Please enjoy the latest issue of the CAHSLA Chronicle. Please don’t hesitate to send news, updates, or articles on projects, presentations, etc. for inclusion in the Chronicle to Emily Kean at any time throughout the year.
As the days grow longer and the chill of winter melts into fragrant breezes, we find ourselves once again at the doorstep of spring—a season bursting with renewal, color, and… strangely enough, a touch of fear.
Yes, fear.
While spring is typically associated with blossoms, birdsong, and backyard brunches, I invite you to consider its spookier side. Think of it: nature returns from the dead, bugs reappear en masse, and those mysterious creaks in the attic you ignored all winter suddenly sound suspiciously active. Even the flowers—so cheerful at first glance—are part of an evolutionary arms race that includes thorns, poisons, and carnivorous cousins.
Spring is scary in the way all change is scary. It asks us to shake off the old, step into the new, and embrace the unknown. Whether it’s planting something unfamiliar in the garden or finally tackling that long-postponed personal project, there’s always that shadow of doubt: What if it doesn’t work out? What if it fails?
But here’s the good news: spring also reminds us that growth often follows uncertainty. The same season that scares us with its unpredictability also gives us endless second chances—one sprout at a time.
So let’s celebrate the season in all its contradictions. Let the sun warm your fears, let the winds carry them away. And if you see a flower with teeth… just back away slowly.
Wishing you a blooming, bold, and slightly spooky spring,
The CAHSLA Education Meeting focused on Lightning Talks was held at the Rubinstein Library on February 18. The short, engaging presentations highlighting the great work, ideas, and expertise across our organization were enjoyed by all.
Attendees: Aja Bettencourt-McCarthy, Matthew Cooper, Jim Damico, Emily Kean, Amy Koshoffer, Brian McConnell, Crissy Ross, Lynn Warner
We hope you are able to join us for our annual business meeting on Wednesday, April 8th at 5:30 pm. The meeting will begin with a tour of the P&G Corporate Heritage Center & Archives and conclude with happy hour at Top of the Park at The Phelps.
Please enjoy the latest issue of the CAHSLA Chronicle. Please don’t hesitate to send news, updates, or articles on projects, presentations, etc. for inclusion in the Chronicle to Emily Kean at any time throughout the year.
It begins quietly, the air sharpens. The sky darkens earlier than it should. The first flurries fall—not gently, but ominously. Somewhere in the distance, a thermostat clicks… and Winter has arrived.
Winter doesn’t roar like a summer storm. It creeps. It freezes sidewalks, steals daylight, and turns every commute into an adventure. Coffee goes cold faster. Emails multiply. And just when you think you’re safe—atchoo!—the seasonal sniffles strike without warning.
Yes, Winter is the scariest season of them all, but every good story has its heroes.
While others huddle in fear, we librarians stand at the ready. Armed with knowledge, research skills, and an almost supernatural calm, we face the long nights head-on. Need evidence-based answers to fight the latest winter illness? We’ve got you covered. Looking for a warm escape from the cold reality outside? Our books, resources, and spaces offer shelter, distraction, and maybe even a little joy.
In the depths of winter, when the world feels quieter—and heavier—we remind our community that help is close, answers are accessible, and no one has to face the cold alone. We guide, we support, and we illuminate dark corners with information and kindness. So yes—Winter may be terrifying, but the real power belongs to those who are prepared.
Stay warm. Stay curious. And remember, the librarians are still here keeping watch.
The CAHSLA holiday party was graciously hosted by our President, Matthew Cooper, and Michelle Cooper, along with special guest, Turbo.
In attendance were: Matthew Cooper, Michelle Cooper, Jim DaMico, Lauren Darpel, Amy Koshoffer, Christine Jankowski, Emily Kean, Zan McQuade, Turbo, Virginia Wilson, Lynn Warner
Good times were had singing holiday karaoke as well as some recent pop hits. The potluck offerings were enjoyed by all, especially Jim’s tasty legumes.
Forty-seven (!) children’s books were collected to be donated to a local children’s organization.
You’re invited to an upcoming CAHSLA Education Meeting focused on Lightning Talks—short, engaging presentations highlighting the great work, ideas, and expertise across our organization.
We are currently looking for volunteers who would be interested in presenting a brief talk on a topic of their choosing. Topics can be broad or specific and might include (but are not limited to):
Projects or initiatives you’re working on
Teaching or instruction strategies
Research support or emerging trends
Professional development experiences
Tools, resources, or workflows that others might find useful
Lightning talks are meant to be informal, focused, and a great way to spark conversation and shared learning—no extensive prep required! We hope you’ll consider sharing your work and joining us for an engaging and collaborative session. We look forward to seeing you at The Rubinstein Library in February!