Adult and Family Literacy is theme for 2006 Diversity Fair

Contact: Tanga Morris
OLOS
800-545-2433 ext. 4294
tmorris@ala.org
For Immediate Release
May 2, 2006

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 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 of showcasing 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 and Ex-Offenders
  • Family Literacy Programs and Services
  • Other (e.g., professional development or community partnerships)

Sponsored by DEMCO, the ALA's Office for Literacy and Outreach Services (OLOS) introduced the Diversity Fair at Annual Conference in 1997. 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.

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.