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Abstracts and session descriptions

"That librarians should be politically active"
The NLS2006 Debate

We aim to explore the arguments as to why those in the information field should or shouldn't be politically engaged, and whether it benefits individuals, libraries or the profession as a whole.

Although on a serious topic, we envisage that this debate will get NLS2006 off to a great start by welcoming delegates to think about issues facing our profession, as well as being a fun, interactive way to begin the symposium.

Debaters include:

Aspects of Leadership
The NLS2006 Panel

The session aims to explore all aspects of leadership, from being a leader in a prominent role to leading from the bottom up. We envisage that this panel will inspire delegates to think about what leadership means to them, what it means for the profession. It will be a highlight of the symposium.

The panel will include four leaders in our profession from a range of backgrounds and sectors. Our confirmed panellists are:

The session will be moderated and MC'd by Adrianne Harris, co-convenor of NLS2006.

New Graduates Group

Trevor Mackay, Michelle Thomason, and Laura Foley will present an overview of the benefits of joining the New Graduates Group, introduce your regional coordinators, and launch their newsletter (check your satchel!)

Where are they now? A longitudinal analysis of LIS mentees
Merindi Derrick

The literature on the benefits of formal and informal mentoring in school, tertiary and work settings is extensive. Although some mentoring programs are evaluated at the end of the first year, literature offering an evidence base for the career and professional development benefits ascribed to programs is far less. In Queensland the ALIA professional mentoring program is linked with the QUT Career Mentor Program for students. This paper reports on a longitudinal analysis of outcomes for library professionals who have participated in the QUT/ALIA mentoring program. It will look at the participants’ perception of the value of the program in terms of their learning and their career advancement. It is anticipated that the study will contribute to an improved understanding of the way mentoring programs impact on mentees after the formal program has been completed. Lessons learnt from the study will be incorporated into the QUT/ALIA mentoring program in future years.

Acting the Part: the opportunities of taking Higher Duties
Louise Driscoll

Short term acting positions are a great opportunity, they allow you to explore your own potential, test your resolve and maximise your work place experience.

An opportunity arose last year for a 3 month acting position as the Coordinator of Serials and Electronic Resources (part of the University of WA Library's technical services division). I applied and, to my shock, was successful. This paper reflects on the experience.

Before this opportunity, I viewed myself as a relatively junior member of the professional staff in my work place. Initially I felt concerned about my lack of experience and that perhaps I wasn't experienced enough to apply. But it's important to have faith in your own ability, to get out of your comfort zone and test yourself.

There are many positive aspects and much to learn, not only about the workplace but also about yourself. One my main objectives when applying for the position was to develop a better understanding of the section's operations, a more holistic view of the roles and responsibilities of all the staff. However, there are more advantages on offer if you seize them; the opportunity to broadcast your abilities as well as increasing your skill base through new experiences like managing staff, managing work flow and project management.

One of the most important lessons I leant was that it's OK not to know and it's not necessary to have all the answers in order to be effective in a leadership position. Seeking advice and being open to feedback can make the experience a very productive one. Acting in your boss's position gives great insight into the pressures of their job and will help you, once back at your regular desk, in upward managing.

The University of Wollongong Library Cadetship experience: developing the skills for a career in librarianship
Rebecca Daly

The recently established University of Wollongong Library Professional Cadetship is an opportunity for those interested in a future in librarianship to undertake combined full-time employment and University-level study in a Library and Information Science Degree. The Cadetship model also aims to partly address the problem of succession planning for the University Library which has a vested interest in securing an ongoing generation of information professionals.

In September 2005 the author became the first cadet to begin the three year fixed term program, beginning with placement in Lending Services, and followed by Journal Access Services, each for a six month period. Management tools such as Monthly Reviews and Monthly Reflections, recorded in the Portfolio, are used by the cadet to document both personal and professional development issues as they relate to the current placement team. These tools are used in conjunction with monthly meetings with the team co-ordinator and the cadet’s supervisor at which concerns relating to the program can be discussed and addressed in order to improve the learning experience of the Cadetship.

On reflection, the UWL management will refine the advertisement in order to attract and recruit the most suitable candidates. Also, changes were made to the original organisation of the first six month placement in Lending Services in order to make the most advantageous use of the time available. Identifying these issues has enabled action to be taken to improve the Cadetship model which has provided a learning experience for all involved.

Federated Searching: Is the death toll sounding for Information Literacy? Do we really want to "Google"™ our libraries?
Libbie Blanchard and Joanne Keleher

Federated search technology provides library users with an avenue to locate information in a similar way to Google™ search. It answers many a frustrated, time pressured users' prayer by allowing them to search across multiple information resources at the same time. As library professionals, should we embrace this technology and celebrate the simplicity of this search mechanism and the release of information, or should we cringe in fear and write the obituary for information literacy and life long learning? Our library is currently in the process of installing federated searching software. This paper will explore whether the introduction of federated searching could affect the development of information literacy skills in our library users; what impact it will have on the way information literacy is currently taught, and provide an insight into the advantages and disadvantages of using federated search technology in a university library environment.

Adapting Open Source Software to Benefit the Library:  One New Librarian’s Experience in Changing the Processes of a Large Academic Library during the First Year of Employment
Emily Barton

This article outlines the technological and political skills one first-year librarian used to implement new technologies, including blogs, wiki's and an open-source content management system, in a large academic library. The content management system allowed librarians with no knowledge of HTML to create professional looking, consistent, branded Web pages by simply filling in the blanks of a Web form. The author discusses the challenges of creating interfaces that are simple to use for both librarians with and without technological expertise, and the importance of providing detailed training, and individual coaching, highlighting the new technologies' ease of use. The interpersonal challenges of engendering administrative and peer support for implementing major change in a large academic library as a new young professional are emphasized.

Using a wiki for information services: principles and practicalities
Peter Blake

This article describes the process of setting up a wiki, both in installation and configuration, placing particular emphasis on community building and correct encapsulation of the desired scope of the wiki.

A prototype reference desk assistance wiki developed at ACU is demonstrated, which is, as far as we are aware, the first of its type in Australia. This system is rigorously evaluated to illustrate some of the pitfalls that colleagues may experience when constructing their own similar systems. In particular, we discuss the need to allocate time for editing, moderating, and "grooming" of the accumulated material.

The pros and cons of the wiki paradigm itself are also discussed, taking Wikipedia, including its recent controversies as an example. This are also contrasted with some professionally-run wikis to highlight the tensions between amateur and professionally-run reference services.

Finally, based on experiences at our institution, recommendations of other uses for which wikis may prove particularly well-suited are presented, and wikis are placed in the context of the current "state of the art" in information exchange technologies.

Skin of Your Teeth Library Management: How to Survive Falling Up the Career Ladder
John Chisholm

Falling up the career ladder is not an unusual occurrence in Australian Libraries. While librarians without management training may find themselves floating just out of the depth in unfamiliar waters, the alternative is too often managers without library experience. This second group can find themselves splashing around at the opposite end of this metaphorical pool. As such, this paper will present several methods of dealing with the management side of librarianship. Looking closely at what will work for those who have not studied management as a discipline and need to learn on the job. It will also consider how to decide which style of management will suit you as a manager and your organization. Possible ways of managing staff with more knowledge and experience than yourself will be explored in some depth.

Throughout the paper, consideration will be given to acquiring and using;

The management theories promoted by popular business psychology books will be examined in order to asses their potential for providing relevant information to the accidental library manager. As Library managers are often required to present information in formal settings, consideration will be given to the skills of public speaking and internal promotion. Emphasis will be placed on presenting information to a board of directors or an elected council. Finally, the benefits to the library sector of librarians acquiring formal qualifications in a management field will be examined.

whY generation? Millennials as managers, or the future of library management
Kate Davis

The demographic in Australian libraries is changing: the library workforce is rapidly ageing and the Millennial generation is increasingly representing a larger proportion of the workforce. With this comes many challenges, both for existing library staff (and management) and for the Millennial librarian.

Using literature drawn from the field of Library and Information Studies, as well as the field of Management more generally, this paper examines the issues surrounding the integration of a new generation of librarians into the profession. In particular, it discusses:

The paper challenges the library community to create a culture in which tomorrow's leaders are nurtured and invested in. Further, the paper asks the question: is the library community doing enough to attract bright young people to the profession?

The paper is presented from the point of view of a Millennial librarian. Its aim is to raise awareness of, as well as stimulate discussion on, these important issues.

Cairns Libraries: Building Connections
Kristie Jones

Building connections is important in the survival of any type of library.  For public libraries, it is essential. I became all too aware of this when I left the cosy environment of a school library for the vast possibilities of a public library career. I had entered an organisation that is innovative, ground breaking and energetic. According to the latest community survey Cairns Libraries is now the second most important service in Cairns City Council. As Cairns Libraries’ first dedicated Children’s Librarian, I was expected to create exciting new programs in order for the library service to become a lifestyle choice for children and young people. To do this, I needed to create connections.

Professional connections became my saviour. I joined relevant e-lists and came to know a wonderful group of people willing to share ideas and offer advice. With their help, I found resources for projects, kept abreast of trends and sourced speakers for the QPLA conference hosted by Cairns Libraries this year. Community and organisational connections are, of course, vital. Some just needed building upon. Others needed to be created afresh and included connections with authors, playgroups and schools. Through innovative programs, Cairns Libraries has developed partnerships with Trinity Bay State High and Balaclava State School.

What is my vision for building further connections? One of my goals is to expand our connections with local high schools, partnering with Cairns State High to achieve an exciting program for Children’s Book Week. A network with primary schools will be accomplished through the launch of Cairns Libraries’ children’s card, website ‘The Kids Fishing Hole’ and library mascot ‘Dewey’. Increasing our school holiday programs is another goal, weaving links with authors, community groups and puppeteers. I also intend to create state-wide connections with education and library professionals through organising a young peoples section in the QPLA conference this year.

 

Gone are the days when public libraries can afford to be passive. By building connections public libraries can transcend their traditional role as a provider of resources. They can become vibrant community centres and a lifestyle experience for all who use them.

Networking 101
Alan Smith

Part One - Intermediate - Dinners

Part Two - Advanced - Cocktail Parties and Foyers

Be prepared to bring your satchels to this session!

Me, Myself and IM
Catherine Miller and Theresa McGinley

Information Management (IM) is an increasingly viable career option for Library and Information Studies (LIS) students and graduates. The presenters, Cathy Miller and Theresa McGinley, both work in the IM industry having graduated from the University of South Australia's LIS Bachelor of Arts in 2004. Their jobs provide them with the opportunity to apply and extend their LIS skills in an exciting environment of new technologies including blogs, wikis, RSS and more. Although such positions may sound IT focussed, LIS is a highly appropriate background for those interested in pursuing careers in IM. Based on their experiences, Cathy and Theresa will outline the actions which can be taken to tailor study, work experience and job seeking to open up IM pathways.

Time in Timor : working overseas as a volunteer
Maggie McCafferty

Maggie spent nine weeks as a volunteer librarian with the Commission for Truth and Reconcilitation in Dili, East Timor, in 2005. The experience gave Maggie a stronger appreciation of the many things we take for granted in Australia as well as a small understanding of life in a developing country. Maggie talks about her work in a small special library and the issues faced when working in such a situation. She also talks about the turbulent history of East Timor and what life there is like for expatriates. Maggie details the personal benefits she received through working as a volunteer librarian, and recommends taking advantage of such opportunities for various reasons – social responsibility, professional development and personal growth.

Rock & Rhyme: development and implementation of an early children's development program at the State Library of Tasmania
Rachele Carnevale, Anna Zylstra, Catherine Chambers

This presentation will focus upon the professional development opportunities this program offered to a new librarian.  The skills that were learned through the development and implementation of this program were invaluable.  These included the establishment of good working relationships with existing staff, the opportunity to experience the entire process through every step - from the initial idea to the implementation on a state wide basis - project planning, funding issues, training of staff, overcoming resistance from colleagues, not to mention overcoming a fear of public performance.

Rock & Rhyme is a program for babies from the age of 0 to 18 months.  It is a half hour session which includes songs, rhymes, board books, musical instruments and lots of actions.

The Rock & Rhyme program began in Tasmania at the Launceston Library in April 2004.  At that time there was a strong political focus upon early childhood literacy both within the state and federally.  This program complemented another successful State Library of Tasmania early childhood literacy program - Babies who read succeed.

The program was initiated by staff from the Launceston Library who recognised a gap in the service provided by the library.  It is based loosely on the Mother Goose program in Canada.  Tasmania has a unique state wide library system, which enables the sharing of programs.  Rock & Rhyme is now offered in four libraries around the state, and is growing.

Rock & Rhyme has won two Tasmanian awards for Educational Excellence. The awards recognised the value Rock &Rhyme places on early childhood literacy, the fact that it makes the library a fun place to visit from an early age, the increase in borrowing statistics and memberships after each session, and the social interaction that takes place between the parents and babies.

Your Library is a Marketing Organisation
Duncan McLachlan

As a librarian starting off in the 21st century you will want to know about what’s coming up that will influence the way you work.

In future, libraries will be market led, more opportunistic, truly responsive to their customers’ wants, needs and goals.

No more patrons, promotions, visual branding or newsletters. Let’s crank things up and talk about customer segmentation, prototyping, product development, brand presence and direct marketing. This is a fast paced session.

In a thought provoking look forward, spring-boarding off seven years as Strategic Marketing Manager at Wellington City Libraries, Duncan will look at the DOMA Scorecard, a four themed planning model for 21st century library marketing.

New Librarians who are future-thinking will gain useful insights into a marketer’s mind; you’ll be challenged with new ways to think about your own library’s customers and how to deliver awesome services for them in the future.

The key themes are:

A workbook will be supplied in the form of a marketing diary.

So you want to be a law librarian?
Vanessa O'Meara and Melanie Adam

How do you become a law librarian? What do law librarians do? What opportunities and career pathways are available in the legal sector?

Three law librarians from different areas of law librarianship will address a number of issues of relevance to new graduates interested in pursuing a career in the legal sector.

Vanessa O'Meara will outline competencies and skills required now and in the future. She will touch on the various legal sectors, career paths and ways in which new librarians can gain some relevant experience and gain that competitive edge.

Melanie Adam will relate her recent experiences on entering law librarianship. She will discuss her experiences in recruitment, and what an employer looks for when hiring a law librarian.

Mary Greenfield, current Convenor of the NSW Australian Law Librarians' Group, will explain the benefits of belonging to a professional association and what it can offer new graduates in terms of networking opportunities, further training and professional development.

What does the future hold for those who enter the profession of legal librarianship? The legal sector offers dynamic possibilities for committed individuals. If you are looking for a challenge, you can acquire easily transferable skills that can take you anywhere you want to go.

Have MLIS, will travel
Nancy Fawley

A master’s degree in library and information science can prepare you for a career in libraries; it can also open the door for you to work overseas. A job-specific degree like an MLIS can make it much easier to find a position in a foreign country.

There are different paths you can follow in a career as an international librarian, just as there are if you worked in your home country. School media librarians in international schools are the most common, but there are also opportunities in academic and special libraries. There are particular organizations and listservs that specialize in overseas positions, some even offer advice on how to find employment.

There is much more, of course, to becoming an ex-patriot (ex-pat) or international librarian than an MLIS. You do not necessarily need special skills for an overseas position. Familiarity with the local language is helpful but not necessary if the curriculum is in English. Far more important attributes are an open mind and a sense of adventure. A desire to live in a new country and experience new cultures is important. The ability to adapt easily to different, and sometimes frustrating, situations will help you transition more easily to your new job and home.

Freedom of Access to Information post September 11, 2001
Matthew Davis

In July, 2005 a student of Monash University was taken in and questioned by the Australian Federal Police after he borrowed books on the methods of Palestinian suicide bombers (O’Keefe, 2005). And whilst questioning revealed that the books were for legitimate study purposes, this incident reveals the effects on the innocent of recent terrorism laws introduced in Australia and the terrorism focus that has gripped the western world post September 11, 2001. More disturbing is that it is alleged that the informant was a Monash University Librarian.

Libraries play a crucial role in the education of the population, providing a catalyst for social and cultural change and development. Working alongside the nations educational centres, the library nurtures and assists in the edification of the population.

Due to the public service nature of the profession, censorship and information control have been issues that have been central to Librarians for as long as the vocation has been in existence. As developments in technology improve global communication and travel, Librarians have seen a change in the way information is managed and used, creating unique ethical dilemmas about provision and access. This paper seeks to explore the ethics of information access within the library profession and to provide new librarians with an understanding of the application of an ethical code, particularly in light of the changing nature of the occupation in a post September 11, 2001 global community.

This paper will be presented by Alyson Dalby

Librarians in the Looking Glass: Reflections of Our Profession in Popular Culture
Kael Driscoll

A number of years ago I started a PhD on the image of librarians in literature. However, I ended up withdrawing to pursue a career as an actual librarian. This unfinished thesis still haunts me, and I find that I am constantly collecting references to librarians in books, comics, films and TV shows.

I often wonder if other professions share this same kind of obsession? Doctors, lawyers and police saturate our airwaves, so when a librarian gets a mention we all seem to take note. But often the mention is so condescending or inaccurate that it can be somewhat depressing. Is that a reflection on us as a group, or a reflection on how our role is perceived in society?

Librarians have had a bad run in popular culture over the years. The “shush” stereotype of an older woman with a bun, twin set and glasses is so pervasive that it often appears inescapable. However, we may have turned a corner in computer age. It seems that people are more willing to embrace librarians as tech-savvy, open-minded information gurus. But are we just being rebranded as "knowledge managers" and losing the glorious history of our noble forebears?

This presentation aims to explore the image of librarians in popular culture. By looking at the gap between perception and reality I will identify some possible pathways to a new cultural identity.

I will be referring to a set of texts that seek to undermine the negative stereotypes of our profession and move librarians into a new realm. Who are our new heroes, and what can we learn from them? Some these texts include the works of Jorge Luis Borges, “Rex Libris”, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, “Seinfeld” and “Sandman”.

Librarian as Lecturer: how information literacy is paving the way for librarians to be integrated into student’s learning with advantages for both the student and your career
Lisa Paul

Information Literacy comprises a major part of a librarian’s role and a vital part of student learning. One of the many Griffith University graduate attributes is for students to be information literate (Griffith University, 2004). As the law librarian at the Gold Coast Campus, I feel that my role is to be instrumental in driving forward this agenda.

During 2005, a major review of the undergraduate law curriculum was conducted by the Griffith Law School and the outcome of this process has allowed me to be part of the process to integrate information literacy and legal research skills into the undergraduate degree. This was a first for Griffith University Librarians and I have to say that we’re excited about it.

The paper will look at the process undertaken to integrate information literacy and legal research skills into the curriculum and how I, as law librarian, have gone from teaching hour-long workshops in legal research to creating and delivering a complete subject on this topic.

I’ll also be talking about my experience with the whole process along with the intricacies of balancing the role of both teacher and librarian. Interestingly, one role has caused a great impact upon the other so this will be discussed along with an honest approach of what did and what didn’t work.

Allowing talking in the Reading Room: user collaboration in archive websites
Richard Lehane

Over the last few years the internet has become much more dynamic and participatory. Many major websites now involve users in the creation of content. This is significant for archives because it suggests ways that their own virtual reading rooms might develop. A likely site of participation is the online catalogue. This paper considers the effects of user-contributed content on archivists' two key descriptive functions: documenting context and facilitating access. It finds that, while including users in documenting context threatens the reliability and authority of that information, there is potential for users to assist archivists as mediators in the discovery process. Relieved of some of that mediating burden, archivists may then be able to reaffirm and strengthen their contextualising voice.

Pathways to the community: the possibilities are endless…
Tania Barry

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has" Margaret Mead

At the beginning of the 21st century, lifelong learning became the catchcry for those in the public library sector. More to the point, early childhood literacy was identified as the cornerstone of lifelong learning. Libraries play a crucial role in building this foundation by joining forces with community groups to create a diverse range of partnerships. Libraries are often overlooked by other areas of Council or community groups when devising and instigating new programs and services. This oversight needs to be rectified, so that the value of collaboration with libraries for community learning is acknowledged and maximised.

This paper will discuss the ways a new graduate librarian formed collaborative partnerships which became an integral part of community learning. When seeking out ways to develop emergent literacy strategies and devise programs to encourage early childhood, primary and adolescent literacy, the author was able to draw on her own experiences to identify what was needed in the community.

Evidence-Based Library and Information Practice (EBLIP) - strut the catwalk to reveal your inner supermodel
Lisa Cotter and Mary Grimmond

By showcasing the possibilities and benefits of evidence based library and information practice (EBLIP), this presentation hopes to entice delegates to do "a little turn on the catwalk", modelling EBL. Unless you are too sexy for your study, a $10000 grant is not necessary to make it worth getting out of bed and involved with research.

EBL is not in the exclusive domain of "researchers", nor just the high-flyers with special project funding. It is a tool that can be applied by library practitioners, as both consumers and producers of research, within the scope of normal library operations. EBLIP promotes best practice in the workplace while also providing valuable opportunities for professional development. It encourages decision making to be based upon the best available evidence, embodying a cycle where research is found, appraised, used, and reported.

By incorporating EBLIP, projects involving routine activities carried out in libraries every day may be offered up as a "supermodel" - an exemplar to be inspired by and learn from, to critique, and to copy. The Central Coast Health Service Library have adopted the EBLIP framework to undertake an intranet usability study, a collection evaluation, and to enhance project planning. In doing so, library staff have experienced the research process first hand, developed a better understanding of study design and appraisal skills, had the opportunity to present their projects at an international conference, and publish articles in a peer-reviewed journal.

There is no need to wait for a $10000 research project. Try evidence based library and information practice on for size - it can be fashioned to reveal every librarian's inner supermodel.

Workforce planning: the new librarian's perspective!
Helen Partridge

As the proverb says: "he who fails to plan, plans to fail". The Australian library and information profession needs to plan for its future. What can, and should, the profession to doing to ensure it attracts and retains the dynamic workforce it needs? Never before has workforce planning been more needed. New librarians can offer fresh and alternative views to this issue. This workshop will offer you - the new librarian - the opportunity to help shape the future of your profession. You are invited to share your critical observations and thoughts on some of the key issues our profession faces in terms of recruitment and retention. Some of these key issues will include job design, selection processes, staff motivation and professional development.

Babes and Books: Balancing Parenting and a Library Career
Sharon Uthmann

"With so many roads to travel on, which path will unwind? How do I know if I'm doing it right, when it's never been defined." – Are We There Yet? Musical

Most people believe that when they decide to have a family they must put their careers’ on hold until the children are in daycare/school. This is the belief I had going into my pregnancy with my first child. However, this belief was to be challenged when I was presented with the ALIA Dunn & Wilson Scholarship at 13 weeks pregnant. Suddenly, not only was I unable to put my career on hold, but I was required to complete a 2 year research project whilst pregnant and with a new baby! – “oh my goodness, how am I going to accomplish this!! How am I going to cope?? Where will I find the time to complete the research?? Etc etc.”

Now 10 months onwards, I will present to you:

I will conclude through illustrating that raising a family does not mean you, as a library professional, has to “drop off the radar.” Research scholarships, study grants and other professional development activities can assist in “keeping your foot in the door.” And the challenges that appear to be great in the beginning can and will be overcome. Being a parent in the LIS profession does not mean a “stop sign” in your career – in fact it can open so many more doors!!!

Is life in the fast lane always the best lane?
Graham Black

Demographics suggest that while baby boomers are looking for sea change along the seaboard, younger generations are heading towards the metropolitan areas of Australia. This paper will explore the professional and personal aspects of developing a career in a regional area. Topics such as financial issues, community involvement, professional advancement and lifestyle will be addressed. Case studies will be used to highlight how people have used regional opportunities to enhance their careers.

Managing the retirement brain drain: A case-study from the Manuscripts Branch at the National Library of Australia
Beth Lonergan, Bronwyn Ryan and Renée Shuttleworth

What happens when a manuscripts team loses years of collection knowledge and established relationships with donors and users as the result of retirement? What strategies can staff adopt to compensate for that loss of knowledge? In the midst of a period of such transition, three new archivists consider it timely to provide an account of recent developments in the National Library of Australia's Manuscripts Branch. We will focus on the local significance of Australia's ageing workforce by reflecting upon the changes prompted by the recent retirement of several long-serving Manuscript librarians. We will report on what the key issues have been for us during this transitional phase. We will also explore the implications of retirement for other institutions, and the aims and possibilities for the future.

Following to the Top and Leading from the Bottom
Suzanne Byke and Dawn Lowe-Wincentsen

Are you a leader or a follower? What do the terms leadership and followership mean and why is it important to clearly understand the roles of leaders and followers? What about the influential middle ground between the two?

Library and Information Studies programs provide many academic tools of the trade but rarely address the skills necessary to be an influential follower or leader. Learning to be influential is the key to the middle ground. This paper will identify practical skills of leadership and followership that will help one to discover the courageous leader and follower within.

Web Papers Programme

The potential of “two-dimensional barcode technology” used in mobile phones as a new means of information provision in the library environment
Kumi Suzuki

A two-dimensional (2D) barcode contains encoded binary and alphanumeric information, which is scanned and decoded by camera-equipped mobile phones. A major application of this technology is in Internet services for mobile phone users, where users can download online contents to their handsets just by scanning the 2D barcodes. The provision of information services by this technology has the potential to bring benefits to both libraries and library users. These benefits include:

  1. delivery of new information services to meet the needs of users,
  2. enhancement of user-friendliness and
  3. acquisition of prompt feedback from users.

In this paper, I also summarise current areas in which this technology is used as well as its effective application for delivering new services in the library environment.

Internet search and the searchers: what they know, what they really know, how they do it and how we can help them do it better.
Nicholas Pavlovski

Information seeking has changed for the X and Y Generations, whom primarily use Internet search engines rather than more traditional resources. What they learn about search engines and how they work is often poor, but through previous successes doing simple searches, they have developed false confidence in their tool to the exclusion of all others. When these students can't retrieve the information they need, they seek help in academic libraries where the academic librarians must adopt new ways to help and educate them in information literacy. How these users think and search is explained and then corresponding "unlearning" and solutions are offered to meet their particular educational requirements and technological skills.

ALIA New Librarians' Symposium 2006
Fri 1st - Sat 2nd Dec 2006
The John Niland Scientia Building, UNSW
Sydney Australia

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