Managing Emerging Technology

About

As a committee of the ​Emerging Technologies Section​ (ETS), within ​Reference & User Services Association​ (RUSA), the committee’s purpose is to create a community of practice and shared expertise around emerging technologies in all libraries, within the context of reference, information, and consultation services delivery.  
 

Past projects hosted by ETS Management of Electronic Reference Services include:

• Discussion Forum at 2016 annual called "Promoting Subject Specialists & Enhancing Visibility of Library Reference"  
• Discussion at 2016 Midwinter called "Optimizing the web for reference: Best practices for usability, accessibility, and responsiveness" 
• Discussion at 2015 Annual called: "Lessons Learned: Libraries, Course Management Systems, and Future Directions"
• Discussion at 2015 Midwinter on assessment of library resources embedded in course management systems.  
•  MERS co-hosted a discussion forum with the Public Libraries Committee (PL) at ALA Midwinter 2011 titled "Assessment and Evaluation of Virtual Reference"

 
Our current and future projects include:

• Creation of a “tool kit” that could help members manage emerging technologies in their libraries  
• Collaboration with the RSS Virtual Reference Services committee to develop membership surveys and e-forums. 

 
The committee uses the RUSA ​Bylaws​ and RUSA Handbook to structure their work. While ETS Executive Committee members provide input as to the work of this committee, projects and activities are determined by committee members. Depending upon the yearly goals developed by these members, the committee may meet monthly (online). While there is no maximum number of members on this committee, there shall be at least five (5) RUSA members appointed by the Vice-Chair/Chair-Elect of ETS.  Members of this committee serve for two (2) years and are eligible for reappointment for a consecutive two-year term. Terms are staggered.