Library Worklife

Career Advancement

Who Me? Write an Article?

by Mary Pergander, Lake Bluff Public Library

Editor’s Note: At the Illinois Library Association Annual Conference on October 1, 2004, I attended a session called "Start Publishing Now!" It featured new and experienced writers describing their motivations, hesitations and process for writing. If you want more information on why and how to write, see also Lala Rogers article, "Write Now!" on page 12 of the October 2004 issue of the ILA Reporter.

Originally published by the North Suburban Library System (IL) in the NSLS.info weekly newsletter, August 2003.

That’s what many librarians thought before they had something published. “Actually, it was easier than I thought it would be” says Sally Decker Smith, Head of Adult Services, Indian Trails Public Library District. In fact, her first attempt was a “Sally in Libraryland” essay in the ILA Reporter. Since then, her popular essays have become a regular feature in that publication.

Nann Blaine Hilyard, Director, Zion-Benton Public Library District, is co-editor of “Perspectives,” a regular column in Public Libraries. This opportunity was introduced to her through a friend. Still, she is modest about thinking of herself as an experienced writer. Nann also has a strong and helpful voice as a regular contributor to the Publib listserv, and agrees this can be a good way for beginners to get practice writing and sharing professional ideas.

Write What You Are Passionate About

Paul Kaplan, Acting Co-Director and Head of Adult Services at Lake Villa District Library, began with writing book reviews for Library Journal. “They are good practice because they force you to be concise. and they build your confidence as a writer.” He notes that Library Journal and School Library Journal are always looking for reviewers. From there, he advises, “write what you are passionate about.” Paul suggests these tips keeping longer pieces interesting:

Start with an interesting or humorous opening line
Break up long text passages with bullets (Think “resume” look)
Vary the style
Keep to a few simple ideas.

A Gentle Nudge Can Be Helpful

Mary Pergander, Head Librarian, Lake Bluff Public Library, recently had her first article published in Public Libraries. “I started by doing the research for fun,” she says, “I was enrolled in an MLS program at the time, and I was also able to use my research as an independent study project for credit. My advisor then suggested I get it published. When I looked scared, she made that a requirement! I am so grateful she did. Although I had always perceived getting in print would be very difficult, that proved not to be the case!”

Where Can You Be Published?

Professional journals are constantly seeking articles and other materials. Publications such as Library Worklife , American Libraries , Public Libraries , School Library Journal , Library Journal , and other professional journals include details on how to submit materials for publication on their Web sites and in their print issues.

Another good place to get your feet wet is the your regional newsletters or e-newsletters.

So.give voice to your professional opinions, share your creative ideas, contribute to your profession, and develop your skills by writing and submitting something soon!

Convinced? ALA-APA is seeking regular columnists and writers for Library Worklife. If you are interested, contact the editor. Submission guidelines are here: www.ala-apa.org/newsletter/submissions.htm

Dynix Institute Web Seminar Archive

The Dynix Corporation provides free Internet seminars, presented by library leaders on a wide variety of timely topics. Andrew Sanderbeck will tell you why reward and recognition programs should be used in libraries on November 5 th , and Ann Seidl, the Hollywood Librarian, will be featured on November 9 th . Both are from 8–9 a.m. PST. And if you miss it, not to worry! The archive lets you view the seminars at any time. Past topics and presenters include:

Coaching in the workplace by Ruth Metz
Enduring values of librarianship by Michael Gorman
Open source by James LaRue
Future of Microsoft SQL by Michael Acosta

Conference Funding for New Members

The purpose of the 3M/NMRT Professional Development Grant is to encourage professional development and participation by new ALA members in national ALA and NMRT activities. Applicants must be personal ALA/NMRT members who are working within the territorial United States.

3M’s Safety and Security Systems Division markets materials flow management products to libraries to prevent unauthorized borrowing and to streamline the flow of library materials. Since its inception in 1975, the grant has been awarded to more than 100 NMRT members.

The 2005 grant will help finance attendance at the ALA Annual Conference in Chicago, Illinois. It covers round trip airfare, lodging, conference registration fees and some incidental expenses. The selection of grant recipients rests solely with the 3M/NMRT Professional Development Grant Committee, composed of NMRT members.

Selection will take place at the ALA Annual Conference in Boston, Massachusetts in January 2005. Applicants need not be present. Applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision as soon as possible after the Midwinter Conference.

The committee will consider the following in its deliberations:

The applicant’s ability or initiative to attend future national conferences if finances are provided this year.
How the applicant intends to use the ALA conference experience at his/her home institution and local, state and regional associations.
The applicant’s involvement with local, state and regional associations.
Impact of winning the grant on the applicant’s current position and future career options.
Potential contributions the applicant will make to ALA and NMRT.

The committee also considers the applicant’s overall presentation. The committee does not consider geographic location, age, sex, religion, race or national origin. Please do not hesitate to apply for the grant because you feel you have not done enough as a member of NMRT. We are interested in potential and the ability and willingness to make future contributions. This is a professional development grant.

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