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The 2005 AALL Annual Meeting – How to Make the Most of It
By
Alfreda Russell,
Senior Librarian Relations Consultant
One of
the many benefits of membership in AALL is the opportunity of
benefiting from association with others in the profession through
the Annual Meeting. While conferences can be initially overwhelming,
with some careful planning, the AALL Annual Meeting can be extremely
rewarding.
With this year’s Annual Meeting fast approaching, I would like to
give some helpful advice on how to make the most of it – especially
for first-time attendees.
1) Begin by looking through the preliminary conference program to
map out a tentative schedule before you even arrive at your hotel.
In doing so, be sure to allow for a few minutes between sessions and
for meal breaks. Once at the conference, review the final program to
verify your sessions, as times and locations may change.
The programs usually offer something for everyone, no matter what
your interest – schools, firms, state, federal or other special
library. And the opportunity to learn does not stop simply at the
formal programs. You can learn just as much from your peers at the
many informal meetings and receptions.
2)
Always wear your badge at conference activities. However, be careful
not to wear it on the streets, as you do not want to call attention
to your being a tourist.
3)
Keep a supply of business cards with you, as you may wish to
exchange them with colleagues you meet during the conference. You
are likely to make valuable professional contacts and great friends
that you'll keep for the rest of your career. These will include not
only local and national librarians, but also international
colleagues.
4) If you are interested in getting involved in committee work, or
want to find out more about a specific division or AALL office,
attend one of the committee's sessions or visit the AALL and
regional information booths.
5) Library School reunions held during the conference are a great
place to renew old acquaintances and meet new colleagues. If you did
not get an invitation, check your school's web page for location and
advance notification of the event.
6) Carry a copy of your resume, if you are interested in applying
for a new job or need career information. Take advantage of the
Placement Center.
7) Attend the exhibits, even if you have to break them up in half
hour sessions each day. There is always something new to learn, and
this is probably the only chance you will get to talk to key people
in the various vendor companies -- people such as presidents,
developers, designers and technologists.
Lastly, be sure to enjoy yourself and make time in your schedule for
at least one of the many outings and dinners with friends and
colleagues. You will find that you will return to work re-energized
with lots of new ideas to put into place in your library.
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