Librarians gather for bookish conference

THE South African National Librarians’ Conference is to make its mark from 2 to 5 July from 9am daily at Highbury Preparatory School.

The South African National Librarians’ Conference, a bi-annual event, is open to librarians and media centre specialists from all schools countrywide and local, national and international speakers will take to the podium.

The theme for this year’s conference is Leading out Loud. They will address key issues and interesting topics regarding literature, the integration of e-books, digital literature platforms and more. The conference will also include sessions by local authors Rachel Morgan, the bestselling author of the YA fantasy series Creepy Hollow, Melissa Delport, the author of The Legacy Trilogy, Nic Spaull, and media specialist, Barbara Band from the UK.

There will be workshops, demo slams and interactive discussions as well as time to network and share ideas. Each day will culminate in entertainment including a murder mystery evening, a quiz evening, and a performance from well-known Durban guitarist and singer, Barry Thompson.

“Conferences such as these are an essential means of ensuring that Librarians and Media Centre Specialists meet up and share their experiences and ideas as well as learn about new trends in media and the library and book world in general, as well as the importance of literature in both the formal and informal education sectors,” said Lynne Worth.

The conference is anticipated to host 150 delegates, with a limited number of spaces still available for those wanting to attend.

The cost to attend for full day delegates is R4700 inclusive of the three day conference, meals as well as accommodation at Kearsney College and transport to and from Highbury; or R3800 inclusive of the three day conference and meals only. Registration is on Sunday, 2 July 2017 from 2:30pm until 5pm.

For day visitors, there are specific rates available dependent on space availability.

To book your place to attend the conference, contact the Durban High School Library on 031 277 1598. Closing date for bookings is Thursday, 15 June 2017.

Advertising spots are available in the programme booklet, and there are a couple of exhibitor tables still available – contact the organisers for pricing and availability. The deadline for these is 31 May 2017.

Visit www.schoollibrariansconference.co.za for more information and to complete the online registration form.