It’s just under six weeks until ARLIS/NA Conference 2014 http://www.arlisna.org/washingtondc2014/index.php in Washington, DC, and I am eagerly looking forward to attending my first, of what I hope will be, many ARLIS/NA conferences to come. That being said, I am also a mess of nervous anticipation. I have logged in to the Conference SCHED no less than a dozen times to look at sessions, tours, and activities. http://arlisna2014.sched.org/ There is so much I want to do, but I am resigned to the fact that I cannot physically be in three places at once, no matter how many times I rearrange my choices. I have made a priority list though, which includes the ArLiSnap meetings, sessions geared for academic librarians, my regional chapter meeting, and Exhibits Hall events.
So I have had to remind myself that “firsts” are never without some fear and trepidation regardless of excitement level or experience. And it is going to be great fun to be there with professionals in the field! If like me, this is your first ARLIS/NA conference as a student or new professional, then perhaps you are filled with the same concurrent enthusiasm and anxiety.
Here’s my short list of concerns:
1 – LODGING -still up in the air for me – I have a reservation at the conference hotel, The Grand Hyatt, which I cannot afford on my own, but refuse to cancel until absolutely necessary. (I do have alternate arrangements should I not be able to find a roomie)
2- PUBLIC SPEAKING– this one is going to be difficult to avoid since I am a moderator!
3- ATTIRE- ????? I guess I will take a little bit of everything.
What is on your list? Do you have some concern or question about the conference? Be aware that as a first-timer, you can also request a conference “guide” and there is also First Time Attendees reception scheduled for Friday, May 2, 4:45-5:45 hosted by Gregg Most, current ARLIS/NA President. Hopefully, I’ll see you there!