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Keystone for the Information Age A major conference for government, libraries and information providers at the British Library, 16/17 March 2000 Much has been achieved since the Prime Minister launched the Government's vision for an information age a little over a year ago. Far-reaching policy initiatives on fostering lifelong learning, developing the knowledge economy, delivering wired government, networking knowledge resources and facilitating e-commerce mean that many of the building blocks for a national information policy are now in position. But the keystone has still to be put in place. To deliver the 'co-ordinated strategy' for which Tony Blair has called, an underlying set of principles is needed. This must transcend the many programmes that government bodies and other organisations are currently rolling out, whether individually or in ad hoc partnerships. Such principles need to address issues of: · Connectivity: technical standards, integration and investment to ensure wide access. · Content: information services that address real needs of citizens, communities and businesses. · Competence: cradle-to-grave education and training to ensure that everybody is equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of the information age. To help in the pursuit of this goal, the Library & Information Commission and the British Council, supported by the Library Association, are organising a major international conference in March 2000. It will aim to. · raise awareness how a coherent national information policy framework can help the development of the UK as an information society and knowledge economy. · consider the issues to be addressed in the development and co-ordination of this information policy framework. · Identify the contribution the library and information sector can make. · learn from international best practice. Featuring leading UK and international speakers from both government and the library & information sectors, this is an essential learning and networking event for anyone charged with delivering programmes designed to foster the UK's information society and knowledge economy. Fees £150 plus VAT inclusive of conference documentation, lunches and beverages on both conference days, evening reception on day one. How to Book Early booking is advisable as places are limited. To secure an advance reservation, please contact Library Association Conferences on tel: +44 (0)20 7255 0543 or fax: +44 (0)20 7255 0561, or email [log in to unmask] Philippa McGurk Marketing Executive, Professional Development The Library Association 7 Ridgmount Street London W1CE 7AE Tel: 020 7255 0563 Textphone: 020 7255 0505 Fax: 020 7255 0561 Email: [log in to unmask] %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%