Download FOBA 2024 Flier for more information
DATE: Focus on Book Arts Conference June 26-30, 2024
NEW LOCATION: Western Oregon University in Monmouth, Oregon
Big news – Focus on Book Arts is moving! FOBA’s next conference will be held at Western Oregon University in Monmouth, Oregon. At this new location, almost all classrooms have air conditioning – a key concern for Oregon summers and we’ll also have access to a very nice printmaking classroom, allowing us to expand FOBA’s workshop offerings to include various forms of printmaking.
ABOUT MONMOUTH
The city of Monmouth was founded in 1856 and is located 20 minutes west of Salem, the state capitol. The Pacific Ocean and Cascade Mountains are an hour’s drive from the city. Monmouth is a charming Willamette Valley town and home to Western Oregon University. The beautiful campus boasts the distinction of having one of the largest Christmas trees in the United States. Established in 1856, the University has had several names throughout the years and is currently the oldest public university in Oregon and on the West Coast.
Less than 3 miles away is Monmouth’s sister city, Independence. This historic town is situated on the bank of the Willamette River and has wonderful galleries, restaurants, and wine bars. The convenient M.I. Trolley now connects the two cities. Together, Monmouth and Independence are home to a vibrant art scene, centered in the heart of the Willamette Valley’s beautiful rolling hills and wineries.
About Western Oregon University
Western Oregon University is accessible by car and public transit, and Monmouth is a little over an hour by car from Portland International Airport (PDX). We’re confident that you – and your art and bookmaking supplies – can get to Monmouth without too much hassle. We can’t wait to see you in June 2024, and we’re excited to explore FOBA’s new conference location together!
Address:
Western Oregon University 345 Monmouth Ave. N., Monmouth OR 97361
503-838-8000 | 1-877-877-1593
For Airline, driving and ride share please check the Traveling to campus section
Where to Stay
On-Campus Housing Ackerman Hall
Opened in the Fall of 2010, Ackerman is one of the most environmentally sustainable residence halls in the nation! Nestled into The Grove, Ackerman is the closet hall to the center of campus, and offers housing for conference attendees.
- 4 Floors, 3 Wings per floor
- Double Rooms: Approximately 162 square feet
- Single Rooms: Approximately 115 square feet
- Offers same gender community bathrooms and two single stall bathrooms located in each wing
- Common space, laptop bars and study nooks in each wing
- Laundry rooms located on floors 2-4
- Community kitchen located on the 4th floor
- Equipped with two elevators
Take a virtual tour of Ackerman Hall
Please note: In the virtual tours on the WOU website (link here), most dorm room beds are shown raised higher so a dresser can fit beneath it, but during the conference the beds that will be occupied by attendees will be lowered to a normal height. All dorm rooms also include a microwave and small refrigerator/freezer and while they are not shown in the video tours, you can see them in the Matterport tours. Ackerman Hall has a small number of single rooms, so attendees may be assigned a double room, but with guaranteed single occupancy. If you know you want/need to share a room with a spouse, friend, or partner – you should each request that when you register.
Learn more about hotel, dining, and points of interest near Western Oregon University: