Contact: Steve Zalusky


Manager of Communications, PIO


(312) 280-1546


szalusky@ala.org

NEWS


For Immediate Release


May 27, 2008

ALA video provides tips on using READ posters

CHICAGO - A new video providing information about the American Library Association’s celebrity READ posters can be seen at the ALA Public Information Office (PIO) blog, Visibility @ your library (
http://www.pio.ala.org/visibility).

The video features Rachel Johnson, director of Products and Promotions for ALA Graphics, in the ALA’s publishing unit. She is charged with developing products that promote libraries, literacy and reading and support ALA programs and initiatives.

Johnson talks about the new Kareem Abdul-Jabbar READ poster produced for Library Card Sign-up Month, in which he is seen holding “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”

She also discusses how ALA Graphics chooses celebrities for the posters, pointing out that ALA Graphics, in addition to taking suggestions from fans, librarians and readers, does a great deal of research. “We like to look at all cultures and ethnicities to get a wide range of celebrities, so that we can reach our diverse population of customers.”

Johnson added, “We select iconic celebrities that we feel would be best in promoting libraries, literacy and reading. Overwhelmingly, the most requested celebrity they want to see on READ posters is Johnny Depp,” she said.

Johnson said it is easy for someone to suggest subjects for future READ posters. Just e-mail
graphicsmarketing@ala.org. She said libraries can also order a CD through the ALA Store (
http://www.alastore.ala.org) that enables them to create their own READ posters.

Visibility @ your library provides librarians and library supporters with news and information about important communications issues from ALA's Public Information Office and the Campaign for America's Libraries. In addition, you can access the latest edition of ALA News on the PIO blog.