Stephen Abram, Scott Dikkers and Everything in Between: WLA Conference Recap

Despite concerns about library budgets and costs of the Milwaukee venue, 834 registrants enjoyed the 2011 Annual Conference, including a sold-out exhibit hall, dozens of programs, five tours and a grand awards banquet in the Hilton’s Empire Ballroom. Both the keynote speaker, Stephen Abram, and President’s Luncheon speaker, Scott Dikkers, were provocative on completely different subjects!

Attendees surveyed said their main reason for attending was the chance to interact with others in the library field, followed closely by the program schedule and topics. The schedule included technology topics such as e-books, Koha ILS, technology in children’s programs and Google tools, while also hitting topics on staff and self-management, hiring, diversity, literature, outreach, ethics and more.

Five tours of libraries and library resources rounded out the educational experience, though two tours sold-out, to the disappointment of later registrants. WLA thanks Milwaukee Public Library for providing access to their Krug Rare Books Room, the Villard Square Library and hosting a fabulous reception and tour at the Central Library.

The WLA Foundation raised nearly $4,000 with their annual silent auction and a fundraiser at SPiN, a table-tennis nightclub in the Third Ward. Thanks to Foundation board member Bill Robison, a partner at Engberg Anderson, which designed the facility, fundraiser attendees were able to enjoy a private room for their friendly competition.  In addition to Engberg Anderson, sponsors of the event were Maris Associates, Alpine Book and Quality Books.

Thanks to all who attended the conference in Milwaukee. We hope to see even more of you next year in La Crosse!

Money Smart Week® @ Your Library Program

At the recent WLA Conference, many attended the program about Money Smart Week® @ Your Library. The partnership of the libraries are key to the program and Wisconsin libraries are in a unique position to profoundly affect their communities with the opportunities and security given through financial literacy.  This partnership extends nationwide between the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and the American Library Association.

There were requests at the recent conference regarding how to participate in Money Smart Week Wisconsin’s campaign.  Your assistance would be greatly appreciated.  You may contact the chair of your regional planning team, if you have one.  The planning team contacts and chairs are listed at http://www.moneysmartwi.org/uploads/MSWWCommitteeChairs.pdf.   If there is not a committee in your area, you are highly encouraged to contact the WI Department of Financial Institutions, Office of Financial Literacy - Teresa Walker (teresa.walker@wisconsin.gov, 608-267-1713) or Dave Mancl (david.mancl@wisconsin.gov).  DFI will be happy to work with you.

For those who were unable to attend the session regarding Money Smart Week® Wisconsin, you may find information about Money Smart Week® and the @your library program at  http://www.chicagofed.org/webpages/education/msw/ala/index.cfm and additional information about Money Smart Week® Wisconsin at http://www.chicagofed.org/webpages/education/msw/index.cfm.   This program began in 2002 and is the brainchild of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.  In 2006, Wisconsin was the first to take the program statewide enhancing our reputation as financial literacy leaders.  Now with the American Library Association’s as a main partner, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is expanding Money Smart Week® to a national program.  Any attention and assistance with this is greatly appreciated.
--David Mancl, Director, Office of Financial Literacy, WI Department of Financial Institutions

The Curtain is Rising on the 2011 WLA Conference, November 1 – 4, in Milwaukee

Question: The Wisconsin Library Association and Carnegie Hall.  What Do They Share in 2011?
Both the WLA and Carnegie Hall have set the standards by which others are measured; both bring people of all ages and backgrounds together; both represent professionalism at the highest level; both are steeped in tradition; both can claim an Andrew Carnegie connection; and both celebrate their 120th Anniversary in 2011!

Make Beautiful Music Together
Join your peers at the 2011 WLA Conference in celebrating WLA’s 120th Anniversary.  Begin your celebration by attending any of the excellent pre-conference sessions.  Sessions include Leading Through Communication; Lightning Fast Succession Planning; or Tell Me What Democracy Looks Like.  Then continue your celebration Tuesday evening with your friends and colleagues at the opening night Vendor Reception at the Hilton, featuring hors d’ oeuvres and a cash bar.


Carnegie Hall…Frontier Airlines Center & Exhibition Hall…Both Strike a Chord
Don’t get me wrong, both are beautiful halls.  But let’s be real here…Can Yo-Yo Ma give you a great deal on RFID technology?  Has Placido Domingo ever offered you advice on an architectural upgrade to your library?  And don’t even get me started on Itzhack Perlman…
The reality is, with over 70 vendors taking part in this year’s WLA Conference Exhibits, you can open your ears to the tune of great savings, exclusively for conference attendees!  You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the latest products and services your library users need.  And while you’re in the exhibition area, you can bid on Silent Auction items, also located in the exhibit hall.  You’ll also be happy to note that the breaks in the exhibit hall do not conflict with the many excellent programs!


Conduct Some Business…Create Some Harmony
After a day of orchestrating your schedule to take in top tier programming and business meetings, 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 Hilton. And if you’re into “tweeting” may we direct you to the Tweet-up and
Meet-up at the Miller Time Pub?


Say Bravo to the WLAF’s SPiNGALACTIC Extravaganza
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.  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.


If it ain’t Baroque, don’t fix it!
We know we’ve got a good thing going here.  With the experience and expertise of 120 years to draw from, the WLA has learned how to put together a conference that meets and exceeds all expectations.   It’s our forte!  We promise you great sessions, great exhibits, dynamic tours and a wonderful opportunity to connect with peers from other Wisconsin libraries. We’ve got excellent keynote speakers that will make you think; you’ll create, laugh and learn; and the host of receptions, parties, tours and awards we offer will help you gain new energy and insights.  BTW, our host hotel, the Hilton Milwaukee City Center Hotel, is recognized as the city’s finest hotel…why shouldn’t it host the state’s finest library professionals?
For those of you already registered, I know I’m just singing to the choir, but for any who’ve had any reservations about attending; take note… whether a fan of Carnegie Hall or a Carnegie Library, the curtain goes up on the 2011 WLA Conference next week for the performance of the year!  I hope to see you in Milwaukee.  (Tux optional)
Best,
--Michael Kenney, Maestro
2011 WLA Conference Publicity Chair

Penworthy Announces WLA Attendee Sponsorship Award

The Penworthy Company is pleased to announce Julia Davis of Kiel Public Library in Kiel, WI as the winner of our 19th annual WLA Attendee Sponsorship Award. Every year, we award a Wisconsin librarian with a $400 sponsorship award to attend WLA’s annual conference, which holds programs to refresh library services, boost professional skills, and help librarians make connections. Congratulations Julia!

WLA thanks The Penworthy Company for their wonderful support of WLA through this sponsorship and decades of exhibiting at the WLA Conference.

The Penworthy Company makes buying children’s books the pleasure it ought to be® with an exceptional selection, sturdy Penworthy Prebound Books and a level of personal service you can trust. Based in Milwaukee, WI for 29 years, we’re proud to support the librarians in our home state.

The Case for Attending the 2011 WLA Conference: The Facts…Just the Facts

‘Dragnet' theme music 

This is the city. Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I’ll work here November 1 – 4. I’ll carry a (name) badge.

The story I’m about to impart is true. Only some names have been changed to protect the innocent.

My name is Kenney.  It was Wednesday, October 12th. It was sunny. I was working the day watch out of PR when a call came in from the chief.

“We need to inform everyone about the outstanding line-up of speakers and events taking place at this year’s 2011 WLA Conference, and we’ve got to do it now, because time is of the essence,” said Chief Bellin.

“I’m on it, Chief,” I replied.  And here is my report:

The Pre-Conference Line-up  

Three sessions: Tell Me What Democracy Looks Like; Leading Through Communication; Lightning Fast Succession Planning

(Vendor Reception on opening night!)

Keynote Address by the Internationally Sought After Stephen Abram

Hear Abram’s dynamic presentation entitled FrankenLibraries or Librarytopia:  Our Choice.

Exhibit A:  The Frontier Airlines Center Exhibit Hall

Over 70 exhibitors in one convenient location.   It will also be the scene of the Silent Auction, where there are sure to be some great steals!

Over 80 Educational Sessions
Training sessions covering the latest information and trends in the field of librarianship.

Tours, Connections, Mug Shots

Krug Rare Books Room of the historic Milwaukee County Public Library Central Branch; the Milwaukee County Zoo Library and the Milwaukee Art Museum.  Also the WLAF Fundraiser: SPiNGALACTIC! At SPiN Milwaukee for an evening in support of the Campaign for Wisconsin Libraries and the WLA Foundation.

Be sure to attend alumni receptions hosted by UW-Milwaukee SOIS at the Pabst Mansion or the UW Madison SLIS at the Hilton.  Also partake in a frosty mug at the Tweet-up and Meet-up at the Miller Time Pub.

Recognition
WLA Awards & Honors Banquet. The annual celebration in recognition of those professionals who symbolize the best in librarianship and support of libraries.

The facilities

Check-in at The Hilton Milwaukee City Center Hotel at affordable WLA conference rates! Click here to make your room reservations.

The fax…just the fax?

Heck no!  Just click here to sign-up today. (Or visit http://www.wla.lib.wi.us/conferences/2011/index.htm)

Connect.  Find solutions. Celebrate successes.  Refresh your perspective. Break out with new ideas.  Enjoy world class speakers. Think, create, laugh and learn…and return home the better for it!

So that’s my report.  Not to over-simplify it, but in this officer’s opinion, to not attend would be “Dumb, duh dumb, dumb!”

Over & out,
--Michael Kenney, 2011 WLA Conference Publicity Chair

Foundation Silent Auction Seeks Donated Items

On behalf of the WLA Foundation, I want to remind all conference attendees about the Silent Auction at the WLA conference in Milwaukee.  Once again this year we will have both an on-site and an online silent auction.  Last year’s auctions raised more than $4,000 for the Campaign for Wisconsin Libraries and with your help we should be able to surpass that amount this year!

We need your help in two ways:  first, by donating items for the auction and, second, by bidding on the items either online or in person at the conference.

Donated items that have created bidding excitement at past auctions include (but are not limited to –creativity is appreciated!):
• Fine arts, including jewelry, paintings, sculpture, pottery
• Products or services that a library or librarians would find useful (story hour, consulting)
• Entertainment packages (theater or sporting event tickets, golf packages)
• Hotel packages (e.g., weekend getaways with one or more meals included)
• Theme baskets (a great and economical gift donation for library staff to create collectively!)
• Trips inside or outside Wisconsin
• Collectibles, antiques and memorabilia

Keep the following guidelines in mind as you consider donating items for the auction:
• Please donate items that are $50 or higher in value
• Items are tax-deductible as charitable contributions at their actual value
• WLAF owns the items once contributed

In addition to the satisfaction of raising money to support the Campaign for Wisconsin Libraries and adding to the fun of Silent Auction bidders, those who donate auction items will benefit by:
• Having your name listed on the bid sheet and on the receipt provided to the winning bidder.
• Name recognition on the conference Web site auction information
• Receiving recognition on the WLA website

So, don’t forget to donate those “unused” or handmade treasures you have on hand to the Silent Auction held during the conference.  Visit the WLA Conference Silent Auction site for more information and access to the Auction Contribution forms:
http://www.wla.lib.wi.us/wlaf/silentauction/auction.html

See you in Milwaukee!
--Joe Rice, 2011 Silent Auction Chair

WLA and SRLAAW Support Public Library District Enabling Legislation

With much yet to be done, WLA and the System and Resource AdministratorsAssociation of Wisconsin (SRLAAW) have been working the introduction of on enabling legislation to authorize districts as an option for public library governance and funding in Wisconsin.

There are currently four options for public library organization and governance under state law; public library districts would be an alternative choice. In very basic terms, a public library district is defined as an independent taxing authority that is authorized by state law to establish and operate a public library.  According to statistics collected by the Institute for Museum and Library Services, nearly 15% of U.S. public libraries are organized as districts.

As are the four current methods of public library governance, the formation of a public library district is a matter of local choice.

The WLA Board and SRLAAW has endorsed these recommendations and encouraged the public library community to review them carefully in order to gain a clear understanding of what is being proposed. 

Paul Nelson, chair of WLA’s legislative committee, and Doug Baker, SRLAAW district committee chair, will present information about districts at the WLA Conference program “What’s New Under the Dome,” Thursday, November 3, 4:15 to 5:00 p.m. in Room 201A of the Frontier Airlines Center, Milwaukee. (Other legislative issues will be also be discussed, and Kurt Kiefer, Assistant State Superintendent, DPI, and Julie Schneider, Federal Legislative Advocate, will also present.)

Representatives of the district committee will attend the board meetings of the Wisconsin Association of Public Libraries (WAPL) and the Wisconsin Small Libraries Section (WISL) at the WLA Conference to discuss the proposal.

Read the complete proposal and other resources…

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

Time is flying by to take advantage of the Early Bird Registration Deadline of October 3

The 2011 WLA Conference on November 1 – 4 in Milwaukee is rapidly approaching and the October 3^rd early bird deadline for special registration pricing will be here even sooner.  The time to act is now!

Before the October 3^rd deadline, think of the early bird as a beautiful Peacock, something attractive, wondrous and almost too good to be true.  By signing up early, you will receive a discounted price on registration to the state’s largest library conference and be instantly entered into the October 4^th drawing for one of two FREE conference registrations.

After the October 3^rd deadline?  Well, think of the early bird as a Dodo.  No longer in existence…bye, bye birdie…extinct!


Why sign up?

You must be new around here!  The WLA Conference is one of the premiere library conferences in the United States, and among the longest running, celebrating its 120^th anniversary this year.  This year’s theme is Libraries A Renewable Resource.

What’s in it for you?

How about a wonderful opportunity to connect with peers from other Wisconsin libraries in one exciting location to find solutions to common problems and celebrate successes?  There will be 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 receptions, parties, tours and awards to help you relax and renew your energy.

Consider kicking off your experience by attending one of the three pre-conference offerings on Tuesday, November 1^st, and winding down that evening at the Vendors' Reception.

Be sure you begin your day on Wednesday, November 2^nd with this year’s keynoter Stephen Abram as he presents FrankenLibraries or Librarytopia: Our Choice.  Then let the educational sessions begin.  (Don’t forget to visit the exhibit area and silent auction area, too!) Take part in either the RASS Luncheon with Mike Gousha, or the YSS Luncheon with New York Times bestselling picture book author/illustrator Tad Hills. Back to the sessions of your choice; take in one of several tours; perhaps take in one of the reunion receptions going on early evening and then consider attending an exciting and fun-filled evening of fun at SPiN Milwaukee in the trendy yet Historic Third Ward for the WLAF Fundraiser: SPiNGALACTIC!


Thursday, November 3^rd promises to be a day of great sessions, great exhibits, more tours, a presentation by this year’s WLA Literary Award Winner, the silent auction conclusion, and an evening recognizing the best in librarianship and support of libraries, the WLA Awards & Honors Banquet.

On Friday, November 4^th, be sure to enjoy a morning of excellent sessions that run the gamut of interesting topics on ethics, library environments, book festivals, specialized children’s programming, social networking, technology, customer service, and more.  And then, following the age old adage “Always leave ‘em laughing,” be sure to attend the President’s Luncheon and enjoy humorist (and original founder of The Onion) Scott Dikkers as he presents The Joy of Swearing.  (Yes, you read that right.)

So sign-up today by clicking here to take advantage of early bird pricing, and I’ll see you in Milwaukee, November 1 -4 at the beautiful Hilton Milwaukee City Center.  “Better to be a Peacock than a Dodo” I always say.  (Well, I’ve never actually said that, but you get the idea.)
--Michael Kenney, 2011 WLA Conference Publicity Chair

Demonstrate your compassion for others at this year’s WLA Conference

Every year at the WLA Conference we like to ask our attendees to give back something to their community to enhance others lives.  In the past we have sponsored food drives, but even though that is a wonderful gesture, the reality is that food isn’t always that easy to lug around in your suitcase as you trundle off to the conference.  Well, this year we’ve decided to support a worthwhile cause that only asks that you consider donating an item that as librarians should be pretty easy to come up with.  Bring a book! Hey, it’s much easier than carrying a bag of food to the Conference. Think of your donation as food for the mind!

Please read about this worthwhile project in the letter below from Sandra Melcher, the Chair of the Wisconsin Council on Library and Network Development.  You’ll see how finding a new life for some gently used books even plays into this year’s conference theme: Libraries – A Renewable Resource.

Wisconsin Prison Literacy Project

Correctional libraries face unique challenges that other libraries may not, but they still strive to promote a life-long love of learning and reading. These libraries, located in state prisons and county jails, are in serious need of materials and would greatly appreciate donations from other libraries, churches, publishers, the public, and other sources to help build and maintain a diverse and timely collection.

The Wisconsin Council on Library and Network Development (COLAND), in partnership with the Department of Corrections and Department of Public Instruction, has created a special sub-committee on prisons to assist correctional libraries by collecting and distributing written materials for inmates in our state facilities. The COLAND sub-committee on prisons is dedicated to helping these correctional libraries reach male and female inmates by helping them collect materials in subject areas of greatest need. These efforts will help those incarcerated to become productive citizens when they re-enter their communities. Multiple studies over the past two decades have shown that inmates who improve their reading and educational performance stand a better chance of becoming working citizens than those who struggle with reading.

COLAND encourages you to donate books that are in good condition, current and with the exception of literary classics, published within the past 3 years. Donated books must match the subject areas that are listed on the enclosed Wisconsin Department of Corrections Collection Development Areas List. Paperbacks are usually preferred, but this format is required only for books given to inmates in segregation status. Hard covers are allowed in the general collections of most institutions. Please follow the instructions below to deliver the materials.
All donations may be shipped directly to the Wisconsin Department of Corrections - Library Project, 3099 E. Washington Avenue, Madison, WI 53707-7925. You may also arrange for delivery by contacting Tim Drexler of South Central Library System at (608) 266-4643. There is no charge if the shipment is small and the donating or delivery site public/private library is served by the South Central Library System delivery service.

Your donations are appreciated and will help to improve the quality of life for inmates and their families throughout Wisconsin. Thank you for your consideration and support.

Sincerely,

Sandra Melcher, COLAND Chair

So there you have it, a proposal that allows you to donate something you can carry in your suitcase that nourishes the soul without leaking on your PJ’s on your way to the Conference!  Please support this worthwhile effort. (For a list of suggested book genre suggestions, click here!)
--Michael Kenney, 2011 WLA Conference Publicity Chair

AWSL Offers WLA Conference Scholarship to Special Library Staff

The Association of Wisconsin Special Librarians (AWSL) is pleased to announce it will sponsor ascholarship to the Wisconsin Library Association Annual Conference, November 1-4, Milwaukee.

Criteria:  The scholarship is available to library staff who are: 1) currently employed in a library orinformation agency in Wisconsin OR currently a student in library school interested in employment in a special library setting; 2) able to communicate via the AWSL newsletter about their experiences at the conference; and 3) currently a member of the WLA and AWSL.

Application process:  Applicants must  1) complete the scholarship application form, and 2) write a one page document explaining their reasons for wanting to attend this particular conference (refer to the WLA conference web site to review conference programs.) Each application also requires 3) a one page letter of recommendation in support of the applicant.

Scholarship description:  The scholarship consists of a $155 stipend to be used toward conference expenses (registration, lodging, meals, or mileage).

Application deadline:  Application deadline is September 16, 2011.

Please contact Carrie Doyle at carrie.awsl@gmail.com or 608-338-2142 with questions.

Top 10 Reasons to Attend This Year’s WLA Conference in Milwaukee Nov 1 – 4

10. Well, for one thing, that’s where it’s located this year…scheesh! (The Dells is so “2010”…)

9.  Celebrate the lack of November elections this year!

8.  Milwaukee is known as the Beer Capital of the World. (See reason #9 to appreciate why this might be relevant.)

7.  Can you say Silent Auction? Fantastic items to bid on, beginning Wednesday, November 2nd as part of the WLA Foundation’s Silent Auction!

6.  Our conference hotel, the acclaimed Hilton Milwaukee City Center…this ain’t the Bates Motel, that’s for sure! (Right, mother?)

5.  Those wacky after hours parties playfully discussing whether Melville Dewey’s hot new classification system really has a chance of catching on… (See 025.4 DEW)

4.  Hey, anything to get out of the library…uh, I mean, anything you can do to increase your knowledge and skill sets when it comes to the latest trends in library science and serving your beloved patrons!

3.  E-books, schmee-books…you want to learn about the next hot trend in publishing.

2.  Milwaukee is home to Harley-Davidson, developer of the Harley WLA motorcycle…really!  

(You’re a librarian…look it up.)

1.  Outstanding speakers and break-out sessions; brilliant insights into the latest trends  in the industry; beautiful host hotel and convention center; Milwaukee is A Great Place on A Great Lake; excellent food and entertainment options; fabulous opportunities to meet with friends and peers; all this and more at an affordable rate!  Be sure to visit http://www.wla.lib.wi.us/conferences/2011/index.htm to look at the exciting schedule of sessions and events. 

Come celebrate WLA’s 120th Anniversary in Milwaukee this fall, and learn more about “Libraries – A Renewable Resource” at your 2011 WLA Conference. And be sure to check out our Pre-Conference offerings on November 1st – “Tell Me What Democracy Looks Like” or “Leading Through Communication” or “Lightning Fast Succession Planning”– followed by a fun vendor reception from 4:00 – 6:00.

Milwaukee this November… “Be there or be square!”*               *Milwaukee icon, “The Fonz”

Best,
Michael Kenney
2011 WLA Conference Publicity Chair

WLA Conference to feature Scott Dikkers, Onion Founder, and More

Join us at the WLA Conference, November 1-4 at the Milwaukee Hilton and Frontier Airlines Center! What other event can bring together such a fantastic pool of talented professionals like this year’s keynoter, internationally renowned speaker Stephen Abram, as well as the engaging and nationally recognized children’s writer/illustrator Tad Hills, or Mike Gousha, Distinguished Fellow in Law and Public Policy at Marquette University Law School, and contributing anchor and reporter for WISN-TV in Milwaukee, plus over 70 training/informational sessions to choose from?  Add to this the wonderful WLA/WLAF Annual Awards Dinner, interesting tours, state of the art trade show exhibits, an autograph garden, and an opportunity to take part in the fun WLA Foundation Fundraiser at the hip nightspot, Spin Milwaukee!

And, of course, there’s the city itself!

Milwaukee offers you so many cultural and entertainment options before, between and/or after events.  The Historic Third Ward, http://www.historicthirdward.org with its variety of dining and theatre options; the Milwaukee PAC; the Milwaukee Art Museum; the Bradley Center; Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin; The Milwaukee Public Museum; Pabst Theatre; the Milwaukee Zoo; excellent shopping; Miller Brewery tours (and tastings)…even the Potawatomi Casino. Our conference hotel, the beautiful Hilton Milwaukee City Center also offers you options, such as a Starbuck’s and the Milwaukee Chop House. (If you decide to extend your stay into the weekend, the hotel even  features Paradise Landing, the first urban indoor water park!) 

Speaking of speakers…Look who’s speaking at the President’s Luncheon

He's probably created more viral internet content than anyone alive. His podcasts have been ranked #1 by iTunes more years running than any other. His work has won more Webby Awards than any single individual or organization. He founded the world's first humor website. He's Scott Dikkers, the American humor pioneer who founded The Onion and served as its editor-in-chief for nearly two decades. He recently left The Onion to start Dikkers Cartoon Company (dikkers.com) to make short cartoons, comics and other fun stuff for all audiences. 
 
We’re sure you’ll be glad you included the President’s Luncheon on your calendar “to do” list.  What a great way to wrap up a memorable conference.  See you there!
--Michael Kenney, 2011 WLA Conference Publicity Chair

2011 WLA Conference: Libraries - A Renewable Resource

WLA Conference Chair Bernie Bellin and his planning committee for the 2011 Wisconsin Library Association Annual Conference have been busy working on details for this much anticipated event. WLA members will converge on southeast Wisconsin for this conference slated for November 1 – 4, 2011, at the beautiful Hilton Milwaukee City Center Hotel and Frontier Airlines Center in downtown Milwaukee.

This year we celebrate WLA’s 120th Anniversary, and the conference theme is “Libraries – A Renewable Resource.”

We are very excited about this year’s conference’s keynote speaker Stephen Abram, MLS.  Abram is Vice President for Strategic Partnerships and Markets for Cengage Learning, and a leading international librarian and lighthouse thinker in the North American library community, with extensive experience in library technology and trend forecasting. He has more than 25 years in libraries as a practicing librarian and in the information industry.

He was Past-President of SLA and of the Ontario and Canadian Library Associations. He also served as Vice President of Innovation for SirsiDynix and Chief Strategist for the SirsiDynix Institute. His columns appear in Information Outlook and Multimedia and Internet @ Schools, OneSource, Feliciter, Access, as well as writing for Library Journal. He is the author of ALA Editions' bestselling Out Front with Stephen Abram.

Stephen was also listed by Library Journal as one of the top 50 people influencing the future of libraries. He has received numerous honors and speaks regularly internationally and is a speaker in demand. We are fortunate to offer his insight at this year’s opening session!

Engaging writer/illustrator Tad Hills has also been announced as the YSS Luncheon speaker.  Tad is the winner of the 2011 Irma Simonton Black & James H. Black Award for Excellence in Children's Literature for his bestselling picture book, How Rocket Learned to Read.  In addition, Tad is the author and illustrator of the highly acclaimed New York Times bestselling picture books Duck & Goose and Duck, Duck, Goose. Hills’ appearance promises to be fun.

Calling all Book Cart Drill Teams…
An opportunity awaits for all those “closet drill carters” out there who’ve secretly been wanting to strut their stuff in the WLA Book Cart Drill Team competition, but until now have held back, waiting for the competition to take place on the big stage…Milwaukee!  Well, now is your opportunity.  This is the “official” call for entries – use the attached form to register your team.  The deadline for registering is June 1st.  Get ready to blow people away with your technical and artistic performance.

The WLA Foundation Fundraiser Will Be Serving Some Fun at Spin
Get ready to become a part of the trendy, hip scene while in Milwaukee, as the WLA Foundation hosts this year’s fundraiser at Spin Milwaukee, a 16,500-square foot table-tennis social club located in the Historic Third Ward. A dozen top-quality table-tennis courts on cushioned Olympic-competition flooring, plus a 13th stadium-like center court.  Spin Milwaukee also houses a pro shop, restaurant, bar, lounge and two private event rooms. BTW, Spin Milwaukee is licensed from an investor group owned by actress Susan Sarandon that owns and started Spin New York…so if you fancy yourself as “hip” (and you know you do!) you just have to be there.

Your Conference Planning Committee members for this year’s conference include:  Conference Chair, Bernie Bellin; Pam Belden (Waterford Public Library); David Weinberg-Kinsey (Cardinal Stritch University Library); Peter Loeffel (St. Francis Public Library); Adam Brisk (Indianhead Technical College); Jim Schwieters (SirsiDynix); Mary Milinkovich (Milwaukee Public Library); Mary Murphy (Wauwatosa Public Library); Linda Bendix (Frank L. Weyenberg Library); Jennifer Williams (Frank L. Weyenberg Library); Michael Kenney (Appleton Public Library); Linda Pierschalla (Whitefish Bay Public Library); Jim Novy (Lakeshores Library System); Joe Rice (Brown Deer Public Library); Kathy Blume (Milwaukee Area Technical College); WLA President Rhonda K. Puntney (Lakeshores Library System) and Brigitte Rupp Vacha (WLA Conference Liaison).
--Michael Kenney, Publicity Chair

Get Ready for WLA - Tweet #WLA2010

Registration? Check. Hotel reservation? Check. Conference-at-a-Glance? Check. I'm almost ready for WLA 2010, are you? The conference program looks fan-tas-tic! So many intriguing programs, so little time.

We are delighted to host Marilyn Johnson for what is sure to be an enlightening and humorous keynote address on Wednesday (11/3)!

Get more information about the WLA Conference; it's not too late to decide to attend. You can still register on-site!

Are you tweeting about WLA 2010? Use our hashtag #WLA2010!

See you at the Kalahari!

Best regards,

Vicki Tobias
Publicity Chair
WLA 2010 Conference Planning Committee

WLA 2009: "West Bend Librarians and Community Activists Share Censorship Stories"

Presented by Michael Tyree, director, Kristin Pekoll, young adult librarian, Barbara Deters, board president, and Mary Reilly-Kliss, former library board member, all of West Bend Community Memorial Library.

Though I had followed the case closely, I was anxious to hear first hand the entire story of West Bend's experience in addressing multiple changes to young adult and GLBTQ materials during 2009.

Oh, what a story they had to tell! As the board president said, it could be you. And it very well could be. Is your collection development policy in place? Do you have a process and procedure for dealing with reconsideration of materials? What about complaints about your website (which is actually how these challenges started)?

In West Bend's case, the challenge/complaint kept changing, while the complainants were backed, and advised, by national, conservative organizations. The library was tried in the press, and in several blogs. Library board members whose terms were up were not reappointed, something that had never happened before, or happens rarely.

A highlight of the presentation was a video recording of one of the meetings at which citizens on both sides of the issue testified. Little or no commentary was needed.

I'd like to think that we all, if confronted by similar challenges, would handle ourselves with such courage, resolve, and grace.

WLA 2009: "Motivational Magic: Keeping Your Passion in Times"

presented by Marcy Heim, The Artful Asker.

Although her main focus is working with groups to help them with fundraising, this session was about "13 factors for joy and success." The mnemonic is "RELATIONSHIPS."

R = Respect
E = Encouragement
L = Listening
A = Appreciation/Gratitude
T = Trust
I = Intuition
O = Order
N = Nurturing/Understanding
S = Sense of Humor
H = Hope and faith
I = Integrity
P = Passion
S = Sleep and eat (and exercise)

For each of the 13 factors she asked us to come up with one action we will try to do every day.

Why are relationships important? Relationships, more than any other factor, determine the quality of your life. Choose to focus on the people in our lives at work and home--this is what helps you keep your passion.

WLA 2009: "ADA Refreshed: Ensuring Access for Everyone"

Robin A. Jones, Director, DBTAC--Great Lakes ADA Center, University of Illinois at Chicago.

Excellent program, starting with a little review of ADA and its purposes, and legal obligations of entities under the law. Also takes a look at Wisconsin state law, which luckily for us, unlike some other states, apparently, is pretty consistent with ADA.

More citizens than ever are over age 55, and more citizens have disabilities. Jones spent time on educating us on the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 which will expand the definition of "person with a disability." In addition, limitations in the Act's list of major life activities may also constitute a disability.

Jones covered such topics of interest to libraries as: building access, service animals, communication, and virtual accessibility.

For more information see http://www.adagreatlakes.org.

WLA 2009: "Is Your Community Money Smart?"

Speakers: Lori Burgess, Fond du Lac Public Library, Christine Arkenberg, Milwaukee Public Library, Jeff Dawson, Lester Public Library (Two Rivers), Dave Mancl, Office of Financial Literacy.

This was great--The Office of Financial Literacy in the Department of Financial Institutions will help your library and others you partner with to sponsor workshops, seminars, programs, events, and other activities aimed at improving financial literacy. They'll help with printing, securing speakers, and other things. As Jeff Dawson of Two Rivers said, this is the 3rd year his library has participated in Money Smart week, "without lifting a finger."

Seems to me, given the current economy, these types of programs are a great idea. Partner with local college or tech school to offer programs for freshmen who are managing their money for the first time. Partner with senior centers to offer programs for senior citizens who are living on a fixed income. You get the idea.

Money Smart Week is October 2-9 in 2010. See http://www.moneysmartwi.org for more info!

Twitter hashtag for 2009 WLA Conference

If you’ll be attending the WLA Conference October 20-23, 2009 and plan to use Twitter to "tweet" about it, please use the #wla09 hashtag so others can easily find your updates.

As soon as the conference starts, we’ll be putting a Twitter widget here on the blog to aggregate all the #wla09 tweets.

See you there!