ALA joins with MCCA to support Haiti relief effort

NEWS


For Immediate Release,


January 16, 2010

Contact: Steve Zalusky


Manager of Communications,


ALA Public Information Office


(847) 962-3730


szalusky@ala.org

BOSTON – The impact of the devastating earthquake in Haiti has awakened an enormous outpouring of sympathy and support for families and friends of the Haitian community worldwide.

The American Library Association (ALA), which is holding its Midwinter Meeting through Jan. 20 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center in Boston, recognizes the urgent need to send aid to the victims of this tragic event. It has joined the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) in asking for support for relief efforts now underway in Haiti.

The MCCA and the ALA have set up the MCCA/ALA Relief Fund through Citizens Bank. The MCCA and the ALA will accept donations by cash, check or credit card at one of two donation stations located at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. Today, the donation station will be located at ALA registration on Level 0 East. On Sunday and Monday, the donation station will be located in the North Lobby. The MCCA has pledged to match any donations made to this fund.

Please make checks payable to MCCA/ALA Haiti Relief Fund. Donations will be made in memory of MCCA staff who have lost loved ones in this tragedy.

“With so many ALA members gathered together here in Boston we have a unique opportunity to do something right here, right now to help the people of Haiti,” said ALA Executive Director Keith Michael Fiels. “We appreciate the Convention Center’s generous offer to match our donations. We urge members to give generously.”