Get ready to vote! The YALSA election runs from March 19 through April 25, and to help you be an informed voter, we’re sharing interviews with each of the 2014 YALSA Governance candidates.
We will start with the candidates for Board Director-at-large. YALSA Board members serve three-year terms, during which they jointly determine YALSA’s policies, programs, and strategic direction, in accordance with YALSA’s bylaws. They attend both virtual and in-person meetings and serve as liaisons to YALSA’s committee chairs and members. A full description of Board duties and responsibilities can be found here.
Candidates, who will be presented in alphabetical order, were asked to craft “Twitter-length” responses (i.e. around 140 characters). Full biographical information on all of the candidates can be found on the sample ballot.
Today we have an interview with‘ mk Eagle.
Name and current position:‘ mk Eagle, Librarian, Holliston High School (Holliston, MA)
Why did you decide to run for a YALSA office? What excites you about serving on YALSA Board? ‘
As someone who has worked for YALSA since I was in grad school, I thought the transition to Board leadership was a natural one for me. I’m excited to bring my unique perspective to this talented group.
What areas of YALSA’s Strategic Plan do you think you can best contribute to? Why?’
I believe I can best contribute to Member Engagement and Recruitment. As a Board member I want to better connect the membership at large to the organization and work of the division so that all YALSA members benefit from and contribute to the wealth of resources YALSA provides.
What is the most pressing issue facing YALSA today?
YALSA must work to connect members to job opportunities and training as our profession continues to evolve.
What priority activities should YALSA take on to address the “paradigm shift” as described in The Future of Library Services for and with Teens report?
YALSA must provide leadership on best practices for youth services, particularly in rethinking teen spaces/places; provide training for all library staff, not just young adult librarians; and actively work to influence MLIS curriculum and faculties across the country.
What attributes have helped you succeed professionally?
My skill as a writer and my ability to listen to and work with a broad range of teens and colleagues have helped me excel as an information professional.
What do you see as the primary role of the Board?
I see the Board’s primary role as overseeing and supporting the Strategic Plan.
If elected, how will you help YALSA members (in their daily work, in their careers, other)?
I will connect YALSA members to the people and resources that will make their daily lives easier, and demystify the work of the Board.
What else would you like voters to know about you?
While members may already know me for my sense of humor, voters should know that I’m very serious about the work I do for YALSA. Serving on the Board of Directors is not a responsibility I take lightly.
