We are officially one week out from the conference, which means the team is deep into last-minute preparations. Final details are coming together, inboxes are busy, and the focus is firmly on making sure everything is ready to welcome you next week. We are also organizing the info session at the conference for OLA’s new Communities of Practice (Friday at 1 PM), and we are looking forward to sharing more about how these communities will support connection, learning, and engagement across the association. 

This week also marks important advocacy work. Pre-budget deputations for public and school libraries are underway, and I want to sincerely thank everyone who has appeared before the committee. In total, OLA and FOPL members gave 14 deputations to the standing committee and the Ministry of Finance. Showing up, speaking clearly about impact, and representing the sector so thoughtfully makes a real difference. 

Members of our Indigenous Advisory Circle are also meeting this week to finalize plans for a “Reading and Beading” session with kids at this year’s Little Native Hockey League. It is wonderful to see this work taking shape. As a sibling who grew up bored in arenas – I definitely appreciate the opportunity for crafting!  

On Saturday, I will be presenting with James Turk at the OPSBA Symposium on Censorship, School Libraries, and the Demands to Remove Books. It is a very timely conversation, and one that continues to underscore the pressures facing school libraries and the importance of strong policy and professional practice. 

Finally, this year’s Freedom to Read Week graphics have been released, which are free for everyone to use. Please download, share widely, and help spread the message. And if you are looking for physical posters and Freedom to Read merchandise, they are available for purchase through The Library Marketplace. 

It’s a full, fast-moving week, and a good reminder of just how much is happening across the association right now. We are excited to see many of you very soon.