The Big Issues Seminar: public libraries, learning, technology and social inclusion


This seminar focuses on the big social issues and government priorities that will shape public library service development Australia-wide over the next three to five years, as identified at the 2009 National Public Libraries Summit – learning and literacy; the digital economy and digital citizenship; social inclusion and community partnerships; health and ageing.

The seminar will be of interest to senior library professionals and others involved in developing, supporting and funding public libraries. It is one of two seminars that are run each year as part of the State Library and Public Libraries Victoria Network collaboration on the Statewide Public Library Development Projects.

The day will be led by a compelling panel of experts, each addressing a particular topic. Speakers include:

Tom Bentley, Deputy Chief of Staff to Australia's Deputy Prime Minister, Tom was also for many years the Director of U.K. “Think Tank” DEMOS. Tom will speak to the importance of learning outside the classroom, with special reference to the role of libraries.

Patricia Faulkner, Chair of Australia’s new Social Inclusion Board; National Leader of KPMG’s State Governments and Health and Social Policy Sectors; Lead Partner of KPMG’s Victorian Government practice; and former Secretary of the Victorian Department of Human Services. Patricia will speak to the new national social inclusion agenda and the role of libraries in creating socially inclusive communities.

Bill Thompson, one of the United Kingdom’s most popular and highly regarded technology commentators, best known for his contributions to BBC News Online, his appearances on Digital Planet, and a radio program on the BBC World Service. Bill will cover techology trends, digitial citizenship and libraries.

Jan Fullerton, Penny Carnaby and Dr N Varaprasad, the National Librarians of Australia, New Zealand and Singapore respectively, presenting their views on the challenges facing public libraries, in a session facilitated by Victoria's State Librarian, Anne-Marie Schwirtlich.

Mark Pesce, futurist, inventor, writer and teacher, wrapping-up the day in a thoughtful reflection drawing together the key themes.

With such a great line up of speakers we can guarantee that all participants in the day will be inspired, stretched, challenged and provoked.


Region:	Melbourne
Location:	State Library Victoria, 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Entry via Door 3 Latrobe St.
Target Audience	Senior Managers Middle/Functional Managers Frontline Managers/Supervisors
When:	16 November, 2009
Time:	9.30am – 4.30pm (refreshments on arrival from 9am)
Cost:	$0 Morning & Afternoon Tea and Lunch included
Enquiries:	Cathy Milward-Bason Ph: 03 8664 7411 or email cmilward-bason@slv.vic.gov.au
Formal accreditation is not applicable to this course

Registration Closed - Full
To enquire use the contact details below or join our waiting list

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