Dear Colleagues,

Libraries teach people of all ages about geographic practices, maps, data and spatial information; however, we need better supports for the development of pedagogies and research in geography and GIS education within libraries. This is true for all kinds of libraries including academic, K-12, and public libraries. Informal education on GIS and geographic concepts also happens in local data centers and community organizations. Libraries and other community oriented organizations are important civic entities providing access to information and education in cities and towns across the US. Despite these vital roles in our communities, there has been limited collective action to develop strong communities of practice around GIS and Geography Education. To that end, we are seeking proposals from people working in academic, K-12, or public libraries, and others teaching in informal settings to  describe pedagogical approaches, research, or the construction of materials to promote spatial literacy or GIS education through library instruction and/or outreach. Examples can range from discussing workshops or course creation for library instruction around spatial concepts, research conducted on GIS education in libraries more broadly, or thematic analysis of what needs exist around spatial literacy support in libraries. Furthermore, part of a community of practice is enabling support for those engaging in this work. We would also like papers focused on what it means to support GIS and spatial inquiry in libraries and what supports are needed to truly fulfill our positions. If you have been involved in our conversations around the Role of Libraries in Geography and GIS Education, we especially encourage you to submit.

Abstracts are due October 30, 2020. Contributors will be notified of their proposal’s status (accepted or rejected) by November 13, 2020. Final drafts of papers would be expected for submission by January 15, 2020.  

Final article word limit can range between 2,500 to 5,000 words.

Abstracts should be between 350 and 400 words and include an explanation of how their work fits within the broader theme of Geography and GIS education in Libraries. Please submit abstracts through this form.

If you have questions regarding submitting an abstract, please contact GISlib@andrew.cmu.edu