PLA 2010 13th National Conference
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Don't Miss

We know you'll be busy choosing from over 200 educational programs and tons of author and social events at the PLA conference, but in your down time, you might want to explore the exciting environs of Portland.  Below are some  "must see" suggestions from local librarians.  Check back, we'll be adding more  soon!

Saturday Market
Meet local artists and purchase their wares. Open Saturday and Sunday, over 250 artists and small businesses participate in the market.  "This is a great way to experience  Portland and the Northwest's art and craft scene," says Vailey Oehlke, Multnomah County Library director,  "Not to mention eat some good food and hear live music." 
 
Timberline Lodge and Mount Hood
Pam North, Sherwood Public Library director says, "The majesty of Mt. Hood and the history of Timberline Lodge offer a must-see experience for visitors to the Portland area." Dedicated by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1937, the Lodge was created by artists and craftsmen working as part of the WPA program - many of the original furnishings and artwork remain intact and visible/functional throughout the Lodge.  Since this historic landmark is located at the 6,000 foot level of Mt. Hood, there will no doubt be snow during March - just a part of the mountain experience!

Mississippi Avenue
Bridget Cain-Bushman, Central Library administrator for Multnomah County Library recommends Mississippi Avenue in inner Northeast Portland. "A fun and funky neighborhood with eclectic eateries, unique shopping and laid-back strolling, says Bridget. "My personal favorites: Gravy for breakfast; Black Wagon for children's clothing; Flutter for "found objects and clutter"; and cocktails and dinner at Lovely Hula Hands. If you want to explore and shop in a neighborhood away from the big-box stores, this is for you!" 

Portland Farmer's Market at Portland State University (PSU)
This outdoor bonanza of local and regional produce, as well as prepared and ready-to-eat foods (you can have lunch on-site), is a quintessential Portland experience, according to Terrilyn Chun, Multnomah County Library's public programming coordinator  Offerings from upscale craft producers sit alongside the harvests from small, family-run farms in a decidely down-to-earth venue (the South Park Blocks). The result is a fun shopping and people-watching experience. Though there are four other farmer's markets in town, this one opens March 21, the earliest in the season.

Historic Columbia River Highway
Take a drive along the exquisite Historic Columbia River Highway, says June Knudson, director of the Hood River Library. Allow at least two hours, and you'll be treated to stunning views of majestic waterfalls (Bridal Veil Falls and Multnomah Falls) and astounding views from the top of cliffs over 900 feet above the river. Also, be sure to visit Vista House at CrownPoint for a truly breathtaking view. http://www.byways.org/explore/byways/2141/

The Pearl District
When you visit the Pearl District in Portland, you'll soon be looking to purchase an affordable loft and won't ever want to leave this jewel of a place! The Pearl is an award-winning, internationally recognized leader in urban renewal is is considered the "gold standard" of live, work, and play mixed-use space. Combine cool, eco friendly living with the greatest bookstore in the nation (Powell's rocks)! and some of the trendiest shops and restaurants this side of Manhattan. "The Pearl is fun both day and night with endless opportunities for delicious food (try Pearl Bakery for a great sandwich, Oba! for a festive fiesta, and the pricey Blue Hour for an intimate dinner), unique shopping, hot yoga, relaxing spa treatments, and some of the finest music, art, and dance performances in Portland," says Chantal Strobel, Community Relations Manager at Deschutes Public Library in Bend, Oregon. "And, did I mention Powell's book store..."  http://www.explorethepearl.com/

Last Thursday on Alberta Street
To exerience Portland in all its quirky glory, trek on over to N.E. Alberta Street for Last Thursday. A counterpoint to the Pearl District's First Thursday Gallery Walk, Last Thursday is a more loosely organized art and neighborhood festival showcasing "all that is freaky and off-beat in Portland." Says Allison Kastner, of Multnomah County Library's Central Library. Check it out on March 25, 2010.  http://www.artonalberta.org/last_thursday.html