Beyond Hope 2025

Every achievement in our lives begins with a dream, an aspiration to transcend limitations, defy gravity and take a metaphorical flight. We often associate success with a sense of being airborne, propelled by bold ideas and innovation. Yet, paradoxically, while we seek to defy gravity, it is gravity itself that makes flight possible. In aviation, lift and gravity must remain in constant balance for stable flight. Similarly, in our professional lives, bold ideas must be balanced with strong foundations and the communities we serve, which are inalienable components of these foundations.
For libraries of any kind, our journey is much the same. We strive to elevate our services, innovate with technology, and reimagine our roles in society. We push against constant constraints, advocating for access, equity, and knowledge in a rapidly changing world. And what a changing world we have today! However, our ability to soar depends on the communities that ground us. We must take off with vision, maintain flight through collaboration, and ensure safe landings where our innovations meet the real-world needs of those we serve.
On a daily basis, we embrace a mindset of defying gravity while recognizing the essential forces that keep us airborne and stable. We harness the forces of innovation and ambition as we propel our libraries to new heights, beyond hope! Defying gravity is not just about soaring; it is about understanding the forces that enable flight. By embracing both bold innovation and strong foundational values, library professionals can navigate the complex landscape of information services and lead their communities to extraordinary new and wicked heights. Beyond hope, beyond limits.

Enjoy this popular Beyond Hope session to watch library staff speed-review their favourite newly-published works. Audience members will be provided with rattles, bells, and other noise-makers. Good-natured heckling and cheering is encouraged as the timer counts down to 0!

Accessibility Note: This session may be noisy and crowded. Participants with sensory sensitivities may request seating at the back or side of the room, and are encouraged to bring ear defenders for their personal use.