TLA '14, here I come!

Whoohoo!  This Tuesday, I am off to my first-ever Texas Library Association Annual Conference as a librarian!  (I volunteered in the registration booths a couple years back as an MLS student, but didn't get farther than the exhibit hall.)

I am already slightly overwhelmed by the sheer number of learning opportunities, vendors, authors, and social events.  I've availed myself of the conference mobile app, mapping out my preferred breakout sessions, exhibits, and ticketed events.  I'm purposefully scheduling a couple sessions per time slot, knowing that I may need a Plan B if they fill up fast.  I've also tapped into my personal learning network of district librarians and Facebook contacts for tips on what to pack  Suggestions have included address labels for quick raffle submissions, carts or empty suitcases to lug books to the hotel and car, jackets for freezing conference rooms, and water and snacks for on-the-go nourishment.  Check, check, and check.

One thing I don't have to worry about--my library, while I'm away.  I have an uber-capable, wonderful assistant who, along with a substitute, will keep those books circulating and read-aloud going while I'm gone.  Here's hoping I return as a better, more knowledgeable librarian with lots of cool ideas to update our library program.