Marci Merola is the Director of the Office for Library Advocacy at the Chicago-based American Library Association, ALA’s newest office, which focuses on providing advocacy resources and tools to libraries at the state and local levels. She works to educate members and citizens on current issues and the importance of libraries, as well as integrating advocacy efforts throughout the association. Marci came to ALA in 2001 as the Advocacy Specialist within the ALA Public Information Office. Before joining ALA, Marci worked as a freelance writer in the not-for-profit sector, and a writer and editor for a variety of publishing firms. Marci has a Masters in Library Science from Dominican University. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English and journalism from Northern Illinois University.