The invitation is for YOU!  (Sir John Tenniel)

How often do you see invitations to apply for cool stuff go out on listservs and assume that the sender is talking about someone else?  They aren’t!  They are talking about you!

Here’s one example:  The Wisconsin Library Association is accepting applications to be a part of their WeLead program (link no longer available)  The WeLead project is designed to help newer librarians become more connected with others in the field, pair them with a mentor, and give them the tools they need to act as leaders in WLA.  It is a great opportunity, plus it comes with some chances to attend conferences for free!

Maybe you don’t think you’d qualify as participant because you’ve been a librarian for years…but you could consider applying to be a mentor!  Have acted as a mentor in the past, I can say that it is a lovely chance to develop a relationship with a smart, engaged and generally awesome librarian who is interested in some of the same things you are.

Here’s one more example:  every year the WLA Foundation gives out scholarships to help people attend conferences, workshops, or other professional development.  Some of them are specifically designed for people serving rural libraries!  Applications are due June 15, so you still have a little time to get your ducks in a row.

So, give it a shot!