R. David Lankes: Recent Episodes
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When I talk about a Generative AI-induced Information Shock, I am neither endorsing the current state of things nor claiming this form of AI is inevitable. If anything, my intention is to rally action in the face of the shock. There is a reason people are adopting AI chat so rapidly and so widely. It … Continue reading "It’s Worse Than That"
Generative AI isn’t just producing more information. It’s dissolving the document, the organizing unit that information science and librarianship have been built around for over a century. I’m calling this an Information Shock. The short version of the argument was just published at Information Matters: [https://informationmatters.org/2026/07/ai-information-shock-and-a-new-information-science/]. It makes the core case in about a thousand … Continue reading "We are at the Start of an Information Shock"
Lankes, R. D. (2026, July 31). AI, information shock, and a new information science. Information Matters. https://informationmatters.org/2026/07/ai-information-shock-and-a-new-information-science/
Lankes, R. D. (2026, July 3). Information Shock: How AI Demands an Evolution of Information Science. Retrieved from osf.io/preprints/socarxiv/36a97_v1
It happens from time to time. A quote of mine makes the rounds and then a somewhat predictable conversation occurs. The quote is “Bad libraries build collections, good libraries build services, great libraries build communities.” This tends to lead to three reactions from librarians: This quote has been around for a long time, and I … Continue reading "Beyond the Bullet Points: Bad Libraries"
Lankes, R. D., Gustina, M., & Lankes, R. D. (2026). Guest Editorial: Libraries, Corrosive AI, and the Trust Paradox. Public Library Quarterly, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1080/01616846.2026.2644064
TL;DR version: if you would rather read my latest book, Triptych, without the distraction of AI, then I have put out a new AI Free version. You can buy the new edition on Amazon. The content is the same, save for illustrations and AI generated discussion questions. New cover is from licensed stock art. The … Continue reading "AI Free* Version of Triptych Now Available"
The title is more interesting than the post. This is just to let everyone know that I am taking advantage of being shut in at home during an ice storm to upload a bunch of my old presentation videos and the like to YouTube. I have been using Vimeo for over a decade, but they … Continue reading "Ice Storms, YouTube, and Private Equity"
Join us for a lecture by visiting Professor and Author R. David Lankes, exploring his recent book ‘Triptych: Death, AI and Librarianship’ Register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/death-ai-and-librarianship-a-professor-r-david-lankes-lecture-tickets-1980451536859 Join CILIPS for a special event taking place in Edinburgh, delivered in partnership with the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), where we are delighted to welcome Professor R. David Lankes for a one hour lecture … Continue reading "Triptych World Tour Goes to Scotland"
Last week I had the absolute honor of presenting in Sao Paulo Brazil I spoke at FESPSP 85th anniversary of their library science program and at the 23º Seminário Nacional de Bibliotecas Universitárias (23rd National Seminar of University Libraries). I met so many dedicated and innovative librarians working to make Brazil better through librarianship. The … Continue reading "I’m in love with Brazil"
I’ve updated the book page for my newest book, Triptych: Death, AI, and Librarianship. You can now download the PowerPoint slides for each lecture to use in professional development or your own presentations. I’ve also linked to the two excerpts of the book published in Library Journal. Take a look at: https://davidlankes.org/new-librarianship/13901-2/
“Building a Great Library,” Jesup Memorial Library, Bar Harbor, Me. Abstract: Bad libraries focus on building collections, while good libraries provide services, including collections. Great libraries, however, are defined by their ability to build communities. These libraries serve as co-owned, community-centric spaces that focus on fostering learning, knowledge, and social connection. They are not neutral … Continue reading "Building a Great Library"
“Not Done Yet” Jesup Memorial Library, Bar Harbor, Me. Abstract: In a talk about the evolving role of libraries, the speaker argues that they must shift from simply “serving” communities to actively “saving” them. This involves reimagining libraries not as static repositories of books, but as dynamic platforms that address community needs like literacy, digital … Continue reading "Not Done Yet"
Google has added a new trick to NotebookLM. Now, you can not only make an audio podcast summary, it will create a video explainer. I tried it out on the text of me new book, and it is actually really good. Take a watch (it’s 8 minutes):
My latest book, Triptych: Death, AI, and Librarianship, is now available as an audio book narrated by the author. Head on over to Audible
Take a trip over to Words & Money, a new outlet looking at the intersection of publishing and librarianship. There you’ll find the first review of my new book Triptych, and a piece I wrote on how I published the book, and how I really feel about AI.
I am a huge fan of audio books. I eat through them on my daily commute. I also appreciate that many folks either want or need audio books to access content. So, I’ve just finished recording, editing, and submitting an audiobook version of Triptych. It should be available in a week or so, after it … Continue reading "Triptych, Audio Books, and AI"
As part of the partnership with Library Journal in the publication of my new book, Triptych: Death, AI, and Librarianship, they are posting excerpts from the book. The first one is now online here. In the book it is titled TL;DR an Introduction. As the title implies it is an encapsulation of the key themes … Continue reading "Library Journal Posts An Introduction to Triptych"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 27, 2025 R. David Lankes Releases New Book on Libraries, AI, and Democracy Triptych: Death, AI, and Librarianship reframes the future of libraries of all types as a lifeline for community and connection. Philadelphia, PA — R. David Lankes, in association with Library Journal, proudly announces the release of Triptych: Death, AI, … Continue reading "R. David Lankes Releases New Book on Libraries, AI, and Democracy"
Lankes, R. David, Orr, J. & Chao, Q. (2025). Triptych: Death, ai, and librarianship. Austin, TX: Published in Association with Library Journal.
On a recent trip to Europe, I was repeatedly asked the same question, “what can we do?” The European library community (and I’m sure the larger global library community) are looking at developments in the United States with confusion and anxiety. How can the federal government close agencies, target the Institute for Museum and Library … Continue reading "Don’t Look Away"
“Demons, Determinism, and Divining the Future of Information Science,” ASIS&T Inaugural President’s Lecture Abstract: A demon in science is a conceptual device used to illustrate a theory or pose a question for interrogation. For example, Laplace’s Demon was a creature that could know every action occurring across the universe in an instant and thus perfectly … Continue reading "Demons, Determinism, and Divining the Future of Information Science"
The mind is an amazing thing. Today is the 6th anniversary of my second bone marrow transplant. I can say that and my family laughs about how many birthdays I have and which one requires gifts. I joke about leaving blood evidence at the scene of a crime to frame my son. My mind has … Continue reading "My 6th Second Birthday"
I’m honored to give the inaugural President’s Lecture to ASIS&T September 19 at 10 am Eastern Time. From the ASIS&T site: ASIS&T is delighted to announce the launch of the Annual ASIS&T President’s Lecture. The Lecture will be open to the public and delivered via Zoom to ensure that all who wish to may attend. … Continue reading "Lankes to Present 1st Annual ASIS&T President’s Lecture"
“Developing a Library Strategic Response to Artificial Intelligence,” Western Council of State Libraries. San Diego, CA.
“From Serving to Saving,” National Members Netherlands Library Association for PL, Hilversum, Netherlands
“Community: Core or Edge” Cultura & Zo Nootdorp, The Netherland Abstract: What makes a librarian? How does an understanding of knowledge shape the field?
“The Market Place of Ideas,” Innovatie Dag Prodent Fabriek. Amersfoort, Netherlands Abstract: Libraries excel on supporting innovation being a market place of ideas. Instead of helping people take on risk in the form of capital for new businesses, they can link communities and ideas.
With the generous support of the Dutch Library Association (thank you Klaas Gravestejin), I am headed to the Netherlands for a few weeks. There I’ll be spreading the word on the importance of centering librarianship on the communities we serve. I am so looking forward to meeting with my Netherland colleagues. The country has long … Continue reading "A Longhorn Amongst the Tulips"
I just learned that Fred Roper has passed away. Fred was a previous dean of the School of Library and Information Science at the University of South Carolina. When I joined as director in 2016, Fred was not only welcoming, but extremely generous with his time. He was an invaluable mentor in my first true … Continue reading "On the Passing of Fred Roper"
Erik Boekesteijn made a fantastic video on some library thinkers talking about the library of the future. It was an honor to be on the virtual stage with Nick Poole, Jane Cowell, Sandy Hirsh, Futurist Lidewij Edelkoort at the Computers in Libraries 2024 conference.
“What’s in Store for Libraries with AI? State Libraries Initiative” Computers in Libraries 2024 Abstract: Hear how this group of state libraries plans to explore the varied roles state libraries play in the use of AI and in their support of efforts around workforce development in AI. They plan to gather data, build an environmental … Continue reading "What’s in Store for Libraries with AI? State Libraries Initiative"
“The Reality of Artificial Intelligence” Keynote. Southeast Collaborative Online Conference Abstract: A examination of AI and it’s uses in a library context.
February 1, 2024 AUSTIN, TX—The Collaborative Institute for Rural Communities & Librarianship (CIRCL) today announced the launch of the SLAAIT Project. The State Libraries and AI Technologies Working Group is a joint project of 14 state libraries and the Gigabit Libraries Network to understand the opportunities, challenges, and risks associated with AI and the library sector. … Continue reading "State libraries to explore strategic use of AI around workforce development"
“Book Bans: Changing the Narrative in Libraries” Leadership Staff Meeting. Central Arkansas Library System. Little Rock, AK Abstract: While librarians should never surrender the fight for intellectual freedom, there is utility in changing the narrative of the conversation. Rather than fighting a charged reactionary “battle” against censorship, we should use local narratives that emphasize the … Continue reading "Book Bans: Changing the Narrative in Libraries"
“Artificial Intelligence: From Holy Crap to Hold My Beer” Staff Development, Central Arkansas Library System. Little Rock, AK. Abstract: From the hype, to the basics, to the issues and the uses a discussion of AI and Generative AI in libraries.
CIRCL is creating a new working group with state libraries: State Libraries and AI Technologies or SLAIIT (like slate). The prospectus calls for the creation of a limited term working group of state libraries and relevant stakeholders to explore the varied roles state libraries in the use of AI and in their support of efforts … Continue reading "Announcing the State Libraries and Artificial Intelligence Project: a CIRCL Working Group"
So I’ve been thinking about the great opportunity AI presents librarians and wanted to share those and get your feedback: I’m including the automatic transcript for accessibility and so search engines may find it 🙂
“Radicals, Rebellion, and Saving Our Communities” Keynote for EAHIL Workshop 2023, Trondheim Abstract: Libraries are under attack. This presentation talks about how book challenges and proposed legislation in Texas should serve as a cautionary tale for the world. Video:
“The Real AI: Augmented Intelligence.” Presentation to the Enssib event 1, 2, 3… IA ! Intelligence Artificielle, Métiers et Compétences. May 11, 2023 Abstract: What are the necessary competencies for librarians in the age of AI? A presentation to the Enssib session on AI librarian competencies. THe whole agenda and video of the sessions can … Continue reading "The Real AI: Augmented Intelligence"
Lankes, R. David (2023). The Vital Role of Libraries and Democracy Needs Protection. Clip de SEDIC, Revista de la Sociedad Española de Documentación e Información Científica. Available: https://doi.org/10.47251/clip.n87.112 ABSTRACT: The current spate of materials challenges in libraries globally calls out for new defenses.Concepts of library neutrality and librarian objectivity fall flat in light of current … Continue reading "The Vital Role of Libraries and Democracy Needs Protection"
Librarians as “Truth Guns.” A presentation to Kazakhstan librarians. Abstract: A discussion on the importance of librarians to empower communities to have strong conversations on literacy and empowering democratic participation. Video: Translation video available via Instagram. English video below.
This post was done in about 10 minutes…so consider it a conversation starter that needs input. I had a very interesting conversation talking about project ideas for AI and academic libraries. It quickly focused on AskA Librarian services and good ‘ol digital reference/virtual reference. Imagine, the conversation went, we could take a person’s question and … Continue reading "Holy Crap, Can ChatGPT Revive Reference?"
Friday, April 21, 2023 9:30 am – 11 am Room 615AB at Hilton Austin Join us for a workshop where we’ll be delving into the crucial topic of AI literacy. Together, we’ll be designing an educational program for high school students to help them learn about the future of AI and its impact on their … Continue reading "AI and Schools Workshop at Texas Library Association"
Jeff Penka, President/CEO, LittleSeed, Inc. (https://littleseed.io) has been named as an advisor to the Bowden Professor joining Roosevelt Weeks, Angela Craig, Lorraine J. Haricombe, and Jim Neal. The informal advisory board gives the Bowden Professor advice, keeps him apprised of opportunities, and helps connect the work of the professorship to the greater library community. Penka brings … Continue reading "Jeff Penka named Bowden Advisor"
Margo Gustina is a researcher. An outspoken believer in the power of community to lead libraries toward more meaningful practice, Margo works with libraries, facilitating planning, funding, and governance conversations and processes. In addition, Margo is the Principal Investigator on the federally-funded Libraries In Community Systems project. They will be working with the Bowden Professor … Continue reading "Margo Gustina Named Bowden Fellow"
Biography: Melissa developed her passion for information science while volunteering with the Thomas G. Carpenter Library Special Collections as an undergraduate student at the University of North Florida. While attending graduate school at the University of Texas’ School of Information, she is focusing on academic librarianship, particularly with small-medium universities and community colleges. After obtaining her MSIS, she will start … Continue reading "Bowden Capstone Scholar Melissa Deuber"
Biography: Emma Bekele is an MSIS student in the School of Information at the University of Texas. Her focus is on public librarianship and she is passionate about anti-racism, equity, and inclusion in the library, classroom, and beyond. Project: To serve their entire community, libraries must be able to reach all members of a diverse population. … Continue reading "Bowden Capstone Scholar Emma Bekele"
Biography: Parker Zimmerman is a graduate student in the School of Information at the University of Texas at Austin. During his time at the iSchool, his studies have focused on both libraries and archives. He is most interested in how libraries and archives can use the digital space to increase the accessibility of collections for their … Continue reading "Bowden Capstone Scholar Parker Zimmerman"
Biography: Tyler Roberge is a Master’s Student in the School of Information at the University of Texas studying library sciences and administration. With an interest in open accessibility and preservation, Tyler is looking to take his work into the academic or federal sectors to pursue public access, academic or government research, and/or library administration. Project: My capstone … Continue reading "Bowden Capstone Scholar Tyler Roberge"
Biography: Rachel Poppen is a 2nd year MSIS candidate specializing in Collections Management and Preservation and Leadership, Management, and Governance. She is interested in leveraging modern technologies to ethically increase access to and preservation of special and rare collections, especially in rural communities. Project: For her capstone project, Rachel will provide basic research on rural librarianship for … Continue reading "Bowden Capstone Scholar Rachel Poppen"
I’m happy to announce the 2023 cohort of Bowden Capstone Scholars. Bowden Capstone Scholars receive a stipend for their capstone projects, connection to real projects in great libraries, and group mentoring on they field. Here are the scholars and the organization they’re working with: I’ll be posting more information on each scholar in other posts. … Continue reading "2023 Bowden Capstone Scholars"
“Next Steps in School Libraries or From Holy Crap to Hold My Beer.” Libraries.Today National Forum. Abstract: School Liberians have faced major disruption before. PCs, the Internet, etc.. They have faced these changes through a cycle of reactions from fear, to categorization, to adopting, and finally adaptation. This presentation looks at this cycle and two … Continue reading "Next Steps in School Libraries or From Holy Crap to Hold My Beer"
My Publishers Weekly piece on community libraries has been translated into Italian by the Laboratori Bibliosociali. You can access it here: https://www.laboratoribibliosociali.it/david-lankes-biblioteche-di-comunita-in-corea-del-sud/?fbclid=IwAR0d4bazhbrv7jpV4FWmvDbzdIPhSCtVajrGwAlBNWIHXfL5UH8mCwpXrnc
“Library as Movement” Iowa Libraries Online Conference 2023 Abstract: The library is a platform to help communities improve. This platform must be collaborative. A place where librarians work directly with community members, companies, institutions, and others. It is these collaborations that drive positive change. This idea transforms the library as a place with services, to … Continue reading "Library as Movement"
Young-Sook “Soy” Park and the amazing folks at the Neutinamu library made a few videos of my visit to the library, and the conversation we had about community-based libraries.
“Master of None.” Wild Wisconsin Winter Web Conference. via VIdeo Abstract: Librarians are being increasingly pulled in many directions. What once was a profession focused on collections and institutions that served the public, has become a community centered space that acts as makerspace, reading refuge, business center, and more. Recognition that libraries are not neutral … Continue reading "Master of None"
I don’t know what you did over your winter break (for those that got one), but I wrote a new workbook and now I’m looking for a few brave souls to read it and give me feedback. First, the ask, then the workbook summary: I’m looking for 5 folks to read the current draft and … Continue reading "Less; Better, a Workbook, and Looking for Feedback"
Lankes, R. David (Jan. 12, 2023). Exploring the Innovative Community Libraries of Korea. Publishers Weekly. Available: https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/libraries/article/91274-exploring-the-innovative-community-libraries-of-korea.html
My opening remarks and answering questions for a webinar celebrating the launch of the Italian translation of the New Librarianship Field Guide. The full webinar (in Italian) is here:
As the new year starts, so does a new program – Bowden Fellows. These are folks from practice and academia working closely with the Bowden Professor to push forward an agenda of improving libraries and library science education. Kimberly Silk, Principal Consultant for Brightsail Research and Sessional Lecturer at the University of Toronto. Kim works … Continue reading "Introducing Bowden Fellows"
I am overjoyed that The New Librarianship Field Guide has not been translated into Italian. Thanks to Anna Maria Tammaro and the team at EDITRICE BIBLIOGRAFICA and MIT Press. More info and purchase at EDITRICE BIBLIOGRAFICA
Guida alla biblioteconomia moderna. Lankes, R. David (2022). Milan, Italy: Editrice Bibliografica
Lankes, R. David (2022). The Future of Korean Libraries. World Library. Registration date: 2022-11-18. Available: bit.ly/3v3uKFc and bit.ly/3HM2JJQ
“OF the People.” National Assembly Busan Library. Busan, Korea. Abstract: National and parliamentary libraries are searching for a new mission. In this presentation I argue for a public facing mission reinforcing the infrastructure of democracy through local public libraries. Slides:
“Future of Libraries.” National Library of Korea 77th Anniversary Conference. Seoul, Korea. Abstract: There is no future for libraries. There are, instead, as many futures as there are libraries. And that means we need to rethink everything from networks to certification to who we call librarians. Slides: Speech Script SLIDE 1 Greetings. I would like … Continue reading "Future of Libraries"
The Newcomer Project, an EU funded effort to bring together librarians across borders to discuss support of community and particularly older adults, had its last meeting. I was unable to join in person, and so prepared these remarks. Text of the speech is below the video. Video Script: I’m just going to say it. I’m … Continue reading "A Final Message for the Newcomer Project"
The following are some of the highlights of my work as the Bowden Professor. Invited Speakers with Students: Angela Craig, Director Charleston County Public Library Roosevelt Weeks, Director Austin Public Library Dianne Connery, Pottsboro Public Library John Chrastka, EveryLibrary Bowden Capstone Scholars: Chloe Santiago – framework for a grant-fundable program to train library leaders on … Continue reading "Bowden Professor First Year Highlights"
For a year I’ve been playing around with a logo for the work of the Bowden Professorship. I know it sounds minor, but for me a logo is a sense of identity. It not only creates a visible mark for sponsored activities, it makes it seem “real” but beyond just me. The generous gift of … Continue reading "New Logo for the Bowden Professor"
Looking to get some projects done and help students at the same time? Library students in the Texas program are required to complete a Capstone project. These projects are 125 hours that constitute: “a fieldwork-based project under the guidance of a field supervisor from the organization or department sponsoring the project. Students must produce a … Continue reading "Help! Connecting Great Students with Great Libraries"
Looking to get some projects done and help students at the same time? Library students in the Texas program are required to complete a Capstone project. These projects are 125 hours that constitute: “a fieldwork-based project under the guidance of a field supervisor from the organization or department sponsoring the project. Students must produce a … Continue reading "Help! Connecting Great Students with Great Libraries"
“Collective Individuality: How libraries can support individual action” State Library Victoria Public Library Planning Meeting. Abstract: Library networks need to change from platforms supporting similar services across libraries, to platforms that allow libraries to better look like and serve their unique communities. Script below video Below is the script I used for the video…typos and … Continue reading "Collective Individuality"
Great news! I am part of a team headed by Dr. Soo Young Rieh and including Dr. Ken Fleischmann that just got funded by IMLS. The main goal of the project is to create future iSchool faculty highly skilled in data science and AI with a strong connection to the library field. One of the … Continue reading "Preparing Future iSchool Faculty in Librarianship: LADDER"
“Less; Better.” State Librarian’s Program, New Jersey Library Association Annual Conference 2022. Atlantic City, NJ. Abstract: Librarians are service oriented. All too often that translates into trying to be all things for all people. When you put diverse communities at the core of a library, the pressure for doing more increases. However, trying to be … Continue reading "Less; Better"
Publisher’s Weekly just hosted another great Book SHow. As part of it Andrew Albanese organizes a track around libraries, and this year was a great set of panels and speakers. I was part of a panel on Library Leadership below (as well as an interview on my book Forged in War). All the panels were … Continue reading "Publisher’s Weekly U.S. Book Show Library Program"
I did an interview with Andrew Albanese on current topics in the library field, and my book, Forged in War.
I am sad to report that Dr. Virginia Bowden, librarian, philanthropist, art lover, has passed away. Virginia with her husband Charles funded the Virginia & Charles Bowden Professor of Librarianship that I am honored to currently hold. Virginia was a true force in librarianship, particularly medical librarianship. I am linking to her full obituary to … Continue reading "On the Passing of Virginia Bowden"
“Serving & Saving Communities.” Tennessee Library Association Annual Conference 2022. Knoxville, TN. Abstract: With COVID, Insurrection, war in Europe, inflation, an increasing ideological gap, our communities need libraries to do more than be ready to serve, they need a proactive librarianship dedicated to saving communities. Libraries remain the last standing public service that is local, … Continue reading "Serving & Saving Communities"
For those in the Austin area, please join us to hear from Angela Craig, the great library director of Charleston County Public Library Tuesday April 5th at the Austin Public Library: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/angela-craig-director-charleston-county-public-library-tickets-310531848117 Angela Craig will speak about her work at the Charleston County Public Library in South Carolina with a focus on community engagement About … Continue reading "The Bowden Professor Presents Angela Craig"
Episode 17: Video Sharing & So Much More Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike Eisenberg YouTube has more than 2 billion active users collectively viewing over 5 billion videos totaling a combined 1 billion hours of video viewing every day!! Tik Tok is the new kid on the block, just 4 years old worldwide, and … Continue reading "Video Sharing & So Much More: New N2L2 Episode"
The following is a letter I sent the New York Times in response to the editorial written by Stanley Kurtz on February 24, 2022. To the Editor, I write in response to Stanley Kurtz’s The Battle for the Soul of the Library published in February 24th. I appreciate Dr. Kurtz’s concern for libraries and very … Continue reading "The Battle for the Soul of the Library: A Response"
This month we lost Dr. Charles Bowden, professor, scientist, doctor, art lover, and the ‘Charles’ in my title: Virginia & Charles Bowden Professor of Librarianship. Dr. Bowden made tremendous advances in the treatment of bipolar disorder as a clinical professor at the University of Texas Health San Antonio. I had the opportunity to meet Charles … Continue reading "On the Passing of Charles Bowden"
I am building a framework for a grant-fundable program to train library leaders on power building and political and financial literacy. This program will be specifically geared towards libraries who struggle to receive adequate funding, particularly those in low-income areas and historically BIPOC communities, in order for those library leaders to have the knowledge and … Continue reading "Chloe Santiago: Bowden Capstone Scholar"
For my capstone project, I am working with San Diego State University’s health science librarian on a LibGuide related to health science information, with a focus on vaccines and the COVID-19 pandemic. For this project, I am starting by researching information standards relevant to health science information and then using these standards to find information to … Continue reading "Sarah Varenhorst : Bowden Capstone Scholar"
Summer Reading Programs are a long-standing tradition for engaging public library communities and combatting summer learning loss among children. The Chattanooga Public Library is looking at ways to enhance its Summer Reading Programs. Over the past few years, the Chattanooga Public Library has not observed any significant literacy or engagement impacts within the community as … Continue reading "Jessica Gonzales: Bowden Capstone Scholar"
I am working with library programs affiliated with the U.S. Embassy in Rome. Specifically, I am working with the American Corner YouLab in Pistoia and the American Corner in Trieste. The goal of my project is to enhance the reading collections of both Corners, as well as create a better understanding of studying in the U.S. … Continue reading "Emma Hetrick: Bowden Capstone Scholar"
This year as the Bowden Professor I funded 5 Bowden Capstone Scholars. This students are working on their final projects in the University of Texas at Austin’s Masters of Information. These posts describe the projects they are working on. For my capstone project, I am working with the Georgia Public Library Service to provide management, … Continue reading "Miriam Early: Bowden Capstone Scholar"
For those of you who don’t know, I’m part of a regular podcast on libraries and society in and (hopefully) post COVID. It’ a great time with my partners Beth Patin, and Mike Eisenberg. A great graduate assistant at Syracuse, Jeanne Kambara, put together a listeners guide to all the episodes so far. So, first … Continue reading "Libraries Lead in the New Normal Listener’s Guide"
The Salzburg Curriculum to prepare librarians and museum professionals for a participatory age has found a new home in the Bowden Agenda. Many thanks to Michael Stephens and San Jose State University School of Information for previous hosting. You can find the curriculum itself, and some information on its history here.
“Relationships Instead of Transaction.” X Congreso Nacional de Bibliotecas Públicas. Online. Abstract: Why libraries must transition from transactions to relationships. Speech Text: See below Script for the talk (typos and all): I would like to begin by thanking the event organizers and the Cultural Ministry for inviting me to speak today. It is a great … Continue reading "Relationships Instead of Transaction"
“Libraries Leading the New Normal & Beyond.” Internet Librarian 2021. Online. Abstract: Insurrection, pandemic, racial awakening, climate crisis, a looming wealth gap. Libraries of all types are functioning in a time unlike any in history. What role can librarians play in times such as these? The answer must be to rebuild trust and reaffirm the foundations … Continue reading "Libraries Leading the New Normal & Beyond"
The Too Long; Didn’t Read version of this message is that as part of my work as the Bowden Professor I would like to connect library science students to the real work of great libraries. To that end I am looking for projects that teams can work on in a Community Engagement course and more in-depth capstone … Continue reading "Help: Connecting Great Students to Great Libraries"
Hi, my name is David Lankes. When I wrote the Atlas of New Librarianship 11 years ago my goal was to start a conversation about librarians, libraries, and their role in helping communities of all sorts make better decisions and help community members find meaning in their lives. Over the past decade that conversation has … Continue reading "An Invitation to the New Librarianship Symposia"
“A new normal – renaissance of the public library.” Stelline Conference, Milan, Italy. Online. Abstract: Librarians and the libraries they build and maintain must step up to save our communities. Speech Text: See below Script for the talk (typos and all): Greetings all. First let me apologize that I am not in there in person. … Continue reading "A new normal – renaissance of the public library"
Today thinking about what the School of Information Science faculty, staff, and students have accomplished over my 5 years as director. A 280% increase on the undergrad program, a new graduate certificate in equity diversity and inclusion, hosting 2 national library research conferences, 6 classroom-to-school library cohorts, 8 new faculty, over a million dollars in … Continue reading "Goodbye University of South Carolina"
tl;dr version: I’m going to be making updates and cleaning up files on the site. This may lead to broken links in the next few days. I’ve had a website before we called them blogs – hell, before we called them home pages. I started my site as hand edited HTML files, mostly linking to … Continue reading "“Spring” Cleaning the Website"
Had a great conversation with Steve Thomas on his Circulating Ideas podcast on my new book Forged in War. Check it out: https://circulatingideas.com/2021/06/15/201-david-lankes-forged-in-war/