A Great Beginning!

If the rousing success of today's Pre-Conferences is any indication of the course of CLA's 2007 Annual Conference, then it's safe to assume that the organizers have a hit. It was clear that much thought, time, energy, and planning had gone into the opening sessions. Attendees were greeted with enthusiasm and warmth by the CLA team at the conference registration desk, and the staff members of the Convention Center and Marriott Hotel were helpful and courteous. Thomson/Gale provided attendees with really (really!!) nice tote bags that I suspect will be used for years to come. Breakfast goodies and lots of coffee prepped us for the excitement to come.

As I mentioned yesterday, I registered for Linda Braun's Pre-Conference III: "How'd They Do That? Using Technology for Innovation in Your Library." Linda was tremendous! Her dynamic, interactive presentation left us eager to implement Library 2.0/Web 2.0 projects in our own facilities. We were treated to thorough demonstrations of Twitter, Podcasts, Second Life, Library Thing, and tagging, as well as to discussions of technology's implications not only for libraries, but also for existing and would-be patrons. Most important, we were reminded of our obligation to reach out to patrons, rather than waiting for them to come to us. Kudos to Linda and to the Public Library Section that organized the event!

The day concluded with a gracious reception hosted by the Hartford Public Library and its Director, Louise Blalock, in honor of "The Connecticut Four" -- George Christian, Barbara Bailey, Peter Chase, and Jan Nocek. ALA President Leslie Burger delivered a moving introduction, which underscored the gratitude and pride we feel toward our courageous colleagues.

More tomorrow!
Brenda