The first in this evolving series was written immediately following the Public Library Association conference in Charlotte. Once again, I returned filled with new thoughts and with a heightened sense of energy about libraries in the Commonwealth. First, I must say that beautiful scenery, country air, regular meals, and camaraderie set the scene well for creative thinking and professional growth. Second, I am struck by the ability of librarians from a wide spectrum of disparate library environments and experiences to come together in a common cause, learn from one another, and plan for the public library of the future in Virginia. Third, I have a deepened conviction about the power of partnership.
Partnership is all too often absent from our approach to librarianship.
Organizations may be unaware of the work of other organizations with similar interests, or may simply miss the fact that partnering with another organization might be the deciding factor between success and failure. Organizations and associations all too often carry on independently of others who share common goals. These voices, however, will be most successful when strategies are developed together, when spokespersons present common themes and present them together as well as individually and when the library community consistently seeks partners who can best assist in the marketing and advocacy of our issues. I do not limit this belief to public libraries. We are all part of the lifelong learning of our citizens.