Ever Evolving: SLA Conference Preview
SLA keeps the content and contacts flowing
By Lynn Blumenstein -- Library Journal, 05/15/2010
Celebrating its 101st Annual Conference & INFO-EXPO in New Orleans, June 13–16, SLA (Special Libraries Association) is taking inspiration from this iconic and challenged city. Knowledge professionals must embrace the future despite disintermediation and competition.
SLA's two-year Alignment Project led the association to ask members to consider a name change to the Association for Strategic Knowledge Professionals, or ASKPro. The initiative was turned down, but the process of redefinition goes on.
That research revealed that "we can't live in a world that we define" using insider terminology and outdated practices, says SLA president Anne Caputo (executive director, Dow Jones Learning & Information Professional Programs). To better connect info pros to users, she has created a task force to produce a tool kit of templates, case studies, and best practices with updated language.
Conference firsts and faves
SLA for the first time will offer two service opportunities (events #99 and #810/$105 each, on Sat., June 12 and Thurs., June 17) in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity, spearheaded by Caputo. Another debut: the virtual conference, $200 for six real-time Spotlight Sessions focusing on key topics like social media and tenure) and the opening and closing general sessions.
The popular Tech Zone series gets hands-on with applications on Taxonomy, Sharepoint, and Photoshop, plus concepts like tweeting and portals. These sessions ($35) often sell out.
Husband-and-wife political commentators and New Orleans residents James Carville and Mary Matalin will deliver the opening keynote (Sun., June 13, 5–7 p.m.). Author Nicholas Carr (Is Google Making Us Stupid?) will close the conference (Tues., June 15, 2–4 p.m.).
Monday, June 14
8–9:30 a.m.
SLA Career Connection Seminar: Personal Branding; Leveraging Your Unique Value for Career Success
One of three seminars devoted to improving the odds of getting hired, with the help of career coach Marshall Brown. One-on-one coaching available ($30) by appointment. (Follow-up: Creating Powerful Résumés, Jun. 15, 10–11:30 a.m.; Interviewing Tips & Techniques, Jun. 16, 2–3:30 p.m.)
SLA Unconference #1: Culture of Social Media (nine total, through June 16)
Some of the topics will be determined in advance, others by session participants.
10–11:30 a.m.
The Consultant's Toolkit: Tips, Techniques & Words of Wisdom
Experienced independent information professionals offer tips on setting up a thriving consultancy. A must.
Information Services in Transition: A Global Debate
Info pros from Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia discuss challenges, achievements, and future trends.
User-Focused Digital Library: A Practical Guide
Geared to solo librarians but important for all, as we move toward implementing self-service.
2–3:30 p.m.
Embedded Librarianship in the Field
Learn about this new reality from info pros on work teams.
Tuesday, June 15
10–11:30 a.m.
Future Trends in Government Libraries
With government resources going online en masse, what will become of government librarians?
Taxonomies in New Information Technologies
We already know they're the backbone of any effective online resource. Keep up-to-date with the latest systems.
Using Social Media for Business Research and Competitive Intelligence
They're more than just a PR tool; learn how to make the most of them.
noon–1:30 p.m.
Inherent Knowledge Sharing
Consultant Mary Ellen Bates shares strategies on how to combine software and people skills for knowledge sharing.
60 Sites in 60 Minutes
The title says it all for this fun session.
2–3:30 p.m.
Career Agility for Life
New skills, fresh motivation, and agile thinking can help you toward continuous employment. An early reading list suggests this is a session with substance.
Wednesday, June 16
8–9:30 a.m.
Spotlight Session: Ask the Competitive Intelligence Experts Panel
Shy about querying colleagues about this crucial skill set? Submit a written note.
10–11:30 a.m.
Drupal Use in Libraries
Wondering if this free, open source content management system is for you? Here's help to make an informed decision.
noon–1:30 p.m.
Spotlight Session: Nuts and Bolts of Contract Management
Get real-life advice on a topic that never gets old; vendor variations are eternal.
4–5:30 p.m.
SLA 2011 Kickoff and Closing Reception
The last official event and a final chance to network amid music and refreshments.
| Author Information |
| Lynn Blumenstein is Contributing Editor, LJ |
