The Pioneer Library System has announced that engineer and former astronaut Leland Melvin is the 2025 keynote speaker for the annual Spark a Change series.

Spark a Change is PLS’s signature initiative inviting community members to spark curiosity, drive action and inspire positive transformation in themselves and their communities.

This year’s theme focuses on the importance of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) careers. Melvin, a strong advocate for STEAM education, will encourage conversations around career exploration.

Community members will have the opportunity to engage with Melvin during his tour of PLS’s service areas on September 12-14 for book discussions, children’s programs, and Q&As.

As part of this series, PLS provides free copies of Melvin’s Chasing Space and Chasing Space: Young Reader’s Edition to the public (while supplies last).

Customers are encouraged to pick up a copy then engage in Spark a Change book discussions and events.

Upcoming events:

Attend the Norman Chamber of Commerce’s Aviation Breakfast featuring Leland Melvin as the keynote speaker at Max Westheimer Airport on Friday, September 12, to hear his inspiring life story and learn about his career in STEAM.

Join us for a special lunch on Friday, September 12, with Leland Melvin at the Tecumseh Public Library. Over lunch, Melvin will share his journey of resilience, exploration, and the power of believing in your potential.

Visit the Gordon Cooper Technology Center in Shawnee on Saturday, September 13, to hear how Melvin’s traveled from the football field to space, and how perseverance, curiosity, and courage can launch anyone toward greatness.

Engage with Leland on September 14 for a special Sunday Stars event. In this family-friendly program designed for first-third graders, Leland will spark imaginations and encourage the next generation of explorers, scientists, and changemakers to reach for the stars.

Following these events, Leland will be available for autographs.

Each year, PLS selects a critical community topic for the Spark a Change series. The library is dedicated to identifying related resources and hosting events that encourage learning, exploration, and dialogue of this topic.

These events are designed to motivate you to lead, learn, and spark meaningful change in your community.

Join us in sparking change in your community. Visit pioneerlibrarysystem.org/services/spark-a-change to learn more about Spark Change programming and register for upcoming events.

Founded in 1958, PLS today offers full-access libraries in 10 communities throughout Cleveland, McClain, and Pottawatomie counties, as well as additional access locations in smaller communities and outreach services including Business Services and the PLS Mobile Maker Lab.

For more information about PLS locations, services, and resources, visit pioneerlibrarysystem.org.