Is Virtual Networking the Best Option for Solo Librarians?

Larry Cooperman
Solo librarians are simply indispensable as far as their patrons are concerned. (A good problem to have, right?) Even if travel to offsite events is possible, the stress of wondering what’s falling by the wayside back at the library can be so distracting that enjoyment and learning suffer. However, technology can provide a convenient alternative—with options such as webinars, online conferences, and online continuing education courses. Who better to ferret out these great opportunities than a librarian?
What and where are the options?
Professional associations often sponsor online educational and networking events, but it is also becoming more common for vendors to do so, resulting in a sort of “virtuous cycle” where clients and potential clients benefit from (often free) professional development resources, and vendors ultimately benefit from having better-informed clients.
Getting started
Here’s one idea for solo librarians: network and learn online with your counterparts, at your own pace and on your own time, by registering for Lucidea’s month-long Small Library Management course, beginning on Monday, July 17, 2017.

Larry Cooperman
Larry Cooperman has worked as a solo and small library manager and director for the past ten years, primarily in academic libraries, public libraries, and school libraries. Larry’s latest book is Managing the One-Person Library.
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