Library Futures Institute Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Futures Institute?

Passive bystanders or active choreographers? is the underlying theme of the Futures Institute sponsored by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, and cosponsored by the Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Keynote speaker Dr. Michio Kaku, author of the best-selling book, Visions: How Science Will Revolutionize the 21st Century, believes that humans are now developing the capability to actively shape the future. The Institute will showcase the premise that librarians need not let technology and other powerful outside forces steamroll their institutions, but play a proactive role in shaping their own best vision of what libraries can and should be.

Who should attend the Futures Institute?

150 librarians will be selected to reflect all types of Massachusetts libraries, public, school, academic and special, who can commit to both days. Because there is a limit on the number who can be accepted, it may not be possible for more than one person per library to attend.

When will the Futures Institute be held?

The Futures Institute will be held from 9 am to 6:30 pm on June 26 and from 9 am to 4:30 pm on June 27, 2002. Attendees must attend both days.

Where will the Futures Institute be held?

The Institute will be held on the campus of Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, Massachusetts. As with previous MBLC institutes, a limited number of hotel accommodations will be available without charge for participants coming from remote parts of the state.

How can I get an Application to Attend?

Applications are available by contacting Shelley Quezada at the MBLC. She can be reached by e-mail at shelley.quezada@state.ma.us or by leaving a message on her voice mail at 617-267-9400 x235 or 1 800 952-7403. Final selection and notification will take place on or before June 5, 2002.