CONTRIBUTE YOUR VOICE TO THE GLOBAL INFORMATION VILLAGE PLAZA A major feature in the so-called "information society" or else "digital economy" is its global nature. This aspect is analyzed, described and commented upon by many "specialists." The same specialists and other happy few are involved in the preparation of policies and programs supposed to support the transition into this "new era." Yet the lay professional public has little opportunity to express and confront its views in a truly open and participative fashion, unbiased by corporate, political or career stakes. While general economic and social challenges or current practices are often debated, what do this "new" society mean and imply for people is more often than not overlooked. Take advantage of a unique opportunity to express your personal views and share opinions with members of the ASIS&T and with information professionals at large.Tell us in a short (300 words maximum) position statement what in your opinion will be radically changed in your professional life and in your personal life as a result of the globalization of the information society? In other words, what does ‘globalization’ and ‘information society’ mean to you in a very real and concrete sense, both as an individual and as an information professional? What changes (if any) do you feel you have to undergo in order to cope? What should the information science community do to help you cope with the change? What should the information science community do to help itself cope with the change? To get your started, example of issues/themes are provided below. You may want to select one or a few of the following themes and articulate what is really new and challenging about each; what individuals and professional societies should do in order for all to better deal with the issue. The goal is to deepen our understanding of the problem and propose research and action agendas. Your own contributions and additions to the list of topics are of course welcome. · Multiculturalism and multilingualism · Lifelong learning for information professionals · Transformation of the public sphere and information ‘spaces’ · Strategies for coping with information overload and pollution · Distance education and interactive learning · User-friendliness and reliability of ICT applications · New patterns of work and social life · ICT and information as instruments of domination and/or liberation on the international scene · The state of information post 9/11 In keeping with the spirit of the Plaza -e.g., the 'public place' or shared community space reminiscent of the public sphere-, a wide initiative called the Global Information Village Plaza is currently taking place. Its aim is to bring people together to reflect on these issues. Beyond the individual opinions, the social interaction between the various participants and contributors is an important part of the process (hence, the idea of a global plaza). Take the opportunity to share your position statement with others through the discussion list of the Special Interest Group on International Information Issues (SIG/III) of ASIS&T, which hosts the public discussion around the Global Information Village Plaza. The email for the list is: sigiii-l@asis.org <mailto:sigiii-l@asis.org> Messages should clearly indicate "Plaza" in the subject line. All position statements are due by October 5. Note: Anyone can post messages to the sigiii-l list but if you wish to see what others have posted and participate in further discussion, consider subscribing to the list (see http://mail.asis.org/mailman/listinfo/sigiii-l for details on how to subscribe). The sigiii list is a moderated list (mainly to avoid spamming and unrelated announcements). Of course, you may send your comments about others’ statements posted on the list. For more information, contact Nadia Caidi (caidi@fis.utoronto.ca) or Michel Menou (Michel.Menou@wanadoo.fr).