[Asis-l] Have an IMPACT at the ASIST Annual Meeting in Long Beach

[Michael Leach]

     Are you interested in discussing, analyzing and forecasting
information systems and services based on current research and cutting
edge technologies?  Perhaps you would rather examine how the rapid
emergence of technologies and services can suggest new avenues of
research?

     With the support of the ASIST Board of Directors, I am inviting you
to do just that at a newly scheduled event for the ASIST Annual Meeting in
Long Beach, CA, called the Impact Forum.  The exact nature of this "forum"
will be determined by your participation.

     For my part, I am envisioning this "forum" as something akin to the
Information Futurists Caucus of SLA or the Imagineering Interest Group of
LITA/ALA, but with a near-future, "right now" impact as opposed to the
science fiction bent of the SLA and LITA counterparts.

    Such a forum could create opportunities to build the network between
"practitioners" and "theorists," taking advantage of an environment unique
to ASIST.  Depending on member interest, any of the following might result
from this meeting:

- planning for future ASIST programs (traditional and experimental)
- creating communication venues (electronic discussion list(s); web
site(s); publications; etc.)
- formulating a scope, mission, or other structural element(s)
- building ties with other ASIST and non-ASIST groups
- having fun.

     ASIST certainly has members with vision, energy, skills, and
creativity to make this concept work.  But is there a will? An interest?
Do you see the potential and are willing to help mold this nascent forum?

     Still interested?  Well, we plan on meeting Monday evening, 20th
October, from 7:00 pm till 8:00 pm, in the Marina Room of the Conference
Hotel in Long Beach.

    Unable to make the Annual Meeting but interested?  Feel free to
contact me if you have suggestions, questions, etc.  Let me know of your
interest and I will keep you informed as to the outcome of the meeting.

Michael R. Leach

Harvard University, Kummel Library
and Physics Research Library
24 Oxford St., Cambridge, MA 02138 USA
617-495-2029; 617-495-4711 (fax)
mrleach at fas.harvard.edu or
leach at eps.harvard.edu