TLA 2020 Information on COVID-19

The coronavirus outbreak is a constantly changing and evolving public health situation. Based on information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Texas Department of State Health Services and the City of Houston, the threat of COVID-19 to the general public remains low.

TLA is continuously monitoring the situation and following the recommendations of scientific and health agencies in all of our decisions.

The 2020 TLA Annual Conference will take place as scheduled March 24 – 27.

The health and safety of everyone at our event is our primary focus and priority. TLA is working closely with the City of Houston, George R. Brown Convention Center, and other venues where TLA 2020 events will take place to ensure appropriate measures are in place.

At the convention center, additional hand-sanitizer units have been added to the permanent hand sanitizer stations located throughout the facility, hospital grade disinfectants are being utilized and cleaning crews are wearing latex gloves , and escalator hand rails, doors and hardware are being sanitized throughout the day. All hard surfaces in high traffic areas will be sanitized regularly. Additionally, healthy hygiene awareness signage will be displayed on monitors and in restrooms throughout the facility.

Attendees are encouraged to practice healthy hygiene habits, and to consider alternative ways of greeting your friends and colleagues on-site. We know librarians are a friendly group, but now might be a good time to forego a hug or handshake in favor of a wave or a bow!

Hundreds of volunteer hours have gone into creating an amazing conference. With more than 300 education sessions, 200 authors, and 400+ exhibitors, TLA 2020 is an outstanding professional development opportunity we are excited to share with the library community.

We will post updates on this issue, as needed, on the Conference News page. Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you in Houston in three weeks.