- You are the experts! Share your knowledge and skills. Everyone’s library and staff is unique, and librarians look forward to seeing what others across the nation are doing. But don’t just focus on your best practices or successes–even programs or initiatives that didn’t do as well in your area might work elsewhere. There are lessons to be learned in everything!
- Children & Libraries is a peer reviewed journal. Our research-driven pieces are sent out for blind peer review to two or three readers for commentary. This is an excellent way to share your research and add to your professional expertise.
- New to the field or working on a degree? Why NOT share your term paper? We know you put the time in. Share your research with those in the field (and get your name out there).
- Demonstrates your commitment to the ALSC Core Competencies. Our columns and best practices pieces show others how you and your library are representing ALSC and its dedication to serving children and families. (hint, hint: it doesn’t look bad on a resume)
- You can read for the journal, too! Referees are always needed. Volunteering as a referee is a great way to share your talent and expertise in various subjects and have a hand in what your trade journal publishes. It’s quick, painless and gives you an early read of CAL content. Plus, you can put it on your resume! (are you seeing a theme here?)
- Hate writing but want to help? Guess what? CAL accepts photographs too. Check out photo guidelines for more details.
- The journal is published quarterly. Print copies are sent to all ALSC members, and anyone can browse and read back issues online.
- The CAL Editor, Sharon Verbeten, is extremely supportive and happy to answer any questions that you may have. Not a writer? No worries! You’re the expert in telling your story; our editor can help refine the copy for a wider audience. It’s a painless collaborative process!
- Bright lights, big city. Fame! Fortune! (ok, no, these are not really a reason to write for CAL, but, it CAN lead to a new line on your CV, a note on your resume, and the admiration of your colleagues, which CAN be gold). Think of it as proactive professional development (which, if you haven’t checked out ALSC’s PD opportunities, get ye to the ALSC eLearning website now and check out all ALSC has to offer!)
- Write it out. Many of us work in silos in our job and lack youth services colleagues to talk to. Writing is a way to process and reflect on programming opportunities, issues in the field, and other musings–writing for the journal allows you a chance to share your experiences with others who might be working on similar projects. Pay it forward to other librarians and share what works (and what hasn’t) at your library. Together we are stronger.
Your voice matters! Share your experiences with the broader community. Write for CAL today.
We hope that you consider sharing your time and talent with Children & Libraries!
ALSC CAL co-chairs, Jennifer Knight and Amalia E. Butler, are writing this post with Sharon Verbeten, ALSC CAL Editor, on behalf of the ALSC Children & Libraries Editorial Advisory Committee.