TLA Annual Conference Welcomes Carmen Agra Deedy As General Session II Keynote

Press Release February 1, 2017

Contact: Sara Ortiz Communications & Marketing Specialist

[email protected] 512-328-1518

TLA Annual Conference Welcomes Carmen Agra Deedy as General Session II Keynote

AUSTIN –The Texas Library Association (TLA) is thrilled to announce NPR contributor, storyteller, and New York Times bestselling author Carmen Agra Deedy will keynote General Session II on Friday, April 21 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the 2017 TLA Annual Conference in San Antonio, TX.

Born in Cuba, Deedy came to the U.S. as a refugee and grew up in Decatur, GA. An ardent supporter of libraries, she has spoken before Noble Laureates and Pulitzer Prize winners, CEOs of major corporations, and heads of state. Over a span of 20 years, Deedy’s crafty stories have moved, inspired, and uplifted audiences of all types. Listeners rave about her unique perspective, humorous and poignant stories, and sharp narratives that leave audiences captivated.

With her book The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet (Scholastic Inc., 2017), illustrated by award- winning artist Eugene Yelchin, Deedy was inspired by folktales and fables to tell the story of an irrepressible rooster—who must crow and sing no matter the consequences. Through a touching, allegorical folktale about the freedom of speech, Deedy will speak about the importance and strength of all voices.

“Please join me in welcoming Carmen Agra Deedy to the 2017 TLA Annual Conference,” stated TLA President Walter Betts. “If her Ted Talk is any indicator of her knack for brilliant, passionate, and enriching stories, then librarians will certainly walk away inspired and motivated.”

At the 2017 TLA Annual Conference, more than 7,000 industry professionals will gather over four days, with 200 information and library leaders, policy experts, and authors to cover topics including technology trends, makerspaces, literacy initiatives, advocacy, administration sessions, and explorations of today’s most pressing information and education issues. Continuing its tradition of serving as the premier marketplace of ideas and information services, the TLA Annual Conference will also host approximately 500 companies, publishers, media outlets, and professional library services organizations.

For more information and registration details, visit www.txla.org/annual-conference

About the Texas Library Association TLA is the largest state library association in the country with approximately 7,000 members who work in public, school, academic, and special libraries and who support educational institutions. TLA offers a wide range of services, including advocacy, continuing education, research, and public relations. To learn more about TLA, visit www.txla.org or call 512-328-1518.