As a library professional at the beginning of my career, I believe that continuing to seek out professional development opportunities is an essential element of growing and maintaining my expertise as a professional within my field of childrens and youth librarianship. Continuing professional development enables me to sustain my knowledge of appropriate literature and programming for my patrons, and ensures I provide quality service which benefits my community (Varlejs et al., 2016, p.16). With aspirational career goals to gain qualifications as a Teacher Librarian, I understand the importance of networking with other library specialists to share knowledge, resources, and ideas.
By focusing on professional development courses, webinars, and groups which discuss school library and children’s library programs and concepts, I am able to expand my area of expertise and continue to find new ideas to support my passion, allowing me to become better equipped to serve my community of library users and feel fulfilled in my role (Hutchinson, 2024). I believe it is imperative to reflect on my role and current knowledge to ensure I continue to upskill and develop new and engaging ideas to support literacy engagement, positive reading experiences, and safe environments for children and youth within library spaces.
References:
Hutchinson, E. (2024, February 9). Self-motivated professionals: Finding CPD opportunities that serve your goals. Elizabeth Hutchinson School Libraries. https://www.elizabethahutchinson.com/post/self-motivated-professionals
Varlejs, J., Lewis, V., Schnuer, S., & De Sumar, J. (2016). IFLA guidelines for continuing professional development: Principles and best practice. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. https://www.ifla.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/assets/cpdwl/guidelines/ifla-guidelines-for-continuing-professional-development.pdf