ALA 2011 | Professional Programs Aplenty, LJ's Picks & Pans
June 1, 2011There is plenty on the conference program for almost any librarian at any level at the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference in New Orleans, June 23–28. It may even be enough to keep you away from the many temptations of the bon temps in that city of joyous distractions.
The issues of the day
Of course, there are plenty of bummers, reminders of the times. Indeed, there is an overkill of programs on managing in tough times, budgeting, proving the value of libraries, and, as if that’s not enough, there’s a relatively lame series called “MBA for Librarians,” which superficially pushes the latest fads in business management for the “Let’s run it like a business” crowd.
For the new, young, and too often unemployed librarians, there is plenty of help for the job search, the interview, and even the career plan. When all else fails, there are programs to tell you how to hang out a shingle as a consultant.
Some of the best programs consider the future of libraries of all types and suggest a landscape of incredible variety, a great leap from the traditional position of the library in contemporary American society.
The good news is that many of our best thinkers—a number of them LJ Movers & Shakers—are truly “thinking about the unthinkable” and could just possibly come up with a viable future for librarians and libraries in a society hell bent on forcing all information, entertainment, and cultural activity into some pay per use marketplace model. Librarians will deliver the pro and con on this trend at ALA.
The techies have brought their new ideas, some great, some lousy, and a few totally incomprehensible. Still, there will be many solid innovations to apply back home.
The usual debates and deliberations of ALA politics all are here but at a pretty low level in terms of strategies and tactics, and, as always in recent years, the subject of most of it will be money and how to raise it for ALA.
For the price of admission
Programs will try to sell you certificates of professional viability from the Allied Professional Association, and a host of day-long and expensive preconferences if you have the bucks to register.
Our focus here is on the free stuff. A few of these selections charge a small amount, but most are built into your registration, as they ought to be.
We’ve chosen programs we consider worthy of your time and attention. A star (
) means we think it has the greatest potential to provide that learning, useful information, inspiration, enlightenment, and/or entertainment. We didn't have full information at press time, so if a program doesn't deliver, just leave. There's always another program, and, of course, there's always Bourbon Street.
EXHIBITS
The exhibits are open Sat. and Sun., Jun. 25–26, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and Mon., Jun. 27, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
More than six football fields of exhibits feature the latest in books, furnishings, and technologies from over 900 exhibitors. An integral part of the conference, the exhibits include programs like the “LIVE! @ your Library Reading Stage” with authors, info on how to develop author programs for your library, a pavilion of fantastic displays of the latest cookbooks with chefs to prepare their hottest recipes, and the authors, illustrators, and creators of the newest games and graphic novels.
The Exhibits Opening Reception, sponsored by ALA and the Exhibits Round Table, runs throughout the Exhibits Hall on Friday, Jun. 24, 5:30–7:30 p.m., with free hors d’oeuvres and special giveaways. It is preceded by the Opening General Session, at 4 p.m.
ACADEMIC LIBRARIES
Midnight–2:00 A.M.: What Goes on at the Library
ACRL. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m. a.m.–noon. Librarians Peg Lawrence and Lynne Weber (Minnesota State) surveyed late-night library users. They’ll report user behavior, gate counts, databases used, time and length of use, and space. Surprising and valuable.
Currents of Change and Innovation: Libraries Learn To Reduce, Reuse, and Renew
ACRL/CJCLS. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m. a.m.–noon. Innovations and “best practices” in community college libraries. Reducing print collections, rearranging space for learner collaboration, and campus technology inter-action, according to Ann Coder (Brook-haven Coll.), Linda McCann (Bucks Cty. Community Coll. Lib.), Denise Repman (Delgado Community Coll. Lib.), and Theresa C. Stanley (Pima Community Coll. Lib.).
Academic Librarian Lightning Round! Innovative New Roles
ACRL/CLS/ULS. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Eleven college librarians (count’ em) will take two hours to try to describe their innovative new roles, new pathways, and partnerships forged and how they “reasserted the centrality of the library” on campus. Will need the promised “fast-pace” and “Lightning Talk”; 120 minutes isn’t enough.
Envisioning Our Future: Restructuring the Academic Library Through Radical Collaboration
LLAMA/LOMS, Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Two case studies of strategic collaboration: 2CUL—a partnership between Columbia and Cornell libraries based on integrating resources, collections, services, and expertise—and the collaboration of the 36-member Orbis Cascade Alliance. Crucial new management strategies.
Designing a Specialty Commons: What You Need To Know About Furniture, Equipment, and Technology Before Designing Your Own
LLAMA/BES. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. Space, furniture, and equipment considerations for a specialty commons as used in a library data lab, a learning commons, a digital media lab, a technology sandbox, and a spatial and numeric data center. Will cover the impetus for creating them, the design criteria/adjacencies/services, and what makes them successful.
Purchase on Demand Through Interlibrary Loan
ALCTS/CMDS. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Patron-driven acquisitions, how selectors fit in the PDA model, how institutions have solved workflow issues, how PDA programs are funded, and assessment of PDA programs according to Jill H. Powell (Cornell), Roberta Schenewerk (Fort Worth Lib.), and Doug Way (Grand Valley State Univ. Lib.).
Return on Investment in a Tough Economy—Defining the Value of the Academic Library
LLAMA/MAES/LOMS. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Two projects to help apply return on investment (ROI) principles to demonstrate project value and user impact and justify the expense. Speakers will explain the application of Triple (people, planet, and profit) Bottom Line Accounting to ROI and discuss the IMLS grant–funded Lib-Value (Value, Outcomes, and ROI of Academic Libraries).
ADVOCACY
Boomers, Staff & Students—Engaging the Many Voices of Advocacy: An Advocacy Institute Workshop
OLA. Fri., Jun. 24, 1–4 p.m. How to engage baby boomers, library staff, and students to be vocal library supporters. The Advocacy Training Subcommittee of the Committee on Library Advocacy with ALTAFF to mobilize groups we haven’t engaged so far. Track record of all these units isn’t great. Might be worth advance price of $50, but not the additional $25 on site.
Ensuring the Library’s Place in Your Community
ALTAFF. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Claims library supporters and librarians successfully advocated for major federal funding legislation for libraries nationwide. Hear how and how to continue to make the case for libraries at the federal level. Topics include protecting E-Rate funds, net neutrality, FEMA, and accessing new money.
How Louisiana Libraries Created New Beginnings: ALTAFF’s Specialized Outreach Services Luncheon
ALTAFF. Sat., Jun. 25, 12:30–2 p.m. Stellar panel of Katelyn Ramsey Castleberry (Friends of the New Orleans PL), Ron Heezen (Shreve Memorial PL), and Irvin Mayfield (NO Lib. Trustee Board Pres. and jazz musician) tell firsthand how each faced change and joined forces with staff, trustees, Friends, local pols, and the community. Tickets: $55.
Demonstrating the Value of the Library: Assessment Tools and Techniques
ACRL. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m. a.m.–noon. Assessment techniques and tools from Annette Day (NCSU Libs.), Steve Hiller (Univ. of Washington Libs.), Megan Oakleaf (iSchool, Syracuse), and Jennifer Rutner (Columbia) to demonstrate the value of the library to constituents, stakeholders, and funding bodies. Three experts on a crucial topic.
Library Snapshot Day: A Nationwide Success Story of Library Advocacy
ASCLA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Library Snapshot Day, started by the New Jersey State Library and now in 27 states, is a way for libraries of all types to show what happens in them in a single day. An overview of results from different states and tips to prepare from Peggy Cadigan.
Economic Reflections on Libraries: ALCTS President’s Program
ALCTS. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Hear economist Paul Courant (Univ. of Michigan Libs.) on how the many functions of libraries of all types are essential to economic growth and are subject to the law of supply and demand. Useful theory.
Teens as Advocates
YALSA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Why articulating the value of your library to teens is more important than ever. How teens become effective advocates for teen services and strategies for working with a Teen Advisory Group.
ALA POLITICS
ALA Membership Meeting I
Sat., Jun. 25, 3:30–5 p.m. Lately they haven’t been able to raise a quorum and for good reason. Nothing useful or very interesting happens at these setup sessions.
ALA Council/Executive Board/Membership Information Session
Sun., Jun. 26, 9–10 a.m.
ALA Council
I, Sun., Jun. 26, 10:45 a.m.–12:15 p.m.; II, Mon., Jun. 27, 9:15 a.m.–12:45 p.m.; III, Tues., Jun. 28, 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
ALA-APA Council Meeting: ALA-APA Council
Sun., Jun. 26, 10–10:30 a.m. Open to all observers, but reports will surface later, so watching the live “debates” at these info gatherings is only for deeply addicted ALA politics junkies. Several councilors report all that is worth knowing about online and in LJ. Heavy with process.
Inaugural Banquet
Tues., Jun. 28, 7–11 p.m. The banquet honors new President-elect Molly Raphael, new division presidents, and begins with the Awards Reception. Raphael will speak, and new prexies often reveal their plans. Food, music, dancing, etc. Fun for our aging establishment in required “semi-formal attire,” but don’t be too meticulous about it.
BUILDINGS
Recovery Along the Gulf Coast: 21 Communities Build Back Better Public Libraries
PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 10 a.m.–noon. MaryEllin Santiago (Gulf Coast Lib. Project) will report lessons learned while rebuilding 21 public libraries lost in 2005 storms, including community engagement/funding and the impact that the libraries, as first rebuilders in their communities, had in the entire rebuilding process along the gulf. Practical ideas.
The 21st Century Academic Library Building: A Forum on Recent Planning, Design,
and Construction of New Library Space
LLAMA BES. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Results and analysis of a recent study of U.S. academic library buildings completed in the last decade, plus three case studies of new academic library buildings. Valuable.
Vision and Evolution: Design and Post-Occupancy of the Hazel McCallion Academic Learning Centre
LLAMA BES. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. A “people-centered vision and innovative programming” drove the design of the new University of Toronto Mississauga library and brought unparalleled use until “the building became a victim of its own success,” forcing staff and the design team to reconvene while preserving the vision and the design. A rare, honest admission of trouble following a fine new build. Don’t miss it.
CAREER PLANNING
Leading Technical Services in 2011
ALCTS. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. “Prominent technical services leaders” Beth Farwell (Baylor), Marlene Harris (Alachua Cty. Lib. Dist.), Peggy Johnson (Univ. of Minnesota Libs.), Anne McKee (Greater Western Lib. Alliance) reflect on their careers and offer advice to “a new generation of technical services leaders.” Get all the free advice you can (it is worth every penny)!
CATALOGING & METADATA
Linked In: Library Data and the
Semantic Web
LITA. Sat., Jun. 25, 8 a.m.–noon. The potential/problems of the Semantic Web and demonstrations of databases using RDF and MARC XML to make library data more web friendly, from Ross Singer (Talis Information) and Eric Hellman (Gluejar). Promises to make the Semantic Web seem more immediate. Crucial content, great speakers.
The Discovery Payoff: Are Discovery Services Increasing ROI and the Library’s Prominence in Academic Institutions
LITA. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. John Law and Andrew Nagy (Serials Solutions) on the impact and application of web-scale discovery in academic libraries. Plus advice on how web-scale discovery can be “leveraged” to increase the return on content investments.
Doing Away with Dewey: Library Innovations for Service Excellence
PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. The new Customer Centered Classification (C3) and how to merchandize a collection and make a library customer–friendly; from Canada’s Markham PL: Andrea Cecchetto (Learning & Growth), Moe Hosseini-Ara (Service Excellence), Diane Macklin (Marketing & Programming), and Debbie Walker (Lib. Strategy & Innovation). We’ll listen to them despite their odd job areas. The dump Dewey fad is all over North America!
Open Source Integrated Library Systems in Consortia
ASCLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Open source ILSs, no longer cutting edge, now manage dozens of libraries on the same system. Five consortia of varying size, type, and complexity from Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Kansas, Michigan, and Georgia are examined. All successfully use either Koha or Evergreen open source systems in a union catalog environment. Need to know.
ILS Migration Project Manager’s Jambalaya: 1 Part Library Science, 1 Part Open Source, and a Whole Lot More!
LITA. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Hear Melissa Lefebvre (Bibliomation), and Jennifer Turner (Minnesota State) on managing an ILS migration to Evergreen. If you’re migrating.
Open Source Electronic Resource Management Systems: CORAL and ERMes
ALCTS/RUSA/CODES. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Two “flexible, evolving and affordable” ERM systems, ERMes and CORAL, were developed by libraries for libraries and made freely available. Development, use, and future plans will be described by Galadriel Chilton and William Doering (Univ. of Wisconsin–La Crosse), and Benjamin J. Heet and Robin Malott (Notre Dame).
Have Metadata, Can Collaborate: Putting the MARC21 583 Field To Use in Cooperative Preservation Efforts
ALCTS. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. How to use the MARC21 583 field to record and share conservation and preservation actions, with Amy Benson, Heather Caldwell, and Deborah Funkhouser (Harvard), and Jacob Nadal (UCLA).
Consultants for Technical Services: What Do They Do and How Can They Help?
ALCTS. Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. Lila (Angie) Ohler (Univ. of Maryland), Ruth Fischer (R2 Consulting), Ruth T. Kinnersley (Trevecca Nazarene Univ), and Andrew White (Stony Brook) on what consultants can do for technical services from consultants and librarians who hired them. No one here will tell when you don’t need one.
All That Jazz: The Rhythms of Creating an Academic–Public Library ILS Consortium
ACRL. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Alberta Comer and Tim Gritten (Indiana State) claim patrons demand more from library catalogs while administrators demand maximum ROI. How a new consortium of academic and public libraries in Vigo County addresses the issue. Promises to reveal “unexpected complexities” they stumbled across.
The Ultimate Debate: “Library Web Scale Discovery Services; Paradigm Shift
or More of the Same?”
LITA/IRSIG. Mon., Jun. 27, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Libraries have not answered the call from users for a more Google-like interface because of technology limitations, publisher business models, librarian philosophies, and other stuff. Good issues presented by Sarah Passonneau (Iowa State).
Drupal Fail Panel & Group Therapy
LITA. Mon., Jun. 27, 1:30–3:30 p.m. The Drupal open source web content management system touted for its extensibility and flexibility is also rife with error. This unnamed panel will tell about the blind alleys, wrongheaded approaches, and downright failures they’ve experienced with Drupal. Learn from their mistakes!
CHILD CARE
Camp ALA
Fri.–Tues., Jun. 24–28, 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Run by ACCENT on Children’s Arrangements, children aged six months–17 years can participate in age-appropriate activities for $80 per child per day. Parents pay $48 per child per day, and ALA funds $32 per child per day. Each field trip costs $90 per day; ALA funds $32 per child per day for children ages six years and older, lunch is included, and parents pay only $58 per field trip. Pre-register by June 10.
COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT
Graphic Novels: Bridging Generations, Bridging Cultures
EMIERT. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. A panel of “comics gurus” examines how comic books and graphic narratives broaden understanding of indigenous cultures and serve as accessible media for emergent adult readers and newcomers with limited English proficiency. Features Homa Naficy (Hartford PL, CT).
21st Century Scholarly Communication: Conversations for Change
ACRL/EBSS/WGSS/LPSS/ANSS. Mon., Jun. 27, 8–10 a.m. Sherri L. Barnes (Univ. of California), Marta L. Brunner (UCLA), Jennifer Laherty (Indiana Univ., Bloomington) on how new initiatives are altering traditional scholarly publishing and changing librarians’ roles and scholarly communication from the perspective of feminist librarians. Important!
Journal Review Benefits Beyond the Budget: Dollars and Sense
ALCTS/CMDS/RUSA/CODES. Mon., Jun. 27, 8–10 a.m. Paul Beavers, Beth Callahan, Cindy Krolikowski, and Diane Paldan (all from Wayne State) on a “comprehensive journal review”and when librarians and faculty can join to right-size a journal collection and “still manage to keep smiling.” Guaranteed to reveal “the unintended consequences (good and bad)” that emerged from campuswide, interdepartmental contact during the review.
COPYRIGHT
Copyright and Information Literacy
OITP. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon
Discussion of copyright principles as they relate to literacy.
Copyright and Digital Media in a Web 2.0 World
AASL. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Rebecca Butler (Copyright for Teachers and Librarians in the 21st Century) addresses copyright and new formats and equipment, everything from iPads to Playaways, from blogs/vlogs to podcasts/vodcasts, from Second Life and social networking to Skype, social bookmarking, web syndication, video streaming, computer/video games/gaming, and open-sourcing/Creative Commons. The latest copyright stuff.
DIGITAL LIBRARIES
Updates on Cloud Computing Uses for Library Services
LITA. Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m.. Cloud computing solutions from a panel of practitioners and researchers. Watch out, it is a lightning-round session for participants to share new and interesting projects and time for questions and discussion, meaning no one, including the fine speaker, Erik Mitchell (Wake Forest), will get to say very much. Mitchell is always good.
Seriously Social: Leveraging Social Media
PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Kolene Allen (Grand Rapids PL) and David Lee King (Topeka Shawnee Cty. PL) explore fundamentals of social media and how to use social networking to engage patrons and foster personal relationships. A live demonstration of Twitter and Facebook will illustrate the assets embedded in online relationships.
From Gutenberg to Google and Glogs, from Books to Vooks
AASL. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Unnamed “innovative, visionary librarians” in a spirited debate on issues related to collection development in 21st-century libraries. Can we successfully balance the traditional print collection with digital resources? Should we? Are we prepared for new tools such as vooks?
From Grocery Store to Kitchen: Empowering Library Users To Get Creative with Digital Media
ALSC/PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Why libraries must help users of all ages work with video, music, podcasts, and graphic design. Info on “StoryTubes” for kids and tips on how to create a digital media lab. Results of a team effort to upgrade a library presence. Features Gail Borden PL’s Faith Brautigam, Betsy O’Connell, and Denise Raleigh, along with Richard Kong (Arlington Hts. Memorial Lib.).
Taking Technology to Task: Point/Counterpoint on Mobile Learning
LITA. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. Courtney Greene (Indiana Univ. Libs.) and a panel on what it means to “mediate learning in an untethered society” and how emerging technologies open doors but risk neglect of strategic priorities.
Lost in Translation: The Emerging Technology Librarian and the New Technology
LITA. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 a.m. Actor librarians reenact a number of scenarios on user wants and gather feedback to launch a new, innovative tool. The audience will try to help make the best choices. Could be fun.
Digital Literacy, the Public Library, and the National Broadband Plan
OITP. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Public libraries as a place for digital literacy training per the FCC’s National Broadband Plan.
Top Technology Trends
LITA. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. The ongoing roundtable discussion of trends and advances in library technology by a panel of LITA technology experts.
Coffee and Conversation with Experts
LITA. Mon., Jun. 27, 8–10 a.m. Sit down at topic tables, which may include open source to public computing, with experts and colleagues to network and find out what others are doing. Kimberly Bolan Cullin (Kimberly Bolan & Assocs.) and Rob Cullin (Evanced Solutions) speak.
Government Information and Civic Engagement
GODORT, Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. This panel, moderated by Kirsten Clark (Univ. of Minnesota Libs.), addresses the role of libraries at the intersection of electronic publishing of government information and the ephemeral nature of social media. How libraries should change roles as people alter their civic roles.
The Library eBranch: More Than Just a Website
PLA. Mon., Jun. 27, 1:30–3:30 p.m. California’s San Mateo County Library team that launched a new ebranch will explain the lessons learned in the first year, implementation of SOPAC, choosing a CMS (and why they chose Drupal), vendor selection, engaging staff in content development, and improving the user experience. A fascinating project, loaded with helpful ideas.
DISASTER PLANNING
E-Gov: Disaster Preparedness
WO. Sat., Jun. 25, 10 a.m.–noon. How to be prepared for natural disasters and support emergency teams.
The Aftermath of Katrina and Rita: The Effects on Libraries, People, and Neighborhoods
ACRL/ANSS. Sun., Jun. 26, 8 a.m.–noon. Rebecca M. Blakeley (McNeese State), Fredrick Weil (Louisiana State), and documentary producer/director S. Leo Chiang (Walking Iris Films) will discuss the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita on the people of Louisiana. The documentary A Village Called Versailles (LJ 8/10) will be screened. See it.
Planning for the Worst: Disaster Preparedness and Response in High-Density Storage Facilities
ALCTS/PARS. Sun., Jun. 26, 8 a.m.–noon. A five-person panel on disaster storage, removal, and tracking of materials, current disaster research, recovery in shared repository environments, case studies of recovery from water disasters, and perspectives on recovery from nonwater events. A must for libraries in dangerous regions.
DIVERSITY
Urging Leaders: Moving Diverse Librarians’ Careers Forward
Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. A discussion with Alice Kawakami (Cal State), Felton Thomas (Cleveland PL), and Elaine L. Westbrooks (Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln) on how diverse librarians move from being the new recruit to the next level of leadership, with tips and tools for becoming a leader.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Multi-Cultural Idea Exchange
SRRT/OLOS. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Panelists from public, academic, school, and special libraries will share ideas on events for the observance of the King holiday.
Diversity Planning: Trends and Strategies for the Future
REFORMA. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. An overview of diversity planning in academic libraries, diversity plans and strategies, and different ways libraries assess their plans, according to Charlene Maxey-Harris and Toni Anaya (Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln).
Census 2010: What It Can Tell Our Funders
EMIERT. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. This workshop will demonstrate how to extrapolate and present Census 2010 data that truly represents your community to help you secure funding, offer programming, and meet the educational needs of your patrons. Moderated by Tess Tobin (Coll. of Technology, CUNY), speakers will include a representative from the Census Office and librarians who specialize in demographics. The David Cohen EMIERT Award and the EMIERT Distinguished Librarian Award will be presented.
Embracing the Changes: Diversity and Global Vision in a Digital Age
CALA. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Min Chou (New Jersey City Univ.), Clara Chu (UNC-Greensboro), Michael Dowling and Miguel Figueroa (ALA), Michael Porter (WebJunction), and Betty Turock (Rutgers) discuss issues of cultural diversity, global outreach and collaboration, and the impact of new technology on library diversity.
Diversity Is Everyone’s Business: Sensitivities in the Workplace
DIVERSITY. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. How to address sensitive issues in the workplace, from gender and sexuality to hidden disabilities and cultural sensitivities.
EBOOKS
EBooks—Has Their Time Come?
AASL. Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. The variety of ebooks provides as many resources for learning as it does challenges for managing those resources. This session will address the differences in the Kindle, Nook, iPad, iPod, and online services. Will cover methods of checkout, security, loss, access, and financial implications. Q&A time will allow attendees to share experiences.
Download This! How One Library Embraced Its Downloadable Future
PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. The team from the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County that evaluated its downloadable materials collection gathered data on 83 other library holdings, noted best practices, and recommended dramatically increasing the library’s downloadable budget, improving its catalog and website, marketing its materials, implementing staff and customer training, and improving customer support. Here are the results, one year later.
You Mean Libraries Will Be Able To Deliver Electronic Content Better Than iTunes and Netflix?
LITA. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Update on the work of the ALA Presidential Task force formed to get “Equitable Access to All Forms of Electronic Content” as they chart practical paths forward, from TF chair, Michael Porter (WebJunction).
E-Books: Identifying Opportunities for Libraries
OITP. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m.
A panel on the library struggle with providing ebooks will speak from experience.
E-Books: The Conversation Continues
ASCLA. President’s Program. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. The continuing discussion and most recent issues and solutions surrounding ebooks, including libraries as an important market, a successful model for acquiring and delivering e-content, and e-royalties vs. those for hardcover books.
The Digital Bridge to Somewhere
LLAMA/BES. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. A pro-con panel on the impact of technology—especially ereaders and ebooks—on the physical library, with publishing reps, architects, and librarians.
EDUCATION FOR LIBRARIANSHIP
Student Learning Outcomes
COA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Guest speaker Jim Carey (Univ. of South Florida) and COA members Ling Hwey Jeng (SLIS, Texas Woman’s Univ.) and David Werner (Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania) discuss the ALA Standards for Accreditation of Master’s Programs in Library & Information and their stress on the importance of student learning outcomes.
ETHICS
Promoting Ethical Literacy in Youth: How Librarians Can Partner with Parents and Teachers
COPE. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Invited speakers Michael Zimmer (SIS, Univ. of Wisconsin-Milwaukee), who studies ethics and new media, and Rushworth Kidder (Inst. for Global Ethics; Good Kids, Tough Choices) will discuss ways librarians, parents, and teachers can promote ethics to young people.
EVALUATING LIBRARIES
Usability of Next Gen Interfaces
LITA. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Rice Majors (Univ. of Colorado) will discuss his large-scale usability test of vendor-provided next-gen catalog interfaces and discovery tools (Encore, Summon, WorldCat Local, and others) to assist libraries in making subscription and renewal decisions for these interfaces. Needed results.
FRIENDS OF LIBRARIES
Nuts & Bolts for Trustees, Friends, and Foundations
ALTAFF. Fri., Jun. 24, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. This popular session begins with a coffee meet-and-greet; a boxed lunch will be served at noon. Register for the Advocacy Institute (1–4:30 p.m.) and receive a discount on combined registration. Attendees are encouraged to bring brochures, flyers, and other library marketing materials to share.
Nuts & Bolts for Academic Friends
ALTAFF. Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. Friends groups in academic libraries. Go and share your experiences and learn from others.
FUNDRAISING
Anatomy of a Comprehensive Library Fundraising Program
Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Don’t miss Peter Pearson (Friends of Saint Paul PL), president of what is probably the most engaged Friends group in the United States, and consultant Falona Joy (SNP Consultant Corp.) in a tutorial on the basic principles and practices of successful fundraising. We all need this help. [Pearson and Joy will also present “Innovative Library Fundraising” on Sunday, 10:30 a.m.–noon, promising three “transformational” examples].
Fundraising: The Shape of Things To Come
Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Nancy Ali (Metropolitan Group) promises ideas to help you build sustainable revenue streams. She’ll tell what funders look for, how to leverage your assets, and how to create internal partnerships to maximize revenue .
Fundraising 101: Making Beautiful Music Together! 360 Degree Fundraising
LLAMA/FRFDS. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Donald Dyal (Texas Tech) and Peter Pearson (Friends of the St. Paul PL) present tips and examples to strengthen and focus fundraising efforts.
ALA Advocacy University: Frontline Fundraising Toolkit
Mon., Jun. 27, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Get started with fundraising with the Frontline Fundraising Toolkit, an initiative of ALA president Roberta Stevens to help small libraries. A “town hall” session with audience interaction with the tool kit writers.
FUTURE LIBRARIES
Millennials and Beyond: Student and Faculty Voices
ACRL/EBSS. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Jennifer T. Edwards (Tarleton State) and Gene Roche (William and Mary) on student and faculty experiences, expectations, and perceptions of libraries in the 21st century. Necessary if painful.
Confronting the Future: Strategic Visions for the 21st Century Library
OITP. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. Roger Levien (OITP Fellow) finished a new policy brief that provides “scenarios for conceptualizing” various ways of thinking about the future of the library. Practitioners in school, public, and academic libraries will comment.
Library Evolution: Five, Ten & Fifteen Years After Opening
LLAMA/PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. Elinor Barrett (Daniel Boone Regional Lib.), Timothy Diamond (Cleveland PL), architect Malcolm Holzman (Holzman Moss Bottino), Lois Kilkka (Charlotte’s ImaginOn), and designer Jennifer Rowe on flexible space to respond to changing public needs. How three libraries are evolving to meet them. Important ideas.
Building the Future: Addressing Library Broadband Connectivity Issues in the 21st Century
LITA. Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. Robert Bocher (Wisconsin State Lib.) will explore the broadband landscape and how ALA is working with Internet2 to address the needs of libraries, schools, and higher education. Hosted by LITA president Karen Starr.
GALAS, PARTIES, BANQUETS
ALA/Proquest Scholarship Bash
Sat., Jun. 25, 7–11 p.m. At the National World War II Museum. Tickets include admission, dessert reception, coffee bar, and entertainment and go toward ALA MLS’s scholarships, including Spectrum! Stay tuned for the name of the entertainment. Tickets: $25. Event code: ALA1.
Amelia Bloomer Project Breakfast
SRRT. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 a.m. Join the Amelia Bloomer Project committee for a breakfast presentation with Maureen McCoy (Amelia Bloomer Lib.) and Beth Olshewsky (South Pasadena Lib.). Tickets: $25. Event code: ALA5.
Seventh Annual Book Cart Drill Team World Championship
Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. Costumed librarians in choreographed dance routines featuring book carts! Fun to watch.
RUSA Awards Reception
RUSA. Sun., Jun. 26, 5–6:30 p.m.
International Librarians Reception
IRRT. Mon., Jun. 27, 6–8 p.m. The IRRT welcomes librarians from more than 80 countries. Open to all attendees, a unique chance to meet with hundreds of global information pros. Regional cuisine, hors d’oeuvres, and open bar (this event is free for international librarians). Event code: IRR2.
INFORMATION LITERACY
Future of Libraries: Cutting-Edge Services
OITP. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Library staff developing and delivering cutting-edge technology services recently recognized by the OITP Program on America’s Libraries for the 21st Century will share how projects evolved and the lessons learned.
Reclaiming Literacy in Digital Age
OITP. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. How libraries respond to information literacy, media literacy, and digital literacy.
Why Transliteracy
LITA. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Don’t miss Bobbi Newman and Brian Hulsey (Chattahoochee Valley Libs.), the incredible Gretchen Caserotti (Darien Lib.), Tom Ipri (Univ. of Nevada, Las Vegas), and Lane Wilkinson (Univ. of Tennessee at Chattanooga) on the evolving skills needed to participate in today’s society. They claim “literacy is changing, more is needed than the ability to read and write,” and promise to explain why transliteracy is important and how libraries fit in.
Making Information Literacy Instruction Meaningful Through Creativity
ACRL/IS. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Merinda Kaye Hensley (Univ. of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign), Randy B. Hensley (Baruch Coll., CUNY), and Dane Ward (Illinois State) will try to “re-create excitement about information literacy through creativity” and discuss teaching as a process of shared learning with students. Is this a dying role and purpose, or the new role for librarians?
Visual Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education: Introducing a New Interdisciplinary Information Literacy Standard for 21st Century Learner
ACRL/Arts. Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. Visual literacy experts and practitioners will introduce a working draft of the new Visual Literacy Competency Standards.
INTELLECTUAL FREEDOM
Intellectual Freedom 101
IFC. Fri., Jun. 24, 1–2 p.m. Meet some of ALA’s IF leaders and find out how you can get involved. A must for new intellectual freedom fighters!
New Technologies: The Impact on Government Transparency
IFRT. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Rick Falkvinge, founder of Sweden’s Pirate Party, on how the evolution of information-sharing tools has impacted government transparency. Worth hearing.
Technology and Ethics: Supporting Privacy and Free Expression in the Digital Age
ACRL. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Rebecca MacKinnon (New America Fdn., Global Voices Online) on ethical issues in the digital age. Tough issues need analysis.
The Right To Read: Increasing Access to Information for People with Print Disabilities
OITP. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. A panel of policymakers, librarians, and disability experts will report on recent efforts to increase access to information for people with print disabilities, including the Justice Department’s study on web accessibility, international treaties to enhance cross-border sharing of accessible content, a renewed focus on fair use, and the Chafee Amendment.
Issues Briefing Session
IFC/FTRF Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. Issues briefing by ALA’s IF Committee and Freedom To Read Foundation.
When It Leaks It Pours: WikiLeaks, National Declassification System, and Access to Government Information
IFC. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. The WikiLeaks release of classified information and the ALA Midwinter resolution demanding faster action from the National Declassification Center.
INTERNATIONAL LIBRARIANSHIP
Haiti and Chile Library Updates
IRC. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. An update from librarians of both nations and the support needed after the earthquakes that hit Chile and Haiti. ALA will accept donations to help rebuild libraries in both.
The “S” in International Sustainable Library Development: Sustainability Issues.
IRRT. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. William Cartwright (Riecken Fdn.), Peter Lor (Univ. of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, former Secy. General of IFLA), Jane Kinney Meyers (Lubuto Lib. Project), and Jane Mirandette (Biblioteca Movil, San Juan del Sur) on the benefits and consequences of supplying foreign aid in the form of libraries and books to economically challenged countries. Promises best practices and experience on sustainability and international library development.
INTERNET & WEB
Beautiful (and Cheap) Websites and Tools for Low-Tech Libraries
PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. Bob Keith (New Jersey State Lib.) and Veronica Rutter Reynolds (New City Lib.) will discuss easy tools to create simple, clean websites as well as other tricks like tracking reference questions using Google Apps or setting up an SMS service using Meebo. They say new content management systems and open source tools make it easy. Take notes.
Progressive Program Promotion: Creative Media Use for the Digital Age
LITA. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 a.m. Learn how to work with Facebook, Vimeo, Myspace, YouTube, Hulu, Twitter, LinkedIn, foursquare, HD video, guerrilla-style filmmaking, Flip cameras, online polling, web streaming, Cooliris, QR codes, et al., creatively and effectively for your teen/tween and adult programming. Good tips in hard times.
The Business of Social Media: How To Plunder the Treasure Trove
RUSA/BRASS. Mon., Jun. 27, 8 a.m.–noon. “Leading authors and commentators in social networking” on how social media and mobile technologies impact businesses and consumers .
The BIGWIG Showcase
LITA/BIGWIG. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Current and cutting-edge topics related to social software, emerging technologies, and their application in libraries. Presenters post their talks online before the conference, then during the showcase provide only a brief overview to focus on engaging participants in small group discussions on each topic.
SocialNOTWorking: Managing Social Networking in a Productive and Positive Workplace
LLAMA/SASS. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. The huge growth of social networking sites has posed new challenges for libraries seeking to reach into their communities. Integrating the use of social networking into the workplace requires finesse and trust. Different approaches sometimes blur the lines between the organization and the employees. Hear how an academic library and a public library have staked out their space.
Goin’ Mobile: We Did It and You Can Too!
PLA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Sandra Bolek (PL of Cincinnati & Hamilton Cty.) and coworkers report on how they used mobile devices to develop mobile-optimized websites. Don’t pass up this valuable advice.
JOB SEEKING
ALA JobLIST Placement Center
Sat.–Sun., 9 a.m–5 p.m; orientation in the Placement Center, Sat., Jun. 25, 8:30 a.m.
All services and career workshops are free to job seekers, who should register and search on JobLIST at joblist.ala.org. Registration is not required but is recommended and gives employers access to your résumé and allow for direct communication between job seekers and employers. For a booth in the Placement Center, contact Beatrice Calvin at 800-545-2433, x4280 or bcalvin@ala.org.
The Job Hunt: What To Do While You Wait
DIVERSITY. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. How to manage the job-seeking blues and keep your skills strong and your hopes high. With practical tools on informational interviewing, volunteering, and consulting.
The Side Gig: How To Supplement Your Income in Tough Economic Times
ALA-APA. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 a.m. Six public and academic librarians on how to find second jobs. Traditional and other options and their benefits and disadvantages.
Making a Lasting Impression
ALA-APA. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 a.m. The insights of Amy Arnold (Eastern Tennessee State), Julius Jefferson (LC), Kris Johnson (Colorado State Lib.), and Pam Murphy (Clarksville-Montgomery Cty. PL) on how your communication preferences, body language, wardrobe, and personal brand impact your effectiveness and career prospects. Get buttoned-down and gussied up! Oy!
Hiring Non-MLS Librarians: Trends and Training Implications
LLAMA/HRS. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 a.m. Libraries hire professionals from outside librarianship for positions traditionally held by MLS-degreed librarians. Hear results of ALA-funded research to examine hiring practices in public and academic libraries and the essential elements of an orientation for non-MLS hires in librarian positions. We really need research on how to strengthen the MLS and stop this dilution of library staff. Hear and protest!
Welcome to Planet FURLOW: Advice for Furloughed, Underemployed, Restless, and Laid Off Workers
ALA-APA. Mon., Jun. 27, 8–10 a.m. Come discuss employment related troubles with six hosts at tables with minipanels on searching smarter, restarting your career after a furlough or layoff, making the transition to a different library type, school librarianship, what a recruiter looks for in applicants, and more. Useful guidance.
How I Landed My First Librarian Position, and What I Did ‘In Between’
REFORMA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Panelists who have leveraged extended periods of job seeking into fantastic job offers will share ideas and advice.
LEADERSHIP
LLAMA President’s Program
LLAMA. Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. “Unexpected Leadership.” That’s all we know.
MBA for Librarians Series—Leadership I
ALA-APA. Sat., Jun. 25, 10 a.m.–noon. Nanette Donohue (Champaign PL) and Lauren Siebert (Rockford PL) elucidate leadership concepts and skills for library applications. It has certainly mystified many library “leaders” and administrators. But, hey, look at Wall Street. They may be right that “leadership and management aren’t the same thing,” but most of those in management think they are. One thing we know: you don’t need an MBA or an MLS to be a library leader. Let’s argue with them about all this.
MBA for Librarians Series—Leadership II
ALA-APA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Debbie Moss (Orange Cty. Lib. Syst.) says she can “demystify innovation and risk taking.” (Is either mystifying?). Will show librarians how to “embrace a ready, fire, aim outlook” to “grasp true innovative processes.” Haven’t yet found the “risk” in libraries. The goal, Moss says, is to “manage smarter,” but librarians must be smarter than that “ready, fire, aim” approach.
LEGISLATION & LOBBYING
Telecommunications Policy Landscape
WO, Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. With a new Congress and changes in the direction in the Obama administration in 2011, there are important developments on the public policy and legislative landscape. Covers key issues in telecommunications policy (including the E-rate program), digital copyright, free and open access to information, privacy, and surveillance, and e-government—each critical for the library community.
Washington Update
WO. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. The latest policy and legislative news from the nation’s capital. Learn how D.C. decisions affect your library.
E-rate: Looking Back, Forging Ahead
ALA/OITP. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. How libraries have mastered the intricate, 15-year-old federal E-rate discount process to gain big bucks. You can use this.
MANAGING LIBRARIES
President’s Program: From Idea to Innovation to Implementation: How Teams Make It Happen
ACRL. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. LeadSmart president Jason Young (Culturetopia) on the importance of identifying and developing the essential factors that impact performance for any team or organization. How new research shows that innovations emerge from teams with diverse skill sets, not a creative genius. New stuff for academe.
MBA for Librarians Series—Project Management
ALA-APA. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Elizabeth McClenney (Atlanta Univ. Ctr.) on a practical approach for managers, operations and project management concepts and how to apply them, and how to conduct a cost-benefit analysis. This has legs.
MBA for Librarians Series—Organizational Development
ALA-APA. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. Marie Jones (East Tennessee State) on organizational development (OD) concepts and skills and library applications. OD concepts help create a more effective organization through cultural change and long-term planning.
Consulting from Both Sides of the Fence: Why Libraries Hire Consultants and How Consultants Get Jobs
ASCLA/ILEX. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. This covey of consultants, some whom have library management experience, too, will tell you how to get into consulting, from drafting a proposal to finalizing a contract. A librarian was so frustrated with a problem, she grabbed the fine money and went to see a consultant. “Can I ask you two questions?” she blurted, tossing him the money. “Sure,” said the consultant. “What’s your second question?”
Define, Align, Empower: Developing a Coordinated Volunteer Program
PLA. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Julie Brand, Teresa Claypool, and Peter Cole (King Cty. Lib. Syst.) and Louis Mendoza (United Way of King Cty.) on the unanticipated challenges and additional workload required to use volunteers. How this system in Washington State approached the challenges of volunteers and standardized the operations and supervision and established meaningful recognition for service.
MBA for Librarians Series—Budget and Finance
ALA-APA. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Ten basic concepts and skills for developing a budget and their library applications, per John Sandstrom (New Mexico State). You don’t get this in library school.
Innovation in an Age of Limits
ACRL/STS. Mon., Jun. 27, 8:00 a.m.–noon. Big guns Stephen Abram (Gale Cengage Learning), Jay Schafer, (Univ. of Massachusetts–Amherst Libs.), Paul St.-Pierre (Tulane), and Michael Teets (OCLC) on avoiding the tendency to be conservative in hard economic times and the need and opportunities to innovate. Followed by a poster session and reception, but they won’t be long after these guys finish talking. Worth hearing 75 percent, which is better than most.
Identity Management (IdM) and Libraries: What You Need To Know—Why You Need To Care
LITA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Another panel on another management trend, how libraries develop IdM strategies using Shibboleth and other federated authentication and authorization systems. IdM allows for seamless and secure collaboration and resource sharing among institutions, scholars, publishers, and e-resource vendors. Must be useful, it’s a new fad.
MBA for Librarians Series—Statistics
ALA-APA. Mon., Jun. 27, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Diana Very (Georgia PL Svc.) says she’ll demystify statistical concepts and skills and illustrate library applications. Boy, do we need this one!
MARKETING LIBRARIES
MBA for Librarians Series—Marketing
ALA-APA, Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. How to make your next marketing effort your best by developing a realistic plan, assembling data, analyzing your markets, and incorporating the results of national studies via Web 2.0 tools. With Ernest DiMattia (Ferguson Lib.), who gives strong library service to Stamford, CT.
One Person Can Make a Difference: Tips and Techniques for the Lone Change Agent
PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 10 a.m.–noon. Hear two LJ Movers & Shakers, director Stephanie Chase (Stowe Free Lib.) and city librarian Scott Hughes (Bridgeport PL) on lessons learned from leading change at the local and state level. These two have pulled off some great moves; you’ll want to know about them.
OUTREACH
President’s Program: Prisoners’ Right To Read: Balancing Intellectual Freedom and Correctional Security
ASCLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. The daily challenges providing library service to the incarcerated from six librarians. Includes the new “Prisoners’ Right To Read: An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights” (PRTR) and a Q&A session.
Diversity and Outreach Fair
OLOS. Sat., Jun. 25, 3–5 p.m. The popular Diversity and Outreach Fair celebrates local library services, programs, and collections to the underserved and the under-represented. Sponsored by DEMCO.
Displaying Partnerships: How To Successfully Build Partnerships with Other Agencies
ASCLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. An Ohio library consortium partnered with the local American Cancer Society to provide information, ideas, and resources to Ohio libraries for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They will expand to other types of cancer awareness. The successes of the partnership, and how to foster similar ones, will be explored.
Library Services to Incarcerated People and Ex-Offenders: Models of Outreach
OLOS. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 a.m. Examples of library services to incarcerated adults and juveniles and ex-offenders returning to their home communities. Promising.
Consumer Health Information: Library Partnerships That Serve the Community
ACRL. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Don’t miss five public and academic health sciences librarians as they discuss their successful consumer health program collaborations and provide ideas and tools. Needed everywhere!
Reach Out and Read: How Libraries Can Work with Doctors Who “Prescribe Reading” To Achieve Common Goals
ALSC. Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. MDs Christine Caputo and Dipesh Navsaria on how to extend library reach into the community as a partner of a local Reach Out and Read (ROR) site, a pediatric literacy intervention based in doctors’ offices that gives new books to children and advises parents about the importance of reading.
Charlemae Rollins President’s Program: How Libraries Can Best Serve Special Needs Patrons, Especially Those with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
ALSC. Mon., Jun. 27, 8–10 a.m. Hear Ricki Robinson (Autism Solutions), who develops treatment plans for children with ASD; authors Cynthia Lord and Francisco X. Stork; and librarian Patricia Twarogowski, recognized for her effective programs for special needs children, discuss how to serve these children. Needed more and more.
The Language of Conservation: A Case Study in Library-Zoo Partnerships
PPO. Mon., Jun. 27, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Hear about a groundbreaking union between Poets House, zoos, and libraries in five cities. Features Missy Abbott (New Orleans PL), award-winning poet-in-residence Mark Doty (NO Language of Conservation), Reginald Harris (Poets House), and Brenda Walkenhorst (Audubon Zoo).
PERSONNEL/MANAGEMENT
Pay for Performance That Works
LLAMA/HRS. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. How to develop a pay for performance system that is fair and equitable and still keeps staff motivated and energized. Might be worthwhile if it avoids the usual management mantras.
Hiring a Library Director
ALTAFF. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 a.m. For Trustees on hiring and evaluating a library director, including the search, interviewing, and welcoming/evaluating the new director.
Negotiation: What Else Is on the Table
ALA-APA. Mon., Jun. 27, 4–5:30 p.m. Consultant Laura Francisco (Singer Group) on negotiating for better salaries and benefits, plus salary data tools to make work-life better.
PLANNING
Slicing & Dicing: Usage Statistics for the Practitioner
ALCTS/AS/RUSA/CODES. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Three perspectives on analyzing statistics. Promises a “down and dirty look” at usage statistics, from data gathering to making decisions. Insights into approval plan analysis, consortium data management, and library administration. A step toward accountability.
MBA for Librarians Series—Strategic Planning
ALA-APA. Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. Steps in developing a strategic plan and methods to involve staff and create a template, according to Linda Dobb (Cal State).
Using Today’s Numbers To Plan Tomorrow’s Services: Effective User Services Assessment
RUSA/RSS/LLAMA/MAES. Sun., Jun. 26,
4–5:30 p.m. The assessment fad is hot again as librarians try to do more with less. A focus on effective methods and tools to assess user services. Jim Fish (Baltimore Cty. PL) speaks.
POLITICS & LIBRARIES
The Legal Consequences of Environmental Crises: What Librarians Need To Know About the Gulf Oil Spill
ACRL/LPS. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Robert Gramling (Univ. of Louisiana, Lafayette), Jenna Ryan (Louisiana State), and Jonathan L. Ramseur (Congressional Research Svc.) on the impact of the BP oil spill, its legal consequences, and making sense of legal issues. Ways to make this information more accessible. Urgent!
Convergence, Commoditization & Sustainability: Exploring Alternate Funding Sources for LAMS
SAA/AAM. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Get more funding for archives, libraries, and museums, says Fred Stielow (American Public Univ. Syst.) and Brenda Square (Amistad Research Ctr.). Square knows the territory.
War and Secrecy: “The Most Dangerous Man in America”
SRRT/IFC. Sat., Jun. 25, 6–8:30 p.m.
A screening of The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers (LJ online, 3/2/10), sponsored additionally by ALA President’s Office and Video Round Table, is followed by a discussion of the issues of war and secrecy. It precedes the Auditorium Speaker Series appearance by Ellsberg the next morning.
Now Showing @ ALA: “Not in Our Town: Light in the Darkness”
Mon., Jun. 27, 9–11 a.m. This PBS documentary follows Patchogue, NY, mayor Paul Pontieri, diverse community stakeholders, and residents as they address the underlying causes of anti-immigrant violence that devastated their community and drew international attention. LJ 2011 Paralibrarian of the Year Gilda Ramos is featured, as are other Patchogue-Medford librarians. In conjunction with the September 2011 broadcast, libraries nationwide will have the opportunity to host local screenings and discussions. (Free. Auditorium C).
Economic Reflections on Libraries: ALCTS President’s Program
ALCTS. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Paul Courant (Univ. of Michigan) on libraries both as cultural institutions and as agencies essential to economic growth and well-being. Lessons from the dismal science.
REFORMA President’s Program: Remembering, Re-positioning, and Re-igniting the Torch
REFORMA. Mon., Jun. 27, 7–8:30 p.m. You gotta hear the keynoter, the fantastic Kathleen de la Peña McCook (SI, Univ. of South Florida), and you get José Aponte (San Diego Cty. Lib.) and a gaggle of students, too. They’ll celebrate REFORMA’s 40th year by discussing Pan-Latinism, social networking, advanced technologies, and a new generation of librarians and how they interface with old issues like immigration, equity of access, multilingualism, literacy, and more. A great show on crucial issues.
PRESERVATION
Common Sense Preservation Assessment
ALCTS/RNTLOAK (Rural, Native, and Tribal Libraries of All Kinds). Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Commonsense approaches to preservation risk assessment and setting priorities for collection care.
PROBLEM PATRONS
Behavioral Issues in the Library: How Do We Respond?
ALSC/LSSPS/ASCLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. Strategies and resources to cope with patrons with mental health issues and autism spectrum disorders from a panel of pros and “self-advocates.”
PROGRAMS
Building Common Ground: Discussions of Community, Civility and Compassion in the Public Library
PPO, Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. Mary Davis Fournier (ALA Public Programs) shares information on a new programming grant for public libraries.
ABC’s of Sustainable Partnerships: Affiliations Build Communities
PPO. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. How libraries and humanities councils have worked together to fund public programs and the impressive results. With representatives from several states, the ALA PPO, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Valuable grant and partnering guidance.
Public Programs That Work in Rural Libraries
PLA. Sat., Jun. 25, 4–5:30 p.m. Larry Grieco (Gilpin Cty. PL), Dwight McInvaill (George- town Cty. Lib.), and Sharon Michie (Steele Memorial Lib.) discuss a variety of successful
public programs in rural libraries. Great ideas to copy.
Maximizing the Impact of Programming
PCPAC. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Hear about a small rural resort library that created wide-ranging alliances to deliver great
programs “for a sophisticated audience” and the award-winning methods for prolonging the life of popular programs through podcasting. Film producer Eileen Newman (Tribeca Film Inst.) will reveal the secrets to licensing programs for your library. The librarians are Terrilyn Chun (Multnomah Cty. Lib.), Scott Doser (Wilkinson PL). Very good stuff.
What the Library Did for Romance
PLA. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Romance readers are active online, and librarians can learn from them to entice customers of all types. Sarah Wendell (Smart Bitches, Trashy Books) will explain how she created an online community, and Jennifer Loh-
mann (SW Regional Lib., NC; Romance Writers of America 2010 Librarian of the Year) on involving an existing community of readers to engage library customers.
Science Programming 101: Presenting Excellent Science Programs in Your Library
PPO. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Learn how to create exciting hands-on science programs for children and YAs from representatives of the Space Science Institute, Lunar and Planetary Institute, and elsewhere. They’ll talk about Discover Earth and Discover Tech, two exhibits for rural public libraries, and introduce a new science “Community of Practice” librarians can use. Great stuff to take back to the library.
Vampirism Just Got a Little More Colorful: Queer Vampires
GLBTRT. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. The experiences of LGBTQ vampires and their authors tied to the huge upswing in the popularity of vampire literature as presented by Dean James (TMC Lib., Houston, TX).
American Sign Language Literature Programming @ Your Library
ASCLA/LSSPS. Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. Resources that support deaf people and their deaf culture and language.
The Making of a Latino Library Lover: Programming for Latinos
PLA. Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. Tina Birkholz and Maria Cristina (Tina) Viglucci (Gail Borden PL) and Armando Trejo (Elgin Community Coll.) tell how to attract Latino customers and transform them into passionate library advocates.
Libraries and Bookstores: Strange Bedfellows
ABA ALA. Mon., Jun. 27, 8–10 a.m. Reader’s advisor extraordinaire Nancy Pearl moderates this discussion of collaboration between independent booksellers and libraries.
The Human Library: Where People
Are the Books
SRRT. Mon., Jun. 27, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Get to know your fellow librarians. Based on the Human Library in Denmark, librarians have a chance to find out more about one another, one-on-one, and gain new insight.
Out of the Closet & into the Library: LGBTQ Programming
GLBTRT. Mon., Jun. 27, 4–5:30 p.m. The experience of library workers creating programs that address the needs of LGBTQ users. Pride-themed events, success stories, local controversies, and practical advice.
Battledecks 2011
Mon., Jun. 27, 5:30–7 p.m. Battledecks (“PowerPoint Karaoke”) challenges public speakers to give a coherent presentation based on selected, unrelated slides that they see for the very first time on stage. Fun!
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Competing in the Information Marketplace II: Strategic PR Partnerships Demonstrate Value of Libraries
LLAMA. Sat., Jun. 25, 8–10 a.m. Libraries, journalists, and educators share a common interest in quality information, but only journalists want to sell it in a “marketplace.” Still, social media innovator Fabrice Florin (NewsTrust) says they should work together in informal networks to raise awareness of libraries as sources of reliable information.
Let’s make it into an “information commons” where we don’t compete, we disseminate.
LLAMA PR X-change (formerly Swap & Shop)
LLAMA/PRMS. Sun., Jun. 26, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. It was great as “Swap & Shop”; probably still is.
READERS’ ADVISORY
Readers’ Advisory Research & Trends Forum: What We Learn from Our Readers: A Conversation with Nancy Pearl and Catherine Sheldrick Ross
RUSA/CODES. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Pearl on her “Doorway” theory and Ross on her new book, The A, B, C of Pleasure Reading. Joyce Saricks moderates.
Two Thumbs Up: The Genres, Directors, and Films You Should Know To Give Awesome Viewers Advisory
PLA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. John Fosset (Kitsap Regional Lib.) and Kati Irons (Pierce Cty. Lib.) on “Viewer’s Advisory” and IMDB (Internet Movie Database) in this minisurvey course of notable genres, directors, and films. Tell us more.
REFERENCE
President’s Program: Marketing Reference on a Dime
RUSA. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Six brief presentations on marketing reference services, followed by questions and table discussions by panelists from public, academic, and special libraries, as well as a marketing pro.
Reference Publishing: Trends & Issues
RUSA/CODES. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Key issues in reference publishing and actions to facilitate further interaction between publishers and librarians.
Sue Gardner—Wikipedia: Past, Present, and Future
Sun., Jun. 26, 3:30–5:30 p.m. ALA President’s Program. Sue Gardner (Exec. Dir., Wikimedia Fdn.) introduced major initiatives focused on organizational maturity, long-term sustainability, and increased participation, reach, and quality of the foundation’s free-knowledge projects. She’ll discuss what lies ahead for Wikipedia.
Behind the Text: Pulling Back the Curtain on Virtual Reference
RUSA/RSS/MARS. Mon., Jun. 27, 8–10 a.m. A panel to “put to rest some of the misconceptions about VR” and examine positive elements.
Virtual Reference in Ohio: Using Artificial Intelligence To Enhance Information Services
LITA. Mon., Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Don’t miss Michele McNeal (Akron-Summit Cty. PL) and David Newyear (Mentor PL) as they relate the Ohion response to the need for AI agents in libraries, the process of bot creation and customization using aiml markup language, implementation, and user response. Plus demonstrations of various implementations of the agents, website, WebPac, and info kiosks.
RESEARCH
Grey Literature in the Digital Age
FAFLRT. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m.
“Grey literature,” or the scientific output of researchers, is often more valuable than traditional peer-reviewed output but can’t be found in mainstream databases. A panel explores how government libraries deal with it in new and innovative ways.
Maybe It Has Already Been Done: Locating Existing Data for Planning, Assessment and Advocacy
CORS. Mon. Jun. 27, 10:30 a.m.–noon
Instead of starting from scratch when you need data, use existing sources such as NCES, PLDS, IMLS, ALA, and the U.S. Census. A program on publicly available data sources useful to all types of libraries.
RETIRED MEMBERS
Retired Members Cafe
RMRT. Sun., Jun. 26, 4–5:30 p.m. They will plan activities for the new RMRT. The top priority should be convincing over-the-hill colleagues to retire and make room for the growing number of young, new, unemployed librarians. At the very least, they ought to buy them drinks and dinner.
SAFETY & SECURITY
A Person of Interest…Safety and Security in the Library
LLAMA/SASS. Sat., Jun. 25, 10:30 a.m.–noon. How to deal with library patrons who violate library policy, display behavioral problems, or break the law. Strategies to reduce disruption from tense situations.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT
Are You Certifiable? How You and Your Library Can Benefit from ALA Certification Programs
ALA-APA. Fri., Jun. 24, noon–1 p.m. Jenifer Grady (ALA-APA) says “certification is a great investment for you and your staff.” Candidates for ALA’s cert programs will tell you why. We’re not so sure.
TedX, Boot Camps and Unconferences: Innovative and Low-Cost Staff Development Events
LEARNRT. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. TedX, boot camps, and unconferences are gaining popularity as low-cost alternatives to traditional staff development events. How to coordinate, organize, and implement them, from experienced coordinators Peter Bromberg and Janie Hermann (Princeton PL), but you’d think Princeton could afford to send ’em to conferences.
Succession Planning and Leadership Development: Are you Ready?
LLAMA/SASS. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. According LJ research, 40 percent of U.S. librarians will retire by 2020. Libraries have to prepare as demand for service grows and budgets shrink. They say it’s “critical to strategically plan how library resources will be used to train and develop staff in order to fill the gaps.” Our LIS programs are already loading the field with strong graduates who need jobs. What’s the problem?
Training Showcase: Best Practices in Training, Staff Development and Library Continuing Education
LEARNRT. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. This poster session run by Louise Whitaker (Pioneer Lib. Syst.) features innovative continuing education, staff development, and training initiatives in all types of libraries.
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
You Can’t Always Get What You Want (But Sometimes You Get What You Need): Special Collections in Tough Economic Times
ACRL/RBMS. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Experts discuss how tough economic times have affected special collections and will
field questions/comments from the audience. If it’s your field, this is an important session.
UNIONS
More Staff Organization Success Stories
SORT. Sun., Jun. 26, 1:30–5:30 p.m. Library staff “who have successfully started a staff organization” program. Reception, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Go talk union.
USER EXPERIENCE
It’s All About Them: Developing Information Services with User Experience Design
RUSA. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. John Blyberg (Darien Lib.), Cody Hansen (Univ. of Minnesota), and Jenny Benevento (Sears Holding Corp.) on how to apply User Experience (UX) design to public services. This innovative way to make libraries relevant by focusing on the user, presented by folks who have done it well.
WOMEN’S ISSUES
Introduction to Women’s Issues
COSWL. Sat., Jun. 25, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Jennifer Paustenbaugh (Oklahoma State) moderates a discussion on the results of a survey on caregiving, a work-life balance for all librarians and library workers, male and female, young and old.
Right Here I See My Own Books: The Women’s Library at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair
COSWL. Sun., Jun. 26, 10:30 a.m.–noon. Sarah Wadsworth (Marquette) offers a historical analysis of the Dewey library for women at the Chicago 1893 World’s Fair and implications of inclusion and exclusion.
Now Showing @ ALA: SRRT Feminists Night at the Movies
SRRT/COSWL. Sun., Jun. 26, 8–10 p.m. Movies, movies, movies with the Feminist Task Force and Women Make Movies (www.wmm.com). A showing of director Kim Longinotto’s award-winning Pink Saris, “an unflinching and often amusing look at unlikely political activists.”
Read more of LJ's ongoing ALA coverage.
