Among the good news coming out of last month’s Winter Institute [6] was the announcement that the Ingram Content Group would continue its commitment as the lead sponsor of the American Booksellers Association’s educational programming for the next three years.

“Together, Ingram Content Group and the American Booksellers Association have a long and successful history of delivering relevant and compelling educational programs that give ABA members the tools they need to grow their bookselling businesses,” said Skip Prichard, President and CEO, Ingram Content Group.  “It is a pleasure to continue our work with the ABA on their educational programs, and we are thrilled that we are able renew our commitment to both the industry and independent booksellers nationwide.”  

“On behalf of all ABA members, we thank the Ingram Content Group for continuing its generous support of education for independent booksellers,” said ABA CEO Oren Teicher. “Ingram’s sponsorship has made it possible for ABA to offer the stellar educational programming that booksellers have come to expect each year at the Winter Institute, BookExpo America, and other venues. We are happy to be able to continue that tradition with Ingram’s sponsorship for the next three years.”

The announcement of Ingram’s continuing commitment to ABA education was made by Ingram Vice President of Sales Dan Sheehan at the Winter Institute’s Thursday morning keynote breakfast. More than 500 booksellers participated in Wi6, which was held in Washington, D.C., from Wednesday, January 19, through Friday, January 21, 2011. The program featured more than 30 education sessions, extensive networking opportunities, and a special Legislative Day.

In his welcome address to booksellers at this year’s event, ABA President Michael Tucker, of California’s Books Inc., noted that there would be no Winter Institute without the ongoing generosity of its sponsors [7]. Tucker said, “Please join me in thanking our lead partner, the Ingram Content Group. Their continued, generous commitment to bookseller education allows ABA to offer year-round programming for our members, and to make low-cost hotel rates possible.”