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Maria Palacio is an award-winning, multilingual, executive leader who inspires, collaboratively fosters, and maintains positive innovative environments. Her expertise lies in overseeing operations at upwards of thirteen 21st century public libraries, serving close to one-million residents from Florida to Boston ranging in size from 3,500–40,000 square feet. Palacio has two decades of experience in spearheading forward-thinking diverse public library initiatives within large complex organizations, and a passion to lead them to success. Renowned as an inclusive and inspirational leader, Palacio facilitates and supports teams and the community to enable them to fulfill their potential and meet deadline-driven goals and initiatives within high impact environments.

Possessing a desire to improve processes, Palacio focuses on facilitating professional development, problem-solving, and collaboration with the CAO, staff, board members, Friends of the Library, and community members to implement solutions that create valuable and actionable insights. She is a champion for forward movement, social justice and racial equity, and for improving the lives of those around her.

In her spare time, Palacio practices CrossFit, meal preps, and explores restaurants and entertainment venues in and around Boston with her husband.

Personal Statement

“I am deeply drawn to the opportunity to serve in PLA leadership because of my passion for fostering equitable access to knowledge and supporting communities through public libraries. Libraries are more than repositories of books; they are vital hubs of education, collaboration. connection, and opportunity. Being part of PLA leadership would allow me to contribute to shaping the future of public libraries and empowering them to meet the evolving needs of diverse communities.

“Public libraries face many challenges today especially around intellectual freedom and providing access to reliable information. On the ground in my day to day, one pressing challenge for public libraries that my team and trustees have committed to tackling in our new Strategic Plan is bridging the digital divide. As technology continues to transform how we learn, work, and interact, many individuals still lack reliable internet access, digital literacy skills, or exposure to emerging technologies. Libraries have a unique role in addressing this gap, but they often face resource constraints that limit their ability to provide robust digital services.”