Diary 06/27

I'm back from New Orleans, Louisiana - NOLA. NOLA is a very interesting place. We stayed on Bourbon street which is right in the center of all that is decadent in NOLA. Being an older Spectrum scholar, I was not overly affected. The younger scholars were a bit intimidated by the blatant prostitution, drunkenness, and foul smell. I focused on the stunning architecture and history that was all around us.

I also focused on all of the MANDATORY classes we had to attend. Everyday was booked until at least 2pm. I wish they had given us one full day to do as we wished. By the end of the booked days we were usually so brain fried that a nap was needed. After the nap there was only so much daylight left. I did not go out after 10pm. There was too much out there in those street that recommended caution.

Overall, the experience was worthwhile. I went to a couple of nice receptions - one where my library director attended. I met my YALSA mentor for lunch. I got tons of free swag at the convention center. And, finally I met some really nice, helpful people.

Next years annual is in Anaheim, California. I am plotting the course to get there right now...

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