by Carla Pfahl
Quick Summary
The Call For Proposals is now open for the North American Virtual Reference Online Conference, February 25 - 27, 2025.
The NAVROC planning committee is currently seeking proposals for this free, online conference held Tuesday through Thursday, February 25-27, 2025. We are seeking proposals for 45 minute sessions and 20 minute lightning talks from virtual reference providers relating to our theme, Applying The Trends of Tomorrow, Today. These sessions will comprise the 2-3 hour time frame of each conference day. Because this is a virtual conference, presenters can present from anywhere as long as they have a stable internet connection.
Conference Description: The future of libraries is unfolding today, with many institutions embracing cutting-edge technologies and innovative strategies to better serve their communities. By integrating advancements such as artificial intelligence, chatbots, and augmented reality, libraries are transforming into dynamic, user-centered spaces that evolve to meet the changing needs of their patrons.
The keynote for this year’s conference is Dr. Sandra Hirsh, who currently serves as the Associate Dean for Academics in the College of Information, Data & Society at San José State University. Her work focuses on the future of libraries, and she recently published the book “Library 2035: Imagining the Next Generation of Libraries,” which explores lessons learned over the past decade and forecasts opportunities, strengths, and challenges for libraries in the future.
Potential Topics include but are not limited to:
Adaptability
- Adjusting to the next wave of trends
- Use of chatbots, nextgen searches
- Sustainability
- Crisis management
- Building partnerships with other organizations or departments
Challenges
- Maintaining user privacy
- Tech agnosticism
- Climate change
- Creative solutions to staffing challenges
Equity & Engagement
- Accessibility tools
- Centering race in virtual reference (VR)
- Mitigating microaggressions in chat
- Engaging BIPOC staff and patrons
- Multi-lingual VR services
Evaluation & Appraisal
- Transcript analysis tools
- Analyzing user ratings
- Telling your story with data
Marketing & Promotion
- Marketing your service
- Advocating for the relevance of your VR service
- Securing funding for your VR service
Reference
- Evaluating and vetting information resources
- Unique changes in vendor services
Technology
- AI and machine learning tools
To submit a proposal, please fill out the proposal submission form by Friday, November 29, 2024.
