American Libraries

Dr. Wally Walton: Hi there. Welcome to Your Annual Conference & You, a filmed product of the American Library Association and American Libraries magazine. Hey, I'll bet you're just over the moon thinking about heading to ALA Annual Conference this year or maybe it's your first time. Well, either way our team of experts has compiled a jim-dandy list of handy tips that will make you say, “Gee willikers.” Conference, c-o-n-f-e-r-e-n-c-e. That's right, conference. Ten letters, ten swell tips to make your next American Library Association Annual Conference—how do the kids say it—groovy.

“C” is for Cognotes. Hey, you. Yes, you there. Don't you want to know what's going on each day at conference? Don't you want to see what happened yesterday and what's happening today, as well as any last minute changes or editions? Then pick up Cognotes, the free daily publication available at several key points all over the conference location. Read it each morning and you'll have it made in shade.

“O” is for overwhelmed. No one likes to feel overwhelmed at Annual Conference. Take a look at this poor gal—looks like someone over scheduled herself. Take it from me: Don't wear yourself out. Allow plenty of time for traveling between meetings, sessions, eating, resting, and sightseeing. Use the Program Guide to help gauge your distances between meeting locations. A happy conference-goer is an effective conference-goer.

“N” is for notebook. With all of the fascinating ideas and discussion points you'll be learning and all those new friends you'll make, you’re sure to need a pad of paper and some sort of writing instrument to jot down important memoranda. Or if you're dashing and wealthy, try one of those newfangled electronic typewriters. Ha ha ha ha ha! Have fun, Mr. or Mrs. Einstein. And remember, those notes will help you follow up with colleagues when you return home, as well as keep you in touch with all your new friends.

“F” is for functional. Sure we're all tempted to wear high heels and tuxedo shirts every single day but comfy shoes, I say, are a must. And whether it's summer or winter, make sure to dress in layers—perhaps a nice poodle skirt, cashmere sweater, or letter jacket—and this will keep your body at its scientifically proven ideal temperature.
“E” is for eating. Is it just me, or does nothing taste better than eating? I love eating food and I bet you do, too. But at Annual Conference sometimes it might be a while before you can grab that next meal, so pack plenty of wholesome snacks and remember: Meals with colleagues can mean either networking or relaxation, so plan accordingly.

“R” is for reading. Whether you're a hepcat or a square, American Libraries Conference Preview is the perfect place to start when planning your Annual activities. Mark the programs you want to see and use the restaurant guide to make the scene the local soda fountain or burger joint.

“E” is for exhibits. Everyone has a blast at the exhibits, but our experts recommend making several short trips rather than trying to cram everything into one marathon session. Attend early before all those fab freebies are gonesville, man. And don't pick up everything you see willy-nilly. But if you do over indulge, consider mailing it back home, Daddy-O.

“N” is for natural, as in act natural. Always wear your badge to conference meetings and events, but take the badge off when you hit the streets. Some no-good greaser hooligan might think you're an easy mark and you'll be cruisin’ for a bruisin’ or maybe even a knuckle sandwich. Remember ABC: Always be safe.

“C” is for computer. Now I don't know much about all those far-out doohickeys, but I hear they're all the rage with the cool kids. Annual Conference is an area full of those hip thingamajiggies used absolutely for free. But plan on waiting in line before checking your electronic telegrams or accessing the World Wide Web, whatever that is. And if you’re a lucky duck and get a computer, be quick and courteous.

“E” is for extremely good idea to bring business cards? Yes, indeedy. Every Dick and Jane from Yalies to bobby soxers to surf bums needs a business card to keep in touch with all those new friends they'll be making at the next conference. If you're new to the library racket or still making your way through the academy, get some printed up. You'll be glad you did. I know I was.