President’s Perspective

By Mary Woodard

IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE THAT IN JUST A FEW SHORT WEEKS, MY TERM AS TLA PRESIDENT WILL COME TO AN END. This has been a year of change and challenge, but it has been a privilege to serve an organization that has meant so much to me throughout my career as a librarian in Texas. I appreciate the opportunity I’ve had to represent TLA members in these tough and worrisome times. While the current political environment may give us cause for concern, I’m optimistic when I talk with librarians and others around the state.

I’ve heard so many stories of courage and commitment to libraries and what they stand for. Some are speaking out in open forums against censorship and in support of libraries. Others are talking individually with friends, family and community members, explaining the qualifications that librarians have and the philosophy behind the freedom to read. Whether the effort is loud or quiet, in front of a group or oneon-one, TLA members from libraries of all types are standing up for each other and exemplifying the theme of the 2023 conference — Libraries Unite

Speaking of the upcoming conference, the Conference Planning Committee (CPC) has put together an extraordinary event with over 300 education sessions that will truly have something for everyone. Our keynote speakers will provide some much needed inspiration with their positivity, perspective, and passion. First up will be Gretchen Rubin, a self-described student of human nature. Her newest book is an exploration of the five senses and how we can use them to live a life of happiness, creativity and innovation. The second keynote will feature a conversation between acclaimed authors Cynthia Leitich Smith and Angeline Boulley, who will share their perspectives and reflections as Native American writers. Finally, our closing session will present ABC News correspondent Deborah Roberts discussing how important educators are in the lives of students. It will be an exciting and exhilarating time of learning, growing, and networking together.

When the conference ends, I will “pass the gavel” to Gretchen Pruett and take my place as Past President. Before I do, though, I want to take this opportunity to express my admiration and appreciation for the hundreds of volunteers that make TLA the outstanding association that it is.

The elected officers of TLA units, appointed committee chairs, committee members, and specifically the Conference Planning Committee all have my undying gratitude for the many hours they have spent doing the work of the association. They have created reading lists, monitored legislation, evaluated applications for awards, grants or scholarships, planned and participated in education events, provided support for librarians undergoing book challenges, created podcasts, planned an amazing conference, and so much more.

TLA would not function without all of you — thank you for your dedication, reliability, and support for our organization. You are leaders and risk takers who are willing and able to look at current practices and make changes that will help us move forward nimbly and strategically.

Finally, I’d like to thank all of you for allowing me the opportunity to serve you and learn from you. It has shown me that, although we work in different types of libraries, we are alike in more ways than we are different and when we work together there is nothing that we can’t do. We will come through this current adversity stronger and more united than ever and TLA will continue its mission to amplify our voices.

Mary Woodard 2022-2023 TLA President