I invariably return home energized and enthusiastic, ready yet again to tackle the daunting task of changing the world's perceptions of librarianship. Without a doubt, it's our use of electronic communication. We have a mailing list that lets us stay in touch, ask each other questions, forward amusing anecdotes, and plan the twice-yearly dinner. We even have a web site now, of which I am the webmistress, that allows us to read about each other's exploits, as well as to vicariously enjoy accounts of each gathering whether or not our budgets or schedules permit attendance. I've solved technical dilemmas, received inspiration, and been overcome with laughter just by participating in our ongoing electronic exchanges, and I expect that our electronic and personal connections will last for a long time to come.
Technology brings many advantages to the librarian.
From searching bibliographic databases and OPACs, to printing on-demand information for clients, to faxing ILL articles to eager patrons in remote libraries, we can use it to enhance the process of connecting people with information. But by far the most important use of technology is to further the process of connecting people with other people. I tell my MLS and Internet students that the most valuable resource they'll find on the Internet is the other people on the Internet. Grow your own support network, and use technology to help it grow and last. Use the same skills that helped you find your graduation speaker online to keep making valuable connections throughout your career.