ALA seeks internationally active mentors

CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) is looking for internationally active U.S.-based librarians to serve as mentors for 50 new career librarians in the U.S. from diverse backgrounds.

The new career librarians received support from an Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) grant (RE-00-15-0108-15) to attend the 2016 International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Congress in Columbus, Ohio, in August.

The mentorship component of the grant is intended to help grant recipients build on their experience at the IFLA Congress by sustaining and amplifying their global professional engagement. Mentors are expected to connect with mentees at least once a month from November 2016 to August 2017 to provide advice, recommend resources, and facilitate contacts. ALA will match mentors and mentees according to mutual interests indicated by both parties. If you are interested in being a mentor, sign up for the program by completing a brief information survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YPTKLCC.

About the American Library Association

The American Library Association is the oldest and largest library association in the world, with approximately 55,000 members in academic, public, school, government and special libraries. The mission of the American Library Association is to provide leadership for the development, promotion and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. Its mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Its grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow IMLS on Facebook and Twitter.