Contact: Liz Markel
Marketing Specialist, RUSA/ASCLA
(312) 280-4398
lmarkel@ala.org
NEWS
For Immediate Release
June 16, 2009
CHICAGO—Those looking to improve customer service delivery or find sustainable funding options for collaborative digitization projects should act now and register for the fast-filling preconferences offered by the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA).
ASCLA’s 2009 preconferences are half- or full-day workshops presenting skills and knowledge relevant to success in various areas of librarianship.
Preconferences are ticketed events—interested participants may register separate from or in addition to Annual Conference Registration using the online conference registration form. A comprehensive overview of registration procedures is available at the ASCLA blog.
Here’s an overview of this year’s offerings:
After the Grant Runs Out: Funding Collaborative Digitization
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Friday July 10, Sheraton Chicago, 301 E. North Water St.
$220 RUSA members / $265 ALA members / $340 non-members
Speakers will explore how to cultivate diverse revenue streams for funding sustainable collaborative digitization programs, including membership fees, fund raising and operating budgets. Presenters bring to the table extensive experiences and success in the field. Theyinclude Kenning Arlitsch, University of Utah; Jim Neal, Columbia University Library; Dreanne Belden, University of North Texas Library; Liz Bishoff, BCR; Lucy Barber, National Historical Publications and Records Commission; Beth Joffrion, National Endowment for the Humanities; and Rachel Frick, Institute for Museum and Library Services.
Be My Guest: Customer Service from the Best
9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Friday July 10, InterContinental Chicago, 505 N. Michigan Ave.
$115 ASCLA members / $160 ALA members / $235 non-members
What do libraries have in common with casinos? Both focus on making the customer’s experience the best it can be. Library patrons are our guests, and as library staff there are many ways we can ensure they feel welcomed and have a positive library experience. Based on a highly successful program hosted by the New Jersey State Library in partnership with Trump Entertainment Resorts in Atlantic City, this pre-conference will offer insights into hospitality industry practices and provide a variety of models libraries can implement to improve and enhance customer service.
A comprehensive overview of ASCLA’s other programming offerings is available in the downloadable ASCLA @ Annual Conference guide. Specifically, this year’s programs will address effective service delivery, including big print materials and special populations services; broadband access at the library; current practices and future trends in delivery of materials; collaboration and innovation as the future of libraries; revitalizing the library experience for patrons; career opportunities in prison libraries; and the impact of LSTA in library funding. ASCLA discussion groups also cover pertinent topics, including collaborative digitization, library consulting, physical delivery, virtual libraries, youth consulting and LSTA coordination—a complete listing is available in the guide.
ASCLA, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), is a diverse organization of librarians and support staff who work in academic and public libraries, state agencies, specialized libraries and multi-type cooperatives, as well as those who are self-employed. Not an ASCLA member, but interested in discounted registration rates on conference, ASCLA preconferences and other ASCLA events? Join, renew or add ASCLA to your ALA membership at www.ala.org/membership.