InterALIA, June 2005

Group in the spotlight

Introducing the ALIA New Graduates Group.

Have you just completed your library studies and looking for work? Just started working as a librarian or technician, but are uncertain about your career path? A library student about to embark on your career? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then look no further than the ALIA New Graduates Group (NGG)!

The NGG is a national initiative of the ALIA New Generation Policy and Advisory Group and was set up in 2003 to help counteract the isolating and daunting effects of being a new library graduate. As a new graduate how do you know what career options are available to you? Who can you ask for advice? How do you meet others in the profession? And how do you develop your skills and experience? Being a member of NGG can assist in the transition from student to being an active participant of the library and information profession.

NGG provides a forum for new graduates to communicate and socialise with colleagues and build relationships and networks within the profession. The NGG is a national group with a strong virtual presence through the web and an e-list. There are also active regional groups available which can assist you to participate in social and CPD activities that are particularly relevant to those new to the library and information sector.

Membership of the group is open to all ALIA members. The NGG is inclusive of librarians, technicians and anyone interested in the support and development of new graduates. The group does not have any restrictions that prevent people becoming members based on their experience or age. The NGG hopes to support those at student level, graduate level and others in the early stages of their careers.

The NGG:

• Facilitates networking for the new generation of library professionals;
• Organises meetings and events specifically relevant to students and new graduates;
• Provides a forum for the discussion of issues relevant to new professionals;
• Facilitates the introduction of new graduates into the wider ALIA community;
• Promotes the profession to future generations of library professionals; and
• Publish in Incite articles of relevance to new library graduates and students.

To find out more, join the e-list or to express interest at becoming involved just visit the ALIA NGG website or contact Robyn Ellard [South Australian regional co-ordinator] or Simone Hys [national NGG co-ordinator].

Robyn Ellard