#alamw15 Chicago

There is something really awesome about a city that has such accessible art.  From the original and interesting architecture to the funky public art, visitors will not be disappointed.  I really enjoyed the (very) short time that we had to walk around and experience the sights and sounds of this city in the proximity of our hotel and conference. 

Here are some of my personal highlights from #alamw15  ALA Midwinter 2015: 

1.  The networking, informal meetings and conversations that take place between our own members and other librarians is just plain awesome.  It is validating to know that others are wrestling with some of the same issues that we are faced with in Massachusetts.
We are stronger together and working with each other will surely help us to grow and understand where our focus must be. 

2.   The Vendor Hall was bustling with activity. I especially enjoyed seeing some of the Advanced Reader copies and walking by authors (whether I knew them or not), it has a sort of "rock concert" feel!  I spent some time in a maker space booth using copper tape to create a light up firefly pin! I'm looking forward to checking out this organization more closely. 

3. Affiliate Assembly offers opportunities to meet, listen and connect.  This year was no exception.   You can read a detailed blog post by Jennifer Reed here.  
The Ask Me How School Librarians Transform Learning campaign was introduced: 

Use these as an "elevator speech" or talking points whenever the opportunity arises. 

4.  The knowledge that Kathy Lowe, Judi Paradis, Jennifer Reed and Amy Short possess collectively is amazing.  I count myself lucky to be able to learn from them.  I continue to strive to understand how to continue to move the Association to meet our memberships needs. Attending ALA Midwinter is just part of that puzzle! 


Thanks for reading! 

View other posts from the conference at the MSLA en Mass Blog. 

Messages are everywhere...

Wise owl and Cheery Bird Welcome

Balance: The place where we find our deepest peace is the place where we discover our greatest strength! 

Respect and Tolerance - expected for and from ALL 

I am not asking you to do anything that I don't take the time to do!
I'm a reader and I want you to be too! 

Repping MSLA @ ALA Vegas

I attended ALA Vegas at the end of June as the President-elect for MSLA. I wrote about it -
HERE. 

Reflecting on advocacy

  Over the last several weeks I have been preparing to hold a Massachusetts Library Legislative Breakfast in my high school library. Save the dates, invitations, reminder emails and Facebook posts and events were created and sent. This event also coincides with our NEASC (New England Association of Schools & Colleges, Inc.) accreditation next week.  The entire school has been focused on showing what we do on a daily basis. I used both to reflect on the image I would like visitors to take away.  I believe I was successful in accomplishing my vision. 

Here is why: 

• The program began with the High School Administrators, the town Library Director, the Town Manager and myself welcoming the guests of the breakfast. 
• Four teachers and three students  spoke of the critical role that a library has in our community and in their daily lives.  Each of the speakers contributed an element of personal growth, worth, learning outcomes and community. 
• MBLC, MLS, MLA, CW/Mars and MSLA were all represented and given a few minutes at the podium to raise awareness of the bills that are in need of support from constituents. 
• Legislative Representatives spoke regarding the ways that they do and will support libraries. 
• A Declaration for the Right to Libraries Signing Event was also held during the event. Those attending the advocacy event, as well as students, teachers and staff members were asked to add their signature to the poster. The poster will continue to be available for signatures throughout the month of March. 
• An art project that was a collaboration between the digital photography teacher and the library teacher was on exhibit in the library. 
• Journalism students were more than willing to help by greeting guests, handing out programs, and guiding visitors throughout the event.  These students also served as photographers and a videographer. 
• At the end of the event, people did not want to leave and many stayed to continue the conversation.   

 But here is what I learned from this experience....

• Everyone needs to feel that they matter and are worthy.
• Even those who are convicted in their beliefs may be open to listening to the "why". 
• The "to do" list isn't as important as the "to be" list:  Be realistic in what can be accomplished.Be able to delegate and accept help. Be kind - it really can cure most situations. Be grateful for those who are willing to trust in your ideas. 
• Access IS the bottom line  - to libraries, to information, to the digital world, to learning, to equality, to chances...