ALA Midwinter: a first‐timer's viewpoint

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a flavour of the content of the American Library Association Midwinter Conference held in Boston in January 2010.Design/methodology/approachThis is a first time conference attendee's description of the issues, content, networking, speakers and participants of this conference. The future and purpose of libraries are discussed.FindingsThis major conference covered many topical issues and themes that are applicable to librarians and information professionals both in the USA and internationally. It facilitated many valuable networking opportunities.Originality/valueThe paper is a conference report of value to librarians and information professionals, as the different themes apply to the various aspects of the library and information professions and networking.