PLA Accepting Applications for 2015 PLA Leadership Academy
The Public Library Association (PLA) is now accepting applications for the PLA Leadership Academy: Navigating Change · Building Community, March 23-27, 2015, in Charleston, S.C. This special event will offer intensive, empowering leadership education for public librarians who want to increase their capacity to lead not only within the library, but also in the community.
Developed in collaboration with the International City and County Managers Association (ICMA), and supported by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the PLA Leadership Academy offers a groundbreaking focus on developing the skills needed to work with municipal officials and other community stakeholders to enhance the position of the library within the community and improve the overall effectiveness of library services and programs.
The PLA Leadership Academy offers:
- a three and a half day, in-person educational /networking event;
- a professional coach program with experienced public library leaders and city managers;
- development of real-world projects to implement at attendees’ libraries.
For this selective program, registration fees (valued at $2,500) are waived and all meals will be provided; however participants will be required to cover travel costs and lodging at the Francis Marion Hotel in Charleston, S.C. Interested participants must complete an application, submit two letters of recommendation, and be accepted to participate in the PLA Leadership Academy. Applicants must be PLA members and MLS/MLIS librarians with at least five years of increasingly responsible experience. The application deadline is Sept. 30, 2014, and applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by Nov. 21. Attendance is selective and will be limited to thirty-two (32).
The PLA Leadership Academy: Navigating Change · Building Community was developed with support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services grant. The curriculum is designed by the PLA Leadership Development Committee with the assistance of ICMA and Adam Goodman, director of the Center for Leadership, Northwestern University, Evanston, Ill., and builds on PLA’s previous leadership training initiatives.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact PLA at pla@ala.org or 800-545-2433 ext. 5PLA (5752).
About the Public Library Association
PLA is a division of the American Library Association. PLA’s core purpose is to strengthen public libraries and their contribution to the communities they serve. Its mission is to enhance the development and effectiveness of public library staff and public library services. For more information about PLA, contact the PLA office at (800) 545-2433, ext. 5PLA, or visit PLA’s website at www.pla.org.
About the International City/County Management Association
ICMA, the International City/County Management Association, advances professional local government worldwide. The organization’s mission is to create excellence in local governance by developing and fostering professional management to build sustainable communities that improve people’s lives. ICMA provides member support; publications; data and information; peer and results-oriented assistance; and training and professional development to 9,500 appointed city, town, and county leaders and other individuals and organizations throughout the world.
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 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our 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 us on Facebook and Twitter.
Tags: leadership, professional associations, professional development
