Hong Yao

Hong obtained her MLS from Indiana University in 1993 and has worked in the public library systems in New York City for the past 30 years. Currently, she holds the position of director of technical services at the Queens Public Library. She leads a team of over 100 staff to ensure that materials are properly selected, ordered, cataloged, prepared and delivered for 65 locations to satisfy the demand of residents in Queens. Hong works closely with QPL other departments as well as front line staff to ensure that material budget, in excess of 8 million dollars are spent out efficiently and effectively.

Hong has been an active member of ALA and other professional organizations. Currently, she is serving as ALA Councilor-at-Large and OCLC Global Council Delegate. Hong has been a frequent speaker for regional, national and international conferences. Most recently she joined fellow New York City Librarians to speak at “Black at Hostos Town Hall Series” on Librarians and Banned Books. In 2023, Hong presented, at JCLC conference, a program titled “Moving Forward Together: CALA’s Actions Towards EDI.”