Sites and Soundbytes

Once in awhile you find yourself somewhere that you needed to be.  The COLAND Summit was that for me last week.  I was lucky enough to be selected to be part of a group of 100 library supporters and librarians that worked to vision what the library of the future would be like. 

Well, others will report what was finally agreed upon, what large issues we grappled with, and where we are headed.  I, on the other hand, just want to say how invigorating it was to discuss libraries with people who were equally passionate, equally positive, and who were all willing to put aside small differences and move forward together.  It may not have culminated in the next big idea, but for me, it was a time of professional renewal.  A cleansing for my librarian spirit and a knowledge that I am not alone in my wish to move libraries forward, outward, and onward. 

Thank you to everyone for the warmth of welcome, the inclusiveness of large table conversation, the smiles, hugs of recognition, building of new connections, and for the passion.  Thank you all for being willing to debate, discuss, frown, laugh, fight and work. 

This was just what my librarian soul needed and at just the right time.  Do we have to wait 10 years for the next one?  I'm not sure I can make it that long!