Category: 2023

“Clear, Consistent, Inclusive, and Transparent” AISLE 2023 Annual Conference, Champaign, IL.

Abstract: The role of school librarians extends beyond simply helping students achieve success in their studies. School librarians prepare students for life-long inquiry based learning. We foster students passions beyond the curriculum and equip them to thrive in a world of information and misinformation. But how do we plan and build programs around the unique passions of individuals?? What does a makerspace of the mind look like and how do we draw lines, and put together budgets with such diversity? How can we constantly add new services, and tools when we barely can keep up with the current program? This talk will lay out some ideas on how as librarians we can do less, but do it better. It is about focusing the work of the librarian to unleash the potential of students.

“To Improve is Not a Neutral Act” Biblioteche Innovazione Comunita, Bergamo, Italy

Abstract: Values are one of the defining characteristics of a librarian. Yet one value needs a thorough rethinking: neutrality. In this short video Lankes argues that one can’t be neutral, that intellectual honesty is a better concept (active versus passive), and that such a stand is even more important in a time of attacks on intellectual freedom and librarians.

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“Radicals, Rebellion, and Saving Our Communities” Keynote for EAHIL Workshop 2023, Trondheim

Abstract: Libraries are under attack. This presentation talks about how book challenges and proposed legislation in Texas should serve as a cautionary tale for the world.

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“The Real AI: Augmented Intelligence.” Presentation to the Enssib event 1, 2, 3… IA ! Intelligence Artificielle, Métiers et Compétences. May 11, 2023

Abstract: What are the necessary competencies for librarians in the age of AI? A presentation to the Enssib session on AI librarian competencies. THe whole agenda and video of the sessions can be found here: https://www.enssib.fr/printemps-des-metiers-2023-intelligence-artificielle-metiers-competences

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Continue reading “The Real AI: Augmented Intelligence”

“Library as Movement” Iowa Libraries Online Conference 2023

Abstract: The library is a platform to help communities improve. This platform must be collaborative. A place where librarians work directly with community members, companies, institutions, and others. It is these collaborations that drive positive change. This idea transforms the library as a place with services, to a movement – a joint effort to constantly advocate for positive change. The role of the librarian is as facilitator weaving together increasingly divided populations. The result is a library that reflects the unique nature and aspirations of a people looking to make a better future.
 
In this talk I’ll examine this idea and illustrate the reality of the approach with examples from Denmark, South Korea, Texas, and South Carolina. I’ll talk about how the core skills of librarians can be extended and directed to the library as a locus of radical positive change.

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“Master of None.” Wild Wisconsin Winter Web Conference. via Video

Abstract: Librarians are being increasingly pulled in many directions. What once was a profession focused on collections and institutions that served the public, has become a community centered space that acts as makerspace, reading refuge, business center, and more. Recognition that libraries are not neutral and should serve an increasingly diverse community is being met with increasingly visible book banning efforts and complex issues of perspectives on diversity are flattened to being “woke.” This session will provide strategies and examples for offering focused services that reflect the complex community served.

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