Spring DLF Forum & Visit to Duke University

I attended the Digital Library Federation's Project Managers Group which convened prior to the conference to discuss topics around the theme of Portfolio Management and Managing Multiple Projects. The format consisted of four 10-minute Lighting Talks and three 20 minute in-depth presentations. Joseph Ryan of NC State Libraries gave an overview of their use of the Basecamp tool for tracking projects, and the usefulness of the high level view afforded by the Dashboard feature. This generated a round of questions & discussion about project management tools in general. The feedback indicated that a variety of tools was in use by the group; no one owned up to using MS Project solely. A strong interest was expressed in sharing best practices around specific tools once a management structure for the group is in place. It was beneficial to hear and share the experiences of other managers regarding the art/science balance of project management. By consensus vote, the group chose to remain intact while administrative changes occur within the parent organization, CLIR.

To describe the newly renovated area in the Perkins Library as state of the art in a teaching and learning space seems inadequate. The Link is a highly successful, implementation of a flexible environment supported by all the inputs necessary to meet the classroom needs of students and faculty. Other interesting features were the self-managed quiet space designation and the food and drink policy. It was a very worthwhile visit.