(via Alexandra Rivera-University of Michigan, Ann Arbor)
Help support a diverse workforce in the next generation of academic librarians by mentoring an ALA Spectrum Scholar through the ACRL Dr. E.J. Josey Spectrum Scholar Mentor Program!
This program links library school students and new librarians who are of American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Middle Eastern and North African and/or Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander descent, with established academic librarians who provide mentoring.
What mentors do:
You will:
- provide an ear for confidential discussion and feedback.
- assist mentees’ exploration of career paths.
- help mentees find opportunities for involvement and leadership within the profession.
You must:
- be an academic or research librarian.
- have multiple years of professional experience (a minimum of 5 years is preferred).
- be a current member of ACRL.
- be willing to commit to one year of mentoring.
To assist you with building a successful mentoring relationship, you will have the opportunity to attend a webinar about mentoring tips led by a cross-cultural mentoring trainer.
Mentor responsibilities include:
- contacting the Spectrum Scholar on a regular basis (averaging at least once a month is ideal)
- meeting with the Spectrum Scholar at library conferences when you are both are in attendance
- responding to brief assessment surveys during the first year of your mentorship
How to Apply
If you are interested in becoming a mentor for a Spectrum Scholar through the ACRL Dr. E.J. Josey Spectrum Scholar Mentor program, complete the online application.
What Happens Next?
The ACRL Dr. E.J. Josey Spectrum Scholar Mentor Committee matches new pairs of mentors and Spectrum Scholars throughout the year, with most of the matches made in the spring. If we are unable to match you with a Scholar immediately, your application will be kept on file and you’ll be contacted periodically to confirm your ongoing interest in participating.
While applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, the committee will be matching a new cohort of mentors and mentees beginning in April, so apply today to be an ACRL Spectrum Scholar Mentor. Applications completed by Sunday, April 15, will be considered for matches with this spring’s major cohort. The profession benefits when you share your experience!
If you have questions about the ACRL Dr. E. J. Josey Spectrum Scholar Mentor Program, please contact Committee Chair Kiyomi Deards at kiyomideards@gmail.com or ACRL staff member David Connolly at dconnolly@ala.org.