We have survived an exhausting year, one that I can barely remember and that will also never forget. You all have been amazing finding ways to connect to your communities and with each other and I just want to say thank you so much. It is with great pride that I stand as president of this division, and with six months remaining in my term, I am committed to ensuring ALSC remains inclusive, financially stable, and in tune with the needs of library professionals serving children everywhere.
Midwinter will look different as we once again meet virtually, but I am excited about the program that is shaping up. Be sure to check the event scheduler for the latest speaker information and I hope to see you all at the ALSC Midwinter Mixer on Friday, January 22. Registration for this event is now open. The Youth Media Awards will be streaming and open to all, whether you register for Midwinter or not, thanks to ALA and our generous sponsors on Monday, January 25.
Congratulations goes out to the latest cohort of Equity Fellows. Welcome to Eboni, Erika, Natassia, Melissa, and Mai! I am looking forward to working with you all and supporting your efforts to become more engaged with ALSC.
As I mentioned in my November blog post, the ALSC Board knows the importance of having a well funded and supported youth services department with qualified staff and is committed to advocating for this loudly. The board voted in our last meeting to have the February Community Forum be centered on this topic. I have asked the Public Advocacy and Awareness committee to host and they have agreed so look for more details soon on the forum that will be focused on addressing advocacy for children’s services in light of recent furloughing of children’s staff.
Happy New Year!