Bridging Zones of Convergence Across Libraries, Museums, and Archives

Abstract

Libraries, archives, and museums (LAMs) have distinct professional identities, practices, and training pathways. Together they form the bedrock of cultural heritage and civic life. As digital and information technologies reshape how knowledge is created, described, preserved, and accessed, cross-sector collaborations are necessary to serve people and communities well. This poster introduces the University of Washington Information School's Center for Advances in Libraries, Museums, and Archives (CALMA), launched in 2024, as a university-based model for convening LAM researchers, educators, practitioners, students, and community partners and building an evidence base for collaborative action. The poster presents CALMA's emerging "zones of convergence" framework for strengthening cross-sector connections and advances in areas of shared interest. Center director Sharon Streams will provide recent examples of CALMA-supported initiatives that demonstrate how interdisciplinary research, learning, and practice can be woven together to power LAM transformations in response to the shifting information ecosystem.