Speak Up 2008: My Virtual World

(Vancouver, B.C.) – From February 19 to March 11, the Vancouver Public Library will host a lively exchange of ideas and discussion at Speak Up 2008: My Virtual World, where participants will explore the role of technology in our lives.

During this intriguing four-part series, expert panelists representing a broad range of perspectives on technology in the virtual and real worlds will address four key aspects of e-activity: Online Privacy, Gaming, Information Online and the Social Impacts of Our Virtual World. Participants are invited to share their thoughts about the role of technology in our world and how the rapidly advancing virtual world is increasingly intersecting with our daily lives.

From university professors to the director of BC’s Information and Privacy Office, a police inspector and journalists, panelists will provide a range of perspectives and opinions to engage participants.

Now in its third year, Speak Up is a forum that draws participants from the community, bringing together many voices, perspectives and experiences. It is an opportunity for people to share their point of view, listen to others and develop solutions to community concerns.

Online Privacy: Is There Any?
Tue. February 19, 7 p.m. – Central Library (350 W. Georgia St.)
Wed. February 20, 7 p.m.– Firehall Branch (1455 W10th Ave.)

Gaming: Distraction or a New Way of Learning?
Tue. February 26, 7 p.m. – Central Library (350 W. Georgia St.)
Wed. February 27, 7 p.m. – Oakridge Branch (#191-650 W. 41st Ave.)

Information Online: What’s Out There?
Tue. March 4, 7 p.m. – Central Library (350 W. Georgia St.)
Thu. March 6, 7 p.m. – Renfrew Branch (2969 East 22nd Ave.)

Social Impacts of Our Virtual World
Tue. March 11, 7 p.m. – Central Library (350 W. Georgia St.)

The events are free and all are welcome. Seating is limited. Please arrive early.

To help generate discussion, resource lists are available in the 2008 Speak Up program guide are available at all library branches or at www.vpl.ca

Founded in 1869, the Vancouver Public Library is one of Canada's largest library systems, dedicated to meeting the lifelong learning, reading, recreation and information needs of the people of Vancouver. Each year, the Library’s 22 branches serve over 370,000 patrons, offer over 2.5 million items and countless online resources to the public, and answer more than one million reference questions. In 2006, a record 10 million items were circulated.

Media contact:

 

Marya Gadison
Coordinator of Marketing and Communications
Vancouver Public Library
604-331-3681/maryagad@vpl.ca

Speak Up schedule of events