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American Library Association (ALA) Emerging Leaders Program Sponsorships

The ALA's Emerging Leaders program enables newer librarians from across the country to participate in problem-solving work groups; network with peers; gain an inside look into ALA structure; and have an opportunity to serve the profession in a leadership capacity.

In order to be eligible for participation in the program, you must meet the following criteria:

Be under 35 years of age or be a new librarian of any age with fewer than 5 years post–MLS experience, and
Have a recent MLS degree from an ALA or NCATE accredited program or be in an MLS program currently, and
Be able to attend both ALA conferences and work virtually in between each,
Be prepared to commit to serve on an ALA, Division, Chapter or Round Table committee, taskforce or workgroup upon completion of program, and
Be an ALA member or join upon selection if not already a member.

Each year, several library organizations offer fiscal sponsorships to help their members who participate in the program with the cost of the required conference attendance. Many of these organizations are relevant to SLIS students. The list of these organizations is usually included in the online application form.

For more information about the Emerging Leaders Program, including application information, visit the ALA's Emerging Leaders wiki: wikis.ala.org/emergingleaders link goes to non-SJSU web site

The application deadline is July 31; application materials are usually available in late May.