NASAGA Member of the Month: Pauline Lynch Shostack

Every month, we highlight one NASAGA member and the great things they’re doing. This month’s Member of the Month is Pauline Lynch Shostack, Maker Faire Syracuse Co-Producer & Systems Librarian at Le Moyne College.

What kind of work do you do? 

I’ve been a librarian for almost 30 years, but my work extends beyond the library walls. I also produce Maker Faire Syracuse, bringing together creators and innovators to celebrate hands-on learning. Additionally, I design library and educational games—not just for my library, but also as a side business and a passion project.

Why are you a NASAGA member?

I became a NASAGA member after a good friend and colleague invited me to co-present at the 2010 conference in Vancouver, BC. From that very first experience, I was hooked. I had never attended a conference so deeply rooted in hands-on learning and immersive activities. Every NASAGA conference leaves me exhilarated (and happily exhausted) with a head full of new ideas. As fellow NASAGANs say, “I found my people.”

What’s your favorite NASAGA memory? 

With so many incredible experiences at NASAGA, it's hard to choose just one favorite. But the geo-location scavenger hunts in Montreal and Sarasota stand out as some of the most memorable. There’s no better way to explore a new city than by tracking down key locations, tackling fun activities, and answering trivia questions along the way. The Sarasota scavenger hunt took it a step further with group challenges that quickly turned teammates into friends. It was an unforgettable blend of discovery, teamwork, and adventure—everything NASAGA is all about!

NASAGA’s theme for the 2025 Conference is paahpioni iiši-neepwaantiinki, “A Path to Playful Learning.” What does “Playful Learning” look like in your professional practice, and what do you do to promote it?

This year’s conference theme, paahpioni iiši-neepwaantiinki, “A Path to Playful Learning,” really speaks to me. In both my library work and game design projects, I’m always looking for ways to make learning feel fun, hands-on, and welcoming. Whether it's through educational games or events like Maker Faire Syracuse, I love creating experiences that spark curiosity and bring people together. Play is such a powerful way to connect, explore, and grow—and this theme captures that perfectly.

Would you like to be our Member of the Month or know someone who should be? Contact our Communications Minion and let us know!