I have always loved presenting. I did forensics in high school and was a theatre kid all my life. Standing in front of a crowd of like minded souls (#act4kids) is thrilling, inspiring, and a little intimidating. My journey to presenting at the 2018 ALSC Institute began about a year ago. Today, it was announced that ALSC 2020 will be in Minneapolis. I highly encourage anyone with the inkling of an idea to start thinking about program proposals. It is so worth it.
Last September, I submitted a proposal. You basically fill out a long form to flesh out what your program will be about. You write a description and outline, include your bio, and provide some learning objectives for the possible attendees of your program.
The committee reviews all proposals and, if selected, you receive a lovely email to confirm your commitment. I jumped for joy, told my friends, and made plans. Then, for the next year you largely forget about your presentation except for the every once in awhile you are asked to confirm details or fill in an online form. Then, as it draws nearer, you prepare a little more.
All your hard works leads into the actual Institute. Today, I had a room full of librarians dancing and I could not be having a better time.
This post addresses the following ALSC Core Competency: VII. Professionalism and Professional Development