Banned books.  Are there two scarier words in our profession?  Every September librarians celebrate the freedom to read and spread the word about “banned books.”  This year, let YALSA help you support your teens and their freedom to read. 

The 2008 most frequently challenged author’s list reads like a who’s who of YA authors – six of the eleven authors listed are YA (Chris Crutcher, Lauren Myracle, and Phillip Pullman to name a few).  What is it about YA literature that scares people, especially parents?  As librarians, how can we continue to educate ourselves; and in turn our patrons and their parents about teens’ freedom to read?  (more…)

YALSA’s Division and Membership Promtion Committee is excited to change things up  this year with our Annual YALSA 101 program!

We’re hosting a casual session in which you can go head to head with fellow YALSA members, chairs, and leaders to ask questions, gather information, and network. We’ll have information on discussion and interest groups, professional development, publishing, events, happenings at Annual, and the perks of YALSA membership.

Whether you’re a long-term member looking for new ways to contribute or a newbie looking for ways to become engaged, this’ll be the program for you.

Conveniently located in the same hotel as the fabulous YALSA Happy Hour and Fashion Show, YALSA 101 will take place from 4-5 p.m. at the Westin River North, Promenade BR A.

See you in Chicago!

Encourage a friend or colleague to join YALSA during our 2009 Membership Drive, and both of you will be entered to win a Flip Ultra Video camera.

Applications must be received by the YALSA office by Monday, March 23rd, 2009.

For complete details, click here.

Heading to Chi-town this summer? Whether you’re a brand new or seasoned YALSA member, we need your help manning our action-packed booth in the exhibit hall!

This is a great opportunity to network with colleagues, learn more about your organization, and engage wandering attendees about the wonders and glories of ALA’s fastest growing division. Almost all of the time slots below are still available, so email the Division and Membership Committe at yalsa_promo@ala.org now to reserve your preferred time.

*Sat. July 11, 5:30pm – 7:30pm

*Sun. July 12, 9:00am – 5:00pm

*Mon. July 13, 9:00am – 5:00pm

*Tues. July 14, 9:00am – 2:00pm