Public
Welcome!
Welcome to Reaching Forward, a professional development conference for library staff! We are so excited that you have chosen to attend our conference this year. On behalf of the planning committee and the Illinois Library Association, welcome to an exciting day of education, networking, authors, and fun!
We will invite some of your favorite speakers. Also, in keeping with our theme of Reaching Forward, you will be introduced to several new and exciting speakers.
Author Conversations will be part of this year's conference. However, the format is still being discussed. All of our authors will be selling their books. They will only be able to do cash transactions (no checks or credit/debit cards).
Our exhibition area has expanded this year to include new products as well as old favorites. The exhibitions and book sales will be open for business at 8:00 a.m. With both these exciting opportunities, you may want to bring cash.
Please fill out the online survey that you will receive after the conference. They really do help us to plan future conferences.
Tips To Make Your Conference Day More Enjoyable
- Dress for the weather. Inside not outside. Consider wearing layers which will keep you comfortable for all temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring extra money. There will be exhibitors, and they will have merchandise to sell. There will also be a Pepsi product cash soft drink machine available throughout the day.
- There is an $13.00 parking charge (cash or credit/debit cards) to park in the Rosemont garage. This fee must be paid at automated machines located in the garage and on the sky-bridge level. Hint: consider paying early in the morning as you arrive to avoid lines at the end of the day.
- Folders, pad of paper, and pens will be provided for your convenience.
- As you enter the Ballroom in the morning and at lunch, please fill in the seats towards the front and middle of the Ballroom. This will make it easier for late comers to find a seat near the door without interrupting the festivities. Try to sit with someone that you don’t know.
- Remember to bring your nametag and confirmation. It was mailed to you to speed up the registration process. The Ballroom will open at 8:00 a.m. You will not be admitted before 8:00 a.m. If you have your nametag, you may proceed directly into the Ballroom. If you don’t have your nametag, you will need to stop at the Information/Help desk.
- Finally bring your patience. Even with all the attention to detail something may go wrong. If it does, the committee will deal with it as quickly as possible to try to satisfy everyone concerned.
THANKS FOR COMING AND ENJOY THE DAY!!!
The committee welcome comments and suggestions; please use the contact form.
If you would like more information about Reaching Forward, contact Tobi Oberman or Tom Rich.
The Illinois Library Association