WLA has now launched its 2023-2024 Mentoring Program! Applications to become a mentor or mentee are now due on Friday, October 6.
The goal of the program is to create a valuable experience for members, build professional relationships, and strengthen the profession within Washington. We invite Librarians, Paraprofessionals, Program Managers, Supervisors, Consultants, Retired, other library staff to participate.
2023-2024 Timeline for Mentorship Program
Sept. 1 – Applications welcomed from Mentors and Mentees
Sept. 29 – Deadline for Mentee and Mentor applications
Oct. 6 – NEW deadline for Mentee and Mentor applications
Oct. 15 – Mentees and Mentors are matched up!
Oct. TBA – Mentor/mentee Zoom Orientations
Nov-April – Mentorship meetings
May – Evaluation and Feedback
Benefits of mentoring:
Mentees: Develop your skills, learn from the best, and build professional relationships.
Mentors: Helping develop future leaders, grow your leadership skills, and contribute to the profession.
Learn from others’ perspectives and experiences.
Mentee Application
To apply to become a mentor, please complete the mentee application. If you are matched with a mentor, you will be contacted this fall. If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact the WLA Office at [email protected].
Mentor Application
To apply to become a mentor, please complete the mentor application.If you are matched with a mentee, you will be contacted this fall. If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact the WLA Office at [email protected].
We ask mentor/mentee matches to work together for six months and to meet monthly during that time. There will be a short, self-guided online orientation for both mentors and mentees. Meetings will be online or over the phone until it is safe to meet in person.
Who can participate?
Any WLA member can request a mentor during the open application period.
When is the open application period?
The mentor and mentee applications are open Sept. 1-30, 2023.
How are mentors and mentees matched up?
WLA will use the information you provide in your application, including your goals and experience, to find a match that will be mutually beneficial.
What if my mentor and I aren’t a good fit?
Rarely, the mentoring match doesn’t work out. If this happens, the best way to approach it is to first address the issue with the mentor/mentee. If this does not resolve the problem, contact the WLA Office and we will help to resolve the problem.
