By Mary Kamela, University at Buffalo
Want to kick start 2024 with an opportunity for professional development and networking?
Consider attending ALA’s LibLearnX in Baltimore, Maryland from January 19-22, 2024.
LibLearnX, also known as the Library Learning Experience, is an innovative conference for information professionals of all types and at all career levels. The programming at LibLearnX (LLX) focuses on engaging, interactive programs and activities in four different categories: Accelerators (nontraditional learning experiences), Ideas Xchange (peer conversations on vital topics), Learning Labs (action-based learning), and ShopTalk (short presentations with practical takeaways). Participants will also have access to the LLX Marketplace and the opportunity to engage with exhibitors about technology, education, and more. You can find a full list of programs at LibLearnX 2024 here.
LibLearnX celebrates librarians and books by presenting the Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence in Fiction and Nonfiction, the I Love My Librarian Award, and the ALA Youth Media Awards at the conference, and highlights important voices across the library world. Featured speakers at LLX 2024 include Michele Norris, Kate DiCamillo, Jesús Trejo, Antonia Hylton, Mia Armstrong, and George M. Johnson. LibLearnX will also host a mainstage panel featuring ALA President Emily Drabinski, as well as a panel session entitled “AI and Libraries: A Discussion on the Future.”
In addition to conference programming, awards, and an excellent slate of speakers, ALA is also offering participants an opportunity to take part in community service through the ALA Gives Back program on January 19, 2024. Participants may register to volunteer for two Baltimore-based service activities with the Living Classrooms Foundation or the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Note: Currently, both community service opportunities are at capacity, but participants can add their name to a waitlist when registering.
Can’t attend in person? LibLearnX offers the LLX Digital Experience, which includes an accessible, curated selection of virtual programming for online participants. You can find more information, including a list of Digital Experience sessions here.
Have any other questions? Check out the LibLearnX 2024 website – https://2024.alaliblearnx.org/, especially their helpful FAQ page.
Finally, to get a taste of LibLearnX, check out the recap video from last year’s conference!
We’d love to hear from NMRT Members in the comments – have you ever attended LibLearnX? What speakers or programming would you be most interested to see at this (or a future!) LLX?