Can Certification Be Far Behind?

The Columbia University Libraries have posted a position I haven't seen before: GIS/Metadata Librarian.

I have mixed feelings about this. On one hand, it shows a growing level of respect for, and seriousness about, metadata. On the other, it implies that metadata is somehow hard enough to do as to merit bringing on a full-time librarian to do the job.

Looks like a tempting job, though, doesn't it?

We offer excellent benefits including 100% Columbia tuition exemption for self and family and assistance with University housing.

NSGIC Conference Update: Conference Brochure Now Available

The PDF version of the brochure for the 2006 NSGIC Annual Conference is now available from the Conference website.

The Conference -- NSGIC 2006: Fifty States for the Nation -- will take place October 1 through 5, at the Peabody Hotel in Little Rock, Arkansas.

The brochure includes an overview of the agenda, costs, housing, and more information about this annual gathering of the geo-tribes. See also, our earlier blog entry on the conference.

Call for Nominations for the NSGIC Elections

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2006 NSGIC Elections. The NSGIC Nominations committee is seeking candidates for the post of president-elect and for three seats on the Board of Directors. Serving on the NSGIC Board is among the highest commitments to support the organization's mission and activities by an individual member.

The president-elect position is a three year commitment, while the Board of Director seats are two year commitments. The three seats open for this year’s election are currently held by David Brotzman (VT), Stewart Kirkpatrick (MT), and Nick Tew (AL).

The NSGIC Bylaws require the call of nominations to be announced at least ninety (90) days in advance of the elections, and for nominations to be closed sixty (60) days in advance of the elections.

Nominations for this year’s election must be forwarded to one of the Election Committee Co-Chairs, Joe Sewash (NC) or Joe Holmes (LA), by Friday, August 4, at 5:00 pm, EDT. The ballot box at the NSGIC Annual Conference will be open through afternoon break on Tuesday, October 3.

Please contact Joe Holmes (225.219.3348) or Joe Sewash (919.733.2090) with nominations or questions.

Time to Register for the Annual NSGIC Conference

Registration is now open for NSGIC 2006: Fifty States for the Nation. The conference is set for October 1 through 5, at the Peabody Hotel in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Registration, available on-line, is $390 for NSGIC members and $585 for non-members until September 1. After September 1, registration will be $475 for members and $675 for non-members. After September 22, registration will be $575 for members and $775 for non-members. But you won't wait that long.

A draft agenda (excel) is available. Be aware, though, that it is subject to change. NSGIC conferences are notoriously full, busy and productive, with meetings and presentations from breakfast, through dinner and into the evenings.

Sponsorships are still available, by the way. NSGIC is made up of the GIS Coordinators of nearly all 50 states, and includes influential geospatial leaders in may county and local governments and among many federal agencies. Not a bad audience to reach.