Practical Applications of Technology Committee Meeting Notes

June 16, 2002

Present: Frank Bridge, Susan Kent (speaker), Ross McLachlan, Andy Peters, Diana Sachs, Holly Carroll, Karen Hyman, Bruce Ziegman, Mickey Anne Hinojosa, Dale Powers

Did introductions and reviewed the committee membership. Jo Ann Oliphant has dropped off the committee. PLA is offering the open spot to Michael Stevens of Baltimore County.

Holly reported that the Technology Committee had dropped plans for a pre-conference in Toronto because we are doing one. They asked that we leave the annual 2004 conference for them which we agreed to do.

We reaffirmed that our Toronto pre-conference will be aimed at those with decision-making authority or ability to influence the direction of their organization. This includes directors, other managers & trustees.

We changed the title to: "Public Libraries: Adding Value in a Warp-Speed World."

Everyone seemed to feel good about the speaker lineup despite the fact that 4 of 5 are from California.

The objectives are to have people leave feeling encouraged to be creative, take risks and make their libraries as relevant as they can be. Further, they should leave with some practical ideas of things they can do when they go back.

Two members expressed their hope that speakers would include discussions about how their ideas/products/services relate to diverse populations.

Speakers are encouraged to talk about what worked and why it worked. Also, what didn't work and why. And all in terms that others could adapt - not just telling the story of their experience. While speakers should emphasize the technological aspects of their endeavors, they should bear in mind that the program is not intended for IT Managers.

Thursday is a problem for Susan Kent. Program needs to be on Friday.