WAPL Conference Registration Now Open!

The “City of Four Lakes” has excitement and a lot to offer. But don’t take our word for it….see it for yourself!

Registration is now open for the “Survive and Thrive” 2011 WAPL Conference. This year’s conference will be held May 4-6 at the Sheraton Hotel in Madison.

“We have a well-rounded and outstanding selection of programs available this year,” said Brian Kopetsky, conference chair. “Librarians in the public sector will be pleased with what’s offered.”

Kicking things off on Thursday, May 5, will be keynote Tom Peters. Peters is the founder and CEO of TAP Information Services in Missouri. It provides a wide variety of services supporting library and library consortia, and is currently involved in projects with OPAL and Info Quest. Peters talk about effective responses to some of the top challenges facing libraries, with an emphasis on e-books and other changes in technology.

Thursday’s luncheon speakers feature Dr. Jack Norman and Joe Fahey of Institute for Wisconsin’s Future (IWF). They will discuss how libraries can defend themselves in the midst of political assault. Jim Fleming, a long-time host of Wisconsin Public Radio, will speak about "A Life in Radio," at Friday’s luncheon. Jim will share how the topics he's covered on “To the Best of Our Knowledge” and other programs has impacted his life and world view.

Besides the luncheons and keynote address, several break-out sessions are planned. Digitization, using e-books, budgeting, swapping story times and weeding are just a few of the hot topics that will be covered.

The conference rate is $75 for WLA members and $100 for non-members. Rooms can be reserved for $109 per night at the Sheraton Hotel. The hotel features comfortable rooms, free wi-fi, a pool, fitness center and fine dining.

For conference, hotel or registration information, visit the conference website at http://www.wla.lib.wi.us/conferences/.