The resulting data give some insight into how these leaders added association responsibilities to the already full mix of job and family life. Issues of gender and ethnicity were explored as well as the forms of support available form associations, employers, and families. Recommendations focus on the ways in which individuals can better prepare themselves for a presidential role, and the manner in which employees and associations can nurture leaders. Although a literature review find little research on the topic, the author's survey concludes that many factors influence decisions. Abstract Participating actively in professional associations can make a positive difference in a librarian's job and career.
Associations are relevant sources of current information.
Effective communication and leadership skills are learned or enhanced. Librarians can become familiar with the processes of research and publication. A sense of professional community is nurtured. This article discusses the impact of active participation in professional associations on the librarian's job and career development. They take a variety of forms, from the independent associations or group to the round table or section of a larger library association.