Like the “North Star”: My Memories of Snejana Ianeva By Roberta Stevens, President of the American Library Association 2010-2011

From the moment I stepped off the plane in Sofia on May 17, 2010 until I boarded again on May 22nd, I was caught in the Snejana Ianeva whirlwind. She made maximum use of me as President-Elect of the American Library Association to provide information on libraries in the U.S. and the vital role that library associations play in improving libraries and the profession of librarianship. In addition to being the keynote speaker for Bulgaria's National Library Week (attended by librarians, government officials and the press), Snejana had me "on the move" to advocate for libraries and what they do that benefits individuals and the nation.

Snejana knew how to work her contacts with key people in powerful positions as part of her strategy of building  support for Bulgaria's libraries. Among the numerous individuals I met were U.S. Ambassador James Warlick; Mrs.Tsetska Tsacheva, then Speaker of the Bulgarian Parliament; and Mr. Igor Chipev, at that time the head of the directorate for cultural heritage (which provided funding for libraries). My message over and over back in 2010 was to get computers in Bulgaria's libraries and quickly.

Perhaps the two most memorable experiences for me were being introduced and applauded by the Bulgarian Parliament and testifying about libraries and library funding for the Parliamentary members of the Committee on Culture. Snejana made these opportunities happen and when I told the Librarian of Congress about them, I think he was envious!

It was a delight to meet with members of the Bulgarian Library and Information Association during the trip. They were impressive ... so much joy and positivity, a reflection of Snejana, their "North Star."

Snejana Ianeva was wise, perceptive, dedicated to libraries and generous. She was a force of nature, a dynamic person without peer. I will always remember her lovely smile and twinkling eyes. It is a singular honor to share my memories of her.

Roberta Stevens
2010-2011 President of the American Library Association