Maryland Statewide Circulation Conference

Maryland Statewide Circulation Conference
Baltimore MD

November 13, 2014

For those in the know, November was kind of a big deal for the denizens of the east wing, front facing office spaces of Central Library. The cool and in control demeanor of those who work the Circulation desk and Fiction department hid the hustle and bustle, stress and anxiety emanating from our shared work area. With Ny’ilah’s Baltimore city Media Specialist conference and the Statewide Circulation Conference looming, the excitement and tension was palpable. In the end it was all worth it. Through pain, sweat and hysterical tears we made it through the labyrinth, fought the goblin city and conquered the goblin…no, wait-movie reference, sorry. What I mean to say is that both conferences were rousing successes.

As for mine, I am not too humble to say, yeah baby, yeah! I am proud of what we accomplished.  Is there room for improvement, certainly. Did it go as planned, for the most part. Being that this was my very first foray into the quagmire that can be hosting a conference, I count having come out the other end with all hands accounted for and, dare I say, the participants happy to have been a part of it, a success.  Here are a few comments from attendee’s when asked, what was the most beneficial aspect of the conference?

“Meeting other circ people and sharing ideas. Although we have a lot in common there are some things I felt were different and it was interesting hearing about them.”

“I love the atmosphere of peers because no matter what the subject or session content we can all relate from the circulation viewpoint. It's a rare opportunity because throughout the year most learning sessions are geared to or shared by librarian staff. I enjoy hearing about other Maryland library systems too.”

“Overall it was the entire conference, this was my first Statewide conference. I didn't know what to expect nor where I was going, but I was thoroughly happy with the information I received and the library that host the conference was beautiful and the staff was great and kind.”

“Getting away from the office for a day to meet up with others and just talk about things is a great energizer. I brought 2 staff with me -- one new and one who is working on improvements for promotion. They greatly enjoyed the day as well.”

A huge shout out to all who made it possible, from facilities to my staff, the support I received from SLRC, all my presenters, security,  IAD and Dr Hayden . There are far too many to name individually.

And to my fellow circulation staff, supervisor, assistant or page -- this conference is for you. The content and activities, opportunities to network and, “Attend(ing) a conference that focuses on my job at the library: circulation.”, I encourage you to take advantage of it. Holla at me, become a part of the process and reap the intangible benefits of participation. This is your home, your Pratt and we offer this for your benefit as well.

Here’s to making next year’s conference bigger and better than ever. Especially with the support continued support of my Pratt family.

Brandon Mollock
Circ. Library Resource Manager