RE : INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE 5TH ForATL CONSULTATION, 2009, SINGAPORE

Dear Colleague Librarians,

We would like to invite you to participate in the Fifth Workshop and Consultation of the Forum of Asian Theological Librarians on the theme: “Asian theological librarians moving on and reaching out : professional development and collaboration in the light of emerging technologies”. Details are as follows:

Dates : 10-14 March 2009 (Tuesday–Saturday)
Venue : Trinity Theological College
490 Upper Bukit Timah Road
Singapore 678093 (www.ttc.edu.sg)
Cost : US$175.00 (or S$250.00)

The theme for the 5th Consultation & Workshop arose from concerns expressed at the previous Consultation in 2006 regarding advances in information communications technology (ICT), its implications on Asian theological librarianship, and how to move on in view of these technological advances. Realising that there are different skills and experience levels among theological librarians in Asia, participants will be asked to choose one of the following three workshop tracks offered:
Track 1 : Library automation
This track is an introduction to the automated integrated library system, and different systems available.
Track 2 : Website design
This track explores website design for libraries.
Track 3 : Advances in technology and digital librarianship
This track focuses on managing digital resources and multimedia, and looks at recent technological advances.

The 5th Consultation will also address the expressed desire to further strengthen networking and collaboration, not only among Asian theological librarians, but to reach out to related bodies beyond Asia. It hopes to explore possible East-West dialogue and seek avenues for cooperation on projects of mutual benefit. Resource-sharing projects and plans from the previous Consultation will be further consolidated. We welcome at this coming Consultation the participation of individuals and institutions/organizations who share our aims and who would be committed to giving effective time and effort to the work of ForATL. A registration form and tentative timetable are enclosed for your consideration and action. Subject to the decision of the Executive Committee, and upon the recommendation of the regional representatives, a limited number of subsidies for travel and fees is available upon request to selected registrants.
We would greatly appreciate an indication of your interest and availability by 15 January 2009. More information will be forthcoming as various details are finalized.

Yours sincerely,
Ms. Elizabeth T. Pulanco
Convenor – ForATL
(Email : btpulanco@yahoo.com)