Are you attending a Learning Libraries workshop?

Here are some tips to help you get the most from your experience.

You'll be working with a team from your library that will have this goal:

Teams from Maryland library organizations develop a shared understanding of Principles of Learning Libraries and use them to plan, implement and evaluate a project that results in positive change within their respective library systems. Participants will continue to use the tools learned to create positive change.

• Before you attend, talk with your supervisor about what you hope to gain from the experience.  If you attended a Learning Libraries workshop in the past, you will want to think about how you can make the most of that experience, perhaps by mentoring your team.  If this is your first exposure to Learning Libraries, you'll want to think about how your library will benefit from your attendance and from your work on the project your team develops.  You may want to talk with your supervisor (or library administrator) about some broad goals for your project, but try to resist coming up with a very specific idea before you come to the workshop.  You'll have plenty of time for that!
• Soon after you attend, your team will have a project idea.  Meet with your supervisor to share information.  What kind of help would you like from your supervisor?  How will you work together throughout the year to remove barriers?  How will you and your supervisor define and measure your success?
• Throughout the year, check in with your supervisor about your progress, asking for support when you need it.  You'll also be posting information to the Learning Libraries wiki, and attending a mid-year checkin session.  Be sure to keep your supervisor in the loop, and include information about your project work in your performance review.
• At the end of the year, you'll be invited to a statewide celebration to share information about your project.  Take time to celebrate your hard work, and to thank your supervisor for his or her support!

 Here's a checklist to help you prepare:

Participant Checklist.doc