Call for new leaders for the Global Village Plaza

The third edition of the Global Village Plaza (at the 2004 annual meeting of ASIST) raised a number of very important issues for the information science community as well as for the roles and responsibilities of ASIST. Michel and I have summarized the discussions that took place at the event along with pictures (and notes from previous editions of the Plaza) on the SIG-III website: http://www.asis.org/SIG/SIGIII/ (Go to the "Global Plaza" on the left side bar).

SIG III officers believe, as we do, that the Global Information Village Plaza should continue as a key function at ASIST annual meetings. The participants at this year's Global Plaza seemed to agree that the Global Plaza offers a unique opportunity for participants to share personal views and experiences in an unconstrained and interactive fashion. They highlighted the importance of diversity of perspectives from all around the world. Sessions like the Plaza serve in particular to remind us that we are too often blinded by our assumptions/biases about culture, technologies, information resources and use patterns.

The Global Plaza’s potential to act as a springboard for future research ideas and initiatives was also raised. Examples included using some of the themes raised at the session for student research projects; raising awareness of the issues through the creation of forums, weblogs, success stories, etc.

Michel and I have been fortunate to coordinate the event for the past three years. We feel it is time to pass on the torch to others, who may have fresh perspectives and ideas on how to make the Global Plaza a useful and engaging session. We remain available for advice and mentorship as needed, but we invite others to take over the Plaza and use it as a means to get everyone (from North, South, East and West) engaged and committed.

Panel submissions for the next ASIST Annual Meeting is approaching fast (January end), so please let us know as soon as possible if you are interested in taking the Global Plaza to a new level. We will be happy to help you put together a proposal for a session at the next ASIST. We encourage anyone interested from all parts of the world to get involved and volunteer ideas, time, energy and above all their passion.

All the best,
Nadia Caidi and Michel Menou.