Illinois State Library

2007 INSTITUTE FOR SCHOOL & PUBLIC LIBRARIANS
JUNE 10-15, 2007

Applications are being accepted for the 13th annual Institute for School and Public Librarians (ISPL). This week of library related educational activities will be held Sunday, June 10 - Friday, June 15, 2007 on the campus of Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

ISPL is most appropriate for school and public librarians who would like to develop their basic library related knowledge and skills. To gain the most from ISPL, consider the following:

• Applicants may be fairly new to the library field, have been in their current job position for less than five years, or feel they need the training this Institute offers.
• Applicants should be responsible for a variety of library duties.
• Applicants without a Master of Library Science Degree are given priority, but applications are accepted from MLS graduates.

Applicants must be available all week, and are expected to participate in all programs. Those attending should plan to arrive in Peoria 4:00 - 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 10. ISPL will end 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 15.

WHY SHOULD I ATTEND?

This Institute is an information rich, intense, exciting and educational week of immersion in library programming. Programs focus on basic skills and knowledge needed by school and public librarians including reference, collection development, dealing with different personalities, technology issues, grants and more. ISPL offers opportunities to gather knowledge and develop job-related skills. Lectures, informal discussions, small group sessions, hands on sessions, and networking will be utilized.

Attendees stay on the Bradley University campus, attend all programs and participate in all activities. Bradley University will award Continuing Professional Development Units (CPDUs) to all participants and attendees may opt to pursue a college credit track.

Program themes run through the week and learning builds on previous presentations and activities. Past participants have praised ISPL for providing networking opportunities, knowledgeable speakers, library related resources, abundant handouts, valuable ideas, and practical information that can be put to immediate use.

WHAT IS THE COST?

Your only cost to attend is $50. Do not include a check with your application. Some of the regional library systems offer scholarships to cover the $50. Lodging, all meals for the week, handouts, materials, and educational resources will be provided through a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant, which supports the majority of the ISPL activities.

HOW DO I APPLY? ATTENDANCE IS LIMITED!

To apply, complete the Application to Attend and return it by Friday, March 23, 2007. Attendance is limited to 50 participants. Applicants will be notified of acceptance beginning the week of April 9, 2007.

Click here for the APPLICATION TO ATTEND

If you have questions, contact the Library Development Group (Consulting) at the Illinois State Library 1-800-665-5576 x1.