Adult and Family Literacy is theme for 2006 Diversity Fair
Contact: Tanga Morris
Diversity Fair
800-545-2433 ext. 4294
tmorris@ala.org
For Immediate Release
December 22, 2005
Adult and Family Literacy is theme for 2006 Diversity Fair
CHICAGO - The American Library Association (ALA) invites its members from all types of libraries to participate in the Ninth Annual Diversity Fair to take place on Saturday, June 24, 2006, 3 to 5 pm during the ALA Annual Conference in New Orleans.
This year, the Diversity Fair will initiate a pilot strategy in order to showcase a range of programs with a common theme. The theme for 2006 is Adult and Family Literacy Services in Libraries.
The concept of a theme-based fair encourages librarians to gain a holistic view of how to address a specific concern. Adult and Family Literacy was selected as the theme for 2006 to highlight the role of libraries in facilitating learning for the broadest range of users, including those with limited reading skills. Participants in the 2006 Diversity Fair should address at least one of the following topics concerning Adult and Family Literacy Services:
- Library Collections for Adult Basic Readers
- Access to Technology
- Collections and Services for English Language Learners
- Adult and/or Family Literacy Services to Incarcerated People & Ex-Offenders
- Family Literacy Programs and Services
- Other (e.g., professional development or community partnerships)
If you are interested in participating in the 2006 Diversity Fair, please complete the entry form available at
www.ala.org/ala/olos/olosprograms/diversityfair/06entryform.pdf. The deadline for receipt of entry form is
April 14, 2006. Fax to 312-280-3256, Attn: Tanga Morris.
The Diversity Fair was introduced at the Annual Conference in 1997 by the ALA's Office for Literacy and Outreach Services (OLOS). DEMCO is the sponsor. Over the years the fair has highlighted “diversity-in-action” initiatives from library outreach programs across the country. It encourages librarians addressing diversity programs, activities and services in local libraries to share their resources with others. Presenters share information in face-to-face presentations with conferees, utilizing a poster session/table talk format.
Prizes will be awarded for best displays. The “Best of Show” recognition for creativity, visual appeal and stated impact on local community include:
- First Place: $200 DEMCO gift certificate
- Second Place: $100 DEMCO gift certificate
- Third Place: $50 DEMCO gift certificate
An OLOS committee will review the entries and selected entries will be invited to exhibit at the 2006 Diversity Fair. Those selected will be notified by
April 28, 2006 via e-mail or fax from OLOS. Questions may be directed to Tanga Morris at 800-545-2433 #4294, ALA Office for Literacy and Outreach Services, 50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611 or by e-mail
divfair@ala.org.