ABSTRACT
This chapter presents guidance and support for the librarian in a new environment who needs to figure out scholarship, conference attendance, doing presentations, writing, and publishing. Is scholarship required by your new library? What funding and leave time are provided? Find conferences in your area of librarianship. Learn the benefits of giving presentations. The chapter gives advice on finding a co-presenter, and dealing with stage-fright or nerves. This chapter helps librarians to understand the influence of library size, staffing needs, and job scope. For the librarian who isn’t ready to present, this chapter offers other ways to get involved at conferences, such as doing a poster session, volunteering, moderating a panel discussion, or doing a lightning round. This chapter then discusses different types of writing and publishing; and what is scholarship versus service or making a name for yourself. There are numerous suggestions for finding a topic for your presentation or writing follow. Finally, the authors suggest that you pursue these professional development areas even if your current job doesn’t require it. You don’t know what you’ll need in a job 5, 10, or 20 years from now, so lay the groundwork for your future self. The chapter concludes with questions for reflection.
