THE BLACK CAUCUS OF THE AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION, INC.
10th National Conference of African American Librarians
August 9-13, 2017 / Atlanta, Georgia
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For Further Information:
Zaundra Brown
(404) 734-7717
[email protected]
(Wednesday, March 29, 2017, Atlanta Georgia) – The Black Caucus of the American Library Association, Inc. (BCALA) is pleased to announce radio personality, entrepreneur and philanthropist Tom Joyner and The Reverend Dr. Bernice A. King, Chief Executive Officer of The King Center, as its two Keynote Speakers at the 10th National Conference of African American Librarians, scheduled August 9-13, 2017, at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta (Buckhead), 3300 Peachtree Road, N.E., Atlanta, Georgia 30305, (404) 365-8100.
The legendary radio personality Tom Joyner is one of the most recognized media icons of today. Host of the nationally syndicated radio program The Tom Joyner Morning Show, he empowers, educates and entertains nearly eight million listeners each week in more than 105 cities nationwide. Well-known for his dedicated philanthropy and community activism, Mr. Joyner has led national, successful awareness campaigns on voter registration laws, family/health initiatives, and minority discrimination. He will bring a powerful message to kick off our three days of sharing, learning and networking.
The youngest child of civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, Dr. Bernice A. King is at the helm of the King Center which was founded by her mother, in 1968.
Nationally and internationally known as one of the most powerful, motivating and life-changing orators and speakers on the circuit today, Bernice leaves her audiences speechless and challenges people RAISE THE STANDARD. Today, Dr. King continues to expand and enhance The King Center’s Nonviolence 365 Education and Training initiatives. A noted author, she has to her credit, Hard Questions, Heart Answers, a compelling and inspiring book. She is an innovative, energetic and committed leader dedicated to fulfilling the calling of taking her parents legacy and The King Center into a new era
The conference theme, ‘Beyond Library Walls / Innovative Ways to Engage Our Communities’ highlights the opportunity to explore virtual access and programs 24/7, outside
of our traditional brick and mortar libraries. The theme also embraces and emphasizes the strength of the organization’s focus and commitment to community engagement.
“We are excited about our upcoming conference,” said BCALA President, Denyvetta Davis. “It always feels like a family reunion with a professional agenda. Our conference attendees will be informed, inspired and empowered.”
This national conference has an esteemed reputation of excellence as it is the largest conference devoted to African American librarians, and those librarians serving African American and/or minority constituents. The conference will began with an engaging Coretta Scott King Pre-Conference. Participants will engage in conversation with Coretta Scott King Book Award authors and illustrators regarding the relevance of having diverse books. They will transition into break-out sessions where they will ascertain how to apply these award winning books in innovative ways with children, as well as take away some very exciting ideas. Authors / Illustrators will include: R. Gregory Christie, Sharon Draper, Sharon Flake, James Ransome, Carol Weatherford, Nikki Grimes, & Jason Reynolds!
During the 60’s, Atlanta was a major organizing center of the Civil Rights Movement. A special Lunch with the Legends and Children of the Civil Rights Movement will include:
Xernona Clayton, Andrea Young, Angela Watkin, Atlanta Councilmen Kwanza Hall
And Michael Julian Bond. Conference participants will hear spirited conversations with actual participants and several of their children as they reveal how their parent’s involvement changed their lives.
The authors of “We Are Charleston: Tragedy and Triumph At Mother Emanuel” will take conference participants on a journey that includes the history of slavery in North Carolina, the Civil war, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights Movement and the present day. A great take-away from the three authors and this touching sage, is the power of forgiveness and its lesson for the world.
“Registration and hotel reservations for this historic 10th National Conference are now open,” said Conference Chair Carolyn Garnes. “We have simplified the process and encourage everyone to register at www.previous.bcala.org. We encourage you to take advantage of our Early Bird rates that are available through April 30, 2017.”
Hotel reservations: https://aws.passkey.com/go/BCALA2017
Conference registration: http://www.previous.bcala.org
About Black Caucus of the American Library Association:
The Black Caucus of the American Library Association serves as advocate for the development, promotion and improvement of library services and resources to the nation’s African American community. This esteemed national organization also provides leadership for the recruitment and professional development of African American librarians. Established in 1970, BCALA is a registered nonprofit organization with 501©3 IRS status. All donations to BCALA support our mission and are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
For more information, please visit http://www.previous.bcala.org.