Morris was a long-time ALSC member and friend, the recipient of the first ALSC Distinguished Service Award as well as an advocate for children’s librarians and literature. Morris was former vice-president and director of library promotion at HarperCollins Children’s Books.

“The Morris Seminar offers an inspiring and invigorating opportunity to explore the dynamics of group discussion while engaging with experts in the field of book evaluation,” says ALSC President Starr LaTronica. “Participants make strong connections to peers and leaders and come away with a renewed confidence in book discussion. This is a unique and invaluable experience for all involved and it ensures ALSC maintains its legacy of distinguished award-winning books.”

The Morris Seminar will bring new ALSC members and members with limited evaluation experience together with those who have served on ALSC’s media evaluation committees in an environment to train and mentor them in the group process and in children’s media evaluation techniques. The seminar will result in new and emerging leaders for future ALSC evaluation committees.

The Morris Endowment, which was established in 2000 and activated in 2003 upon his death, supports those selected to attend the seminar by offering it at no charge, including materials and meals. The Endowment also provides a $200 stipend for each attendee to defray any additional expenses.

Information and the application form are available on the ALSC website. Applications must be received by September 20, 2013.  Attendees selected to attend will be notified during the last week in October.