CALA launches 2011-2012 theme “Embracing the Changes”

CHICAGO -- The Chinese American Librarians Association (CALA) inaugurated its 2011-2012 year with the program “Embracing the Changes: Diversity and Global Vision in a Digital Age” at the 2011 American Library Association Annual Conference in New Orleans.

The program, which launches 2011-2012 CALA president Min Chou’s presidential theme, featured ALA Past President Dr. Betty J. Turock, professor and dean emeritus, School of Communication and Information at Rutgers University; Michael Dowling, director of the Chapter Relations and International Relations Offices; Miguel Figueroa, director of the Office for Diversity and Acting Director of the Office for Literacy and Outreach Services (OLOS); Dr. Clara Chu, chair and professor, Department of Library and Information Studies at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro; and Michael Porter, president and CEO of Library Renewal and member of the ALA Executive Board. The program attracted more than 150 diverse ALA conference attendees interested in technology, global outreach and collaboration, and diversity.

“The value of diversity and global vision is embedded in CALA’s mission and strategic goals. That value helps bring vibrancy not only to CALA but also to the library profession,” says Min Chou, librarian at the Frank J. Guarini Library, New Jersey City University and president of the Chinese American Librarians Association. “I deeply appreciate the insightful and empowering speeches of our speakers and the strong support from our sponsors. This program sets the tone for my presidential year, working with CALA colleagues on several exciting projects and activities, including support for the Spectrum Scholarship Program, the Joint Conference of Librarians of Color 2012 and the Campaign for the World’s Libraries, to demonstrate CALA’s renewed vision and re-energized commitment in promoting cultural diversity and international collaboration in the library profession.”

The CALA program was made possible through the generous support of SAGE Publications, Wisers Information Limited and Emerald Inc. The program was co-sponsored by each of the affiliated associations of ethnic librarians—the American Indian Library Association (AILA), the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA), the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) and the National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish Speaking (REFORMA).

The Chinese American Librarians Association (CALA) was founded in 1973. Currently, there are more than 1,000 registered members throughout the United States, Canada, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and other countries and regions. CALA is an affiliate of the American Library Association (ALA). For more information visit http://www.cala-web.org.