The Virginia Library Association is a state-level organization that will help me connect with other public library professionals in Virginia. As a member, I’ll have access to webinars, conferences, and a plethora of resources that will help keep me up to date on state-specific library issues and initiatives. They also have a variety of resources, including newsletters, scholarly journals, and a website.
Library Journal is the sister publication of School Library Journal, which I have relied on heavily as a school librarian. The journal publishes articles about a variety of topics related to librarianship that will be important in keeping up to date in my professional field. They also publish book reviews that will aid me in collection development.
The ALA’s Office of Intellectual Freedom sends this newsletter out weekly. It is a free, curated list of news related to intellectual freedom issues across the world. The resources are divided into related sections, such as Censorship, Privacy, Legislation, etc. What I particularly appreciate about this newsletter is the state designation they give. This allows me to easily scan for (VA), and keep abreast of ongoing intellectual freedom issues in my state.
The We Need Diverse Books initiative has been a passion of mine as a school librarian. As a teen services librarian in the public sector, it will continue to be a valuable tool for making sure that mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors exist for my young patrons. They have resources specifically designed for educators and librarians pursuing inclusivity and cultural competency.
The PLA, a division of ALA, is the largest national association dedicated to public librarians. As a potential Youth Services Librarian, membership in this organization will be an important part of my personal learning network. PLA offers awards, grants, support, physical and digital publications, and a variety of social media.
Young Adult Library Services Association, a division of ALA, is a national-level organization dedicated to youth services. As a school librarian, I’ve often turned to YALSA for their award lists and book reviews, and this is something I’ll continue to do as a public librarian focused on teen services. YALSA membership will be a valuable tool in my toolbox.
American Libraries Magazine is a publication of ALA. This is an important resource because it covers topics over multiple areas of librarianship, including intellectual freedom, advocacy, sustainability, and more, all related to the ALA core values. They have a blog and podcast. Additionally, a section of trending resources on their website will help me keep current on all areas related not only to my professional focus, but other areas of librarianship, in the event I make a lateral career move.
This podcast from Bookstacked (a website specializing in news and updates surrounding YA fiction) is a valuable resource for collection development and building relationships. There is never enough time to read everything you want to, but listening to a podcast about new or popular YA literature will enable me to add to my collection, converse with teens, make recommendations, and give book talks.
