2009 ALA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Chicago, Illinois
July 9 - July 15, 2009
CONFERENCE INFORMATION
International Meetings and Programs Schedule
List of countries represented at ALA Annual-Coming soon!
HOTEL AND REGISTRATION FORMS
Registration Form (Word)- Deadline: May 22, 2009
Hotel Reservation Form (Word)
Dormitory Information--Deadline: May 22, 2009
Preconference Registration Form (Word)
INTERNATIONAL POSTER AND PAPER SESSIONS
This is a forum for librarians from around the world to highlight their libraries and to share their successful ideas with colleagues by presenting a research study, a practical problem-solving effort or an innovative library program.
The International Papers Program is designed to encourage the exchange of ideas about library services and collections among librarians from different parts of the world. The papers are also selected to stimulate the interest of U.S. librarians in international library matters.
This year the ALA Annual Conference will offer you an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your knowledge, share your ideas, and network with experts from around the globe as you participate in one of the largest and most exciting library events in the world!
ALA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Welcomes Library Professionals from Around the World!
The Premier Library Event
No other event in the world offers information professionals the opportunity to learn more about the current issues, trends, and technology in the fields of library and information science. Every year over 20,000 information professionals from around the globe attend the Conference. There are many ways for you to participate:
- present a paper
- listen to world-renowned speakers
- attend workshops and program sessions
- make connections that will improve your library and its services!
The ALA Exhibits
The ALA Annual Conference Exhibition will be the largest exposition of library related materials in the world. Talk to exhibitors, learn about new products that will enhance your library's services, and see demonstrations of the latest in:
- Library automation
- Databases and CD ROM's
- Audiovisual equipment and materials
- Publishing (International and US based)
- and much more!
The Latest Library Technology
The ALA Annual Conference offers many professional programs designed specifically to address issues such as how to best utilize new technologies in libraries, and how to find and use the resources available on the Internet. Also provided for conference attendees is an Internet Café where you can surf the Internet and check e-mail.
Especially for International Visitors
Orientation-A special introduction to the conference and Chicago. for international guests. ALA members will provide an overview of how to make the most of your conference experience, as well as recommend programs and social activities.
Mentors-An option that pairs you with an American librarian who serves as an advisor to help you navigate the conference. If you are interested, please check the mentor box on your registration form.
Preconference-(Word document) A half-day program that will focus on how American libraries are managing some of the important issues that affect librarians around the world.
International Poster Sessions-An opportunity to promote the activities of your library, showcase innovative programming, and share ideas with your colleagues worldwide.
International Papers-You are invited to submit a paper proposal on how your library or country is addressing a selected topic. To learn more about how to submit an application to present a paper, contact ALA.
International Reception-A special evening reception will be held in your honor so you may meet other international guests and colleagues from the America.
International Visitor's Center-A place where you can relax, review the conference program or even hold a small meeting with new-found colleagues and friends. A computer with Internet access will be provided. ALA volunteers will be available to answer questions and provide assistance.
CHICAGO
The home of the skyscraper, Chicago is noted for its world-class architecture, museums, and shopping. Frank Lloyd Wright called Chicago his home. Chicago is often called a friendly city – and you will agree when you accept the city’s warm invitation to sample such free attractions as Lincoln Park Zoo, home to more than 1,000 mammals, reptiles, and birds. Enjoy the peaceful gardens under glass at Garfield Park Conservatory and Lincoln Park Conservatory.
Millennium Park, located in downtown Chicago, is a 24.5-acre park and it is an unprecedented center for world-class art, music, architecture and landscape design – including the mammoth stainless-steel Cloud Gate sculpture. In Grant Park, you will find one Chicago's most popular attractions and one of the largest fountains in the world, Buckingham Fountain.
Don’t forget to visit Navy Pier - the Midwest’s top tourist destination – and it’s boardwalk, 150-foot Ferris wheel, boat tours, and countless dining or shopping options. Famous for its music, there are plenty of nightclubs, bars and concerts halls where you can hear jazz, blues, or any other type of music to keep your evenings full. And don’t forget to stroll up the eight spectacular blocks known as the Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue in which you will explore over 460 exclusive stores and boutiques and enjoy fine dining at over 200 restaurants.
Though a large city, Chicago prides itself on its neighborhoods, and it treats its international visitors as neighbors. You will feel right at home in Chicago as you participate in the biggest and best library conference in the world! So mark your calendars to join ALA from July 9 to 15, 2009.
USEFUL LINKS
For more information regarding special events, tours, restaurants, museums, public transportation, and much more, visit:
Chicago Guide to Special Values (opens in a new window)
Map of Downtown Chicago, it includes conference hotels
Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) - Information about trains and buses
PREVIOUS CONFERENCES
2003 International Librarians Reception-Pictures
2004 International Librarians Reception-Pictures
2007 International Librarians Reception-Pictures
2007 International Librarians Reception-VIDEO(by American Libraries Magazine)
2007 Poster Session pictures - (opens in new window-Flickr)
For More Information Contact:
International Relations Office
American Library Association
50 E. Huron Street
Chicago, Illinois 60611-2795
USA
Telephone: +1 312 280 3201
Fax: +1 312 280 4392
E-mail: intl@ala.org
Visit our web site at: http://www.ala.org