This
year’s MLA & DLA Joint Library Conference was probably one of the best I’ve
attended in recent years. There was so much offered, that if I had any complaints
at all, it would only be that I didn’t get a chance to go to all of the
sessions I wanted to.
A
major highlight for me was the film screening of “I Know a Man…Ashley Bryan.”
As a former children’s librarian, I spent many hours sharing the books of
Ashley Bryan to many, many pre-school aged, and older children, and their
caregivers. He’s a wonderfully gifted artist, and storyteller, and the film
documents so much about him that I didn’t know.
Another
presentation that stands out is the one “What if…Every Library Supporter was an
Informed Advocate: Federal Legislative Update.” As a result of attending this
seminar, I have a much better understanding of the Federal Appropriations
process as it relates to libraries, and specifically as it relates to Baltimore
City, Dorchester County (Cambridge), and Somerset Counties, as well as other
jurisdictions in the State of Maryland.
I
also thoroughly enjoyed the William G. Wilson, Maryland Author Award luncheon
honoring author Mary Amato. It was heart-warming to have her begin her speech
by singing to the audience, and playing the ukulele. She became genuinely
emotional, and it was humbling to witness someone with such great talent
sincerely appreciating all the accolades she so clearly deserves.
Vera
Fattah
Librarian
Supervisor II, Reisterstown Rd. Branch
