Library 2.018: Blockchain Applied

Date

June 7, 2018 12:00 - 15:00

Location

Online

Details

Website: http://www.library20.com/page/blockchain

We’re excited to announce our second Library 2.018 mini-conference: Blockchain Applied: Impact on the Information Profession.

This event is being organized in partnership with Dr. Sue Alman, who will serve as moderator for the opening panel and as the closing keynote speaker.

The idea for ways that blockchain technology could be used by libraries came after hearing a presentation on LEARNING IS EARNING in the national learning economy made by Jane McGonigal, Institute for the Future, at the at the SXSW conference. The discussion fueled a plan for libraries to validate the academic and professional development credentials of individuals in a permanent electronic ledger that could have global access to their records eliminating the need for individuals to keep track of and submit individual copies of transcripts, certificates, badges, and other credentials. An investigation revealed that libraries might be able to use blockchain technology to accomplish more than housing electronic credentials.

Twenty-first century information professionals provide dynamic services and resources in physical and virtual spaces through personal interaction, virtual intermediation, or social media. In addition to lending books, information centers provide entry points to the digital world. When walking into a library or information center, you may find robots, makerspaces with 3D printers, collaborative areas, augmented reality apps, and access to an array of digital materials. Librarians/information professionals have the research and technical skills needed to organize and analyze information in order to customize relevant sources for each user. Libraries are dynamic, ever-changing organizations that can anchor communities. Technology enables the profession to broaden our impact within the community and around the globe.

Join the discussion on ways that blockchain technology can be used in libraries. https://ischoolblogs.sjsu.edu/blockchains

We invite all library professionals, employers, LIS students, and educators to provide input and participate this event.