PLA 2014 Conference

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Submit a ConverStation Proposal

There’s still a chance to lead a session at PLA 2014! While the deadline to submit a preconference or program proposal for has passed, we are still accepting ConverStation proposals through August 16, 2013.

ConverStations are unique, interactive sessions that enable attendees to discuss a public library issue/topic and learn from each other. Session facilitators typically introduce a topic for five to ten minutes, then moderate attendee discussion. ConverStations are 60 or 75 minutes in length and are set up in rooms with round tables of 10 to encourage discussion among attendees.

As with preconference and program proposals, we recommend ConverStation proposals showcase emerging trends, innovations, and examples of risk-taking in the areas of community engagement, managing space, marketing and advocacy, digital content, technology, programming, leadership, funding, staffing, collections, outcome measures, and more.

How to Submit a ConverStation Proposal

The proposal process is completely online: only proposals submitted through this online process will be considered.

  1. Please read the proposal instructions before you begin.
  2. Submit your proposal; it is best to have as much information as possible before you begin entering your proposal; however, incomplete proposals can be saved and revised at any time until the proposal deadline.

Deadline

August 16, 2013: Proposals due for ConverStations. Organizers will be notified of proposal status Sept. 30, 2013.

Requirements

PLA 2014 presenters will be required to:

  • Register for and attend the conference;
  • Respond to PLA requests for information in a timely manner; and
  • Submit handouts two weeks prior to conference.

Selection Criteria

Proposals will be rated based on several criteria:

  • On whether the content is creative/interesting, timely, and seems practical;
  • On whether the content demonstrates unique and innovative thinking; and
  • On whether the speakers are experienced presenters and qualified to speak on the topic.

If you have any questions or need additional information, contact the PLA Office, 800-545-2433, ext. 5027.

PLA 2014 Conference Program Subcommittee

The PLA 2014 Conference Program Subcommittee will review all submitted proposals and select conference sessions based on their relevance to the profession, educational value, and appeal to conference attendees.

Georgia L. Lomax, CHAIR
Deputy Director, Pierce County (Wash.) Library System

Marissa Alcorta
Children's Librarian, Pima County (Ariz.) Public Library

Ronald Block
Circulation Servs Supervisor, Jacksonville (Fla.) Public Library

Kimberlee A. DeNero-Ackroyd
Deputy Director, Cleveland Heights-University Heights (Ohio) Public Library

Deborah Corinne Duke
Collection Mgmt Administrator, Fort Worth (Texas) Library

Jennifer L. Ferriss
Bibliographic Database Specialist, Southern Adirondack Library System
Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

Toby Greenwalt
Virtual Services Coordinator, Skokie (Ill.) Public Library

Gregg R. Grisa
Librarian II, Southwest Library, District of Columbia Public Library

Kendi L. Kelley
Jessamine County (Ky.) Public Library

Kevin A. R. King
Head, Patron Services & IT, Kalamazoo (Mich.) Public Library

Martina Kominiarek
Executive Director, Bucks County (Pa.) Free Library

Portia Latalladi
Youth Librarian, Chicago (Ill.) Public Library

Candelaria Mendoza
Community Engagement Manager, Mid-Columbia Libraries,
Kennewick, Wash.

Pamela Sandlian Smith
Director, Anythink Libraries
Thornton, Colo.