Betsy Blankenship, Ohio State University Marion

The start of 2014 has been a bit rocky – more snow and ice than most of us have seen in a long time. I hope you have pulled through without too many problems.

The ALAO year began with a new webmaster joining us – Kaylin Boehme, from Brown Mackie College, North Canton. Kaylin is already busy with ALAO activities; she is serving as the webmaster for the 2014 Annual Conference Committee and learning her duties from current webmasters. Welcome aboard, Kaylin!

I had reported in the last newsletter that we had hoped to have the new member listserv up and running by end of the year. It has been a bit delayed, but we are hoping to have it functioning soon. We will let everyone know when it is time to switch it over.

I had also reported that ALAO had applied to host an ACRL Scholarly Communications Roadshow this year. Unfortunately, we were not selected as a site this time. My thanks to the members of the Professional Development Committee for their hard work, they worked quickly to complete the application and gather support documentation.

The Conference Planning Committee has been busy working on the 40th Anniversary conference and their plans are coming along nicely. Be sure to read the Vice-President’s report in this newsletter. Reserve the dates as a must-attend; it’s sure to be a great event this year!

At the last board meeting, ALAO voted to provide financial support to Library Leadership Ohio. I hope some of you took advantage of a great professional development opportunity and applied. Applications are currently being reviewed and successful applicants will be notified in the coming months.

Elections now open. All members are encouraged to vote. Have you remembered to renew your membership? I know our Past President, Sue Polanka, has worked very diligently to secure a full slate of great folks. I talked to some of you who had questions about some of the positions. I thank each person who agreed to run for a position; your willingness is so appreciated! I encourage all our members to please do your part and vote when the time arrives – it does make a difference!

As we continue towards Spring (at least the calendar is saying so!), remember that there will be a lot of learning opportunities coming with some great workshops being planned; some IG’s have already announced dates and topics. Look for them in the Interest Groups and Committee news in this newsletter and on the ALAO website. The costs are very affordable and a great way to network with other members who have the same interests as you. Plan to attend one – or two – or three!