• Light continental breakfast
• Attendee lunch
• Morning and afternoon coffee breaks
• PLUS complimentary access to the Computers in Libraries 2025 Exhibit Hall March 25 - 27

W1. WebSearch University Presents Searchers Academy:
Evolving & Adapting

Monday, March 24: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

With AI, misinformation, and new software tools at the top of our minds, we are being called upon to reset our assumptions on search techniques and approaches … to evolve and adapt. From Google's frequent algorithm changes to the replacement of search results with an AI-generated “answer,” as well as new expectations from clients and patrons, information professionals need to re-examine all their search practices. Info pros have a unique skill set that gives us the ability to own the search space. But equally important is the ability to challenge our assumptions about search and to adapt and evolve our search skills to address today’s infoscape.

This practical, full-day workshop provides the latest tips, tricks, and techniques for unlocking the “black box” of search. Our search experts reveal what you need to know today to perform better and more effective searches, analyze search results to surface value, teach others good search practices, and remain on top of search innovations.

There's always something new to be learned from these leading-edge info pros. Whether you're a novice or expert searcher, you come away with a new understanding of innovations in search, new resources to share with colleagues, and more search tools for your professional toolkit.

Our experts cover these topics:

• What's New in Web Search: Learn about new developments in search engines and search bots that affect how, why, and where to search to get the best results.

• Savvy Search Strategies: Strategize your research to accommodate new technologies and techniques for increasing sense-making.

• Resourcefully Yours: So many resources, so little time! We introduce a number of new, different, and changed resources to turbocharge your research.

• Talking to Your Chatbot: Effective search prompts can ensure that you are using a generative AI tool before and after your “real” search to gain insights and save time.

• A New SWOT for Search Professionals in 2025: Take a fresh look at where search professionals can make the biggest impact to most effectively leverage your expertise.

Speakers:
Mary Ellen Bates, Principal, Bates Information Services, Inc.
Marydee Ojala, Editor, Online Searcher, Computers in Libraries Magazine, & Editor-in-Chief, KMWorld Magazine
Gary Price, Co-Founder, infoDOCKET & FullTextReports
Arthur Weiss, Managing Director, AWARE