WAML 2020 Conference Highlights

Abstract

The Western Association of Map Libraries (WAML) is a community for promoting excellence in the map and geospatial library profession. Four overarching activities structure the WAML mission: (1) providing a welcoming and inclusive space where professionals and enthusiasts alike can learn, share, thrive, and build expertise; (2) advocating for access to and preservation of geospatial data and collections; (3) energizing our members through networking, mentoring, collaboration, and continuing education; and (4) developing and disseminating professional standards and best practices that advance our field. WAML held its most recent annual conference event—“WAML 2020”— between October 14 and 16, 2020. The unprecedented circumstances brought about by the on-going global COVID-19 pandemic led to the decision to host the conference fully online. It was the first ever virtual conference hosted by WAML. Annual WAML conferences are open to both WAML members and nonmembers. And, while the explicit geographical focus of the organization is the western regions of North America, attendees from all parts of the globe are welcome. WAML is a relatively small organization, with its conferences typically seeing attendance by no more than approximately 50-70 members and nonmembers. The size of WAML is often lauded as being among the organization’s most appealing traits. Map and geospatial library professionals feel comfortable networking and bonding with like-minded individuals in the relatively intimate, small-scaled spaces of WAML events. They develop a sense of camaraderie and solidarity through their engagements with the WAML community, becoming part of that community themselves. Moving to a virtual format was a difficult, but necessary, decision. As so many organizations have learned throughout 2020, and continue to learn, coordination of fully remote events presents a unique set of challenges. The online format dissolved many of the conventional geographical frictions and transportation costs involved with in-person functions. https://doi.org/10.1080/15420353.2021.1953327