Patty Wong

Patty Wong is a Lecturer at the School of Information, San José State University, where she has been teaching since 2006. She is also the City Librarian of Santa Clara City Library (2021–present), following leadership roles at Santa Monica Public Library, Yolo County Library, and other California public library systems. She made history as the first Asian American President of the American Library Association (2020–2021).

• MLIS, University of California, Berkeley (1984)
• BA in Women’s Studies, University of California, Berkeley (1983)

Her research and teaching focus on library administration, equity and inclusion, public library services, community partnerships, and grant writing. She is a passionate advocate for strengths-based leadership development and has been instrumental in advancing racial equity initiatives in libraries, including co-creating the CREI (California Libraries Cultivating Race, Equity and Inclusion) program.

Her recent publications reflect a strong commitment to the evolving role of libraries as community advocates and centers for equity. Themes include diversity in librarianship, frontline advocacy, and strategic community collaborations. She emphasizes empowering library staff and building inclusive services.

• 2023 Library Journal Movers and Shakers
• 2013 California Library Association Member of the Year
• 2012 WISE Faculty of the Year Award
• 2012 ALA Equality Award
• 2012 SLIS Instructor of the Year Award
• 2010 California Senate Woman of the Year

Patty Wong mentors emerging library professionals and provides continuing education through national and state library associations. She has served as a trainer for leadership, organizational development, and equity initiatives. While not explicitly listing advisees, her mentorship roles in programs like the InfoPeople Eureka Program highlight her commitment to student and professional development. She is also involved in multiple regional and national library boards, contributing to the strategic direction of the profession.