Events Committee

In accordance with its identity as “an international, interdisciplinary scholarly organization that fosters the study of books and other textual artifacts in traditional and emerging formats,” the Bibliographical Society of America pursues its mission “by hosting public programs…and collaborating with related organizations.”

It is the responsibility of the Events Committee to ensure that the BSA maintains an active public profile and supports bibliographical scholarship by sponsoring and co-sponsoring sessions at conferences, talks at book fairs, other public events, as well as initiatives by other organizations, societies, and institutions whose interests align with those of the BSA.

Volunteer Commitment

Events Committee service is structured around the Society’s three calls for program proposals each year, with 60-90 minute meetings scheduled shortly after each deadline (January, April, October). At these meetings the committee reviews proposed events and selects some to fund based on budget availability and other factors.

In between meetings, Committee members are generally responsible for:

  • evaluating proposals received through the three calls for proposals each year (2-4 hours each round, depending upon the number of proposals)
  • encouraging potential speakers and event organizers to submit proposals to the committee
  • reviewing and evaluating proposals received via our Kaleidoscope application portal
  • hosting events as a BSA moderator, should this be desirable to the individual Committee member

From time to time, Committee members are also asked to review and revise the proposal submission and evaluation process and assist with writing copy of the BSA website.

Current Members

Ashley Cataldo, American Antiquarian Society (Chair)
Colleen Barrett, University of Kentucky
RB Bartgis, Annapolis
Barbara Bieck, New York Society Library (Vice Chair)
Dorothy J. Berry, National Museum of African American History and Culture
Megan Peiser, Oakland University (ex officio)