“Are you planning to attend your first ALA Annual Conference? First-time attendees are invited to sign up for a conference buddy who can guide you through selecting conference sessions, navigating conference venues, and answer any other questions you might have. This is a great way to learn about ACRL and expand your professional network!

How much time are we talking? It’s up to you. We suggest the buddy/mentor make the first contact after initially signing up and go from there. You may want to meet up at the ACRL 101 on Saturday, June 24, from 8:30-10:00 a.m. at the Hilton Chicago, Continental C (a great start for newbies, and refresher for veterans), the Exhibit Opening Reception on Friday, June 24, from 5:30-7:00 p.m., or meet for coffee.

You might meet up with your buddy just once, or a few times throughout the conference. The intent is primarily for helping orient the new person to the event and helping them feel comfortable (we were all new once!).

Interested? Sign up now! The deadline is Wednesday, June 14.​

Want to be a buddy/mentor for a first-time attendee? Stay tuned. A call for mentors will be coming soon.

Steven Bell
Associate University Librarian

Temple University Libraries

Member, ACRL Membership Committee”