Things are feeling a little quieter around the OLA office this week as people take advantage of Summer Fridays and some well-deserved vacation time. I’m about to do the same. My immediate plans involve floating in a lake for a while and attempting to remember what it’s like not to check my email every seven minutes. But before I disappear for a week, here are a few updates.
On Wednesday, I tuned into the IFLA General Assembly, hosted under the leadership of our very own Leslie Weir. What’s that illness called where you genuinely enjoy AGMs and watching governance, parliamentary procedure, and meeting protocols unfold? Whatever it is, I’m absolutely riddled with it. Congratulations to everyone at IFLA on a remarkably well-oiled production, and on the incredible progress they’ve made since launching their strategic plan.
I’m also still thinking about Leslie’s presidential theme: Be Bold. Emily, if you’re reading this… I think that has serious conference ribbon potential.
Last week I mentioned that we wrapped up another season of Library Land Loves, and I’m happy to report that our season finale with Brian Bannon has been incredibly well received. Thank you to everyone who has reached out with kind notes after listening. It’s always a little bittersweet to close out a season—but only for about five minutes, because planning is already underway for Season 8. We’ve got some wonderful guests in mind for the fall, and I can’t wait to share them with you.
Before signing off, I also had the chance to record a conversation with Allison Pilon for the Public Libraries course at Western’s Faculty of Information & Media Studies. We talked about OLA, advocacy, and some of the challenges and opportunities that new graduates entering the profession should be thinking about. Thanks to Allison for the invitation—it’s always a pleasure to spend time with future library leaders.
And with that… I’m officially logging off for the next week. My agenda consists primarily of fresh air, good books, and becoming one with a lake.
Be good. I’ll see you in two Tuesdays from today!
Meet the Author
Michelle Arbuckle
Executive Director, OLA
Michelle Arbuckle is OLA’s Executive Director. Reporting to the OLA Board of Directors, Michelle’s key responsibilities are government relations, advocacy, partnership development, the implementation of the strategic plan and supporting the exceptional OLA staff team. She is an avid lifelong learner, a tea sommelier, and wants to know your astrological sign.
