Letters from ALCTS
From the Editor
Mary Beth Weber, Editor
Take it Up a Notch
I usually shy away from using clichés, but thought this one was
appropriate considering that the Annual Conference will be held in New
Orleans. And, while Emeril Lagasse is not a New Orleans native, he did
rise to fame in that city. My use of this expression is not in
reference to cooking or food, but rather to participation within ALCTS
and ALA. With the Annual Conference coming up in June, I am sure many
of you are looking forward to attending and also helping to promote and
rebuild New Orleans. This issue of ANO includes a preview of
preconferences and programs at the annual conference, the ALCTS
schedule of events, and calls for volunteers-reporters are needed to
cover ALCTS events for inclusion in ANO, volunteers are
needed to staff the ALCTS Membership booth, and ALA is soliciting
volunteers to participate in humanitarian efforts to help rebuild New
Orleans.
I raise the issue of volunteering since participation provides a
number of benefits. Serving on a committee, interest group, or task
force gives you a chance to contribute to the division and profession
at large, and enables you to hear important information first hand, and
often in advance. Volunteering as a reporter enables you to share
information with colleagues who may be unable to attend programs or
preconferences, and will benefit from reading your report. Lastly,
volunteering to help rebuild New Orleans is the type of thing that will
make you feel great and will make lasting contributions. I encourage
you to "take it up a notch," and to participate, contribute, and be
involved.
Edward Swanson's "Publications" column is in this issue, and is
another way that you can contribute by reviewing new publications.
Reviews are an important way to inform your colleagues about resources,
and I invite you to share your informed opinion with others. Your input
counts and is valued!
The "News and Features" section of this issue includes Carol Pitts
Diedrichs' ALCTS Experience, a very special April 1 report from the
ALCTS Office, information on the upcoming 50th anniversary celebration that will take place next year, and other news items.
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