How are conference sites selected?
For the ALA Annual Conference, the determining factor is the combination of 350,000 gross square feet of exhibit space, 8500 hotel rooms and 350+ meeting rooms – all within a “workable” area. The “fit” between local convention bureau preferences and ALA preferences may also be a factor; some cities prefer conferences and tradeshows that run between Monday and Friday (clearing the weekend for local events), while ALA’s “peak” activity days are Saturday and Sunday. ALA Conference Services routinely tracks convention center and hotel construction, reevaluating both current and potential sites. Site selection is approved by the ALA Executive Board, on recommendation of ALA Management, with the support of the ALA Conference Committee, in consultation with the Exhibits Round Table and “host” chapter. Like most “city-wide” conferences, ALA needs to identify and hold sites 12-15 years in advance, in order to get the necessary combination of convention center and hotel space. Annual Conferences
