New England Library Leadership Symposium (NELLS)
Krista McLeod, Co-chair
Nevins Memorial Library
305 Broadway
Methuen MA 01844
nells@nela1.org
Mary Etter, Co-chair
South Windsor Public Library
1550 Sullivan Ave
South Windsor CT 06074
nells@nela1.org
The purpose of this symposium is to foster the mentoring and development of leaders for library associations (state and regional). NELLS was created through a cooperative effort of the New England Library Association and all six New England state library associations. First held in 2003, the second NELLS took place in the summer of 2005, and the most recent in the summer of 2011. The next NELLS is scheduled for July 29-August 2, 2013 at Rolling Ridge Conference & Retreat Center in North Andover, MA.
Who can attend? NELLS students will be library professionals, paraprofessionals, or volunteers (trustees, friends, etc.) in mid-career (3-15 years experience in or with libraries). The attendees may be recommended by someone or may make their own application for this leadership training. Each student must be a member of his or her state association or NELA in order to apply.
What does it cost? There is a nominal cost to the student to participate in the Symposium. NELA and all six state associations are financially supporting NELLS to keep the costs low for the Symposium attendees. There may be some scholarships available from your state association (contact your specific association for more information).
What is taught? The curriculum covers the following areas: getting to know your leadership style; interpersonal communication; presentation skills; managing differences; risk taking; the library within the community; using power and influence; understanding libraries as organizational systems; transforming libraries; the leader as a catalyst for change; the leader’s role as coach and mentor; and achieving your potential. Attendees develop an action plan for their future commitments.
Download the brochure
Download an application
2008 NELLS Attendees
