Call for papers


Bridging the digital divide: libraries providing access for all?



The theme “Bridging the digital divide” relates to the role of libraries and other information and cultural institutions in actively facilitating creation of knowledge and sharing information. The value of libraries is demonstrated in supporting lifelong learning, providing the capabilities for people to use increasingly complex technology for accessing information, and as an infrastructure for community building. This role requires creativity and vision, the exploitation of technologies and competing or collaborating with private sector information providers for best quality services.

The subthemes include (but are not limited to):

    Collection >>

  • The future of library services as increasingly more materials become available online
  • The format of the information storage – perceptions and reality
  • Innovative use of information architecture for access and delivery
    Community support >>

  • Community building
  • Renaissance of library building as community asset
  • e-Scholarship across the networks
  • Research communication online
    Access and delivery >>

  • Equality of access to information
  • Information literacy
  • Preservation for future generations
  • New media entertainment
    Leadership and management >>

  • Leadership competencies required to create advantage from current changes
  • Management for a better future
  • Evaluation of technology and services
  • Promotion of the value of libraries in a changing society
    Costs and economic models >>

  • Financial management of libraries during a recession
  • Providing service in times of budget cuts and decreasing resources

Contributions are welcome in the form of workshops, paper or poster presentations. Workshop contributions are particularly welcome.

Please send your proposal abstract (maximum 400 words in English including a short curriculum vitae, theme area and presentation type) by 15th of October 2009 to bobcatsss2010@unipr.it . To made easier reviewing the proposals, please, specificate in the mail subject “ABSTRACT2010″, detail all your personal data in the main body of the mail (including the title of your proposal and its keywords) and attach your proposal as .rtf document.