How do we think about the future? For many, futuring begins by studying the trends and changes happening in society, education, technology, economics, and demographics. But these trends and changes only become meaningful when we consider them in light of our professional values and the values we seek to provide to our communities. How can we work together to explore a broad range of trends and changes and innovate in ways that advance our values?

Miguel Figueroa works at the Center for the Future of Libraries, an initiative from the American Library Association. He has previously held positions at the American Theological Library Association; ALA ‘s Office for Diversity and Office for Literacy and Outreach Services; NYU’s Ehrman Medical Library; and Neal-Schuman Publishers. He is a graduate of the University of Arizona’s Knowledge River Program, an initiative that examines library issues from Hispanic and Native American perspectives.