As 2017 program chair, I’m pleased to announce the theme for ALAO’s annual conference: “Libraries Act. Respond. Transform: The ART of Empowerment.” Designed by the conference planning committee, the theme will guide our preparations to host a thought-provoking event.

Katy Kelly, Vice President/President Elect

Our goal is to inspire dialogue and knowledge sharing on how libraries act, respond, transform and empower in meaningful ways. Conversations on critical librarianship (#critlib) are happening in all areas of our libraries. Recently, the ALA created “Libraries Respond” to “help keep current events in conversation with libraries’ ongoing work in and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.” How do libraries transform and empower their communities; themselves?

The call for proposals will be in early February and will include a variety of ideas for program topics. I invite you to start thinking now about what you might share with colleagues.  And, if you haven’t already, save the date for a preconference on Oct. 26 and conference on Oct. 27 at the Nationwide Conference Center in Columbus.

Katy Kelly, Vice President/President Elect, University of Dayton