Emerging Leaders
2026-2027 NJLA Emerging Leader Application
Develop Your Leadership Skills!
This opportunity is open to librarians who have been working professionally for less than 5
years, and working in New Jersey for less than 5 years. This program will consist of five full-
day sessions from October through March. Presenters with various backgrounds within
the NJ library community, and beyond will lead discussions and interactive sessions that will
encourage attendees to learn about leadership, explore their own leadership style while
networking with other emerging leaders. Attendees will also meet State Library and NJLA
leaders and learn about the structure of NJLA. Additional topics will be announced; the
sessions will be on:
- Tuesday, October, 13th
- Tuesday, November 10th
- Tuesday, December 8th
- Tuesday, January 12th
- Tuesday, March 9th
The cost of the five sessions is $200; registration fee covers lunch and the cost of materials. Meetings will be held at various public library locations in New Jersey from 10am- 3:30pm; participants agree to attend all five days of sessions. Space is limited!
Upon completion of the Emerging Leaders Program, participants agree to volunteer for an NJLA committee or section for 2 years, 2026-2028. Attendance at the Annual NJLA/NJSLA Conference is highly recommended.
To apply, fill out the jot form application, cover letter introducing yourself, a resume,
and a statement of support signed by your Supervisor. If you have questions, please email leadershipanded@njla.org. NJLA membership required to apply.
The deadline for applications is August 14th, 2026
Applicants will be notified by September 14th, 2026
Sponsored by the NJLA Leadership & Education Committee
Emerging Leaders Financial Assistance Application
Sponsored by the NJLA Professional Development Fund
For those applicants in need of financial aid, the Professional Development Fund is awarding tuition to cover the cost of the Emerging Leaders program. In addition, up to $300 in travel costs can be awarded, to be reimbursed after the completion of the program. If interested, please fill out the application and have your supervisor fill out the Statement of Supervisor and Institutional Support at the link below.
