the conversations that took place outside the sessions. Over coffee breaks and between workshops, I connected with colleagues facing many of the same challenges—funding constraints, staffing shortages, outreach barriers—and heard creative solutions that could be adapted across library systems. These exchanges reaffirmed the strength of the REFORMA network and the collective dedication to serving Latino and Spanish-speaking communities. The conference guide was available on an app where we could connect with other attendees and share pictures of the conference experience.
Due to the pandemic, the RNC VIII was the first in-person conference in over a decade.
Community and Connection
One of the best parts of the REFORMA National Conference was simply getting to connect with people. Some of my favorite moments happened over cafecitos (coffee breaks), lunches, and networking events where casual conversations turned into new friendships and exciting collaborations. It was encouraging to be surrounded by people who share the same love for equity, literacy, heritage, and community service.
Every morning kicked off with breakfast provided by the conference, and those meals quickly became a highlight. We swapped thoughts about the sessions we’d been to, shared tips on what to see around Long Beach, and just enjoyed each other’s company. I also picked up some really helpful insights—like hearing about colleagues’ experiences with the ePort, their interview processes, and what their current roles are like. Those conversations made the whole experience feel not just professional, but also personal and uplifting.
At the Billie Jean King Public Library, I had the opportunity to view the Miller Room, which houses the Miller family’s collection of Asian art and literature. While these items aren’t available for circulation, they are definitely worth viewing.
Celebrating Culture
The conference opened with a keynote from Maria Hinojosa, the award-winning journalist and anchor of Latino USA. She’s also the founder and CEO of Futuro Media Group and, in 2022, became a Pulitzer Prize winner. Many of us already know her as a familiar voice on NPR, but hearing her speak in person was powerful. Her keynote began with a calming guided meditation and ended with heartfelt tears, reminding us of the deep connections between our work, our identities, and our communities. I was lucky enough to meet her briefly afterward, though I couldn’t snag a selfie—admirers immediately surrounded her!
What made RNC VIII even more memorable were the cultural celebrations woven throughout. From music and storytelling to vibrant displays of heritage, the event was a beautiful reminder that libraries are not just about books—they’re about honoring people’s stories and identities. The Fiesta & Awards Ceremony was another highlight. The awardees were recognized, and we shared a meal, danced, and laughed together. I especially enjoyed connecting with fellow scholarship recipients and capturing fun moments at the photo booth. One of the most moving speeches came from Celia Avila de Santiago, who received the Dr. Arnulfo D. Trejo Librarian of the Year Award. Her heartfelt tribute to her parents, husband, and colleagues left the entire room inspired.
A total of 14 library students and professionals were awarded the RNC VIII Scholarship. The recipients came from all parts of the world, including Canada. For a complete list and bios for each recipient, please click here.
Looking Ahead
Attending RNC VIII was more than just my first library conference—it was an experience that left me inspired, connected, and proud of my heritage. The sessions reaffirmed the importance of diversity, equity, and culturally responsive services in libraries, while providing me with practical tools and strategies to apply in my own work. I came home with new ideas, plenty of swag, and, most importantly, new friends and colleagues who share the same passion for advocacy and inclusion.
The cultural programming was especially meaningful. From storytelling to celebrations of Latino culture, these moments reminded me that libraries are about more than just access to information—they’re about honoring identity, preserving heritage, and building community pride. I returned with a renewed appreciation for mi cultura; I decided after the conference to get serious about my Spanish lessons and made it a mission to improve by next year.
I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned to my library, my student chapter (SLASC), and my future career. This conference gave me inspiration, confidence, and a more profound sense of belonging. I’m grateful for the opportunity and motivated to keep supporting REFORMA’s mission. ¡Adelante!
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