BEA 2010 seems like it happened years ago and not just 5 short weeks. I was at ALA this past weekend and enjoyed getting feedback that ranged from positive to outstanding. I will be out in earnest the next few weeks getting in front of BEA's exhibitors and attendees to review their results, focusing on the things that went well and what BEA needs to improved upon. If you are here, reading this post, you have license to provide your feedback. I will look at any comments posted which will be intructive as the BEA team formally executes our 2011 strategy planning over the next few weeks.
I am thrilled to share the Book Bloggers Convention BEA will eagerly be welcomed them back to the BEA Big Tent for 2011. We will be looking to make the process easier and more streamlined for everyone who participated this past year, which might be hard because things did run so well despite being the 1st year where glitches are expected. Also, BEA will continue our partnership with the IDPF Digital Book event. That was a huge success that we will look to grow that content as part of BEA.
Out of the gate I can share a few things: As it has been announced, BEA will be 3 full days. We will address the scheduling to make sure BEA retains the vibrancy for the entire event, but be mindful that ending Thursday early enough to reduce hotel nights for people that can return home without having to wait for a morning flight. As more and more info is consumed on the web and smart phones - BEA will expand our mobile application. We will also do away with the giant event program we mailed 6-8 weeks prior to BEA which was always out of date the day it went to the printer. We will look to combine the Event Program, Autographing lists & Show Directory into a new format that will live electronically and have a simpler printed version available on-site.
There will be a lot more to come - but that is what we are working on 47 weeks out. PLEASE don't be shy with your opinions, they are valid and will help the direction we go in for BEA 2011.
The official source for BookExpo announcements and news delivered by BEA Show Director Steve Rosato.
I was at BEA for the first time in 2010, and loved it. Here is a high class criticism---it was a little overwhelming. I was lucky enough to sit with three amazing librarians one night at dinner, and they gave me the best navigating tips. Some conferences have a "beginner" class or orientation, or even just a tips sheet.
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