By Susan Hildreth Director, IMLS Welcome to UpNext! I am really excited about our new blog. When I was thinking about what to write for this very first post, I knew there were so many things that I could say about the benefits of having an IMLS blog.  What stands out the most is that this is a place for you to connect and to be part of an online community where libraries and museums, partners, and citizens can share ideas, questions, and experiences. Nearly 1,400 participants provided ideas and comments in our recent virtual town hall to help shape the IMLS strategic plan.  One issue that came through loud and clear was participants’ desire to identify and share lessons learned.  We hope that the blog becomes a community that will do just that. I encourage you visit the blog often to continue the conversation.  With your participation this blog will help inspire innovation, and share ideas that strengthen the lifelong learning and community anchor roles of US libraries and museums. I hope you will enjoy learning more about our projects and initiatives and that you will also take the opportunity to share what you know, engage with your peers, community members, IMLS staff, and other thought leaders from libraries, museums and beyond. So, stay tuned for what’s UpNext. -Susan