The Vendors of TLA 2003

1
The Vendors of TLA- 2003

• The Exhibitors at Texas Library Association
  Conference,
• Houston, Texas, 2003

2
Types of Vendors

• Publishers, book jobbers,
• Technology, equipment
• Facilities, furniture
• Curriculum, instruction
• Media, software
• Colleges and Universities

3
Types of Vendors

• The majority of vendors were book jobbers,
  publishers of books, and publishers of reading
  and instructional materials. Specific library
  suppliers, technology providers, and other media
  services were all there, but not the dominant
  focus of the exhibits.

4
Other Features of the Exhibitors Hall

• Author autograph area
• Technology showcase area
• Post office facility
• University, distance learning(DL) recruiting
• Multimedia demonstrations
• Dining/Restroom facilities
• ALA/TLA Stores

5
Advantages of TLA Exhibits

• See books first-hand before buying
• Free promotional posters, postcards
• All major publishers at TLA
• Free demonstrations of products
• Teaching, curriculum materials
• Storytellers, authors, school visit
• Spanish language/bilingual publishers

6
Networking at Exhibits

• This is the place to see what is new, tell the
  publishers what worked, and tell company
  representatives what we need and like in Texas.
  This is our chance to network with national and
  international publishers and service providers.
  They usually listen!

7
Problems with the Exhibits

• In competition with the many excellent programs
• Crowded most of the time
• Not open long enough
• So many vendors (over 700), so little time

8
To get the most out of Exhibits

• Go early in day
• Go early in conference
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Prioritize your needs, preplan your route
• Advocate for more hours, days open
• Enjoy!!!!