Report from the ALA exhibits floor

One of the advantages of attending such a large conference is the exposure that is possible to issues and programs outside one's normal everyday interests.  The extensive exhibits are one place where vendors and publishers of all kinds promote their wares. I'm on the exhibit floor now, watching a presentation in the Library of Congress booth about LC's digital preservation program.

The big news in print publishing continues to be children's books and products; it's hard to find adult books (my personal interest) here on the exhibit floor.

Nevertheless, many publishers are giving away advance reading copies or uncorrected proofs, not to mention posters, catalogs, flyers and many other (heavy) items.  No wonder there is a post office right here, ready with boxes available for shipping.

The exhibit flloor is also a good place to catch trends.  I was struck by the growing specialty areas of gaming and  graphic novels and comics, as well as the increase in audiobook producers.  These are geared toward public and school libraries more than to a place like the Smithsonian, of course, but there may be relevance to our education programs.

Technology is big, of course, but there are furniture displays, architects, and much more.  Continuing presentations from authors and tech vendors can be engaging.  Finally, there seems to be a growing number of jewelry, clothing, and other commercial products, which adds to the fun, if not the business.

I'll be back with more serious stuff later.

- Nancy