Greetings! You’ve probably seen the post here last week where we’re seeking a Hub Manager Member for 2021-2022. I had a chance to connect with the current and amazing Hub Manager Member Sara Beth Coffman, to ask her a few questions about her experience.
Q: What was the most rewarding part of serving as the YALSA Hub manager?
SBC: Can I give TWO? Because the first, and most obvious, is working with the amazing chairs of the Selected Lists teams. These women are extraordinary — creative and organized and funny and generous. They have taught me so much, and though most of them will be cycling off this year, I’m confident their replacements will be equally wonderful. The second and seriously rewarding part of the job has been working with authors and publicists and publishers to celebrate our award-winning titles and getting a look ahead at the cool books to come!
Q: What skills do you feel you gained through this experience?
SBC: Most of the skills I’ve been accessing for the job aren’t new to me, but this position definitely put them to a good stretch! Communication, organization, and efficiency systems are a big part of what I do. And patience. Definitely patience.
Q: What advice would you share with members considering to be the next Hub manager?
SBC: I would advise anyone thinking about taking this position to be ready to be flexible! You can put more or less energy into the work, depending on your available time and creativity!
YALSA President 2021-2022
