Note From Lisa

Lisa Waskin, MLA 2025 Annual Conference Chair

When I think of a kaleidoscope, I have memories as a child of holding up a tube filled with brightly colored glass or plastic to the light and turning the cylinder so that it created endless combinations of symmetrical colors and shapes. I did not then understand the construction of the device, or how prisms precisely placed created the beautiful shapes. I just knew that it was exciting and special, and no two images seemed to be the same. If you look up the word in Webster’s Dictionary, you will find a very cut and dried definition of the word that is similar to what I remember as a child: an instrument containing loose bits of colored material (such as glass or plastic) between two flat plates and two plane mirrors so placed that changes of position of the bits of material are reflected in an endless variety of patterns.

But as you scan further down in the definition, you come to the meanings that I feel are more of the essence of how the committee wanted the 2025 Annual Conference to be interpreted and how we want it to make the attendees see and feel about work in their libraries. These include: a variegated changing pattern or scene, or a succession of changing phases or actions, or finally a diverse collection.

As the Michigan Library Association launches its new Strategic Plan, this year’s Annual Conference in Lansing embraces all three of these concepts as we navigate change this year. The breakouts and keynote speakers were chosen to best speak to these changes, trends, and visions of the future in Michigan libraries. From first-time attendees to long-time members, we are all navigating many changes and challenges this year. In addition, we have listened to your feedback from the last few years of conferences since COVID, and are making sure to add the breakout sessions, keynotes, and events that you told us you would like to see at the Annual Conference. We are also being mindful of things like having quiet spaces, opportunities to network, mental health and wellness, and creating the space for all of you to feel welcome and included. We encourage you to visit the vendors, sponsors, and after-hours events to help round out your experience. This year’s events feature a relaxing evening for early arrivals at Lansing Shuffle, where we will have food, fun, shuffleboard, and a little Trivia. On Wednesday, we hold our Annual Awards Banquet, where we honor our colleagues for their accomplishments. And on Thursday, make sure to attend the All-Conference Reception at our very own Library of Michigan. There will be a costume contest, celebration of former Director Debbie Mikula’s retirement, music by DJ Kevin King, tours of the facility, and of course, food, drink, and fun.

MLA’s Annual Conference has traditionally been the leading professional development event of the year for library staff, and we hope this year exceeds all your expectations with our Kaleidoscope of sessions, events, programs, and activities. I look forward to seeing you all in Lansing on October 29, 30, and 31!