The Challenge

The ALA Summer Meeting brings over 30,000 librarians to the host city, yet there are seldom opportunities to highlight local community initiatives within the convention format, nor is there much opportunity to affordably highlight non-profit/library collaborations.

Our Approach

Produce a unique, location-based, hands-on experience that connects community engagement organizations and library professionals. The event, hosted at a unique venue adjacent to the convention center, was free and open to the public.

Case Study: Video

Stats and Impact

• Throughout the day over 200 librarians registered, many more attended.

• Surveyed participants ranged in age from 29 - 62, representing a full range of library staff positions.

• Peak periods were lunch and happy hour (free lunch featured New Orleans creole cuisine and a cash bar was open all day, with the Stooges Brass Band playing during happy hour)

• The vast majority of participants found the event not only fun, but helpful to their work

  • 83% said it provided info on community engagement resources

  • 62% said it modeled an equitable exchange for local organizations

  • 70% said it created a point of reflection from the main conference

  • 63% said it put them in contact with ideas that can positively impact their organization