ALA and DC are almost a far away memory now. However, it is not too late for you to become more involved in YALSA. There is a committee volunteer form at the YALSA site:
http://www.ala.org/ala/yalsa/joinus/committeevolunteer.htm
I began my YALSA work as a member of the Publications Committee. Eventually, I became chair of the committee and, after recommending YALSA do a revision of their popular HIT LIST, found myself as co-author of that work. I served on TAGS, Professional Development, and now Preconference 2008.
All of the committee work has been informative and highly enjoyable. I have met so many folks who have gone on to become friends over the years. Fill out a form and get active in YALSA.
Posted by Teri Lesesne
PS: I was in a local bookstore yesterday and can report that YA is alive and well there. I was amazed at the variety of the selections. There were 3 teens there reading graphic novels and manga as well as teens browsing the shelves. Such a good feeling.
