Booking Registration for Book Expo America and Bookcon
I need registration for Book Expo America and BookCon, both of which are fantastic conferences providing me with networking, product research, literary sessions, and numerous free books for our school library.
Our school is in rural Missouri with approximately 245 students, grades 9-12. We have between 50% and 60% of our kids qualifying for free or reduced-priced lunch. Despite resources in the school and families sometimes being tight, our students are passionate about their learning. Our dual credit enrollment thrives, and kids are excited about new classes and extracurricular activities we are offering.
Our library and its programs have changed significantly in the past few years, and we are now a popular, happening area of the school.
Teachers have really noticed the change in the library culture. This began with a makerspace which has been a big success. We have added lots of technology including a 3d printer and Cricut. We aren't all tech though, our kids also enjoy reading. I believe our kids read more than other nearby schools after speaking to those librarians. A new teacher told me kids here read more than any other place she has taught. Kids often request new books and are always wanting the next book in their series. We also have a book club which competes with area schools in the Battle of the Books competition. Last year was our best finish yet.
My Project
Book Expo America and Bookcon are conferences held in New York City. I have had the pleasure of attending, and the experience is unparalleled. There are panels from leaders in the literary industry and authors. These range from hearing upcoming releases, an author's writing process, and lectures or discussions analyzing themes, genres, characters, and more. This information allows me to be in touch with the best literature for my students and gives me the background to promote reading. My students benefit from a librarian that is up to date and excited about the new literature on their shelves. There are networking opportunities with other librarians, companies, and services. These allows me to better the school library program with fresh ideas. There is a show floor that allows me to pilot new technologies and items that will enhance the education of my students and provide new tools to teachers. In addition, there are free books I can bring back to my students. I brought back over $2000 worth when I attended previously. That is more than the book budget I am given for the entire year. These are upcoming releases, and it is great to offer the new titles to my students.
Bringing back new books and seeing the excitement on students' faces as they look through them is the highlight of this experience.
There are rarely national level conferences near me to provide this type of learning. The value of the sessions and discussions is extraordinary, and bringing back materials for my students is fantastic. Going to this conference is a big expense for me. I will still be spending much of my own money in order to attend BEA and Bookcon. I think that the experiences and materials I get are worth it. I very much appreciate your assistance.
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