FROM THE EDITOR
Jain Fletcher
This issue is about the spirit of OLAC members. It follows the ALA Conference in Toronto, where the perceived risk of an infectious disease spread a kind of pall over the entire proceedings, translating to reduced attendance overall. The only hurdle originally expected for this ALA Conference had been that of proper preparation for international travel; otherwise, librarians had really been looking forward to having their professional meetings in this exciting new destination.
Toronto did its part and delivered. There was good weather and all the citizens were warm and welcoming. However, there was indeed reduced attendance and it was apparent at every meeting attended. Still, the caliber and enthusiasm of the attendees was high and people returned home with the overall feeling that the Conference was worth the effort.
This was especially true of the OLAC meetings. As the contributions in this issue show, its first meeting was held without a quorum of its members (CAPC). This allowed the audience the chance to be treated to a longer-than-usual account by its liaison (and substitute liaison) John Attig, of the activities and endeavors of the two cataloging groups, MARBI and CC:DA. Another of its meetings (Exec) also had no quorum, but carried through with as much of its planned discussion as it could, all done in a lively and informative way. While we sorely missed Kay, we got a preview of the Board to come, with Cathy as its head. Following that meeting, the Membership meeting was the best attended of all. With a reduced Board presiding at the head of the room, the audience took a somewhat more active role than usual. Throughout, the flexibility and willingness of the membership to enter into the spirit of the effort was noteworthy. Best yet, Verna came to it (miraculously!) with the wording of the NBO Award plaque, faxed to her just in time by the determined and persistent Kay, who apparently would not stop until she succeeded in this effort. In lacking that prior to the meeting, the Board had hoped that the substitute presentation it had organized would be suitable for its august recipient. My feeling was that it turned out better than we could have hoped--Jean received a bouquet at the meeting--flowers and a flowery introduction by Kevin--and her plaque sent to her afterwards. She was double-gifted!
Whether they attended the meetings or not, all the liaisons and reporters sent in their contributions for this issue. This Newsletter is replete with activities, announcements, reports and reviews. I invite you to read it cover to cover to see what I mean about OLAC's spirit.
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Last updated: September 3, 2003
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