The meaning of the word "retreat" is complex. In the case of LIRT, we "retreated" in order to go forward. The retreat for introspection was an interesting and rewarding process. With the skillful touch of Diana Shonrock and others, the LIRT Retreat at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. on February 14, 1997 was a "period of seclusion" devoted to the contemplation of LIRT. Working in small groups that quickly changed topics and composition, gave all the LIRT leaders an opportunity to put their ideas up on wall charts, report our discussions to each other and find conviction in the purpose of LIRT. Several themes struck me as pervasive: the importance of instruction; the desire to learn new ways of teaching; and the commitment to the involvement of all types of libraries in LIRT. We clearly must use instruction as a way to promote library services. The library as a place of virtual sources from the Web and the Internet and the idea of total access were discussed. It was a pleasure to be part of such a dynamic group of intense, inspired librarians. The fallout from this "fallback from opposition to a safe place" will be well worth the time and effort of the participants.
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