Public Library Association (PLA)

PLA continues its support of Spectrum Presidential Initiative

CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) has reaffirmed its commitment to diversity in the library profession through a gift of $5,000 to the American Library Association’s (ALA) Spectrum Scholarship Program.  In recognition of PLA’s contributions to the Spectrum Presidential Initiative, a PLA Spectrum Scholarship will be designated in the June 2012 awards.  The PLA Spectrum Scholarship will be awarded to a Spectrum applicant who expresses an interest in public libraries.

PLA to offer three preconferences for public library staff at ALA Annual Conference

CHICAGO — On Friday, June 22, at the ALA Annual Conference in Anaheim, Calif., the Public Library Association (PLA) will present three unique preconferences dedicated to public library professionals. Preconferences require a separate registration; however, you do not need to be registered for the ALA Annual Conference to register for a preconference. The programs include: 

Get back to basics with the PLA 'E-Books 101' webinar

CHICAGO – At 1 p.m. Central on Apr. 17, the Public Library Association (PLA) will host a live, hour-long webinar, “E-Books 101: A Look at Devices, Platforms, and Training Ideas,” designed for libraries just beginning their e-book programs or for new library staff that need to get up to speed on digital collections.

PLA 2012 elections give members the power to choose their association’s leadership

CHICAGO — Elections for the Public Library Association (PLA), as well as those for the American Library Association (ALA) and its other divisions, are open through 11:59 p.m. CDT, April 27. This year in the PLA election, six candidates are standing for three positions, including PLA president and two directors-at-large.

Deadline to participate in the PLDS Statistical Report Survey extended to April 16

CHICAGO — There is still time to be a part of the Public Library Data Service (PLDS) Statistical Report, an annual publication from the Public Library Association (PLA). The extended deadline to submit library information is April 16, 2012.

Public Library Association Conference draws thousands to Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA – More than 8,700 library staff, supporters, exhibitors, authors and guests from across the country attended the Public Library Association’s (PLA) 2012 Conference in Philadelphia to discuss various issues that impact U.S. public libraries and their users. Dedicated solely to meeting the interests of public librarians, the conference has a reputation for excellence, making it one of the most popular and successful events in the public library world.

PLA Store at PLA 2012 Conference, Philadelphia

CHICAGO - Find the PLA Store at PLA 2012 Conference  in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Convention Center near the Broad Street entrance. The PLA Store is located near Registration, ideal for easy access and convenient browsing. With plenty of new and best-selling items available, you’ll want to make sure to carve out some time in your schedule to stop by! The PLA Store hours are:

Philadelphia host to national discussions on future of public libraries

As library use increases, so does need for new technologies

CHICAGO - In the age of the Internet, emerging technologies have transformed public libraries into crucial technology hubs that millions rely on as their first or only choice for Internet access. As our society continues to change the way it consumes information, public libraries have proven to be indispensable to their communities as they work to meet the needs of increasingly tech-savvy patrons.

PLA 2012 attendees will lead the conversation at the Unconference

CHICAGO - Attendees at the upcoming PLA 2012 Conference in Philadelphia will have a unique opportunity to join participant-driven sessions during the Unconference, 12:30-3:30 p.m. on Friday, March 16, in Room 122-A/B of the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The Unconference is intended to be an organic, spontaneous event. The afternoon's schedule will be built onsite with the input of attendees. They'll take an active role in creating, facilitating and joining discussions relevant to their libraries and communities.

Karen Danczak Lyons on value of PLA's 2012 Conference

CHICAGO – Next week, thousands of librarians and library professionals from across the country will gather in Philadelphia for the 2012 Public Library Association (PLA) Conference, March 13 – 17.  In a video podcast, PLA Conference Chair and First Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Public Library Karen Danczak Lyons sits down to discuss why PLA 2012 will be the best ever.