This course WILL count towards the synchronous-course requirement for the certificate programs. A minimum of two courses must be synchronous (in person or virtual).
Modern archives depend on technology, but managing the IT aspects have become a growing challenge for all of us, whether it’s working successfully with others (such as campus IT departments, vendors and others), handling tech needs on our own, or making strategic technology decisions with confidence. Although technology is ever-changing, there are some management fundamentals that remain the same in a world of churn.
And it’s no secret that our world is full of contrasts - from “Lone Arrangers” tasked with all duties to larger (and sometimes very large) organizations with significant staff sizes and full IT Departments. How can one class cover all possible needs across such varied environments? One way is through a customized-to-you approach.
Each week, participants are asked to view videos and complete worksheets targeted at some of the unchanging aspects of technology management, including assessment of tech & support; project planning and management; leveraging Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and Return on Investment (ROI) to make wise decisions; and communication strategies between archivists and IT staff.
The heart and soul of the course is the weekly “Office Hour” where participants have the opportunity to meet with the instructor - and each other - in real time for what has become a no-holds barred flipped classroom environment where all issues, challenges and triumphs related to technology management are welcomed in a safe, supportive space. To preserve privacy and confidentiality, and to encourage participation, these sessions are not recorded. “Office Hour” has resulted in powerful conversations, epiphanies and solutions for participants.
Participants will be surveyed prior to class to discover their greatest areas of technology management struggles, and the class content will be tailored to meet the needs of participants.
This course office hours will be held via the SAA Zoom platform from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (each day) U.S. central time on Tuesdays. It is four (4) sessions scheduled in all for the following dates.
- February 03, 2026
- February 10, 2026
- February 17, 2026 and
- February 24, 2026
Upon completion of this course, you will:
- Increase their understanding of fundamental technology management approaches that remain constant in an ever-changing world.
- Explore strategies and techniques for relationship management and communications around technology.
- Learn about other topics customized to their greatest needs based on participation in weekly “Office Hour.”
Instructor bio:
Carson Block is a technology consultant with services to libraries and archives including strategic planning, project management, design, and construction and teaching. He’s been called a Geek who speaks English; and occasionally
compared to Ferris Bueller and Calvin (and Hobbes). Carson is dead serious about the essential and positive community impacts of archives and libraries and focuses his consulting practice on helping institutions increase their capacity to serve people. Carson has served in leadership positions in ALA ASCLA, ColoradoPLA and others, and evangelizes libraries to SXSW Interactive and other tech communities. Carson is the author of Managing Library Technology: A LITA Guide (Rowman & Littlefield). http://www.carsonblock.com/
DAS Tier: Foundational
Fees: Advance / Regular:
SAA Members: $299 / $349
Employees of SAA Member Institutions: $359 / $419
Nonmembers: $419 / $479