Instructors: Sara Snyder, Information Technology Specialist, Archives of American Art Dominic McDevitt-Parks, Wikimedia DC, National Archives and Records Administration
When the results of a web search on nearly any topic include a Wikipedia page, frequently as the number one result, how can institutions ensure that their digital resources remain relevant? Organizations like libraries, archives, and museums continue to share their collections and expertise online, but many struggle with questions about how they can provide greater context and reach broader audiences. How should they understand and relate to Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia, and the online community of volunteers that crowdsource its contents?
To begin to addressing these questions, an increasing number of organizations around the globe--including the Smithsonian Institution and the National Archives and Records Administration--have begun partnering with the Wikipedia online community, working together to improve encyclopedia entries relating to their collections. This workshop will introduce participants to the world behind Wikipedia: the community of volunteers who create and edit articles, and who protect the site against vandalism and copyright violations. With hands-on training and lots of interactivity, participants will gain 21st century information literacy skills and technical skills that they will immediately be able to put into practice.They will also have the chance to form valuable new interpersonal connections among the network of librarians, archivists, and cultural professionals who are also Wikipedia contributors.
Maximum Participants: 30
Fee: $50
Monday May 5, 2014 8:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room: Farragut Square Grand Hyatt 1000 H Street NW, Washington DC 20001
