Today marks the final day of this incredible journey, and I feel both reflective and energized. This program has given me the rare opportunity to pause, revisit my professional identity as a librarian, and envision new directions for my career. The past few weeks have been filled with eye-opening experiences that deepened my understanding of diversity, access, and innovation in libraries.

On Diversity and Inclusion, I was deeply inspired by the efforts of U.S. librarians to serve users of all backgrounds—whether it’s students with disabilities (DRES), the Amish community in Arthur, or those affected by book bans. I saw firsthand how librarians in the U.S. honor intellectual freedom by resisting censorship and working to meet the diverse needs of their communities without prejudice or fear. Their commitment to being open, inclusive, and engaged was truly admirable.

Regarding Institutional Repositories, I was impressed by the Oak Street Library Facility at the University of Illinois, a high-density storage center with a clear focus on preservation. Even more striking was the University of Chicago’s underground high-tech storage facility, which showcased how thoughtful investment and innovation can solve space limitations creatively. These examples redefined my idea of what long-term preservation should look like.

In Terms of AI Integration, I learned how researchers are already incorporating tools like ChatGPT, Scite, and Elicit into their academic workflows. These insights gave me the confidence to consider how my own library can adopt AI tools both in patron services and internal operations. I’m now more motivated than ever to propose forward-looking, user-centered AI services that align with our evolving needs.

Although this journey comes to an end, I know it’s the beginning of something new. I’m leaving with fresh ideas, renewed motivation, and a stronger belief in the role of librarians as facilitators of open knowledge, inclusion, and meaningful engagement with the communities we serve.