September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour survivors of residential schools, remember those who never returned home, and reflect on the ongoing impacts of colonialism.  

It’s an important day for learning and reflection, but it’s also a reminder that reconciliation is work we need to carry with us throughout the year. 

It’s officially fall! Which means a few things – yes, I’m wearing a sweater. Yes, there is pumpkin spice cold brew in my mug. Yes, someone is gently reminding you that your Super Conference proposal is due very soon! Let me circle back on that.  

Last week was a big staff week at OLA, with a full day for our senior leadership team followed by a full in-person staff day. We looked back at some of our summer highlights, talked about our goals for the next three months (somehow there are only 75 working days left in 2026!), and did some training on our member management tools.

Oops, we’re a day late, sorry. Let’s blame the holiday Monday? 

Happy back-to-school season, everyone! There’s something about September that always feels like a fresh start – new routines, new notebooks, and a pencil case full of sharpened Laurentian pencil crayons. Ahhh, the memories. 

I mentioned that last week Lily and I attended Markham Public Library’s staff development day – and it was such a fantastic session. We talked about what it means to be Loud for Libraries and how everyone can be an advocate, no matter their role. Advocacy doesn’t always mean meeting with elected officials. It can be sharing a story, talking about the impact of your work, or helping someone better understand why libraries matter.