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Mardis (FSU-SLIS) to speak at IMLS WebWise 2011 Dr. Marcia Mardis <http://directory.slis.fsu.edu/Directory/profile.php?id=158&info=summary > , assistant professor at The Florida State University School of Library & Information Studies, has been invited to speak at the WebWise 2011 Conference <http://webwise2011.library.du.edu/index.php> in Baltimore, MD. Regarded as a signature event of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the annual conference brings together representatives from museums, libraries, education and other fields to explore the possibilities for digital technologies. The theme of this year's conference is "Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in Education, Learning, and Research." Mardis has investigated how school libraries can successfully integrate open-source STEM materials into their collections and services to increase student engagement. Mardis will be one of three panelists presenting "Perfecting STEM Partnerships: Libraries, Museums & Formal Education" on Friday, March 11. The panel will be moderated by Mary Stansbury, Chair of the Library & Information Science Program at the University of Denver. "I was honored to be asked to represent libraries in the small group of information professionals leading this important discussion," said Mardis. The subject of the panel discussion from to the WebWise 2011 agenda <http://webwise2011.library.du.edu/agendawed.php> : Museums and libraries have become key providers of opportunities to develop 21st century skills in collaboration with formal education partners. The STEM disciplines and professions need people who have a global perspective, self-directed learners, creative and comfortable with a wide array of rapidly changing information technologies. IMLS has provided a number of opportunities and venues to develop community, university, and school partnerships to provide 21st century skills with a STEM focus. Several of IMLS and MacArthur-funded projects have created innovative and engaging spaces, content, and experiences for students at all levels to learn about STEM concepts and techniques. Preparing library and museum professionals to work in these environments will also be discussed. The WebWise 2011 conference takes place on Wednesday, March 9, through Friday, March 11, 2011 at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel. For more information visit the WebWise 2011 website <http://webwise2011.library.du.edu/index.php> . Bob Branciforte Creative director College of Communication & Information The Florida State University 850-644-3391