Thank you for your interest in the NELLS Emerging Leaders program! This program is designed to be an introduction to library leadership. It is most appropriate for early to mid-career library workers who have demonstrated potential to become leaders in the field, or who aspire to hold leadership positions. A Master’s degree in Library Science is not required in order to participate.

Applications must be submitted no later than June 1, 2024. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by July 1, 2024.

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 Facilitator & Program

This program will be facilitated by Jami Yazdani, MLIS, of Yazdani Consulting and Facilitation. Jami has more than fifteen years of experience in libraries in progressively responsible positions, including more than twelve years in leadership roles. She has delivered training to a wide range of professionals, from bankers to dermatologists to librarians.

Participants in this cohort will have access to speakers, mentors, supplemental readings, and other emerging leaders throughout the program, which will focus on developing and understanding leadership styles, discussing issues in library leadership, and building a leadership toolkit. All graduates will have the opportunity to stay connected with their cohort after the program has ended to continue to foster relationships and seek support from one another.

 Location & Cost Information

The cohort will meet in person from August 5th - 7th at Southern New Hampshire State University, and will hold weekly virtual sessions on Thursday mornings from 10:30am - 12pm from August 15th through October 3rd. The cost of this program is $525, which includes participation in all virtual sessions, access to course materials, and food and lodging for the in-person component. Payment will be due by August 1.

• Active NELA Membership: Must be a current NELA member. If needed, you will be able to joint or renew your standalone NELA membership as you complete your NELLS application. If you have a joint membership through your state association, you will need to renew through their website, not through NELA.
• Resume: A current resume. To assist in the anonymization process of your application, please delete institution names from your resume. Please include a job title and the type of institution. Our program understands that leadership in workplace organization oftentimes is spread out across formal and informal roles. Your resume should include any management or leadership roles that you have undertaken in your workplace or in the broader community.
• Letter of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation from someone who can speak to your leadership potential in the field and address why you would make a good candidate for this program. There is no required length for letters, but generally they do not need to be more than 2 - 3 paragraphs.

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