Contributed Columns

General Information

Contributed columns are edited but not subject to peer review. Column authors will work with the corresponding column editor to prepare a submission for publication. Columns are typically in the 1,000-2,000 word range and may include illustrations. They are not research articles but are meant to share practical experience with technology development or uses within the library. Completed drafts for accepted columns are generally due to the column editor 8 weeks before the scheduled publication date for the column.

From the Field

The ”From the Field” column highlights a technology-based project, practice, or innovation from any library in the GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums) community. This column provides an  opportunity to engage with library technology in new ways or different formats, so creative submissions will also be considered. (Examples include, but are not limited to, comics, zines, videos, autoethnography, case studies, white papers, policy documents, interviews, reports, or other things commonly referred to as "grey literature.")

Contact: Cindi Blyberg <cindi@blyberg.net> (column editor)
Call for Proposals: Annual, will open in fall 2025.
List of Published Columns: https://ital.corejournals.org/index.php/ital/from-the-field-column

ITAL &

The “ITAL &” column focuses on ways in which the library’s role continues to expand and develop in the information technology landscape. The emphasis is on emerging ideas and issues, with a particular aim to recruit new-to-the-profession columnists.

This column is intended to be practitioner-focused and inclusive, encouraging submissions from authors who have expertise in libraries and technology but who may not work in a traditional “library” environment or role. We welcome first-time authors and authors based outside of North America, though columns need to be submitted in English.

Contact: Shanna Hollich <shollich@gmail.com> (column editor)
Call for proposals: Annual, will open in fall 2025
List of Published Columns: https://ital.corejournals.org/index.php/ital/ital-and-column

Public Libraries Leading the Way

Currently on hiatus, the “Public Libraries Leading the Way” column highlights practical experience with technology development, innovations, or uses within public libraries. 

Contact: Ken Varnum <varnum@umich.edu> (column editor)
Call for proposals: Not accepting proposals
List of Published Columns: https://ital.corejournals.org/index.php/ital/pllw

Editorial Board Thoughts

“Editorial Board Thoughts” is an occasional column contributed by a member of the ITAL Editorial Board on a topic of their choosing.

Contact: Ken Varnum <varnum@umich.edu> (column editor)
Call for proposals: Not accepting proposals