The YALSA Local Arrangements Committee is super excited that ALA15 will be in San Francisco. We hope you’re looking forward to coming to the city by the bay and would like to offer some tips on how to make that happen!
First things first: secure your conference registration. If your supervisor needs a gentle nudge to offer support, ALA has some tips for you.
Additionally, the programs that YALSA sponsors will undoubtedly keep you on the leading edge of your profession. Other perks like free and cheap books, unparalleled networking, and vendor discounts may sway your supervisor.
Next, get funded! If your library can support you going to the conference but can’t justify the financial support, here are a few tips to get some assistance:
- Conable Conference Scholarship for students
- NMRT has a few grant and scholarship options
- YALSA Grants (due Dec. 1)
- AASL Frances Henne Award for AASL members with 5 years or less experience going to ALA for the first time
- Check ALA for more award options
- Check local organizations for professional development grants, too!
“F Special – San Francisco – 2013” by scottloftesness is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Lodging in San Francisco can be on the pricier side, and hotel rooms can be on the miniscule side. Luckily, you’ll be spending your time out and about at both the conference and the amazing sights that SF has to offer. To save, use the YALSA confererence wiki (which we will be adding to all year) to find a roommate. Sites like VRBO.com and Airbnb.com can lead you to find interesting places that you can share with a group. Another lodging option is to commute like the rest of us and stay in the East Bay, as Oakland and Berkeley are just a 30-minute BART ride away.
Speaking of BART, San Francisco’s public transportation is a great way to save on your expenses. BART runs from both SFO and the Oakland International Airport (where you may find cheaper flights) and you will definitely not need a car while in San Francisco. Streetcars and buses are convenient and offer a unique look at our city.
In the coming months, we’ll be sharing more tips on how to make ALA15 the best conference experience, offering suggestions for food, activities, and more. We look forward to seeing you there!
Sarah Levin
