For the love of books...
Rocco Staino has over 30 years of school literacy experience and he brings this expertise to his position as contributing editor for School Library Journal and writings for The Huffington Post. He also hosts StoryMakers on KidLit.TV where he interviews the movers & shakers of the children and young adult book world. Prior to his journalism career, Rocco served as the retired director of the Keefe Library of the North Salem School District in New York.
In addition, he is the Director of the Empire State Center for the Book. The Empire State Center for the Book is committed to the book in all formats. Interests of the Center include the promotion of the culture of reading, literature, literacy, book arts, and book history throughout New York State. The Center will work with publishers, libraries, museums, educational institutions, scholars, authors, illustrators and other interested parties to enrich book culture for the people of New York. Rocco is instrumental in developing the Center 's renown programs including the New York State Writers Hall of Fame and the dedication of Literary Landmarks around the state.
A long time member of the American Library Association and was elected to be a member of ALA’s Committee on Committee in 2015 . He also is currently the New York State chapter Councilor on ALA’s Council and was long-time board members of Friends of Libraries USA (now United for Libraries).