As social media manager for Library Connect, I’ve had many exchanges with interesting librarians from around the globe over the past year. Whether in person or via LC Twitter or Facebook, I’ve learned a lot from librarians. The most valuable lesson I’ve come away with is that being passionate about what you do matters. I’ve witnessed your passion firsthand at conferences and read it in your posts. You genuinely care not only about your own careers, but about those you serve and the future of the profession.

Seeing this has made me realize that I, too, need to follow my passion. I am an avid sports fan and growing up I always said I was going to be a professional baseball player; if that didn’t work out, I’d work for ESPN. Well, the pro baseball career didn’t happen, but now I get to follow my other dream. On Monday, I’ll join ESPN as its Manager, Customer Service & Social Media.

As for Library Connect, I’m happy to say it’s in great hands. Colleen DeLory, editor of the Library Connect Newsletter, will oversee social media activities for the foreseeable future. Some of you may know Colleen because you’ve written an article for the newsletter or met her at a conference. For those who are attending the upcoming ALA conference in Anaheim, Colleen will be at the Elsevier booth (#1206) on Friday evening so please stop by and introduce yourself. Otherwise, I hope you’ll keep in touch with Colleen, and the entire LC community, through the LC blog and via Twitter and Facebook.

As I depart Library Connect, I thank you for sharing your experiences and knowledge with me via Library Connect over the past year, and wish you nothing but the best and future successes. I know your passion and dedication will ensure those successes are realized.

Joe Walsh
Social Media Manager, Library Connect
j.walsh@elsevier.com