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.
“Where are the scary books?”
“Do you have any fantasy like Percy Jackson?”
“I like sports. Any novels about that?”
If you’ve worked a day in a school library, chances are you’ve heard similar questions.
For many educators, the arrival of artificial intelligence in schools can feel a little like the opening scene of a Star Wars film…
There is always that point in the school year, after everyone is settled, orientation is complete and the excitement of our first library book check-out settles, where I find students start returning to their favourite reads. But we have so many great books in the library!
This issue’s “Author Spotlight” feature is veering into new territory. We decided that what would really help our library staff members as they return to schools in September would be to connect you all with Colby Sharp.
OPLA Council’s 2026 workplan is guided by OLA’s broader strategic plan and its three priorities:
• Champion libraries to secure the future through advocacy.
• Invest in people to strengthen the sector through education.
• Create value and build belonging through OLA membership.
