#libraryassociations

The IMLS grant writing workshop hosted by DCLA last month was a terrific experience. I have attended a few workshops focusing on grant writing for librarians, but this was completely difference because of the in-depth focus on an individual funding agency. Presenters Robert Horton, Associate Director for Library Services, and Sarah Fuller, Library Program Specialist for IMLS, discussed a broader range of funding opportunities for libraries than I realized going into the session, and laid out their various programs quickly and effectively while sharing information about successful application strategies.

A highlight of this training was a mock grant writing exercise for small groups. Unlike other trainings, we selected our working groups based on a list of potential projects generated by attendees. This was an opportunity to work with librarians from completely different institutions. In my group, I worked with Kate Mester, who works with DCPS administration in a newly created Library Program Specialist position, and with Elliott Wrenn, a recent graduate from the University of Maryland with a background in refugee services. The time flew by as we brainstormed big picture opportunities for libraries to provide support for recent immigrants.

It was refreshing to step completely outside my professional box and to have the opportunity to talk about how libraries matter with passionate professionals from across the region. Of course, I'm used to leaving DCLA events feeling energized and inspired by the great people working in our field, but to have these conversations with a federal program officer over our shoulder, nudging our group in ever more productive directions was especially unique.

I left with ideas about how to spin upcoming projects into IMLS applications, and with business cards from IMLS staff willing to help with the application process. I strongly encourage anyone who works on programming with a library to attend future DCLA workshops on this subject--the IMLS staff are world-class facilitators and the experience of having a funder walk you through the early stages of identifying a project will help you see the big picture when applying to any funding sources not just IMLS programs.

As a DCLA member who was job hunting in mid-life, I have enjoyed and benefitted from DCLA's networking events; particularly, those related to finding a job. The resume swap enlightened me on expectations in the current job market. The opportunity to tour the National Geographic Library provided valuable information on library practices in a special library. Everyone that I have met and reconnected with has been of invaluable help with staying in touch with librarianship as practiced today.

I joined DCLA in the winter of 2013, a few months before graduating from the University of Maryland with my MLS. The programs offered by DCLA, including the library tours, resume swaps, and grant writing workshops are timely and relevant. Through these activities, I have expanded my networking circle and gained valuable knowledge as an information professional. In sending out my resume for federal positions, I have referred to tips I learned from attending DCLA's federal resume workshop. More recently, I have applied information learned through DCLA's IMLS grant writing workshop in November to co-write a grant for a local museum.

The Board would like to thank its members for being a part of DCLA. Without you this association would not be what it is today, so thank you for attending events, stepping up to volunteer in committees and causes, and for sharing the diversity of your personal and professional experiences.

The Board will continue to work on offering dynamic programming and with your help advocate for its members who represent a broad range of librarians, information professionals, library support staff, and library school students. The Board wishes you a very happy holiday and new year!