It’s been a while and things have altered: drastically in some ways and not that much in others.

First of all, i received a job offer to work for the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) in Bonn, Germany. I took it.

Not only did this take me on an adventure across the pond in a new country with a language i do not speak, but it also started me off on a different career path. A slight rather large change from Legal Librarianship to Records Management. What then, am i referring to that hasn’t changed in my life apart from continents, careers & languages? How about the fact that completely different places of employment can often emit similar atmospheres.

For example: There are just as many politics; stupid people; smart people; happy people; funny people; grumpy people; great bosses; mediocre bosses and downright awful bosses in one place as there are in another, regardless of geographical location.

Okay, not exactly groundbreaking news, however, it’s surprising how much of a comfort all this is when one finds themselves in a new place all alone.

that’s all for now…more to come.

I haven’t deciphered whether i fell in love with the country itself, or whether i fell in love with the idea of learning and traveling but not having to write a paper about it.

Slovenia was spectacular. Whether it was visiting a public library, the National Library, a theological library, the University libraries, the National Geographic library, or a vineyard, a castle in a cave, rafting on river Kolpa, or just chilling with an alcoholic beverage and good company, the trip had so much to offer I can’t even document it in its entirety.

All i can say is: if you can do it, DO IT. Sign up next year, follow this website.

Here are some pictures to tease you a bit

No, this title is not an oxymoron. I am, in fact, off on what i hope will be a fabulous vacation-come-learning-experience.

I am off to beautiful Ljubljana, Slovenia for a 2 week stint of all things library and Europe related. Check out the program here.

Fingers crossed no connection, baggage, security or other issues will arise and that it will be nothing but sun & fun.

Will report back as soon as i can…stay tuned.

Only at an SLA* event can i say:

“I’m going to Slovenija for a two week course on libraries.”

and receive nods of approval and eyes of envy rather than the regular “are you kidding me-why would anybody do that-i think you’re crazy” shock ‘n surprise.

Happy International Special Libraries Day Everyone!

~Have you hugged a librarian today?~

*FIS friends count too, obviously… no question