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Annual Conference
July 25 - 27, San Marcos, Texas

LAUNCH

Leadership program for library professionals with less than five years of experience
Register Today

About LAUNCH

This TLA leadership program is designed for library professionals with up to five years of experience who are ready to expand their impact. Participants will build practical leadership skills that support long-term career success through collaborative group work, guided self-directed learning, and meaningful personal reflection. Each session is led by a team of experienced and engaging library leaders who bring real-world insight and perspective.

Program Goals

  • Deepen understanding of leadership practices that strengthen community, foster belonging, and create welcoming environments
  • Build connections and collaborate with library professionals from all library types in an in-person environment 

Learning Outcomes

Through group work, self-directed learning, and internal reflection, participants will:  

  • Develop greater awareness of their own leadership strengths and influence 
  • Practice effective interpersonal communication strategies 
  • Strengthen teamwork and collaborative problem-solving skills 
  • Apply leadership knowledge and skills in a continually evolving library environment 

Program Details

Date: July 25 – 27, 2026

Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos Hotel Conference Center, 1001 E McCarty Ln, San Marcos, TX 78666  

Book your hotel before June 25, 2026.
Program registration closes July 14, 2026.

Cost: $264 TLA members; $319 non-members

CPE: 10.75 hours

Program Agenda      Register Today!   Book Hotel

“I had a fantastic time and learned so much that I will be able to take back with me to work for myself and for my coworkers. The pride I have been working on this year was solidified by this experience and makes me even more sure that my career change is one of the best decisions I have made.” – Ashley, Library Specialist

“The conference was indeed highly successful, providing valuable knowledge and networking opportunities. I appreciate the opportunity to participate in LAUNCH, which consistently exceeds expectations and provides lasting value.” – Rene

LAUNCH 2026 Speakers

Lynda Infante Huerta

Lynda Infante Huerta (she/her/ella) is a Faculty Librarian at Austin Community College, where she works in instruction, reference, and collection development, with a focus on culturally responsive library services.  

 

She is actively involved in TLA and is a TALL Texan class of ‘22. She has served as co-chair of the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee, District 3 Treasurer, and participated in multiple Conference Planning Committees. She is currently one of the instructors for TLA’s LAUNCH leadership program, which supports early career librarians. In addition to her academic work, she serves as Chair of the City of Austin Library Commission, advocating for inclusive, community-informed public library services. She is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in Bilingual Education with a specialization in Mexican American Studies. 

Laura Tadena

Laura Tadena (she/her/ella) is the Head Librarian at Austin Community College’s Eastview Campus, where she leads initiatives that advance student success, inclusion, and community engagement. 
With over 15 years of experience in public service, she brings a multidisciplinary background in architecture, library science, and organizational development. Laura holds an MBA in Human Resource Management, an MS in Library Science, and a BS in Architecture. Her expertise includes equitable leadership, inclusive design, and community-centered program development. 

Mary Woodard

Mary Woodard has extensive experience in school libraries and leadership. She retired from Mesquite ISD in 2022 after 35 years of service, including a 20 year tenure as Director of Library Services. 
Under her leadership, Mesquite ISD was honored by the American Association of School Librarians in 2020 with the National School Library of the Year award. A longtime member of the Texas Library Association, she has volunteered on many committees and is a past-president of the association. She currently serves as a member of the Lariat Reading List Committee, charged with creating a list of recommended adult fiction titles from the past year. 

In her free time, Mary enjoys travel, musical theater, advocating for libraries, and snuggling with her rescue dogs, Romeo and Roxy.