Dan Santamaria mentions in your post on ArchivesNext that he is disappointed when people suggest that MPLP means “a single approach” to processing. In her email starting the discussion on the A&A, Kate Cruikshank wrote “As long as we’re talking in the abstract, the opinions polarize and the debate gets lively, but we don’t get any insight into the thinking that people are applying to the backlogs before them.” I think both these comments get to the heart of what I am trying to say in my post. Namely, lets get beyond the blanket statements and generalizations and examine how professionals are using MPLP and any corresponding criticisms of these approaches.

However, I think that you bring up a great point that we need to hear all sides so that we can better understand and address these concerns. Just because I think we should be moving on does not mean that we actually should, or that all are ready for that move.

As for the post-SAA tiredness and taking it easy at work the next week, I have learned that the hard way! At least I think I avoided the bug that was going around.

Thanks again for the comment and I am already looking forward to DC!

Re: “The Bad”–you saw my post and Dan’s over on ArchivesNext, right? I think we both tried to address some of the stuff you mention.

And, let’s not forget that we go to conferences to find out what other people are thinking. And sometimes what they are thinking may shock and surprise us. That’s good to know, in its own way. For people just coming out of school or taking their first job, it’s worth knowing that maybe not everyone is on the MPLP bandwagon. It’s useful to hear their arguments and get some ideas about how to address their concerns. I think Dan said something like “conversation is always a good thing” and don’t get Terry started on how important it is to listen to everyone’s point of view, or he’ll talk your ear off . . .

Attending SAA is, indeed, an exhausting experience. And, as you may have noticed on Twitter, there is tendency for people to find they have some kind of bug or flu when they arrive home. I don’t think that’s the first time it has happened. So, add to to your words of wisdom to pass along to first-time conference attendees, “Don’t plan anything too strenuous for the week after you get back.”

Glad you had a good time and see you in DC!

Kate