RAILS Online Roundtables are hour-long forums hosted on a specific topic. Online roundtables emphasize peer-to-peer learning and the sharing of best practices in libraries. These forums are held via Zoom online meeting software.
The forum will feature a brief presentation by one or more presenters followed by an online chat discussion. Any library staff from any Illinois library is encouraged to attend and participate. All online roundtables are archived for later viewing.
For upcoming RAILS Online Roundtables, see the Library Directory & Learning Calendar (L2) calendar.
Propose a Topic
Anyone can propose a topic for a future online roundtable. The topic must be of interest to a wide variety of library types and library staff.
To prepare for a RAILS online roundtable, RAILS staff will:
- Set up the event in L2 and Zoom
- Coordinate promotion of the event
- Set up a Zoom practice session
- Troubleshoot and act as host on the day of the live event
- Archive the recorded event
Presenters will be expected to:
- Create a short verbal presentation (10-15 minutes)
- Develop a short slideshow (5-7 slides)
- Participate in a 10 minute Zoom practice session
- Assist in leading a 30 minute online chat discussion
If you're interested in proposing a topic for an upcoming online roundtable, please contact RAILS Member Engagement Specialist Jessica Silva, 630.734.5153.
Archived Online Roundtables
All online roundtables are archived in the RAILS Online Roundtable playlist on YouTube. Recordings are typically posted 24-48 hours after the live version has concluded.