EDITOR'S NOTES
Librarians Mobilizing in an Age of Uncertainty
by Dick Kaser
As of this writing, a recent executive order calls for downsizing and limiting (or eliminating) the functions of IMLS, which has provided funding—at least, in part—for a variety of innovative library projects we have covered over the years in this magazine. Who knows whether this order will stand, but that’s the point—nobody knows what to expect. You might say libraries are now living in an age of uncertainty. But that isn’t stopping librarians from forging ahead with conviction, as the articles in this issue attest.
The Marketing Library Services section includes news on recent political moves, inside and outside of the federal government, that affects public libraries.
Strategic planner Dan Rasmus offers his thoughts on scenario planning as a way to visualize possible future outcomes. This process specifically factors in current uncertainties.
Tech librarian and right-to-read advocate Carolyn Foote shares her tips for being prepared and proactive, as libraries increasingly find they must defend their core values, services, and collections.
As libraries suffer more frequent cyberattacks, Cal LaFountain gives his advice for fortifying your network security and teaching users how to protect themselves inside and outside your facilities.
With all of the distractions, remember to keep on keeping on. Librarians Zach Parish and Joshua Bryant (Bexley Public Library) urge you to continue to embrace the virtual programming that emerged during the pandemic to effectively and efficiently extend the library’s reach and service to your community.
Also, check out the coverage of the 2025 CIL conference in the articles by Marshall Breeding and Marydee Ojala.
As always, you’ll find many more articles in this issue that deal with pressing needs for keeping up with technology and advancing your library’s mission, come what may.
Dick Kaser, Executive Editor
kaser@infotoday.com
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