|
Whether you're attending the VLA Conference for the first time or are a seasoned pro, remember these tips to ensure you have a great experience:1. Plan Ahead With two days of programming ahead of you, take some time to view the entire conference schedule at https://2024vlalibraratory.sched.com/ to determine the programs you want to attend.
The conference will be held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott, 235 E Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510. For information on getting there and parking, click here.
Your badge will be available for pickup once you complete registration. If you arrive in time for the early registration period, you will find the VLA table in the Norfolk Foyer on the first floor of the hotel. Plus, our silly ribbons will be back and are sponsored by Lyngsoe Systems. Starting at 9:00 AM on Thursday, badges can be picked up in the REAR of the Exhibit Hall (located in the Norfolk Ballrooms on the first floor of the conference center.)
The Virginia Library Association (VLA) values your attendance at VLA-sponsored events and is dedicated to providing a welcoming, safe, and supportive experience for everyone. VLA seeks to provide an environment in which diverse participants may learn, network and enjoy the company of colleagues in an environment of mutual respect. We ask that all attendees abide by the ALA Statement of Appropriate Conduct. Virginia weather is unpredictable at best, so we suggest dressing in layers to make sure you are not too warm or too cold. Keep in mind that you may be doing a lot of walking, so don’t leave your comfortable shoes at home!
We will have meal tickets available for pickup at the registration table for anyone who has purchased them, but that’s not your only option for food! There are several wonderful nearby locations to enjoy if you’d like to support local businesses.
Get social with #VLA2024! Share photos and your experiences on social media for other attendees and anyone experiencing some FOMO. Use hashtags #virginialibraryassociation, #2024vla and #vla2024
8. Visit the Exhibits Exhibits will be open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Take some time to check out what our exhibitors have to offer – library materials, continuing education opportunities, and something special for yourself. Exhibits help to underwrite the cost of the conference and keep registration fees down – so please help us make our exhibitors feel welcome.
Step outside your comfort zone – sit with someone you don’t know at lunch. Seating is open, so take a chance and make a new connection! 10. Discover Something New Attend a program outside your experience or take advantage of some local free tours happening on Wednesday, October 16. There will be an All-Conference Social Event on Thursday and we will also be prescreening a movie.
Your feedback will help us plan next year’s conference. Please take a moment to fill out the conference evaluation which will be emailed at the end of our conference. We really do listen to our attendees!
If you enjoy your experience at the Libraratory, check out the VLA website to sign up for one of our Forums, check out the VLA Jobline, or learn about how you can best support all of Virginia’s libraries. |
