I love exhibits at PLA

So many people don't like exhibits or speaking with vendors, but I think I am really starting to love it. These are the people who are giving the profession all these cool tools and potential service improvements. These tools are even going down in price.







Book machines and DVD security seem to be big topics. Book machines are getting cheaper and ubiquitous, possibly replacing bookmobiles and open DVD shelving in libraries. The model we are working with is the Lending Library from Brodart. It is a custom built machine from a USDA stimulus grant. We should have it installed and running in three months, the cheapest of its type in the market.








I also missed some of my vendor connections from my last job. Who would have thought? I feel bad I didn't work hard enough to stay in contact. It was fun to see them again. Let me be clear some of the reps are nice, but their products don't do what I need. The ones that really can do what I need earn my respect and trust.

PLA was good especially since the floor was smaller it was easier to wander around and find people without a map. I ran into the Unshelved guys again and purchased an Intellectual Freedom Fighter bag that I had been coveting. I also made some great connections with other librarians regarding the products. I am a big advocate for good vendors; good ones should be rewarded with loyalty.

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