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2024-2025 President's Message | Read Jorge's Speech as Incoming President
 I was listening to a podcast that discussed collective loneliness, which is the longing to be part of a group working toward a common goal. With social media on our phones and loads of streaming entertainment, not to mention the need to stay indoors in this Florida heat, finding connection needs to be intentional. Our association provides community, and we have a wealth of activities that generate connection-building.
Meet-Up: As part of our two-day FLA Board retreat, we are inviting all members to an Orlando Meet-Up event this coming Friday, August 2nd. We’ll start with a tour of the John C. Hitt Library at the University of Central Florida and then move to a networking social at Island Wing Company. Register today if you can make it at https://fla.memberclicks.net/fla-central-fl-meetup-social#!/ . We would love to see you there!
Annual Conference Update: I'm thrilled to announce that planning for our 2025 Annual Conference is underway. Thanks to our conference planning expert, Jeanice Caskey, and our dedicated conference planning committee members led by April Frazier, we are close to finalizing speakers and activities that will align with our theme of celebrating ourselves and cultivating joy in our everyday lives. We deserve that!
Call for Proposals: Speaking of our annual conference, the call for proposals is now open. Please send your presentation ideas today. The deadline is September 7th. For more information visit: https://www.flalib.org/2025-call-for-breakout-session-proposals. I can’t wait to see our final list of offerings!
Diversity Discussions: Melanie Norberto and DEIA Committee members are lining up exciting monthly discussions this fall. Join our first discussion this August 15th on the book Ain't Burned All the Bright at 3:00 pm. Register today at https://fla.memberclicks.net/aintburned-august2024#!/
Upcoming Membership Dues Change: Stephanie Piccino, Kim Odom and others from the membership committee are working hard to revamp our individual membership dues categories to make it more affordable and inclusive for all to join. Look out for information later this year.
ALA State Intellectual Freedom Helpline Grants: Past-President Shane Roopnarine, Chris Jimenez, Chair of the Intellectual Freedom Committee, and other FLA members have applied for a grant to assist in creating a state-wide Intellectual Freedom helpline. If awarded, we will partner with fellow state associations and groups to make this a success. We will keep you all updated!
As some public librarians recover from the hectic summer reading season and academic librarians gear up for a new semester, let's set the intention to find connection and joy before the summer ends. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some self-care or buy a t-shirt at https://www.flalib.org/fla-merchandise-store.
Because remember, “If you don't love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else? Can I get an Amen!”
Jorge Perez
2024-2025 FLA President
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