ALA Midwinter 2014 Day 4

Monday and the temperature is beautiful today -- although predicted to plummet for tomorrow! 

Started the day by attending a discussion session on the Affordable Healthcare Act.  This was a small group with representatives from state libraries, state library association, public libraries and school libraries.  We had an informal discussion on what has been happening with the roll out of the ACA and libraries.  While one public librarian had indicated they had braced for a large push -- the reality was it didn't impact library workflow.  In fact they had posted a large banner "Affordable Care Act" behind the circulation desk and frequently got the question "What is this?"  State libraries and library associations indicated various approaches to the ACA rollout, with primary themes being -- 1) it is up to the individual library in regard to their approach; 2) libraries are providing access not assistance; 3) in many communities, the library is the only access to high speed Internet.

Then it was off to Makerspaces Camp because another session I was going to attend was cancelled!  Made a spin bot, a flashing circuit, and watched my colleague Erica try on Google Glasses and get very excited!

Listened to my colleague Gina Persichini as she answered questions prior to Executive Council elections.  Gina won!  Go Gina!

Attended the Rev Up and Wrap Up session with James McBride, author of Good Lord Bird.  This was a wonderful way to end the conference.  James with three other colleagues provided great jazz music intertwined with the story telling of Good Lord Bird.  The group had the attendees rockin and rollin!

At the end of the day -- went to Library Camp.  Great discussion points on what was our aha! moments.  For several of us it was the Rev Up and Wrap Up session.  For many of the new librarians, it was the awesomeness of the entire event -- so much to absorb, so little time.  All in all -- regardless of the weather, another fine learning, networking opportunity!