Two months have passed since I attended the ACRL/NY 2024 Symposium: “Values in Context: Praxis in the Everyday,” and I have reflected on the experience and its constructive aspects in two key areas.
First, the networking opportunities were extraordinary. I was privileged to meet dedicated professionals, such as Malikah Hall-Retteen, who leads the impactful “Decolonizing Your Legal Bookshelf” project. Our discussions about diversifying library collections by integrating voices that are often overlooked in the education system were particularly enlightening. This experience inspired me and reinforced the notion that each of us has a meaningful role in fostering positive change in our communities.
Equally noteworthy were the insightful discussions that took place during the symposium. While every conversation contributed to my understanding, a few stood out as they tackled significant challenges within higher education. For instance, Kelly Karst’s presentation on TikTok as a search engine prompted me to rethink how we approach our users’ information behavior and consider ways to adapt to emerging platforms—an area where I recognize the opportunity for personal growth. Additionally, the “Fridays in May” panel was a highlight for me, emphasizing the importance of peer networking across disciplines and institutions, focusing on supporting QBIPOC librarians.
This symposium reflected the ACRL/NY mission statement: “encouraging the exchange of ideas and information, providing networking opportunities for librarians, and seeking greater cooperation among academic and research libraries” (Mission Statement, 2008). I am excited to take on my role as a member and to contribute actively to expanding connections and advocating for the core values of library work. By working together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable future for our profession and the communities we serve.
I would like to express my appreciation for Angela Washington’s generous gesture. She thoughtfully provided beautiful journals to the scholarship recipients.
Sincerely,
Alessandra Otero-Ramos Arts & Humanities Librarian SUNY Geneseo