Announcements

The RAO Section will once again host its Marketplace of Ideas during the Section's annual meeting on Monday, May 4 at 12pm EST. The meeting will be held virtually and is free to attend.  

For those unfamiliar with the Marketplace of Ideas, this is a fun and interactive way for archivists to discuss and exchange innovative ideas and practical approaches to many of the challenges faced in reference, access, and outreach. Multiple small breakout rooms are created, and, at 15-minute intervals, attendees can virtually travel from one breakout room to another to engage in conversation with colleagues. In this virtual marketplace, the connections extend beyond walls and geography, creating an open, inclusive forum where ideas are exchanged, refined, and shared with the entire community. 

We are looking for people who are interested in serving as presenters in the Marketplace! As a presenter, you will be the host of your own breakout room. You will provide attendees with a short (3-5 minute) presentation or overview of the topic or theme of your choice and facilitate a conversation with attendees. You might present a particularly challenging situation you're facing and ask for suggestions and feedback. You might present a case study about an innovative assignment you've created and facilitate a Q&A with attendees who want to learn more about your work.   

Presentation topics focused on any aspect of archival reference, access, instruction, advocacy, and outreach are encouraged. We are particularly interested in proposals that align with the work of RAO's Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) and Exhibits and Events (E2) Subcommittees. In past years, the Marketplace has included topics such as: 

You can submit your presentation proposal here: 

2026 RAO Marketplace of Ideas proposal submission – Fill out form 

Please submit by Friday, April 17, 2026. We will notify successful applicants no later than Friday, April 24, 2026.  

If you have questions, please reach out to Erin Lawrimore, RAO Chair, or any member of the RAO Steering Committee.