I just returned from a fabulous MPLA/MLA conference in Billings, MT. I've been an MPLA member for something like 14 years, and this was (unfortunately) the first time I have attended a conference. I've always wanted to attend one, but things always kept getting in the way.
Well, I will plan to make this a yearly outing for sure. Attending a conference where there are many librarians from other states is so wonderful. Since I do a lot with state government publications, I was able to visit with librarians from Montana about their digital state documents project. In addition, training is part of what I do and it was great to hear about how the ND State Library is handling librarian training in their state. I came home brimming with new ideas, renewed enthusiasm, and business cards from new contacts.
That is why conferences are so beneficial!
