In February, the MiALA Board of Directors conducted a “mini-retreat” to review our efforts and develop some new projects moving into the summer. During our discussion, one key theme emerged: we want to hear more from all of you! Many ideas were batted around about how we can – to quote MiALA’s mission -
support professional development, leadership, and committee service for all librarians, library staff, and library students working in higher education. We are honored to represent all of you and want to insure that we are focusing our energy in ways that help you get more engaged!
With that context, we would like to ask for your help in two ways. First, we are interested in hearing your ideas about what we can do together, and how you would like to communicate. We are looking at some of the more traditional means to hear your suggestions – such as surveys – but welcome new ideas and examples that you are willing to share. Don’t be shy - please reach out and let all of us know at
board@miala.org. (Note: the
board@miala.org is an easy way to email the entire board directly, and I encourage you to reach out!)
Second, take a moment and learn who your
representative is on the board, and make a connection. Maybe you have a great idea, know of an emerging topic, or just want to meet someone new – we are here to listen.
For more immediate topics of interest and ways you can get involved, MiALA is soliciting proposals for next year’s conference location, details are available on the
MiALA website – and are due by April 1st. Also, on March 8th, the
Data Literacy Bootcamp is at Michigan State University Libraries, and “
Practical Assessment: From Beginner to Expert” is being hosted along with ALAO at the University of Toledo Libraries. On March 29th, “
Take charge: Communicate value and foster success at your library through ACRL Standards assessment" is at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City.
Oh, and
don’t forget about the conference! It is happening May 13 & 14th at the Conference Center at Saginaw Valley State University!
David Scott - Outreach and User Engagement Librarian, Ferris State University