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The year of living digitally

ALIA Information Online 2017 Conference, 13-17 February 2017 Sydney: Data Information Knowledge
 
This conference paper discusses the role of new and emerging technologies in connecting people to library services. 
 
Abstract: Digital technology plays an increasingly major role in our lives. Greater access to information and the sharing of information is making us more informed citizens, giving us more control over our lives and how we create and develop our communities.  We are witnessing a change in the nature of work, people are living longer and healthier lives, and new kinds of tribalism and internationalism are emerging. In 2017, State Library of Queensland (SLQ) is exploring digital citizenship in all its forms through our Signature Program framework – a schedule of events and exhibitions. In partnership with communities and visitors, we are spending the next twelve months connecting, creating and exploring the changing digital nature of our economy, our political processes and our leisure activities. 
 
SLQ is committed to designing and delivering programs and services which, not only connect and engage with audiences, but are genuine collaborations with our audiences. In 2014 SLQ adopted an annual Signature Program framework focusing on a ‘theme’ of interest to the Queensland community through a range of activities, experiences and events. The Signature Program team engages with the community and partners to develop and deliver elements that are scalable and transferable for collaboration with regional communities. In 2017 this team will focus on digital citizenship, exploring meaning and experiences at the personal and state level to engage Queenslanders in conversation with experts and each other.
 
At SLQ we see technology as an enabler not a driver of our services.  We have a role in supporting the community to stay abreast of unprecedented changes resulting from the digitally enabled economy and society.  During our “year of living digitally”, we will engage with audiences to develop capabilities in data visualisation, big data and crowd sourced collaboration. Building on the groundwork laid by the National Year of Digital Inclusion (https://www.godigi.org.au/) and previous innovative SLQ-led projects, such as Tech Savvy Seniors and digital literacy resource kits for public libraries, our events and exhibitions schedule will allow individuals to explore their digital world and comprehend what the new Queensland will look like. SLQ’s aim is to co-create new knowledge and partner with others to undertake and facilitate research, and to support community-based research infrastructure. This paper will report on our planned schedule of engagement, document the community participation so far and invite partnerships and engagement from conference delegates.
 
The “year of living digitally” program explores how technology has given us new tools to question, understand, imagine, and better the world in which we live. The flow of big data and information now generates more economic value than the global goods trade.  Affordable and democratic access to communication technologies has resulted in a burgeoning creativity by diverse global voices. SLQ is leading the way in how libraries can explore the global and local benefits of sharing, disruption and convergence cultures with visitors and audiences.

 

The future of LIS education

Viv Barton, ALIA Vice President (President-elect) has chosen education as the theme for her Presidential year, from May 2020 – May 2021. It is a topic which goes to the very heart of ALIA, as the professional body for the library and information sector.
 
In 2018, the ALIA Board appointed the ALIA Education Advisory Committee, comprising leaders from education and institutions across the sector, to provide advice to the Board on ALIA’s education policies and guidelines. We currently work with LIS educators to shape quality contemporary courses in library and information science; we accredit higher education and vocational education institutions to deliver these courses; we provide a framework for ongoing learning through our PD Scheme; we offer a range of opportunities through ALIA Training; and we encourage professionals to include a relevant specialisation in their annual professional development commitment, as they work towards becoming a Distinguished Certified Professional. What might the future hold for us?
 
The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) is undertaking a survey in order to assess our current education position and the size of the gap between where we are now and our vision. 

The nest: a national plan for child and youth wellbeing

Australian National Early Literacy Summit, 7-8 March 2016 Canberra
 
This conference presentation (PowerPoint slides) from the summit provides an overview of a national child and youth well being program 'The Nest'.
 
The aim of the National Early Literacy Summit is to spark debate about what a National Early Literacy Strategy for Australia might include and how it would help deliver the best results, building on existing work such as the Australian Literacy Educators’ Association’s "Declaration of Literacy in 21st Century Australia" and Victorian Libraries' "Reading and Literacy for All". 
 
Government, educators, researchers, libraries and early years service providers will break new ground in collaborative engagement around this most vital national priority – future generations with the literacy skills to fight disadvantage, and advance Australia’s interests in the global knowledge economy. 

The library and information sector: core knowledge, skills and attributes

The library and information sector has a distinctive area of knowledge and skills which is required for effective professional practice. Library and information specialists need to acquire the relevant disciplinary expertise, demonstrate employment related skills and be prepared for a challenging and dynamic future in many diverse environments. 
 
This document was superceded by "Foundation knowledge for entry-level library and information professionals (2020)".

The new UX at State Library Victoria

ALIA Information Online 2017 Conference, 13-17 February 2017 Sydney: Data Information Knowledge
 
This conference paper examines the thinking and planning behind the re-imagined SLV, including developments to the physical spaces, external drivers for change, and the impacts these changes will have both for people using the Library as well as for the staff working in it.
 
Abstract: State Library Victoria (SLV) has a proud history of innovating and adapting to change throughout its 160 years. In the latest reinvention, SLV has embarked on a major 5-year building redevelopment project. The $83m capital works project will see key heritage spaces transformed, restored and in some case reopened to the public for the first time in decades. The project will see the development of new library spaces, services and programs targeted at specific user groups, including children and families, and start-ups and SMEs. Running concurrently with the capital works project, SLV is redesigning its strategy, operations, service model and workforce plan. This organisational transformation is responding to shifts in community expectations of 21st century libraries, powered by the growing focus on the knowledge and creative economy, and ongoing digital disruption.
 
This paper will look at the opportunities and challenges in refreshing an established and well-loved institution to ensure it is relevant and contemporary for a diverse range of users and stakeholders now and in the future. We will give a behind-the-scenes view into running a project of this scale, from getting it off the ground and securing funding, through to the competing priorities given consideration in the planning and design stages, and initiating project management and procurement. We will delve into some of the pragmatic issues we are tackling to prepare for operating a reimagined library service.
 
While still in the middle of the project, we have many useful reflections and learnings to date that will give an insight into the many facets of a project of this scale and complexity. At the ALIA Online Conference 2015, we shared our findings from our Future Service Model project. This paper builds on those findings and takes them to the next stage of implementation. The State Library Victoria is on an exciting path of setting its future direction and exploring new frontiers. This paper will share some of our journey so far.

 

The devil’s in the detail – operating a 24x7 library

Abstract:
Curtin University clients have been interested for many years in the Library providing more access to the physical building along with services. In 2013 the Library building underwent a major refurbishment to cater for these needs. Once complete it was possible to position the Library towards a stage by stage progressive journey to a 24x7 model. At the beginning of 2015 we have achieved what was once considered unattainable, a Library open 24 hours a day.
 
This presentation follows the journey from the traditional Full Service model to the flexible 24x7 Limited Services model in use today and highlights the opportunities and challenges faced, resulting in an overwhelmingly positive reception.
 
When considering the changes necessary to achieve our objective we had to take into account the issues of an aging building; the staffing considerations (who, what, when, where and why) and also the traditional mindsets of what a library is there for.
 
While the student experience is providing an environment conducive to their study needs, casual spaces to relax and recharge are also available. Library staff support their overnight needs and a security officer provides the safe and secure surrounds.
 
Over the last 18 months we have implemented and reviewed our model, and while it will be ever evolving we think that we have achieved best practice.

TAFE Libraries National Reciprocal Borrowing Scheme

The TAFE Libraries National Reciprocal Borrowing Scheme is managed by the ALIA VET Libraries Advisory Committee. It allows students and staff of participating TAFE libraries to register and borrow materials in person from any other participating host TAFE library in any other state, in addition to their own library. The scheme is designed to assist students and staff who may be enrolled with or employed by a TAFE institution in one state but who find it more convenient to access TAFE library services in another state. The reciprocal borrowing arrangements between TAFE libraries within a state are not covered by this scheme.
 
An updated list of participating institutions can be found at Mapping of TAFE Libraries: Updated 2021.

True or False: Media literacy for capable, confident, critical-thinkers

True or False: Media literacy for capable, confidence, critical-thinkers virtual conference was held on 3 September 2020. 
This document provides a conference program summary. Featuring presentations:

  • Media literacy – the national and international picture
  • Advancing the media literacy of young Australians: what the research tells us
  • We trust TV news – social media, not so much
  • Equipping young people to use digital platforms constructively
  • eSmart moves into digital media literacy
  • How will you use the ABC’s Media Literacy Week?

Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK) Fact Sheets

The Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK) campaign ran throughout 2019. The campaign focused on why librarianship is one of the most trusted professions in Australia and how people working in libraries (whether LIS qualified or from another discipline) promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interests of all Australians.
The series of fact sheets address poverty in Australia, homelessness, gender equality, and early literacy, language and learning.

The British Library in a globalised world

ALIA National 2014 Conference, 15-19 September 2014 Melbourne : together we are stronger
During this conference presentation, Roly Keating considers the role of the British Library as a national library on the international stage. 
He reflects on the changing nature of the Library’s services as it adapts to the evolving needs of its users, both at home and abroad.  A number of innovative partnerships have been developed, particularly to enable parts of the Library’s collection to be shared online, drawing in new audiences. 
 

Transcribing the past

ALIA National 2014 Conference, 15-19 September 2014 Melbourne : together we are stronger

This conference paper discusses how European War Collecting Project initiatied in1918 the Principal Librarian of the Public Library of NSW evolved into the digitisation of this collection of diaries and correspondence which has been a major component of the Library’s Centenary of WWI program. A key tool in providing access to the digitised material has been the development of a web based transcription tool which will elevate the transcription process from a boutique in house activity using volunteers to a web based crowd sourcing model which can be adapted for a range of transcription projects.

 

Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK) Fact Sheet Template

The Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK) campaign ran throughout 2019. The campaign focused on why librarianship is one of the most trusted professions in Australia and how people working in libraries (whether LIS qualified or from another discipline) promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interests of all Australians.
The template has been used to create a series of fact sheets address poverty in Australia, homelessness, gender equality, and early literacy, language and learning.

Talking Together INCITE

INCITE article by Kate Furguson about Yarra Plenty Regional Library's program 'Talking Together', a project that aims to build trust with the local Somali Australian community in Melbourne’s north.

Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK): 10 ways library and information professionals promote truth, integrity and knowledge

The Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK) campaign ran throughout 2019. The campaign focused on why librarianship is one of the most trusted professions in Australia and how people working in libraries (whether LIS qualified or from another discipline) promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interests of all Australians.
The series of promotional posters address "10 ways library and information professionals promote truth, integrity and knowledge".
Headings: TRUSTED PROFESSIONALS -- FREEDOM OF INFORMATION -- EVIDENCE-BASED -- DIGITAL EXPERTISE AND INCLUSION -- INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE -- FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION -- EQUITY -- PRIVACY -- OPEN ACCESS -- COLLABORATION.

Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK): 10 ways library and information professionals promote truth, integrity and knowledge summary (black text)

The Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK) campaign ran throughout 2019. The campaign focused on why librarianship is one of the most trusted professions in Australia and how people working in libraries (whether LIS qualified or from another discipline) promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interests of all Australians.
This promotional poster summarises "10 ways library and information professionals promote truth, integrity and knowledge". The poster is designed with black text.
Headings: TRUSTED PROFESSIONALS -- FREEDOM OF INFORMATION -- EVIDENCE-BASED -- DIGITAL EXPERTISE AND INCLUSION -- INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE -- FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION -- EQUITY -- PRIVACY -- OPEN ACCESS -- COLLABORATION.

Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK): 10 ways library and information professionals promote truth, integrity and knowledge summary

The Truth, Integrity, Knowledge (TIK) campaign ran throughout 2019. The campaign focused on why librarianship is one of the most trusted professions in Australia and how people working in libraries (whether LIS qualified or from another discipline) promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interests of all Australians.
This promotional poster summarises "10 ways library and information professionals promote truth, integrity and knowledge". The poster is designed with white and black text.
Headings: TRUSTED PROFESSIONALS -- FREEDOM OF INFORMATION -- EVIDENCE-BASED -- DIGITAL EXPERTISE AND INCLUSION -- INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE -- FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION -- EQUITY -- PRIVACY -- OPEN ACCESS -- COLLABORATION.

There and back: a story of how an idea grew beyond expectations

ALIA National 2014 Conference, 15-19 September 2014 Melbourne : together we are stronger
In 2013 the ANZ 23 Mobile Things programme took over the Southern Hemisphere as the professional development programme of choice.  Over 6 months, 770 people learnt how to use their mobile device to enhance their life, their libraries and their patrons’ ability to connect.  
This conference presentation goes through the process of how one tweet of an idea turned into a MOOC, what the successes were, what the challenges were, what worked and what didn’t.

The road goes ever ever on

ALIA National 2014 Conference, 15-19 September 2014 Melbourne : together we are stronger

This conference presentation draws from the professional experiences of the presenter, who has worked across a range of library sectors in Melbourne and Darwin, and participated in Australian International Development projects in Papua New Guinea and Vietnam.

It will particularly focus on three strategies for unconventional career development: relocating to a regional centre; working as an International Development volunteer; and working in non-library industries. He will also draw from the experience of other information professionals who have pursued these non-conventional career paths.

Teacher librarians in 21st century schools [slides]

ALIA New Librarians' Symposium 9 (NLS9), 5-7 July 2019 Adelaide: collaborate deviate innovate
 
This presentation (PowerPoint slides) supported the lightning talk on the continuing importance of teacher librarians at all levels of schooling.
 
Wherever possible, we need to utilise collaborations with classroom/subject teachers and use innovative teaching strategies to show that as information management professionals we have the skills to help underpin learning across traditional, information and digital literacies. It will look at strategies to ensure that collaborations with classroom teachers are successful and ways in which we as dual-qualified librarians and educators need to deviate from tradition to ensure that students are equipped to navigate the information-filled digital landscape they live in.
 
 

 

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