As in past years, the DCLA chapter is working with ALA to support the advocacy efforts of librarians on Capitol Hill.  This year, the National Legislative Library Day will be Monday, April 23.  To help get ready for the event, volunteers are needed to prepare the information packets handed out to participants on Saturday morning, April 21 as well as help with welcoming attendees and guests at the evening reception on Monday, April 23.

The Saturday activity starts at 9am with a continental breakfast and usually last til around noon.  We need 7-8 volunteers for the activity which takes place at the ALA Washington office at 1615 New Hampshire Ave. , NW just about 3-4 blocks from the Q Street exit of Dupont Circle Metro.   The time is spent helping to prepare the packets of information used by attendees for themselves and also distributed to their respective congressional representatives.

The Monday night event is usually from 5-7 and will be on Capitol Hill.  The event is a happy hour reception where the attendees get a chance to exchange stories about how their visits to the Hill went that day and also an opportunity for ALA to recognize various members of Congress who have been particularly supportive of libraries throughout the year.  We need 4-5 volunteers for this event to help direct members to the event and to sit at the reception table to greet folks and get the congressional staffers to sign the guest book as well as whatever else needs doing at the time.

I encourage any students that might be able to help with either activity to volunteer as the event is a good way to learn about the advocacy efforts of ALA to support the library profession and institutions.  All DCLA members are also encouraged to participate if you are available.

Thanks very much in advance for  your continued support  of this effort by DCLA.