Balancing Professional Life and Motherhood
As a librarian and a mom, balancing my professional life and personal responsibilities is a constant juggling act. This year, I have the opportunity to attend the American Library Association (ALA) conference in San Diego as an ALA Emerging Leader. Not only is this trip about professional development, but it’s also about taking time for myself—something I often overlook.
Professional Rejuvenation
The ALA conference is a breath of fresh air. It’s a chance to reconnect with colleagues, share experiences, and soak up the latest trends in the library world. Consequently, I’ve eagerly gone through the conference schedule, highlighting sessions on digital literacy, community engagement, and new technologies in librarianship. These topics not only align with my current projects but also spark a sense of excitement that sometimes gets buried under the daily grind.
Prioritizing Self-Care
Beyond professional growth, this trip is about self-care. As a mom, personal needs often slip to the bottom of the priority list. However, I’ve learned that taking care of myself is essential for taking care of my family. Therefore, this trip offers a chance to visit Balboa Park, take a sunset walk along La Jolla Shores, and enjoy delicious food with a beachfront view.
Reflecting on Balance
Reflecting on this balance between professional growth and personal rejuvenation, I realize how interconnected the two are. Indeed, engaging deeply with my profession revitalizes my passion for my work, making me a happier, more fulfilled person. Additionally, when I take time for myself, I return home more energized and present for my family.
Embracing the Journey
As I pack my bags, I feel a sense of anticipation and gratitude. Ultimately, here’s to embracing the journey, both as a dedicated librarian and a loving mom, and finding those precious moments of balance and self-care along my professional way.
Conference contributor Elizabeth Hurtado (she/her/hers) is a Children’s librarian at Springdale Public Library. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Elizabeth has lived in the United States for the past seven years. Coming from journalism, her journey in library services began around five years ago when she started working at SPL, and from day one, she fell in love with this career! Elizabeth has dedicated herself to fostering a passion for reading and learning among children in her community. She enjoys writing articles, too, so the opportunity to blog for ALSC during the National Conference will bring her two big passions together! Coming from an island, Elizabeth’s favorite place to be is the beach!! She’s excited to visit one in San Diego this summer because there is no seaside in Arkansas, where she lives. Elizabeth is also happy about her group project presentation as an Emerging Leaders 2024. This is an outstanding achievement on the librarianship path!
Please note that as a guest post, the views expressed here do not represent the official position of ALA or ALSC.