International Library Conferences

This chapter provides information on international conferences and the reasons librarians should consider attending and presenting at professional conferences outside of their home countries. There are significant benefits for libraries and librarians who choose to venture abroad for professional development opportunities. Professional rejuvenation, networking opportunities, dissemination of information and the ability to see new perspectives on librarianship are just a few of the reasons librarians choose to attend international conferences. Methods and tools for selecting conferences focusing on librarianship and other disciplines are discussed in detail. The difficulties of attending conferences in distant lands is examined, including ways to mitigate costs, get buy-in and support from colleagues and administrators, receive funding, and the planning needed to make any international conference venture satisfying, rewarding, and memorable.