Excuses for not doing CE

The excuses are many -- too busy -- no time -- too old -- no money -- to much to do -- no time -- too old......

Sound familiar? Yes this is reality for many of us -- myself included. However, the reality in today's fast-paced, ever-changing world, is that if you do not keep up with trends and technology in the library world --- you will be left in the dust.

We all work in very unique communities -- some are smaller and enjoy the slower pace of life, while other communities are fast-paced making it a challenge just to keep up with the daily routines. However, in order to keep all of our libraries in the forefront as a "learning" organization, we must be willing to look beyond the openings of our cave dwellings and take a chance on the "new stuff". (see David Hutchen's Shadows of the Neanderthal: Illuminating the Beliefs that Limit Our Organization)

I went to a library conference in eastern Idaho this past week. In talking with another colleague I was fascinated by his enthusiasm for learning! He said he felt like the robot in a 90's movie that kept asking for "more data -- more data -- need more input!" He is thirsty for new knowledge and is continually expanding his learning through a variety of avenues: self-education, workshops, e-learning, conferences, reading, playing and experimenting! Every day is a new exciting opportunity to learn!

I challenge to you to play with new trends and technology ... experiment and explore! You will not be dissappointed. Not every new trend or technology tool will be appropriate for you, however, it will be valuable knowledge that some day you will be able to share with someone else.