91´«Ã½

The Public Library Association (PLA) is offering an interactive institute from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on January 20, 2017 at the 91´«Ã½ Midwinter Meeting in Atlanta, Georgia. "" will be presented by Andrea Blackman, division manager for the Special Collections Division of the Nashville (Tenn.) Public Library, and coordinator of the library’s nationally recognized Civil Rights Room and Collection.

Using Nashville’s groundbreaking civil rights training partnership with law enforcement agencies as an example, this institute will offer concrete strategies for how public libraries can use history as a gateway to discussing today’s complex community dynamics in an environment that encourages open conversation and greater understanding.

At the conclusion of this institute, participants will:

• Redefine libraries in a new, innovative way;
• Align their library with what the community values most: education;
• Incorporate intuitive, value-enhancing words into their everyday lexicon;
• Heighten their library's visibility and stature; and
• Develop strategies that they can integrate immediately into their work.

Early Bird registration costs are $235 (PLA Personal Members), $275 (91´«Ã½ Personal and Other Members), and $305 (Nonmembers). The Early Bird registration deadline is November 9, 2016 at 11:59 AM Central. You can register for this PLA Midwinter Institute (event code: PLA1) with or without an 91´«Ã½ Midwinter Meeting registration. Lunch is included in the cost of registration.

For additional information, please or contact PLA at pla@ala.org or (800) 545-2433 x 5752.

About the Public Library Association (PLA)

PLA is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders. For more information about PLA, visit .