The American Library Association (ALA), the oldest and largest library association in the world, holds an annual business meeting known as the ALA Midwinter Meeting. Generally held in January, the conference draws more than 10,000 leaders in the library and information industry for some 2,500 meetings and events. Some 450 exhibits feature the latest in books, videos, computers and other materials available to today's libraries and their users.
Highlights include the announcement of the "Academy Awards" of children's literature - the Newbery and Caldecott Medals - and other awards and lists recognizing the best in literature and audiovisual materials for children, teens and adults. Other activities:
Technical Showcase. Juried technical papers presented on one of two Technical Showcase Stages. Attendees learn cutting-edge technology in an intimate setting, just right for highly interactive sessions.
The ALA Office for Human Resource Development and Recruitment provides a placement service for job seekers and employers. Interviewing facilities are provided.
Upcoming Midwinter Meetings:
January 9-14, 2004 San Diego
January 20-25, 2005 Boston
January 20-25 2006 San Antonio
January 19-24, 2007 Seattle
For exhibit information or conference registration, contact ALA Conference Services, 800-545-2433, ext. 3226. For press registration, call 800-545-2433, ext. 5041/5044. Also, see the ALA Web site at www.ala.org.