Sri Lankans Bound for Canada

They're coming. Yes, six library staff from Sri Lanka are preparing to visit Canada, more specifically Kitchener... I know, it is an odd choice, and I feel bad that my involvement in this project has somehow led to them missing Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, in favour of Waterloo Region. But hell, I will do my best to show them a good time.

Although I haven't received a final confirmation (yes, that is the theme of this whole experience) it looks like they will be here for the first two weeks of September. They will arrive on Labour Day, and their first day at Kitchener Public Library will be Tuesday, September 5th... which also happens to be the day that KPL staff will be dressed as superheroes... talk about making a first impression! The translators should have fun explaining that one. But, not to worry, I will not greet them dressed in lycra. I wouldn't want to scare them on day one.

So now the fun begins... trying to fill two weeks with meaningful library related experiences, developing skills that will be relevant when they get home, all while making them feel welcomed and giving them a taste of Canada. Lots, and lots, and lots of work to do. Trying not to panic....

Miss me?

No, I wasn't in Sri Lanka; I just haven't had anything new to report... well nothing good at least. If you have been reading the newspaper you probably know that the situation in Sri Lanka continues to be confusing and distressing. The LTTE threaten to use suicide bombers one day, and then vow to recommit to the peace process the next. Um, flighty “terrorists” make me nervous. Over 700 people have been killed in the conflicts so far this year, and there doesn’t seem to be any end in sight to the violence… much of which is centred around Trincomalee, the site of one of the children’s libraries so much in need of attention.

So, I can safely say that I will not be traveling to Sri Lanka anytime soon. The FCM is monitoring the situation and looking for alternatives. There is a chance that staff from the Sri Lankan libraries will be brought to Canada for training, which I am sure would be an overwhelming experience for them. One way or another we will find away to help.

Okay, now I have my shots, a passport, and I am ready to go… somewhere. Ideas anyone???