Morris Seminar Reflections

In January of 2008 ALSC launched the first in a series of biennial day-long seminars named in honor of Bill Morris, who was for many years vice-president and director of library promotion at HarperCollins Children’s Books. Bill established an endowment in 2000 to fund programs, publications, events, and/or awards that promote excellence in children’s literature. 

The first seminar brought new ALSC members, as well as long-time members who had never served on an ALSC award or evaluation committee, together with seasoned award committee members who offered their expertise in evaluating and discussing children’s books. Seminar participants had an opportunity to hear what it was like to serve on an evaluation committee and also had a chance to discuss some new children’s books in small groups, facilitated by ALSC leaders. 

The energy level and enthusiasm was high that day, as was the level of book discussion. Many of the participants now have a chance to share what they learned that day by serving on various award and evaluation committees. As we prepare for the 2010 Seminar coming up on January 15, 2010 in Boston, we thought it would be a good time to check in with some of the ALSC members who were there the first year to find out how what the experience was like for them, and how they are putting their critical skills to work. 

Kathleen T. Horning
Cooperative Children’s Book Center