Welcome to the New Members Round Table (NMRT)!
NMRT is an organization for people with fewer than 10 years of membership in ALA. We have close to 2000 members representing every aspect of librarianship, from nearly every state and even some foreign countries. Our mission is to help those who have been association members less than ten years become actively involved in the association and the profession. The goals are fourfold: (1) to structure formal opportunities for involvement and/or training for professional association committee experiences on the national, state and local levels; (2) to provide a wide variety of programs to assist, encourage, and educate those new to the association and the profession; (3) to offer a variety of leadership training and opportunities to help those approaching the end of their NMRT eligibility make the transition to future positions in the association and the profession, and; (4) to develop and implement ongoing programs for library school students which encourage professional involvement and networking.
One of the benefits of NMRT membership is that we guarantee a committee appointment, which provides networking and leadership opportunities. You can work on our newsletter (Footnotes), plan annual social events, give away awards, organize conference and online programs, provide outreach to other members, or keep our website up to date. Check out more information about joining NMRT and volunteering for a committee.
My presidential theme is "Challenges and Opportunities". Although the profession and Association are experiencing what might be characterized as "interesting times", I believe it is still possible to do amazing things and be successful as a profession, round table, and Association. NMRT is moving forward with an electronic journal, an online Annual Program, and blazing a trail in ALA Connect. Changes made during my vice-presidential year should provide the building blocks for more engaging and rewarding committee experiences for all members.
Have questions or suggestions about NMRT? Please feel free to contact me at cly11 @ psu.edu
Courtney L. Young
NMRT President, 2009-2010