(via Megan Benson, Binghamton University)
Do you believe in the power of technology to shape library services? Have you or a colleague used technology in an innovative way to enhance patron services? If so, we encourage you to apply for an ALA RUSA (Reference & User Services Association)/ETS (Emerging Technologies Section) Best Emerging Technology Application Award! The award offers $3,000 to an individual or group in recognition of a technology application that directly benefits library users. The award is generously co-sponsored by Chatstaff and LibraryH3lp.
Eligibility
The award is open to any library employee or group of library employees provided that the following conditions are met. Neither ALA nor RUSA membership is required.
- The award application describes an implementation of a technology that has directly impacted library patrons.
- The implementation took place no more than 2 years prior to the application deadline, which is currently February 12, 2021.
Evaluation Criteria
Each written application is evaluated using the following criteria:
- Creativity of the use of technology to improve patron services
- Impact on patrons
- Sustainability of the technological application
- Quality of the plan for assessing the technological application
Application Process Timeline
- February 12, 2021 – Submission Deadline for Applications on the BETA website
- March 2021 – ETS Best Emerging Technology Application Committee reviews applications (see here)
- April 2021 – Winner notified
How to Apply or Nominate someone else
To apply: If you would like to apply for the award or nominate someone else’s project, please visit the BETA website (see link above). The committee will contact nominees to encourage them to apply.
Submission Deadline: Sunday, February 12, 2021.