ALA Emerging Leaders

The ALA Emerging Leaders program is a leadership development program which enables newer library workers from across the country to participate in problem-solving work groups, network with peers, gain an inside look into ALA structure, and have an opportunity to serve the profession in a leadership capacity. It puts participants on the fast track to ALA committee volunteerism as well as other professional library-related organizations.

I was incredibly blessed to have been selected as a 2015 ALA Emerging Leader. I was even more fortunate to have been sponsored by YALSA. My opportunity and experience as an Emerging Leader would not have been possible were it not for YALSA. The learning, networking, and enriching opportunity was one of the best of my life. After my Emerging Leaders experience I ran for ALA Council and I was elected, despite being a new librarian. Being a Councilor-at-Large is a great responsibility as I was elected to not only represent the interests, views, and needs of my fellow librarians and their libraries, but that of their patrons.

Since finishing my Emerging Leaders experience, I continue to work with young adults through selection of YA material, graphic novels, and participating in programs related to tweens and teens. When in doubt, I know that I can rely on the great resources YALSA has available to members and the public.

I am grateful to YALSA and ALA for all the help they have provided to my development, for opportunities afford me through the help of both, and the connections I have made by participating in conferences and programs.

Thank you, YALSA!