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Association of Research Libraries

  Diversity Initiatives Contact:
Jerome Offord Jr.

Leadership Institute

Fourth Annual Leadership Institute

January 10-13, 2008
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

In January 2008, in conjunction with the American Library Association Midwinter Meeting in Philadelphia, the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) will host its Fourth Annual Leadership Institute for MLS graduate students. The Leadership Institute will focus on issues related to transitioning into, and building career networks in, research libraries. The program will include presentations by library leaders and former ARL Diversity Scholars.

The Leadership Institute will provide:

  • a theoretical overview of macro-level issues facing research libraries;
  • advice on career opportunities in, and transitioning into, a research library;
  • opportunities to develop a community of learners amongst the participants;
  • opportunities for both formal and informal mentoring; and
  • opportunities to network with ARL library leaders.

The Leadership Institute has two tracks: the ARL Diversity Scholars Track, which begins on Thursday, January 10; and the Public Track, which begins on Saturday, January 12. The institute concludes on Sunday, January 13.

The Public Track is open to any MLS student or librarian who is interested in transitioning into an ARL library.

Register by December 28, 2007

Registration is free of charge. View the institute agenda and list of speakers and register online.

The Leadership Institute is one component of ARL’s Initiative to Recruit a Diverse Workforce—funded by ARL member institutions and the Institute of Museum and Library Services—which includes leadership development training, a strong mentoring relationship with a professional librarian, career placement assistance, membership in professional associations (including the five ALA ethnic caucuses), and a stipend up to $10,000 (over two years). The Initiative to Recruit a Diverse Workforce reflects the commitment of ARL members to create a diverse research library community that will better meet the new challenges of global competition and changing demographics.