By Michele Nicole Johnson
Georgia Libraries Conference 2021 kicked off today with a warm virtual welcome from GLA President Wendy Cornelisen and Conference Chair Kara Rumble.
This is GLA’s second virtual conference, but the virtual event was not what the planning committee originally envisioned.
“There were plans to be in Macon right now,” Cornelisen explained. “In this twisty, gerbil tunnel-cage of life that we are in right now, we had to flex. We had to change. We appreciate your grace and your flexibility as attendees, as well.”
The theme for GLC 2021 is “Enduring and Evolving,” reflecting the many challenges and new opportunities libraries have faced during the global pandemic. More than 400 registrants are participating in virtual workshops, hearing from inspirational guest speakers and panelists, and sharing ideas and networking with innovative library workers from across the state and beyond. On Thursday, Tracie D. Hall, executive director of the American Library Association, will deliver the keynote address.
The virtual Pat Carterette 5K Walk/Run is ongoing, with participants walking and running on their own, and posting their activities on social media with the hashtag #PatC5k.