Each year, one of the most popular ways to stretch one’s legs and still get a solid infusion of information is to pay a visit to the ASTD Store at the ASTD International Conference & EXPO. This year promises the return of not only the pleasant, no-pressure browsing experience of years past, but also the return of author chats!

Another great opportunity to learn outside of the session space is the addition this year of theater sessions—a collection of open and more informal presentations and talks with more than a dozen thought leaders.

The ASTD Store

The store at the International Conference and EXPO is not only one of the most popular stopovers each year, it is truly the largest workplace learning bookstore anywhere. Browse hundreds of titles, add to your professional library, and take part in events hosted by your favorite authors. There will be 13 author chats and more than 40 book signings. Come hungry for a brand new raffle event this year: You can “Win a Bundle at Breakfast” on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, and walk away not only nourished, but with a stack of top titles from ASTD Press. There will also be a raffle at the opening and closing of the store, so be sure to stop by for more info once you get on site.

The Community Theater

The Theater marks an entirely new format for this year and will kick off on Monday morning. You can check out the full list of presenters and session topics on the conference website. The Theater will be positioned inside the EXPO, and will spotlight several meaningful and timely topics, including needs assessment, bridging the skills gap, and using Captivate 6 to build mobile learning. Like all the conference’s sessions and events, the Community Theater offers an opportunity to network, share, and discover practical tips and ideas to carry back to your organization.

Lastly, be sure to drop by the Communities of Practice section just outside the EXPO and say “hi!” Your input and ideas help to make this event bigger and better every year. See you in Dallas.