During the LIANZA Conference I received an email approach for publicity from Megan Blakie at the Book Discussion Scheme (BDS). Turns out they are a non-profit based in Christchurch that specialises in book groups and lend out books and discussion notes to groups throughout New Zealand. They have about 950 groups at the moment but would like to network with librarians and libraries as they feel many don’t know BDS exists. Megan tells me “our [...]

After working on an eBooks and eReader FAQ recently I’ve become aware of just how important the consistent use of descriptive language associated with this space will be to helping people come to grips with it all. Case in point are we all talking about devices (electronic equipment that enables an eBooks  to be read) when we discuss dedicated eReaders, laptops, smartphones etc. or are we using other terms interchangeably during our conversations with the [...]

It was a shorter day notable for the well received keynote speaker (Jenica Rogers) who offered upbeat and helpful advice to delegates looking for tools and systems to progress their ideas and projects within the profession. After the doom and gloom tone set by other keynotes earlier – all agreed this was a welcome way to end the conference. There were also one last concurrent series of breakout sessions to select from prior to the [...]

Another full day yesterday, perhaps the best so far in terms of the keynotes and breakout sessions that I attended. The day kicked off with a relaxed presentation from Michael Houlihan at Te Papa posing twelve questions delegates may want to consider as they ponder the future of libraries in the changing world in which we live. Michael came across as a thoughtful chap not trying to force any earnest agenda and I liked his [...]