Library Blogger Stephen Abram Spoke with iSchool Community

This post originally appeared on Information Space, the blog of the iSchool at Syracuse University, on 24 September 2011.

On Wednesday, October 5^th[2011], the Syracuse University School of Information Studies will host librarian, author and blogger Stephen Abram for “Ten Questions with Stephen Abram”. Abram is known in library circles as the author of the blog Stephen’s Lighthouse, and is the VP for Strategic Partnerships and Markets for Gale Cengage Learning.  He is a past-president of the Special Libraries Association, and the Ontario and Canadian Library Associations. He is in demand as a speaker internationally, and has written for Information Outlook, Library Journal, and others. He has received numerous honors, including the AIIP Roger Summit Honor, and the Outstanding Teaching Award from the University of Toronto, Faculty of Information Studies, where he is an adjunct professor.
“Ten Questions”, hosted by the iSchool, will give faculty, students, and community members the chance to talk with Abram about his work, his impressions of librarianship now and in the future, and any other topics of interest.
Why Should You Attend?
As a new student at the iSchool, I’m excited about this event for a number of reasons.  Mr. Abram is seen as a “mover and shaker” in the library world; he’s been listed by Library Journal as one of the top 50 people influencing the future of libraries. I’m interested to hear what he’ll recommend for students just entering the field. The library field is changing rapidly and Mr. Abram’s blog offers many insights on those changes.
One thing I have already noticed about librarians is that they tend to be dynamic, passionate people, and I’m sure this event will continue that impression. Stephen Abram’s lectures and keynotes have catalyzed many people in the past, and no doubt will continue to do so. In a recent column for Information Outlook, Abram offers a strategic look at staying current. This is a reminder to everyone—even new library students—that libraries are always shifting, and that librarians need to lead the charge, not just keep up with the times. As an aspiring librarian, I know that the field I’m entering will look different once I’ve finished my degree, but the speed at which things change in libraries is one of the most exciting parts of my career path.
Not Just for Library Students!
The curriculum of the iSchool strives to create leaders in the information field, and “Ten Questions with Stephen Abram” will help any aspiring information leader get a bead on the conversation.  In the column mentioned above, Abram reminds us of the value of differing perspectives; sometimes the very best ideas can come from outside the field we know. That said, this event is open to any interested parties—including the Information Management and Telecommunication and Network Management Master’s students, undergraduates & doctoral students and members of the public.
What: Ten Questions with Stephen Abram
Where: Innovation Studio, 011 Hinds Hall
When: Wednesday, October 5th from 4:00-5:30pm
Meet Stephen Abram and enjoy stimulating conversation over light refreshments.  Hope to see you there!

Memory Lane

After a rather embarrassing lacuna, I'm back on the blogging scene. Still, with only eight weeks remaining in my masters program,and a job hunt in full swing, I don't have nearly enough time to write. Because of those demands, the posts that I've chosen for the next month or two are reposts of my writings from other places. Thanks for tuning in!