Each year, Pioneer Library System identifies a critical topic in its communities and provides opportunities for exploration and discussion through the Spark a Change series. Spark a Change is a systemwide initiative designed to spark curiosity, drive action and inspire positive transformation in community members and their communities.
This year, PLS is honored to welcome Leland Melvin—an American engineer, retired NASA astronaut and former NFL player—as the Spark a Change keynote speaker. With a remarkable journey spanning professional sports, space exploration and education, Melvin exemplifies resilience, determination and the power of reinvention.
Melvin was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry in 1986 from the University of Richmond, where he also played collegiate football. He went on to earn a master of science degree in materials science engineering from the University of Virginia in 1990.
Melvin was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1986, but his professional football career was thwarted by a hamstring injury. Rather than let that setback define him, he found a new dream. He joined NASA, braved an injury that nearly left him permanently deaf and still managed to muster the courage and resolve to travel to space on the shuttle Atlantis to help build the International Space Station. Melvin’s problem-solving methods and can-do attitude turned his impossible-seeming dream into reality.
As the only NFL draftee to have flown in space, Melvin has become a symbol of what’s possible when perseverance meets purpose. His Detroit Lions jersey is now on display in the Pro Football Hall of Fame—a homage to both his athletic and academic achievements. Through these professional experiences working on high-stakes teams, he developed a deep and nuanced understanding of effective team dynamics.
Through his bestselling memoirs Chasing Space and Chasing Space: Young Reader’s Edition, Melvin shares how his journey—from the football field to outer space—was shaped by curiosity, grit and a deep commitment to lifelong learning. He details the challenges he has faced, and how they ultimately led him to the International Space Center and a new perspective of life on Earth.
He uses his life story as an athlete, astronaut, scientist, engineer, photographer and musician to help inspire the next generation of explorers to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) careers. As part of the Spark a Change series, his message encourages community members to use their talents to tackle challenges and create lasting impact.
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.
“Our libraries are spaces for the public to gather, connect and learn,” says Aiden Street, PLS director of community engagement and learning.
“Spark a Change is an exciting time for all ages to come together and discuss a shared topic, like developing STEAM skills and careers in central Oklahoma.”
From Sept. 12–14, Melvin will visit various PLS locations, engaging with community members through author talks, book signings and interactive STEAM activities:
- Sept. 12: Melvin will appear at the Aviation Breakfast at Max Westheimer Airport, followed by an engaging conversation and Q&A at the Tecumseh Public Library.
- Sept. 13: He will take part in a moderated discussion and book signing at the Gordon Cooper Technology Center in Shawnee.
- Sept. 14: His visit will end with a special children’s STEAM event at the Newcastle Public Library, where he’ll discuss the importance of early career exploration and STEAM education.
Melvin’s story of GRIT, hard-work and dedication is inspiring to those of all ages. His personal journey from the gridiron to the stars examines the intersecting roles of community, perseverance and grace that align to create opportunities for success.
Melvin’s presence will undoubtedly inspire community members to pursue their passions and embrace change. His experience demonstrates the potential for individuals to explore their interests and achieve success in various fields. Perfectly aligning with PLS’s signature initiative to inspire curiosity, drive action, and encourage positive transformation. Melvin shows how setbacks can lead to new beginnings.
PLS is deeply committed to enhancing social wellbeing through equitable access to reliable resources, digital literacy and lifelong learning opportunities. By hosting community-centered events and fostering open dialogue, PLS helps build stronger, more connected, and more informed communities.
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 calendar events, visit PioneerLibrarySystem.org. To attend the Spark a Change events, visit PioneerLibrarySystem.org/services/spark-a-change.
As the only NFL draftee to have flown in space, Melvin has become a symbol of what’s possible when perseverance meets purpose.