WLA Conference in Milwaukee: Make it a Destination

With the kick-off of the 2011 WLA Conference only 6 weeks from now, and the October 3rd early bird deadline less than a week away, it can mean only one thing… you’ve got to swing into high gear, because if you don’t register soon, you’ll only have yourself to blame for missing the fun activities slated to take place November 1 – 4 in the Cream City…Milwaukee!

Ssssh!  Don’t let this out, but not only will you learn a lot…you’ll have a blast!
Parties, tours and awards to help you relax and renew your energy

Get your “party on” immediately by joining your friends and colleagues at the opening night Vendor Reception at the Hilton featuring hors d’ oeuvres and a cash bar.  There will be a series of tasty luncheons throughout the conference featuring excellent food and great speakers. (This year’s President’s Luncheon should be especially entertaining when humorist Scott Dikkers, founder of The Onion, hits the podium!)
Fun and interesting tours will abound, including a visit to see the treasures of the Krug Rare Books Room of the historic Milwaukee County Public Library Central Branch; the Milwaukee County Zoo Library (sorry Lesley Kagen fans, but Samson the gorilla is now but a bronzed memory) and the Milwaukee Art Museum, which features an extensive collection of materials on fine art and architecture including painting, graphic arts, sculpture, drawing, design and photography.

Relax and unwind with old friends at the alumni receptions hosted by UW-Milwaukee SOIS at the Pabst Mansion or the UW Madison SLIS at the elegantly restored Hilton.  If you’re into “tweeting” be sure to attend the Tweet-up and Meet-up at the Miller Time Pub.

More fun?  Take this idea for a SPiN
Attend an exciting and fun-filled evening of entertainment at SPiN Milwaukee in the trendy yet Historic Third Ward for the WLAF Fundraiser: SPiNGALACTIC!  Enjoy friends and friendly competition at this unique 16,500 square foot table tennis social club which sports 12 top quality table tennis courts.  (Think Ping Pong on steroids.)  Your $35 ticket covers table tennis, one drink, light snacks and a $20 charitable contribution to WLAF to benefit the campaign for Wisconsin Libraries.  Cash bar available and shuttle service provided.

But wait…there’s more!
Let’s not forget you’re in the largest city in Wisconsin, which means entertainment venues and shopping opportunities galore!  Plus take part in the biggest celebration in Library World, the WLA Awards & Honors Banquet.

And talk about a beautiful facility…
The Hilton Milwaukee City Center Hotel is recognized as the city’s finest hotel with a tradition going back over 80 years, providing 1920’s grandeur and elegance with today’s modern conveniences.  And you can stay at this beautiful facility at affordable WLA conference rates!

Not only is the Hilton connected directly to the Frontier Conference Center via a skywalk to make your visit to the exhibits and sessions convenient, but there’s so much more.  Need a brew?  The Miller Time Pub.  Quick bite to eat?  The Café.  Fine dining?  The Milwaukee Chop House.  Craving caffeine? Yup, you guessed it, Starbucks!  Book your room today.

Dewey or don’t we party?
Yes we do, and Milwaukee, get ready…because we’re long overdue!

Get ready to take part in a wonderful opportunity to connect with peers from other Wisconsin libraries in one exciting location to find solutions to common problems and celebrate successes.  Take part in dozens of breakout sessions to refresh your perspective and plant new ideas; visit with exhibitors sharing the latest products and services your library users need; keynote speakers to make you think, create, laugh and learn…and last, but certainly not least, have a great time, because you deserve it.

Sign-up today by clicking here, and we’ll see you in Downtown Milwaukee this November.
--Michael Kenney, 2011 WLA Conference Publicity Chair