Scott Simon, host of NPR’s Weekend Edition and winner of the Peabody Award, Emmys, and countless other recognitions, is one of the most recognized and respected voices in journalism today. He has covered ground zero in New York and Kabul, reported from snipers’ roosts and theatre stations, and brought us to the realities of sieges, famines, hurricanes, and civil wars. A compelling and delightful narrator, Simon will share his vast and unique experiences covering the news and finding the truth and humanity in the stories that shape history and our own lives. He is the author of Home and Away: A Memoir of a Fan, Jackie Robinson and the Integration of Baseball, and Windy City. His forthcoming book, Baby We Were Meant for Each Other, is scheduled for release in August 2010.

Julie Powell’s mega-popular first novel serves up a unique concoction of literary genres old and new. From biography and autobiography to blogging and journalism, Julie & Julia blends diverse ingredients into a successful and fun look at the world of cooking, the life of culinary master Julia Childs, and marriage and life goals. With a background in journalism, Powell drew on her training to incorporate facts and everyday challenges into a story set against a biographical narrative of two very different women who faced similar challenges and found answers in common areas. Powell is a two-time James Beard Award winner, has been awarded an honorary degree from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, and was the first ever winner of the Overall Lulu Blooker Prize for Books. Powell’s newest work is Cleaving: A Story of Marriage, Meat, and Obsession.

What would you like to hear this year’s general session speakers, Scott Simon and Julie Powell, talk about during their keynote speeches?

The Digitization Expo (DigiExpo) is a "come and go" event that gives attendees a chance to visit with vendors as they would in the regular Exhibit Hall. DigiExpo also features speakers and panels that will be publicized before the event. DigiExpo is designed to be a way for vendors who don't regularly come to Texas to come for a single day and meet with attendees who are specifically interested in digital projects. Other vendors who are exhibiting at conference may be at DigiExpo as well, showcasing specific products or digital services.

Join the Library Instruction Round Table for Bites with LIRT at noon, April 15, at Boudro’s on the Riverwalk!