Seas of Change: Navigating the Cultural and Institutional Contexts of Special Collections
The 50th Annual Preconference of the Rare Books and Manuscripts Section of the
Association of College and Research Libraries, a division of the American Library Association
Charlottesville, Virginia
Wednesday June 17 through Saturday June 20, 2009
As the 50th anniversary of the RBMS preconference, this year represents an important moment in the history of RBMS and its affiliated professions. In addition to celebrating the our achievements we also want to look broadly at how special collections librarianship has evolved over the past half century with respect to changes in social, cultural, technological, economic, and academic environments and – more importantly – how we will need to respond to changes in the future. The main preconference program will explore the various cultural and institutional contexts in which we work, including academic research universities, research communities, professional organizations and library education, collecting and the book trade, publishing and the popular consumption of print materials, and domestic and international academic library systems.
Highlights
A booksellers' showcase featuring 28 members of the Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of America (ABAA) will be held on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. though 8:00 p.m. at the main preconference venue, the Omni Charlottesville Hotel.
In keeping with the 50th anniversary theme, RBMS members and ACRL are partnering to offer a special "Golden Leaders" program to bring retired section leaders to the preconference in addition to offering scholarships to first-time attendees.
Workshops, tours, receptions and other events are scheduled throughout the three and half day preconference, offering attendees opportunities to enhance their professional skills, network with one another, and visit local attractions.
Discussion sessions, short papers and seminar sessions complement the main preconference theme and offer presentations on other topics of professional interest.
