Blog Posts

Yay! (2nd post of the day)

Yay for my 200th post, and for all the winners. As a celebration, I present to you a picture of yours truly and new Newbery winner Neil Gaiman:

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01/26/2009 08:01 AM Post Comment | Read More>

Big Show, Bigger Bear

Outside the Colorado Convention Center is something rather alarming.  Observe:



Peering in, just looking for his next meal, is a GIANT BLUE BEAR, lurking, waiting for an unsuspecting librarian (or exhibitor) to drop his or her bag, or tie his or shoe so he can pounce.

At least, that's one way to explain the slow show.  According to the official numbers, there are about 3 thousand less in attendance here in Denver than there were last year in Philadelphia.  And although I'm sure the bear has had his fair share of meals, no bear can eat 3 thousand people.

Fact is, the economy is the clear issue here.  Many people's trips got cancelled once the market went down, or the government cut library spending.  It's humbling to see first hand just how it effects every industry, even a "recession-proof" one like ours.

No matter how grim is seems now, in less than an hour, there will be some celebrating to do as this year's Children's Media Awards are announced, including the coveted Newbery and Caldecott awards.  I'll keep you posted.

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01/26/2009 07:01 AM Comments [1] | Read More>

It Begins

Midwinter kicked off last night with its traditional 2-hour opening ceremony.  It was surprisingly awesome and crowded.  According to the show organizers, registration was actually on par with registration at this point last year for Philadelphia, and all the hotels were sold out.

However, every time anyone sees anyone they know, there's a huge sigh of relief.  "I heard about the cut backs, glad to see you made it."

While the opening was awesome, there's a somber tone surrounding the whole show.  Here's to hoping everyone here will be at the next one.  My fingers are permanently crossed.

More updates on the show itself after this, the first full day.

P.S Denver is beautiful!  ...

01/24/2009 06:01 AM Post Comment | Read More>