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Midwinter Meeting - American Library Association

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:

  • The President’s Program features a prominent speaker addressing a topic of significance. Past speakers have included author David McCullough and Amy Goodman.
  • Candidates for ALA offices present their views during a Candidate's Forum open to ALA membership.
  • Author Talks by best-selling authors, open to all full-registrants.
  • Gala Exhibit Opening Reception featuring gift-basket giveaways by exhibitors immediately following the Author Talks
  • Adult Literature Spotlight. Two hours devoted to the celebration of adult fiction and non-fiction. Galley giveaways and author signings on the show floor Saturday, 2 to 4 p.m.

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.