Connecting and Fostering Community Through Library Initiatives Around The World
The International Relations Round Table (IRRT) Pre-Conference Committee of the American Library Association (ALA) invites proposals for its 2025 ALA Annual Pre-Conference Session. This half-day event will focus on how libraries connect and foster community through innovative and impactful initiatives.
We are particularly interested in presentations that showcase:
● Successful international library programs that have strengthened community ties and created lasting impact.
● Collaborative projects where libraries partner with international or local organizations, schools, and governments to tackle shared challenges and foster global
cooperation.
● Innovative approaches to community engagement, including digital initiatives, outreach programs, and events that encourage participation and inclusion.
● Best practices in addressing community needs through library services, focusing on strategies, tips, and approaches that have been successful.
The session will be held in a roundtable format. Selected presenters will have 30-45 minutes to share their work and facilitate engaging discussions and meaningful exchanges of ideas with attendees in follow-up discussions.
Important Dates:
● Proposal Deadline: February 15, 2025
● Notification of Acceptance: March 14, 2025
Please submit your proposals, no longer than 250 words, via this link by 11:59 PM EST (UTC-5) on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Proposals will be evaluated by Pre-Conference committee members based on the following criteria: quality of the proposal, relevance to the theme, contribution to global representation, transferability of ideas, and uniqueness.
For more information, please contact the committee chairs:
Lynn CHUA - Lynn_CHUA@nlb.gov.sg
Andrea MALONE - armalone@uh.edu