VALA holds regular guest speaker events covering recent and interesting developments in the application of information technology. They are open to all members of the community.
To view the Calendar of events click HERE.
VALA Code of Conduct
VALA seeks to provide a respectful and safe environment in which diverse participants may learn from, challenge, network with and share the company of colleagues. We recognise a shared responsibility to create and sustain that environment and do not tolerate harassment in any form. Click HERE for the full document.
VALA Events 2014: Lightning Talks
VALA and ALIAVic End-of-Year Event
Lightning Talks (and Walks)
This year’s Lightning Talks event will feature five 10 minute presentations from outstanding contributors within the Library IT field.
VALA Events 2014: Learning to Connect – Connecting to Learn
The Gelatine project and future directions for the design of connected learning environments
This webinar presents a research project focused at the development and evaluation of design strategies for smart space technology that enhance connected learning and networking opportunities for users in public libraries and coworking spaces.
Read More: VALA Events 2014: Learning to Connect – Connecting to Learn→
VALA Events 2014: Is there an Imposter in the Library?
VALA Guest Speaker Event and Annual General Meeting
Fear, failure and frauds: is there an imposter in the library?
Read More: VALA Events 2014: Is there an Imposter in the Library?→
VALA Meetings 2014: AGM
Notice of Annual General Meeting
6.00 p.m., 25th June, 2014
VENUE: Dulcie Hollyock Room, Ground Floor, Baillieu Library, University of Melbourne.
VALA Event 2013 : Technolust
VALA Guest Speaker Event
Technolust: the fifth column of the information counter-revolution
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As libraries see their funding reduced and their relevance questioned across the world, they are eager to introduce and use new technologies to remain valued and vibrant. In this talk, Hugh will argue that in a rush to remain relevant, it is easy for librarians to unwittingly support and champion technologies that oppose the values upon which our profession is based. He will also highlight some of the technology projects libraries are successfully running without compromising their commitment to openness, confidentiality and freedom.
Speaker: Hugh Rundle
Hugh Rundle is Information Management and Kew Librarian at the City of Boroondara. Mal Booth, University Librarian at UTS recently wrote that “Hugh is now one of the leading thinkers with regard to libraries in Australia”. Then again, David Lankes of Syracuse University has accused him of “the worst bit of logical reasoning I’ve seen in quite a bit of time”, which just goes to show the value of a thorough literature review. Hugh is active on Twitter and writes a blog called “It’s not about the books” at hughrundle.net.
FREE ENTRY
Hugh Rundle’s talk will follow the “brief” business of the Special General Meeting of the Association.
Not a VALA member?
Visitors are welcome at VALA meetings – but registration is essential!
VENUE
Dulcie Hollyock Room
Ground Floor, Baillieu Library,
University of Melbourne.
(Public transport via train or tram.
On-street parking in surrounding area – have gold coins available.)
DATE & TIME
Wednesday 27 March 2013 Drinks and nibbles from 5:30 pm. Want to join Committee and the speaker for dinner (your expense) afterwards? DINNER RSVPs only by 5.00 p.m. Monday 25 March: vala@vala.org.au or (03) 9725 2725
VALA Event 2013: Evening with Sue Roberts
VALA Guest Speaker Event and AGM
Leading in an uncertain world: developing library vision, strategy and the place of technology
Leadership, at all levels, is critical to the ongoing success and future of libraries, whatever the sector, purpose or size. The context of constant change, ambiguity, and the speed of developments, especially in new technologies, can make the challenge of setting vision and strategy appear even more daunting. This talk explores these issues using the example of the State Library of Victoria and also draws insights from other organisations. Sue will also discuss the place of personal leadership within this context.
VALA Event 2013: Library web OPAC
VALA Guest Speaker Event
Topic: Real-time user stats for your Library web OPAC
See what your library users are doing on your system right now, how their behaviour changes over time and how to use this data to enhance your Library web OPAC.
Identify ‘right-now’ library usage trend and produce data visualisations to reflect usage trend to enable librarians and library staff to better serve the currents needs of your users.
VALA Event 2013: Making Connections
VALA Guest Speaker Event
The presentation looks at how schools are working in partnerships with Education Services Australia to rebuild their catalogue metadata so print and online collections are aligned to the curriculum. This includes mass clean up of existing subject headings, the introduction of new controlled metadata, and the creation of curriculum specific themed collections.
VALA Events 2013: Library Space Oddity
VALA Guest Speaker Event
Library Space Oddity…
A rare opportunity to hear from two of the leading lights in Australian library design when Mal Booth (UTS) and Patti Manolis (Geelong Regional Library) join forces for a special VALA event.
VALA Events 2013: Lightning Talks
VALA End-of-Year Event
Lightning Talks – share your innovation story
Join Victoria’s community of Library IT Professionals for an evening of brief “Lightning Talks” to stimulate discussion, reflection and celebration of innovative Library IT practices.