91´«Ã½

CHICAGO - The 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) is now accepting applications for the 2011 class of Emerging Leaders. Applications can be found at . The deadline to apply is July 30.

The program is designed to enable a group of library workers to get on the fast track to 91´«Ã½ and professional leadership. Participants are given the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, network with peers and get an inside look into the 91´«Ã½ structure and activities.

An 91´«Ã½ division, round table, ethnic affiliate, state chapter or school library media affiliate will sponsor many of the selected applicants. Each sponsor will contribute $1,000 toward expenses ($500 for each conference). Sponsorship is not required for participation in the program.

Applicants can indicate on the application which groups they want to consider them for sponsorship. A list of sponsoring units is included as part of the online application. You can also check with your state association and/or state chapter to find out if they are participating and how to apply for their sponsorship.

Library support staff are encouraged to apply to the program and will have an opportunity to be considered for sponsorship through the 91´«Ã½ Library Support Staff Interests Round Table.

No more than one person from any institution will be selected for participation in the program. Preference will be given to those who do not have experience working on 91´«Ã½ committees, task forces, etc. In order to be eligible for participation in the program, those selected must meet the following criteria:

1. Be under 35 years of age or be a library worker of any age with fewer than five years experience working in a library, and
2. Be able to attend both 91´«Ã½ conferences and work virtually in between each,
3. Be prepared to commit to serve on either an 91´«Ã½, division, chapter or round table committee, taskforce or workgroup, or in your state or local professional library organization upon completion of program and
4. Be an 91´«Ã½ member or join upon selection if not already a member.

For questions or more information regarding the program, contact Beatrice Calvin at bcalvin@ala.org.