Editor’s Note. Today’s post is by Ginny Herbert. Ginny is Associate Publisher, Researcher Engagement and Experience, AIP Publishing.
The scholarly publishing landscape is shifting rapidly. Digital tools, evolving funding models, and new technologies are transforming how we communicate research. Whether you’re on the front lines of open access, grappling with the challenges of B2C models, or simply trying to stay ahead of the curve, there’s one event you can’t miss: the 2024 New Directions in Scholarly Publishing seminar.
Taking place on October 1-2, this year’s event promises to explore the most pressing trends and challenges facing our field. Hosted both in person at the AGU Conference Center in Washington, DC, and virtually, the seminar offers a unique blend of future-focused insights, practical strategies, and, perhaps most importantly, an opportunity to connect with peers and thought leaders in scholarly communication.
While the in-person slots are filling up fast, the virtual option remains wide open — and it’s packed with perks that make attending from the comfort of your home or office just as valuable as joining in from DC. But don’t worry: if you’re set on experiencing the event in person, we’ve got you covered too!
Virtual Attendance: Your Key to Flexibility and Savings
While in-person events have their appeal, attending virtually offers unparalleled flexibility. Here’s why opting for the virtual experience could be the perfect fit for your busy schedule:
- Access All Content — On Your Time
Life doesn’t always align with live event schedules. Have a departmental meeting or a last-minute deadline that conflicts with a session? With virtual attendance, you’ll still have access to all session recordings for a full 90 days. This means you can catch up on the engaging discussions — whether it’s AI’s role in scholarly publishing or how smaller publishers are navigating consolidation — on your own time. Virtual attendees are no longer forced to choose between an urgent meeting and the seminar’s cutting-edge content.
- Cost-Effective Without Compromising Value
Let’s be honest, attending conferences in person can be expensive. Between airfare, hotels, meals, and the registration fee, costs add up quickly. If you’re looking for a more budget-conscious option, the virtual seminar has you covered. Virtual attendance rates start at just $225 for members ($275 for non-members), and for students, researchers, librarians, or attendees from low/middle-income countries, it’s even more affordable — rates start at just $135.
But here’s the kicker: Group packages are available, meaning you can gather your team for a watch party and share insights without ever stepping foot on a plane. With packages for up to 15 viewers, virtual attendance is not only cost-effective but also a great team-building opportunity.
- Virtual Networking at Its Best
One of the most common concerns about virtual conferences is the loss of networking opportunities. However, at New Directions, virtual attendees will have access to dedicated virtual roundtables, offering a platform to discuss pressing industry issues, share insights, and even make new connections.
- A Front-Row Seat to the Action
Have you ever sat in the back of a packed conference room, squinting at the speaker slides and struggling to hear the discussion? Not with virtual attendance! Virtual attendees often enjoy better visibility and audio quality than those in the crowded halls. Plus, with virtual moderators ensuring that every attendee’s voice is heard, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to engage with speakers and panelists directly.
- Join a Truly Global Conversation
One of the most exciting aspects of virtual attendance is the chance to engage with a diverse, global audience. Attendees from all over the world can join the conversation, bringing different perspectives and experiences that enrich the discussions. Whether you’re debating the ethics of AI in publishing with someone in the UK or exploring the future of open access with a colleague from India, the virtual format removes geographical boundaries, creating a space for a more inclusive and expansive exchange of ideas.
For Those Who Love the In-Person Experience…
We get it — there’s nothing quite like being in the room where it happens. The energy, the spontaneity of face-to-face interactions, and the opportunity to explore Washington, DC, alongside your colleagues all add a special dimension to the event.
For in-person attendees, there are plenty of perks: enjoy continental breakfast, coffee breaks, and lunch on day one while mingling with speakers and fellow attendees. The Reverse Roundtables provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions on topics ranging from AI to workforce adaptation, and the optional tour of the Library of Congress offers an exclusive peek into the Rare Books and Special Collections Division.
In-person attendees will also have access to virtual content, so you won’t miss out on any part of the seminar — even if you have to step out of a session for a quick chat or a networking meeting.
And be sure to join us for social hour the night before! It’s the perfect way to meet fellow attendees over a bite of food before the seminar kicks off. Whether you’re local or flying in from afar, the in-person experience will certainly be worth it.
Your Path to the Future Starts Here
Whether you choose to attend virtually or in person, one thing is clear: the New Directions in Scholarly Publishing seminar is an unmissable event for anyone invested in the future of scholarly communication. Will you network in your slippers or in the bustling halls of the AGU Conference Center? Either way, you’re guaranteed to walk away with actionable insights, new connections, and a deeper understanding of where scholarly publishing is headed next.
Register today and secure your front-row seat—whether it’s on the ground in DC or from your laptop at home.
