Connect, Cultivate, Collaborate
Dear Illinois Library Community,
As I reflect on my year as president, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible achievements and unwavering dedication of our library community. Our Annual Conference in Springfield was a resounding success, featuring inspiring speakers like Dr. Emily Knox and Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. Additionally, our Reaching Forward North and South events saw record turnouts, highlighting our collective commitment to professional development and community engagement.
One of our most significant accomplishments this year has been the rollout and implementation of Public Act 103-0100, a groundbreaking law designed to prevent book bans and promote education, literary justice, and equity. This legislation marks a pivotal moment for our schools and libraries, encouraging us to embrace a future where access to diverse literature is safeguarded for all.
We also celebrated the introduction of a new statewide database package through the State Library, which will collectively save our libraries millions of dollars every single year. This initiative under-scores our commitment to resource sharing and financial stewardship, ensuring that our libraries can continue to offer invaluable services to their communities.
In response to the challenges posed by political polarization, censorship campaigns, viral disinformation, and threats to public servants, we launched the More Than a Building campaign. This initiative provides libraries with the tools and support they need to remain resilient and strong during difficult times. As this campaign continues to grow, it will become an essential resource for libraries navigating these complex issues.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the future of the Illinois Library Association. With the recent adoption of our new Strategic Plan and the forthcoming update to the Serving Our Public: Standards for Public Libraries, I am confident that our organization will continue to be a pillar of strength for the entire library community.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire ILA Board, the dedicated volunteers who serve on our committees and forums, and, of course, to Cyndi and her amazing staff. Your hard work and passion have been the driving force behind our successes.
As we move forward, let us carry this spirit of gratitude and optimism, knowing that together, we can overcome any challenge and continue to champion the vital role of libraries in our society.Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment.
All the best,
Ryan Johnson, Director, O’Fallon Public Library
ILA President, 2023–2024
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