By Carol Desch, ASCLA President, New York State Library
It’s hard to believe that 2009 Annual Conference is just around the corner. I hope to see you in Chicago as ASCLA is offering a stimulating package of conference programs designed to help you cope with challenging times. Kudos to Rhonda Puntney, ASCLA Conference Program Coordinator and the many ASCLA program planners and staff who make it all happen! To print out a handy list of ASCLA conference programs and special events with locations, visit http://ascla.ala.org/media/asclaac09.pdf
Here’s a sampling:
Be My Guest: Customer Service from the Best on Friday, July 10, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. is going to be a memorable preconference! Did you ever wonder what libraries have in common with casinos? Based on a highly successful program hosted by the New Jersey State Library in partnership with Trump Entertainment Resorts in Atlantic City, Jennifer Babcock of Trump Entertainments will offer insights into hospitality industry practices that can help libraries improve and enhance customer service. ALA and ASCLA are also partnering to broadcast a condensed virtual program session on this timely topic.
Join us for the ASCLA Awards Ceremony and President’s Program: Revitalizing the Library Experience on Sunday, July 12, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in the Empire Room at the Palmer House Hilton. Library pundits Joan Frye Williams and George Needham will challenge you to rethink library services, turning some old stereotypes on their ears while making our work more valuable and more fun. Many thanks to President’s Program chair Jerry Krois and his committee members for developing such a thought-provoking program!
And finally, top off your Sunday with great desserts and friendly conversation with ALA colleagues on Sunday, July 12 at the ASCLA/COSLA Reception and Silent Auction from 9 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. in Chicago D at the Chicago Marriott Downtown. Proceeds from the silent auction will support the [ASCLA Century Scholarship Fund http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/ascla/asclaawards/asclacentury.cfm].
See you in Chicago! And remember, our ASCLA staff is always available to help you. Please don’t hesitate to email or call if you have questions or suggestions about ASCLA at 1-800-545-2433, ext. 4398.
Carol Ann Desch, New York State Library, Albany, NY 12230
cdesch@mail.nysed.gov 518-474-7196