We are excited to honor this year’s class of Standout Friends in September as part of Saturday Splash. Thanks to the many Friends groups who have already submitted one of their own for this Friends-only honor. If you haven’t already, there’s still time. Deadline is 11:59 p.m. CDT next Friday, July 28.

Fifteen years ago, the American Library Association established the I Love My Librarian Award as a way to recognize the dedication and achievements of MLIS-level library staff members. Specifically, this annual, national honor is intended to celebrate “librarians who have made a difference in your life and/or gone above and beyond to serve your community.”

Registration is now open for the 2023 conference of the Minnesota Library Association. Join library staff, trustees and supporters at the Saint Paul RiverCentre on October 4-5 for dozens of panels, keynote talks and networking opportunities. Friends rates start at $85 if you register before August 17. Cost jumps to $110 after the early bird cutoff.