Speak Up!

As Chapters begin their programming for the SLA year, think about what you want both locally and association-wide from your association. I have the opportunity to give my two cents every two months in this column, as well as to talk to you in the chapters I have the privilege of visiting. But communication must be two-way. I believe you get out of something directly in proportion to what you give to it. What can you do for SLA? The best answer is the one given by the Footman in Alice in Wonderland: "But what am I to do?" said Alice. "Anything you like," said the Footman, and began whistling. You need to consider what you enjoy doing, and start from there. If time is a concern, there are many activities that require less of a time commitment than the major offices. Serving on the program committee or writing for your chapter or division bulletin are just two examples.

I keep hearing from members that what they get the most out of the association is the networking. Networking is a one-to-one activity where individuals share of themselves and listen and respond to one another. You can contribute to this strength of the association by "networking" with other members! And you gain for yourself by doing it as well! With the number of units that host discussion lists, you can network virtually as well as face to face.

An extension of networking is mentoring. You can offer to be a mentor or seek a mentor to help you through many chapters and divisions. The Library Management Division has a very visible program at the Annual Conference, and the Diversity Leadership Development Program pairs mentors and mentees in their annual award program. If you don't see a program to work with, be entrepreneurial and approach someone you have identified who you think can help you.

Share your successes and innovations. There are a variety of ways to share. Begin with discussion lists and chapter networking. But don't stop there! Write your successes for chapter or division bulletins. Contribute your chapter, division, and caucus best practices to the SLA's Leadership Knowledge Center. Contribute your professional "best practices" to the SLA Knowledge Base, Smart Information Centers' Circle of Excellence. It is designed to serve as a reference tool for our members in creating an efficient and effective operating mechanism for developing and delivering products and services to their end users. Have you ever said, "Why are they doing it that way?" or "I can do it better." Share your solution here.

Communicate your issues. Buy your right to complain by giving your recommendations for improvements. Can something be done differently that would make you more effective within your organization? How can you work to help this happen?

Help bring the association visibility by your actions. Articulate the value you find from the association. Tell your employer why you are a member. How do you present the knowledge you gain from the annual conference or local chapter meetings in terms of its value for your organization?

Take responsibility for your future by playing an active role. It's time for your voice to be heard. We'll be a stronger association for it.

Hope Tillman

SLA President