Imposter syndrome, that nagging feeling of inadequacy and self-doubt despite evident accomplishments, can be particularly challenging when working with underserved children and their caregivers. In such roles, the weight of responsibility to make a meaningful impact can often intensify feelings of unworthiness or incompetence. However, recognizing and addressing imposter syndrome is essential for us to serve the communities we work in effectively. Now, I am no expert however, I have been a victim of imposter syndrome myself and I have had to unpack my issues and leave them at the door. I would like to break down what I have learned regarding understanding imposter syndrome in this context and offer strategies to overcome it. Hopefully, this will empower librarians and library workers to make a real difference in the lives of those they serve.
Tag: Libraries Transform
Transforming Everyday Spaces at #alaac23 and Beyond
I had the distinct pleasure of attending a thoughtful panel on transforming everyday spaces to support children’s literacy development. Titled Transforming Everyday Spaces: Deepening Equity in Early Childhood Learning, this panel was full of insight and inspiration. I’m not sure my summary will do it justice, but I’ll certainly try.
The Ups and Downs of Transformation
I have always had the tendency to apply idioms and proverbial phrasing to the “bumps in the road” encountered while human-ing (I also make verbs out of lots of things). It is one of the ways I’m able to persist in difficult times and have had to rely heavily on this during a year where words like “challenging,” “chaotic,” and “concerning” are all surface level descriptors of 2020, a truly transformative year. Yes, I mean transformative.
Libraries Transform! #alaac17
Today, I sat in on my last meeting with the Public Awareness Committee! My 2 year term is up at the conclusion of this conference.
Winners’ Round Up
I’m an expert, you’re an expert, and we are all experts in the field of children’s services. We congratulate the winners of the “I’m An Expert Contest.” Each received a bag of badges and opportunity to be featured on the ALSC Blog.
How is your library providing a safe space for children and their caregivers?
Some kids and parents from marginalized communities, particularly those who are undocumented, see libraries as an extension of the government and therefore are reluctant to ask for help regarding issues related to opposing government policies. These vulnerable communities are among those that need the services and resources of the library the most. What are the best ways to communicate that libraries are safe spaces?
Open Forum on Diversity, Inclusion, and Our Work, Post-Election
It has been a tumultuous week for all of us who work to create a better future for children through libraries. We know, from the responses to the Unity. Kindness. Peace. booklist shared last week that you are stepping up to support your community in the face of violence witnessed or enacted, and in response to fear, trauma, and confusion. And we know that we as librarians, and as ALSC, have much more to do. Our work as an organization must firmly defend the rights of all children and forge paths to equity for marginalized communities.