From Your Executive Director, May 2025
Greetings colleagues,
As we move further into 2025, I’m filled with a renewed sense of excitement and optimism for the future of ASIS&T and our broader professional community. There are several important developments underway that not only speak to the strength of our organization but also to the vibrant, engaged membership that makes everything we do possible.
First and foremost, I am thrilled about the pending merger between ASIS&T and the Special Libraries Association (SLA). This is a bold and forward-thinking step that promises to expand our collective reach, deepen our expertise, and create new opportunities for collaboration and innovation across the information profession. The conversations thus far have been energizing, and the spirit of partnership that both organizations have brought to the table is truly inspiring. I firmly believe that together, we are building something even greater—an organization that honors our legacies while embracing the evolving needs of our members and the communities we serve. Rest assured that maintaining the ASIS&T brand is a key priority for us in this process, so we will not lose sight of that.
I am also deeply encouraged by the positive response to our recent public statement in support of Dr. Carla Hayden, former Librarian of Congress. In the face of unwarranted criticism, it’s been heartening to see our community rally around a leader who has dedicated her career to advancing access to information and championing equity in our field. If you haven’t yet, I urge all of our U.S.-based members to forward our statement to your representatives in Congress. It’s a simple but powerful act of advocacy that underscores the values we hold dear as information professionals.
On the programmatic front, I’m pleased to report that the submissions for our 2025 Annual Meeting have been nothing short of outstanding. The quality, diversity, and creativity of the proposals we’ve received will ensure that we deliver the exceptional in-person meeting experience our members have come to expect. This November, we look forward to welcoming you to Crystal City for what promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking event. And for those unable to travel, we are equally excited about our robust virtual satellite meeting. This hybrid approach not only reflects our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility but also allows us to broaden participation and bring more voices into the conversation.
As always, thank you for your continued support, engagement, and passion for the work we do together. These are transformative times for our profession, and it’s a privilege to navigate them alongside such a dedicated and inspiring community.
Warmly,
Lydia Middleton
Executive Director, ASIS&T