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MENTORSHIP PROGRAMPURPOSEThe WLA Mentorship Program, a free program for WLA members, is designed to provide encouragement, support, and guidance to library staff seeking professional growth through connections with experienced colleagues within a structured mentoring program. Mentees gain experience from knowledgeable library colleagues while becoming further involved in the statewide professional association. Mentors gain opportunities to give back to the profession, model volunteerism, and help influence the future of librarianship. WHEN CAN I APPLY TO TAKE PART IN THE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM?2024 Mentorship Program ApplicationThe program accepts applications in the fall for a January start. As the fall approaches, please pay attention to WLA emails and newsletters, where more information about applications will be given. Applications for the 2024 program are due Friday, November 24.
OBJECTIVES
PROGRAM OUTLINEMENTORS
MENTEES
TIMELINEThe WLA Mentorship Program runs on a calendar year basis beginning in January with new mentor-mentee matches made in the late fall. Check back here for more information regarding applications then.
PROGRAM CONTACTSFor more information about the 2024 Mentorship Program, contact Emily Rogers or Jennifer Bernetzke. For WLA administrative details or to register, contact [email protected] or call 608-245-3640. QUICK ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS
When can I apply to take part in the program?
The program accepts applications in the fall for a January start. As the fall approaches, please pay attention to WLA emails and newsletters, where more information about applications will be given.
Is there an additional cost to be in the mentorship program, as either a mentee or a mentor? No. This is a free program for WLA members. Do I have to be a librarian to participate in this program? No. We encourage all WLA members to apply. What if there are no mentors available? The WLA section will actively search for a mentor in the case that none have proactively applied or in the case that specific expertise is required. What if the partnership isn’t working? The WLA section will do their best to assist by either facilitating or re-partnering mentees. Would I make a good mentor? Yes! If you have 2 or more years of experience in the library field or another specific skill set, you’re a perfect candidate to sign up as a potential mentor. What do mentors get out of this program? Serving as a mentor can be a rewarding experience. Besides helping shape the future of the profession and promoting volunteerism in librarianship, serving as a mentor can recharge your enthusiasm in your position and lead you to consider different avenues of thought. How often would we be required to meet? Mentee/Mentor pairs will decide when, how often, and how to meet. It is suggested that you meet once per month. Will we be required to meet in person? While it can be beneficial to meet face-to-face, each mentee/mentor pair may decide what format works best for the relationship. There will be opportunities for networking and meeting at WLA conferences. Why do I need to be a WLA member to participate in this program? It’s a benefit of membership and the administrative costs associated are underwritten by member dues. Can this experience qualify for CE credit for public library staff or library director certification? Yes; speak with your system director to determine tracking protocol. |