----Apologies for cross posting------ The programme for the PLG Spring Conference 2004 - 'Making Libraries Matter - developing leadership skills in library staff' - is now available at http://www.cilip.org.uk/plgspring The conference will take place from 2nd-4th April 2004 at the Kents Hill Training Centre in Milton Keynes. Speakers include: CHRIS SMITH MP, who will be talking in his capacity as Director of the Clore Leadership programme BILL MACNAUGHT, Head of Cultural Development at Gateshead Council, who will share some thoughts about the way forward from his perspective as Chair of the Advisory Council on Libraries and as Chair of the “Framework for the Future” Strategic Implementation Group. ANGELA ABELL, Director, TFPL, who will be helping us all to do some 'creative thinking' DAVID MURRAY, Divisional Director, London Borough of Newham, whose paper is entitled "I want the one I can't have" - the potential contribution of libraries to the wider local government agenda AYUB KHAN, Principal Project Officer, Birmingham Libraries, who will be talking about the skills anticipated for the new Library of Birmingham. There will also be plenty of opportunity to hear about a wide range of initiatives in libraries across the UK, which are helping to shape new skills in library staff, as well as opportunities to meet established and 'up and coming' librarians, all keen to make a difference in public libraries. Further details and booking information from http://www.cilip.org.uk/plgspring Hope to see you there. Ciara Eastell Director of Studies PLG Spring Conference 2004