Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who is the Association of Jewish Libraries? | The Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL) is the leading authority on Judaic librarianship. We are an international, professional organization that fosters access to information and research in all forms of media relating to all things Jewish. Our members include librarians, scholars, educators, archivists, authors, and library advocates working in academic and research institutions, archives, synagogues, day schools, and Jewish community centers as well as public schools and libraries serving Jewish communities. |
| What is the AJL Digital Conference? | Each year AJL members gather to learn from each other, network, and socialize. AJL hosted digital conferences in 2020 and 2021 and will continue to offer our annual conference on Zoom every other year starting in 2023. The 2023 conference theme is A World of Possibilities and the program will include a special keynote address and the annual Feinstein Lecture; membership and division meetings; presentations of the Sydney Taylor Book Awards, the AJL Jewish Fiction Award, the AJL Judaica Reference Award, and the Judaica Bibliography Award; updates from the Library of Congress and the National Library of Israel; and break-out and panel presentations on all aspects of librarianship and on topics related to Jews, Judaism, the Jewish experience, or Israel. As our schedule develops, we’ll be adding updates and information. Keep checking back for more information.The 2022 AJL Conference was held in person in Philadelphia. The 2024 AJL Conference will be held inn person, June 23–26, 2024, in California. |
| When is the AJL 2023 Conference? | The 2023 Digital Conference will be held Monday, June 19–Thursday, June 22. Sessions will take place on Zoom between 9:00 am-5:00 pm Eastern with some special evening programming as well. All sessions will be recorded and will be accessible to conference registrants for up to a year. So if you have to miss a session, you will be able to watch it at your convenience. |
| Who attends the AJL Conference? | Everyone is welcome! Whether you are a librarian, scholar, educator, archivist, author, student, library advocate, or volunteer—or you are interested in learning more about the field of Judaic librarianship—there will be something for you. Encourage your colleagues and friends to experience the AJL Conference with you! |
| Will there be a mobile app? | Yes! About one month before the conference, registrants will receive a link to download the Webex Events app (formerly Socio). The Webex app will contain the entire conference schedule, session descriptions, Zoom links, presenter bios, information about our sponsors, and easy ways to connect with other attendees. You will also be able to instantly create your own personal agenda and download session handouts. You can access the Webex app on your laptop, desktop, iPad, and/or mobile device, and it will be available for up to a year after the conference. |
| How much does the AJL Digital Conference cost? | Registration will open in spring 2023. AJL Members: $180; Retirees: $90; Students: $40; Non-members: $290 |
| Are there scholarships available? | Yes, conference support is available to current members of AJL and library students. See the Conference Support page for deadlines and details. |
| I have unique needs. How can I inform you of them? | Please let us know while registering. We are committed to providing a positive and meaningful experience for everyone, so please help us help you. |
| Are conference sponsorships available? | Yes! Place an ad in the digital conference program, sponsor a session, or discover other ways to get your company’s name and product in front of AJL members. Go to the Advertise with AJL page or contact ajladmanager@gmail.com for more information. |
| What if I have more questions? | We’d be happy to answer them! Please get in touch by emailing conference@jewishlibraries.org. Contact Information: AJL Conference Registrar Marcie Eskin (marcie.eskin@gmail.com) for registration questions AJL Treasurer Andrew Lillien (ajltreasurer@gmail.com) for payment questions AJL Membership V.P. Sharon Benamou (ajlmembership@gmail.com) for membership questions |