Reflections on the ALA Emerging Leaders Program

The EL program seeks to develop leadership skills in new professionals. Each year, fifty library school students and professionals working in the field for fewer than five years are chosen to participate in leadership seminars, networking events, and work groups that span the Midwinter and Annual meetings. These activities lend insight into the structure and workings of ALA and offer a fast track to serving on committees within the organization. Truly the heart of the program is the work teams formed to complete projects devised by the divisions. Catering to a variety of interests, these projects allow participants to develop new skills and contribute to the profession on a meaningful way.