CHICAGO — Today, the Public Library Association (PLA) officially opened the Call for Proposals for educational sessions to be presented at its next biennial conference, to be held Feb. 25-29, 2020 in Nashville, Tenn. The PLA 2020 Conference will highlight innovative work and ideas that address the core challenges facing public libraries and their communities today. It will feature more than 100 top-quality continuing education programs, several social events, networking opportunities and a bustling exhibition hall.
For the 2020 Conference, PLA is especially interested in proposals and speakers representing diverse perspectives, with a commitment to representation of groups that have been historically marginalized or excluded due to race, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, ability, economic background, and age. Most educational programs will be 60-minute sessions that follow the format of a panel discussion, case study presentation, peer-to-peer dialogue, or skill-building workshop. PLA will also present a limited number of in-depth preconference sessions that may be a half-day or full-day in duration. All participating speakers will be expected to register for and attend the conference; respond to PLA information requests in a timely manner; and submit final versions of all session handouts electronically prior to conference.
Prospective presenters are strongly encouraged to preview the form and review our proposal recommendations before submitting a proposal. The proposal submission portal will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, Apr. 26, 2019.
The PLA 2020 Conference Program Subcommittee will review all submitted proposals and select conference sessions based on their relevance to the profession and general interest to conference attendees. Further information regarding the proposal form, selection criteria, requirements, and instructions can be found online.
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About PLA
The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 10,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders.
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