Call for Speakers

Libraries Adapting to Change

Deadline for Submissions Is October 6, 2024


Charles Darwin said, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, not the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.” From Small Computers in Libraries 40 years ago to our current look at new and emerging technology, AI and robotics, and augmented and virtual technology, along with changing techniques and strategies, Information Today, Inc.’s Computers in Libraries conference has continued to grow, adapt and evolve just like libraries and information services. Our world and our communities have been disrupted and changed in so many ways, and our libraries and information professionals have so many solutions, passionate advocates, and partners, it’s exciting to see info pros take a leadership role in strengthening our communities so they have a sustainable future. Whether that is a smart city, rural township, corporate organization, academic campus, K–12 school, or any other information-intensive community, we can and do make a difference. Computers in Libraries 2025 highlights creative examples of libraries innovating, taking advantage of leading technology, and making it happen in their communities.

Hear from forward-thinking libraries, creative FabLabs, and centers of information excellence; network and learn from leaders in the field; and join us as an active participant in the 40th Computers in Libraries—the most comprehensive North American conference and exhibition concentrating on all aspects of library technology. The conference offers a multifaceted program designed to meet the needs of librarians, community and information managers, systems professionals, eresource managers, researchers, webmasters and web managers, archivists, content and museum curators, digital strategists, XR leaders, and information specialists. The focus of the conference is on emerging and leading-edge technology that allows us to engage with, learn from, and bring strategic value to our user communities. Using the latest information, practices, and technology to help you make informed choices, this event looks at how to experiment and excel, escalate, and delight both the human and digital experiences in your community—whether it is an academic, corporate, nonprofit, public, or school library community.

Information Today, Inc., a key provider of technology conferences for more than 40 years, is excited to host our community of librarians and information managers this March for four days of practical advice, inspiring thought leadership, and in-depth training. Hear from experienced library leaders, newbies to the information industry with fresh ideas, networkers, and connectors who can link you to colleagues, The conference offers a multifaceted program designed to meet the needs of librarians, community and information managers, IT and systems professionals, e-resource managers, researchers, webmasters and web managers, archivists, content and museum curators, digital strategists, and information specialists. The focus of the conference is on emerging and leading-edge technology that allows us to engage With, and bring strategic value to, our user communities. Using the latest information and practices to help you make informed choices, this event looks at how to escalate and delight both the human and digital experiences in your community—whether an academic, corporate, nonprofit, public, or school library.

Conference Tracks & Topics

Computers in Libraries caters to all interests and all levels of knowledge, offering five simultaneous tracks plus many workshops, networking opportunities, and an extensive exhibit hall. Tracks and themes for 2025 encompass Innovative Libraries & Practices; K–12 school libraries; Killer Strategies & Community Attention Grabbers; Partnerships & Collaboration; User Design & Experience; Learning From Library Leaders; Creative Making & Makerspaces; Digital Transformation & Engagement; Information Discovery & Search; Community Outreach to Nonprofits, Entrepreneurs & Businesses; Content Management; AI & Leading-Edge Technology; Web Design, Tools, & Development, Experimenting; and more. Speakers are knowledgeable and authoritative and focus on practical applications, “how-to” solutions, and case studies as well as technical and managerial issues. Please consider sharing your knowledge and ideas; send us a proposal to speak. Below are some of the topics we hope to cover, but don’t let this list limit your imagination! We look forward to hearing from you.

Possible Topics (suggestions only – the more creative the topic, the better!)

  • Experimenting With AI
  • Upskilling & Continuous Learning
  • Connect With New Tech Partners
  • Facing Disruption With Strategy Reset
  • Learning From Failed Experiments
  • Aligning Digital & Human Experience
  • Digital Community Programs Services
  • Next-Generation User Communities
  • Community Engagement Strategies
  • Mining Library Data for Decision Making
  • Innovative Libraries, Practices, & Services
  • Digital Transformation & Engagement
  • Ebook Publishing, Distribution, & Lending
  • User-Friendly Interfaces for Positive UX
  • Video: Streaming as a Marketing Tool
  • Content Management & Curation
  • Enterprise Information & Knowledge Management
  • Understanding Community Needs & Opportunities
  • Finding & Working With Partners
  • Sparking Imagination & Innovation
  • Creating Tomorrow's Learning Environments
  • Connecting People & Technology
  • Creating Strategic Value
  • Digital Archiving
  • Cutting-Edge Information Tools
  • Connecting With Clients in New Ways
  • What’s New in Library platforms?
  • Gaming & Learning
  • Streaming Content to Mobile Devices
  • Library Performance Improvement
  • Information Discovery & Visualization
  • Web Design/Redesign & Usability
  • Digitizing Collections
  • Cool Web/Tech Tools
  • Usability Testing for Websites
  • Web Development Tips & Tools
  • New & Emerging Technologies
  • Adapting & Change Strategies
  • Future-Focused Library Strategies
  • Community Sustainability 
  • Building Smart Communities
  • Successful Tech Experiments 
  • Internet of Things & Libraries
  • Innovation Labs & FabHubs
  • Emerging Tech & Tools 
  • Culture Changing Techniques 
  • Cool Library Partnerships
  • Mobile Computing
  • Transforming Library Spaces 
  • Researching Customer Needs
  • Measuring Impact of Services
  • Library Labs & Incubators
  • Digital Repository Management
  • Illustrating Value & ROI
  • Aligning With Strategic Priorities
  • Creative Management Practices
  • XR, AR, & VR Experiments
  • Community Management
  • Latest Engagement for Mobiles
  • Making Tough Choices
  • Evolving Web Strategies
  • Innovative Community Apps
  • Social Media & Libraries
  • Strategic Library Competencies
  • Managing & Engaging Digitally
  • Maximizing User Experience
  • Technology Planning
  • Building Technology Alliances
  • Elearning Strategies & Cases
  • Managing Electronic Resources
  • Personalization & Customization
  • Collaboration Software
  • Search Engine Tips & Tools
  • Teaching Tips for All Ages

How to Submit a Proposal

If you would like to participate in Computers in Libraries 2025 as a speaker or workshop leader, please submit a proposal as soon as possible (October 6, 2024 at the very latest). Include the following brief details of your proposed presentation on the form: title, abstract, a few sentences of biographical information that relate you to the topic, and full contact information for you and your co-presenters (title, address, email, and phone). All abstracts are reviewed by the Organizing/Review Committee and notification regarding acceptance will be made in the fall.

Program Organizing and Review Committee

Program Chair
Jane I. Dysart, Dysart & Jones Associates

Program Coordinator
Brian Pichman, Evolve Project 

Review Committee
Amy Affelt, Compass Lexecon
Mary Ellen Bates, Bates Information Services, Inc.
Marshall Breeding, Library Technology Guides
Frank Cervone, San Jose State University
M. J. D’Elia, Thirdway Think
Richard Hulser, Consultant
Dick Kaser, Computers in Libraries
Laura Warner, Brantford Public Library

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