What is the difference between programs and discussion groups? How are meetings different?
A program is a formal educational session organized by a committee from an ALA division, roundtable or office. These are typically structured sessions with a speaker or several speakers, or a panel, designed to inform or instruct attendees on a specific topic. These program take place ONLY during the Annual Conference, and not during the Midwinter Meeting. A discussion group is a more loosely organized session, sponsored by an ALA division, roundtable or office, that meets to discuss a broader topic. These sessions may or may not have a speaker, and are generally considered to be more open discussions than informational or educational sessions, and usually have ample opportunity for interaction. These take place both during the Annual Conference and Midwinter Meeting. Committee meetings are held to do the business of the association.
A program is a formal educational session organized by a committee from an ALA division, roundtable or office. These are typically structured sessions with a speaker or several speakers, or a panel, designed to inform or instruct attendees on a specific topic. A discussion group is a more loosely organized session, sponsored by an ALA division, roundtable or office, that meets to discuss a broader topic. These sessions may or may not have a speaker, and are generally considered to be more open discussions than informational sessions, and usually have ample opportunity for interaction. Committee meetings are held to do the business of the association. Some meetings will be listed “closed” as they are discussing private information, but most meetings are open to any attendee, and may be a good way to learn about the business of ALA and its divisions.
