As you embark on your new profession, you may be asked to participate in a number of activities perhaps no one told you about, or you never imagined librarians doing:

• Giving presentations
• Writing papers for publication
• Collaborating on committees to write policies, make recommendations, and/or coordinate conferences
• Participating in professional development opportunities

Having these on your resume or CV will really make you stand out.

But how do you get experience doing these things as a grad student? Participate in a local or national library association! 

Active participation can provide the following bonuses:

• Access to free or low-cost professional development programs that complement what you're learning in your courses.
• Meet librarians in your geographic or thematic area(s) of interest. These professional colleagues can be instrumental when it comes time to land your first job.
• See your name in print for all the right reasons!
• Cultivate potential references - especially helpful if you have little previous library experience.

Where should you start?

Once you're a member, it's likely easiest to get involved at the state level.

• Join committees of interest to you (Communications, Conference Planning, etc.)
• Volunteer to assist at conferences, even if you don't officially participate in the planning. 
• Look for announcements that ask for blog or newsletter contributions if you like writing.

If you want to learn more about the potential opportunities that might be offered, please ask any of us!