Proof that libraries are full of excitement! Guest blogger River Laker, Resource Development Coordinator, Roanoke Public Libraries, shares an overview of his participation and experience at the Virginia Library Association (VLA) Annual Conference, Williamsburg, VA October 29-30, 2009.
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Of around 75 presentations at the 2009 VLA Annual Conference seven of the presentations were from staff of Roanoke Public Libraries. Topics from the Roanoke librarians included: What’s Hot in Romance?; Bikes, Bytes, and Books – Creating a Downtown Library Scene; Man Fiction; Let’s Get Crafty; and Just In Time Tech Training.
In the constantly changing and increasing tech savvy library world, the presentations of the Roanoke librarians likely caused the speed of these changes to go up a gear or two. Incorporating such culturally hot tools as Twitter, Vimeo and Facebook and eschewing the traditionally standard conference Powerpoint presentations, Roanoke librarians created a stir and became a frequent topic of discussion among conference attendees.
Presentations from Roanoke staff included video excerpts from recent Roanoke Library events including footage of local band Doug Cheatwood, Hollins University dancers, The Wright Kids and the Car Less Roanoke Party bikewear fashion show. Also incorporated into Roanoke presentations were screenshots and photographs of Roanoke blogs, author events, cookery events and twitter postings. Issues discussed included how professional and personal life boundaries blur in the world of social media, currents trends in literature and becoming a catalyst for city wide cultural community development.
Video link: http://vimeo.com/7365087 "Shout Outs to Roanoke Public Libraries at VLA Annual Conference 2009"
Written reviews from attendees of the Roanoke Public Libraries presentations included:
“Awesome! Best panel ever”, “Love the ideas and hands-on experience”, “Enjoyed witnessing the passion of the staff”, “The best, most exciting and inspiring presentation I’ve been to in 3 years! I’m moving to Roanoke!”,“This program really started me generating ideas”, “Outstanding! Best program.”
Wendy Allen, Sheila Umberger, Randi Wines, Nathan Flincham, Alicia Gladwell, River Laker
Not included: Amber Yopp, Jason Lane, Jason Holt, Jason Moore
Have an innovative idea for the library? Contact: river.laker@roanokeva.gov
540-853-1057
Fill the Truck for the Franklin County Humane Society Animals. Debra Cheehy has written a book about shelter adoptions and she will be here signing books. Needed: Purina Dog, Puppy, Cat & Kitten Food, Friskies Canned Cat Food, & Paper Towels. They will also be collecting "people" food for Lake Christian Ministries. 
