Heading into the Saturday sessions at #alaac24, I’m excited to connect with fellow library workers who I haven’t seen in person in a long time, and eager to attend many of the poster sessions, panels and signings offered. There’s so much to choose from when attending a conference of this scale that it can be daunting! I’m also looking forward to making new connections in my field of services for children and teens and with other library professionals too.
At any conference or professional event there are myriad opportunities to learn from each other and strike up a potential new friendship—or even collaboration—but it can be tough to start a conversation with someone new. But that’s what we’re here for, and conversations with people outside of our immediate circles are some of the most inspiring and energizing encounters. So how do you start? Over the years I’ve honed in on a few tricks for opening up new conversations:
- Put on your badge
This is an obvious one, but most conference attendees will be happy to ask you about where you’re from (listed handily on your badge!), and it’s an easy topic of conversation to start with.
- Add ribbons
Division ribbons and ribbons for your favorite genres are just a few of those on offer at #alaac24. Pick one up and add it to your badge to make connections with other like minded professionals or those who are curious about the topic and want to know more.
- Grab a bite on-site
If you’re hungry or thirsty, there’s no place to make a new friend like waiting in line for your afternoon cup of coffee (or, in my case, tea) between sessions at the conference rather than heading off-site.
- Take that seat in the front row
Okay, maybe the seat will be in the second row, or third, but sit down next to someone you don’t know. Librarians don’t bite! There’s no need to space ourselves out with five empty seats between each conference attendee. I’ve met fascinating people by taking a chance and asking if the seat next to them is free.
- Wear flair
I know that not everyone is as big of a fan of fuschia as I am, and not all of you love loud prints and bright colors, but I promise you that if you add an interesting, bright, or loud element to your outfit, you’ll meet someone new. I had a great chat with an academic librarian from Boston today who was wearing the best peacock scarf I’ve ever seen. Flair is a great conversation starter.
Celeste Rhoads (she/her/hers) is originally from John Steinbeck’s hometown of Salinas, California, where she read on the beach, in trees, on road trips, and everywhere in between. She moved to Paris in 2005, and immediately found a home at the American Library in Paris. As the Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, she oversees the Library’s collections, policies, and programs for ages 0–18. Celeste has a master’s degree in Library Science from Rutgers University, where she focused on digital libraries, and children’s literature. Celeste enjoys connecting people of all ages with great reads—especially contemporary titles.
Please note that as a guest post, the views expressed here do not represent the official position of ALA or ALSC.