We
are delighted to welcome Jen Horan, Chair of the Youth Libraries Group to talk
about all things Youth Libraries Group conference.
I
have just been reading an article claiming that “summer FOMO” (that’s fear of missing out, for the kids who don’t
speak acronym) will reach peak levels this year, after two summers of there
being not much to miss out on. I’m
already finding myself envious of social media photos showing beach parties and
cocktail soirees. Gathering together with other people
who share our passions and interests has become such a treasured occurrence
that it enriches our lives now more than ever, and it is something I am valuing
professionally like never before. Now
unfortunately I can’t promise sunshine and sky-high temperatures, but this
September I can guarantee an opportunity to gather together at a live YLG
conference for first time since 2018, and you do not want to miss out on what
we have to offer.
This
year YLG Conference heads to Sheffield, from Friday 16th to Sunday
18th September. Reading the
Planet: Libraries in a Changing Climate will focus on the environment and
climate activism, and we are delighted to be able to offer an incredibly strong
programme, which can be viewed below.
Here are just a few of my highlights.
Keynote
speakers will offer a range of presentations including Environmental Activism
in Picture Books, Empowering Young People Through Stories, the Earthwatch
Debate, and Nicola Davis delivering the Robert Westall Memorial Lecture. We have a host of spectacular speakers
including new Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho, who will share his love of
libraries, SF Said, Emma Carroll, Michelle Paver, Sita Brahmachari, Louisa Reid
and Dara McNulty. We are also offering a
great choice of breakout sessions including paper craft and activism workshops,
storywalks, and digital & multiligual storytelling opportunities, giving
you first-hand, practical ideas to take back to your own workplace.
As
always, there will be plenty of opportunities to network, particularly over
book-themed tea breaks and delicious Gala Dinners. Michael Murpurgo joins us on Friday night to
celebrate 40 years of War Horse, and Saturday night hosts presentations
of our 2022 Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Medal (which may feature the shortlist
shoes that trended on ceremony day Twitter) and YLG Honorary Memberships. And, of course,
it wouldn’t be a YLG Conference without our incredible Publishers’ Exhibition
and bookshop – leave space in your suitcases for all those irresistible
purchases!
Early
bird discounts end on 15th July, so book your place now and leave
FOMO behind as YLG Conference re-ignites our enthusiasm for our profession
after two relentless years. There has
never been a more exciting time to join us. Find out more and book here.
Looking
forward to seeing you there!
Jen Horan, YLG Chair