Virginia Library Leadership Academy (VALLA)- a training and development program

If you are someone who wants to make a difference in your field by developing or expanding your leadership role in Virginia libraries, then we are looking for you!

The Virginia Library Leadership Academy (VALLA), a training and development program in library leadership and management skills, takes place April 19-20, 2010, at The English Inn in Charlottesville. Sponsored by the Leadership Development Forum of the Virginia Library Association and geared toward both professional and paraprofessional staff working in Virginia libraries, the Leadership Academy is a 2-day intensive program that incorporates the opportunity for participants to develop themselves as leaders, prepare a project to benefit Virginia libraries, and network with peers and mentors throughout the process.

You should consider applying if you are in a leadership role and want to further develop your skills or if you would like to enter into a leadership role on the local or state-wide level. We are seeking enthusiastic applicants who have a commitment to the betterment of their community and who want to apply their passion and energy to building up Virginia libraries.

Twenty-four participants will be selected by application. The application process includes submitting:

1. A complete application, including a “Statement of Commitment”
2. A “Statement of Support” from your direct supervisor and library director or Library Board president if you are a public library director
3. Two letters of recommendation, which may or may not come from your supervisor as you choose

Applications are due on January 15, 2010. Applicants will be notified of selections by March 1, 2010.

Robert Burgin

If selected to participate in VALLA, the tuition is $275 for VLA members and $350 for non-members. This includes the 2-day training, five meals, and one night’s lodging. The Virginia Library Association is generously subsidizing this event which has resulted in a savings of over $100 for each participant.

VALLA will be lead by Dr. Robert Burgin, a member of the faculty of the School of Library and Information Science at North Carolina Central University. Dr. Burgin teaches courses related to management and automation in libraries and other types of organizations in both the Masters of Library Science and Masters of Information Science programs.

**THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN COMPLETED. FORMS FOR THE NEXT VALLA IN 2012 WILL BE POSTED ON THE VLA WEBSITE IN THE FALL OF 2011**