. . . Even those who know everything already!
Have you been working as a librarian for years? Do you feel confident in your skills? Are you satisfied with your current position?
Well then, why attend the NJLA Conference??!!
Hear why seasoned librarians Doug Baldwin, Emerging Librarian at Piscataway Public Library, and Laura Leonard, Teen and Reference Librarian at Hillsdale Public Library, continue to go to Conference year after year.
LL: Attending Conference is a fantastic way to meet new colleagues and strengthen existing connections. Without hearing from inspiring colleagues, I’d most likely be stuck in a rut feeling.
DB: I go to Conference to recharge the intellectual batteries. It is so easy to get caught in our daily frustrations, so hearing about new ideas or speaking with our colleagues can give us that energetic recharge that we need to return to our libraries with new focus and drive to start something new, improve something old, or something in-between.
LL: Have you been considering a new program or approach, but aren’t quite ready to take the plunge? Avoid the pitfalls and benefit from tips provided during the many fantastic programs.
DB: There is always room to learn something new. No matter how many years you have been in the trenches, there is always something new to learn from a colleague, or a Conference program that can make you see something in a different light.
DB: Diversity. Our libraries and communities are do different and unique. It is always a great experience to hear about what other libraries, and other communities are doing, and thinking about and reflecting upon how that might work or benefit your community.
LL: It’s a chance to blow off some steam. Everyone faces frustrations at work, maybe talking to a colleague will help shift your perspective and lead you towards a solution. Possibly the early morning yoga will be the stress reliever your need!
DB: New partnerships and collaborations. You never know who you are going to meet, network or talk with at Conference that could spark a shared program idea or collaborative project pilot. Likewise, you may find out about a community partner or organization that might be right for you to reach out to for something for your community.
DB: Mentoring. I think it is in our blood as a profession to want to help others -- and this goes for our more newly minted colleagues as well. Conference is a great opportunity to connect with those new to our profession, offer words of advice, hear from them about new trends, and provide a helping hand as they begin to grow within the profession.