2008 MLA Annual Conference

Annual Conference
of the
Maryland Library Association
May 2008
Ocean City, Maryland

Patricia O’Callaghan
White Oak Library


The Maryland Library Association Conference in Ocean City from 14 to 16 May 2008 was foremost an occasion for librarians to meet and exchange experiences about their work and lives. In particular, the conversations at breakfasts, lunches and dinners engendered a sense of community with colleagues from around the state. They helped increase my understanding of how counties in Maryland articulate, and reinforced my perception of the great natural beauty and diversity of the state.

Professor Pier Forni’s presentation based on his book, “Choosing Civility: The Twenty-Five Rules of Considerate Conduct,” was relevant to our interactions with customers. The three workshops I attended on telecommuting, on how different temperaments and personalities can affect the workplace, and on legislation affecting Maryland libraries were intellectually stimulating. A reception at the new Ocean City Free Public Library offered ideas on how libraries can be planned and built for beauty and efficiency.

In all, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to attend the MLA Conference held at a hotel where the staff was friendly and helpful, and adjacent to the ocean which was refreshing and relaxing in springtime.