This past week marks the official halfway point for this year’s OLA Board, which meets monthly and last week approved motions on fund development recommendations and pre-budget instructions. We also just finished the last of our five Town Halls for members, which were an experiment and a great way for us to stay connected to members across library land. If you missed yours, the video is posted in the Sector Forum. Thanks to the many who joined these conversations and shared updates and emerging issues you are seeing in your communities.
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the convocation at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Information. Convocation always leaves me feeling optimistic about the future of our profession – and Pomp & Circumstance becomes trapped in my brain for days. OLA was honoured to present two student achievement awards, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional promise and leadership. Congratulations to all of the grads as they begin the next chapter in their careers!
One of the highlights of last week was OLA’s very first Children’s Programming Confidence Camp, hosted at North York Central Library. More than 50 attendees spent the day learning from some of the most enthusiastic and creative children’s programmers. From babytime to school-aged, attendees explored ways to blend literacy learning with fun while building confidence in their unique styles. Children’s programming can sometimes look effortless when done well, but anyone who has ever tried to hold the attention of a room full of toddlers knows there is both an art and a science to it. Thank you to everyone who helped make the day such a success.
OLA was proud to support Library and Educator Day at TCAF (Toronto Comic Arts Festival). For the second year in a row, our Director of Education Emily Burns moderated the always-entertaining Publisher Pitch Roulette, where publisher reps had to stay on their toes to pitch their books to the room in a completely random order. It is exactly as chaotic and delightful as it sounds.
Meanwhile, our OLA Mentoring Committee hosted a virtual Pop-Up Career Centre bringing together more than 20 mentees and 20 mentors for an hour of career conversations, resume reviews, cover letter feedback, and professional advice. One of the things I always admire about the library sector is how generously people share their knowledge and experience. Whether you’re just entering the profession or considering your next step, having someone willing to offer guidance can make all the difference.
Have a wonderful week, everyone. See you next Tuesday!
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.
