Canadian Library Association Meets

The Canadian Library Association (CLA) came to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, at the end of May for its annual conference for the first time in 38 years (and the second time ever). More than 1000 delegates and exhibitors attended what was a joint conference of CLA, the Atlantic Provinces Library Association, and Newfoundland and Labrador Library Association.

It got off to a rousing start with opening keynote speaker Linda Duxbury, a professor at the Carleton University School of Business, Ottawa, who discussed her research on the characteristics of the four different generations to be found in today's work force: Veterans (born pre-1946), Baby Boomers (1947–64), Generation X (1964–72), and Generation Y (1972–90). Judging by later conversation throughout the conference, Duxbury struck chords by suggesting the importance of recognizing and accommodating the different styles and expectations of the groups. (See more of her analysis at tinyurl.com/3cse8p.)

The business of CLA proceeded in a judicious fashion, with reports on a somewhat improved financial situation, gradual implementation of an open access policy for CLA publications, establishment of a new Interest Group on Library Service to Individuals with Print Disabilities, steady advocacy and lobbying at the federal level, and consideration of the establishment of a foundation within CLA to support school libraries in Canada.

Participants also expressed concern about staffing, following the pioneering work of the CLA President's Council 2005 report, The Future of Human Resources in Canadian Libraries, which suggested libraries must plan for the retirement of many managers. Other conference topics included copyright, space planning, and community development.

CLA is pursuing closer cooperation with other library associations in Canada, particularly with ASTED (the French-language library association in Canada), which is hosting the 2008 World Library and Information Congress: 74th IFLA General Conference in August 2008 in Québec City. CLA is also contributing programming to the Education Institute of the Partnership, a network of Canadian provincial, regional, and territorial library associations.