This past week, we spent time with the board working group digging into updates for our advocacy toolkit. This is one of those behind-the-scenes pieces that really matter. Making sure our members have clear, practical, and confident ways to speak up for libraries is core to how we show up as an association. I’m excited about where this is heading and how it will support advocacy work as we head into municipal election season.  

I also had a great meeting with CELA, where I was able to share OLA’s perspective as they shape their next strategic plan. There’s a lot of alignment in our work, especially around making sure library services reach those who need them most.  

OLA’s Indigenous Advisory Council also met last week. We had an important discussion about land acknowledgments and updating the statement that OLA uses at our events. We debriefed on the recent Little Native Hockey League event, where the IAC hosted a “Reading and Beading” event. Thank you to Penguin Random House Canada and the Markham Public Library for being such huge supporters of this event. As always, I’m incredibly grateful for the guidance and generosity of the IAC.  

We also officially closed the OLA membership survey and have started digging into the results. A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to share feedback with us. It makes a real difference and will directly shape how we move forward to support you in your work.  

See you next Tuesday!