Every year I’m envious of all the librarians that plan extra time into their annual conference trip for sightseeing in a new town. And every year I don’t plan to do it myself. This year a rudely early flight on Friday provided a morning to explore San Diego before my conference sprint began, and it was all I could have hoped for—the food, the bay, the people watching—delightful! And definitely contributed to the Disney-vacation-equivalent number of steps I walked this weekend exploring the inspirational offerings at #ALAAC24. Join me in a recap of all the places those steps took me…

Trevor Noah’s Opening Keynote Address

There was no doubt that Trevor Noah was going to be funny, right? But he was funny, thoughtful, and so complimentary about the importance, power, and contributions of libraries. In discussion with ALA Past-President Lessa Kanani’opua Pelayo-Lozada, he discussed his upcoming book Into the Uncut Grass (One World Books, October 2024) a fable of imagination and connection inspired by his “never-ending war with [his] mother.” It was a lovely reminder that librarians are not alone in the struggle to support libraries.

Accidental Activism

Librarians all over the country are in a fight to defend intellectual freedom, and Louisiana school librarian Amanda Jones is no exception. After standing against book bans at her public library, she was labeled a “groomer” by some in her own community. Inspired to fight back, she continues to challenge the conservative voices in her community, and around the country, that would diminish intellectual freedom. Her new book, That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America (Bloomsbury, August 2024), Jones offers both a memoir of her experience and a call to action to all those that support the right to read.
Thank you to Bloomsbury for the intimate breakfast reception and inspiring chat.

Increasing Access to Translated Literature

Indie publishers of international books are (not surprisingly) strong advocates for adding these titles to library collections. But they know the challenges for these titles at every step of the bookmaking process: from sourcing the books, paying for quality translations, and marketing a book with a non-English speaking author. In Diversity Beyond the Border: International and Multilingual Publishing, a panel of publishers discussed the challenges of the process versus the value to reader of having access to authentic voices in literature. It’s sobering to consider the privilege that allows the US market to be so selective in including translated titles, when most of the world depends on translations from English, and that maybe we could stand the challenge inherent in understanding a new voice. I also had a lovely post-panel chat with one publisher about DU’s Bologna Children’s Book Fair course and how we could partner to provide pre-conference insights to SOIS students—stay tuned.

Exhibit Floor Fun

As always, I spent a good part of my weekend (and steps) exploring the Library Marketplace, connecting with the publishers that so generously contribute to the BCLC collection, and collecting some new signed books for the Center. The energy on the floor is always inspiring, and this year was no different. From signing line chats with authors and librarians, to deep conversations about book banning and censorship with publishers fighting their own battles, and surprise run-ins with so many librarian friends, I left with a renewed appreciate for the care, commitment, and pure joy in this community of library land. If a theme ran through the sessions and conversations this weekend, it’s that librarians may be on the front lines in the battle for intellectual freedom, but we are surely not in the fight alone.

Until next year, #ALAAC24. See you in Philly @ #ALAAC25!