Prior to coming down to ALA in DC, I was speaking with several librarians who were to attend their first annual library conference. Giving my 2 cents, I gave them some tips. I tried to make it very clear that it would be overwhelming. Not only will there be so much information- in every shape or form- but there would also be about 20,000 in attendance.
Was I right? I have been here in DC since Thursday, somewhat earlier than the most. I had a few meetings and a pre-conference to attend. By Friday evening, it was obvious that librarians were taking over DC. On Saturday morning, when the exhibit floor opened, it seemed as 20,000 people mobbed the floor. The scope and size of the convention center is the equivalent to 4 football fields.
Saturday and Sunday are the main 2 days of the conference. The bulk of the programs are scheduled during these days. Unfortunately, there are so many programs of interest that it is impossible to get to see all of them. On average there are morning and afternoon sessions with scattered early morning sessions and evening sessions. In addition, there are several speaker programs that are in the evening.
After the programs, there are plenty of dinners and parties and librarians clubbing. This is a great time to network with 20,000 folks. I already ran out of business cards.
Stay tuned...
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