One of the things I love most about this role is that I get to spend a lot of time learning from other library leaders — both close to home and across the world. Last week, I attended the IFLA Metropolitan Libraries Section Conference, hosted right here by the Toronto Public Library. The program focused on how libraries can help combat social isolation and support healthy democracies — two topics that feel more important than ever. 

I had the good fortune to sit at a table with library colleagues from Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, and we had some fascinating conversations (and, honestly, a lot of laughs). It’s always inspiring to see how universal our challenges are — and how creative the solutions can be when you mix a few different accents and perspectives around a table. 

One of the standout moments was a screening of The Librarians, a documentary that takes a raw look at the book banning crisis in Texas. It was bleak, but necessary viewing — a reminder of what’s at stake when access to information and diverse stories is under attack. 

It was also wonderful to see the OLA store at the conference, representing The Library Marketplace and selling some of our favourite library-themed merchandise. Huge thanks to the staff who spent the week there chatting with delegates, answering questions, and helping spread a little OLA love to an international audience. 

See you next Tuesday!