OMG! UR N IRC!

An experimental IRC (Internet relay chat) channel has been set up for this MLA conference. It's for folks who are interested and want to play around with "backchannel" chat.

• Server: chat.freenode.net (Either the standard port 6667 or the alternate port 8000 should work.)
• Channel: #mla2009

The channel may be logged, so don't say anything in the chat room what you wouldn't want to be heard saying in the halls of the conference center. Stop by and say hello.

If you don't already have an IRC client, there are several options available at no cost.

• If you have Pidgin or Trillian installed, they both provide IRC access.
• If you use Firefox, the Chatzilla add-on is an option.
• Colloquy is a good choice for Mac users.
• If you can't install a client, or if you just want to try it out, connect through the web at Mibbit.com (IRC: Freenode, Nick: pick a name, Channel: #mla2009)

Finally, #mla2009 is meant to be an informal and social environment. Keep in mind that the discussion isn't limited to libraries, and could cover a lot of ground. Have fun with it.