What was the ALA conference at Anaheim like? Sadly, since the blog was down during conference, all the microblogging I could do was through Twitter. Still and all, it helped me focus on the fun, adventure, learning and camaraderie that is always part of our ALA conferences. Below is just a taste of some of my ALSC tweets in my week in Anaheim. Savor the flavor!
Emerging Leaders Poster Session — It was standing room only as people browsed through and talked to the leaders about their projects. Team E worked with ALSC in developing a mentorship project. Using their slick online tool, I discovered my ideal mentor would be Batgirl — swoon.
Friday Night Exhibit Openings (pictured above). Yes it is just like that — crowds, clamor, arcs, swag, noshing and more. I managed to pick up a bit of swag and arcs, run into old friends and get photographed with Spidey (resulting in winning 34 Spiderman books for my library!). Many of you may have been following twitter #arcgate and know that the scrum can be crazy — and controversial.
Publisher Opportunities — There are many receptions, book previews and meal events that happen during conference that give us a chance to meet authors or get advance previews of upcoming fall lists. I also went to my share of exhibit hall publishing booths just to browse and spy with my little eye the books on hand. My favorite moment was at a dance hosted by Little Brown where Libba Bray danced with us all.
ALA Council — This—and related Council meetings -is where I spent most of my conference time. I represent my state library association but am keenly interested in youth initiatives. I hope you all consider running for a Council-at-Large seat and joining other ALSC members in keeping youth well represented at this great governance structure (don’t be afraid, changes made in the past few years have created a collegial, hard-working Council that is able to work swiftly to address issues and move the work of the association forward. Come on in, the water’s fine).
The Newbery Caldecott Banquet — Chris Raschka and Jack Gantos. Outstanding speeches. Need I say more?
Perks of Being a Wallflower Film Debut — a full twelve weeks before it hits theaters, author/director Stephen Chbosky presented his film through a Freedom to Read Foundation event at a local theater. After the very moving movie, he signed copies of the book. Priceless.
Closing Session and Inaugural Luncheon — R J Martinez inspired us with his story. This was followed by a new brunch-time celebration of all the new division presidents and a chance to congratulate Carolyn Brodie on her presidency. I hope lots of you can join me next year too!
There were plenty more adventures and programs but these were my highlights. And, of course, the most special part of the conference for me is running into, meeting and talking to new and old friends. A chance spent re-connecting, discovering, dishing and laughing renews me for a good long time!
I’m Youth Services Coordinator at La Crosse (WI) Public Library, active in ALSC and blog regularly about youth library services issues at Tiny Tips for Library Fun