One of the challenges of the past year for just about everyone — libraries, individuals, governments, not to mention banks and automobile companies! — has been finding a way to stay positive in the face of sometimes daunting economic news. For the world as a whole and Illinois in particular, the election of Barack Obama to the presidency marked a new direction, one many of us have embraced: a commitment to face problems head-on, invest in our futures, and do the hard work needed to chart a new course. In short, to transform challenges into opportunities.

I, for one, feel fortunate to have had my own presidential year coincide with such a significant time for our state and nation. The association has faced challenges this year, as well, but we have met them with as much style and grace as we could muster and wrested several victories from the jaws of defeat.

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