Mentoring Program

The Connecticut Library Association (CLA) Mentor Program was established by the Career Development Committee to provide a formal, one-on-one learning and career development opportunity for library science students, early-career library workers, or anyone looking to grow or advance in the library field.  Experienced mentors will be paired with mentees to provide advice, encouragement, support and guidance.  This opportunity is open to current CLA members.

^{Watch our August 2nd, 2023 overview video}

Application Timeline and Commitment

Mentees

Apply here
Enrollment is now open.  Matches will be made by the end of March and the mentor/mentee commitment period will run for at least six months as follows:

• Spring Commitment:  April 1 – September 30
  
  

By mutual agreement, mentor and mentee pairs may extend their commitment beyond the initial time frame

Mentors
Apply here
Mentor applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. The names of potential mentors will remain on the list until we receive a request from the mentor to be removed.  All mentors will be contacted in February to confirm they are willing and available to be matched for the upcoming commitment period.

Mentor/Mentee Responsibilities

• Two weeks prior to the start of the commitment period, each mentee will receive a Welcome Letter that contains the name of their assigned mentor. Each mentor will also be notified of the name of the mentee assigned to them.  It is the responsibility of the mentee to make the initial contact with the mentor.
• Upon being matched, each mentor/mentee pair will decide on a communications plan including the number of meetings per month and the method(s) of meeting.
• The mentor and mentee each commits to honoring the planned meeting schedule and in the case of a conflict gives as much notice as possible to reschedule.
• All discussions held between the mentor/mentee pair must remain confidential and not shared with any third party unless mutually agreed upon by both participants.
• CLA encourages mentor/mentee pairs to try to work through any issues that may arise during the commitment period, as often open and honest communication can clear up any misunderstandings. However, if that is not the case either the mentor or mentee should notify their Career Development contact as soon as possible for assistance.
• Mentor/mentee pairs are encouraged to meet at the Annual CLA Conference.
• Mentors may be asked to participate in events at the Annual CLA Conference such as Speed Mentoring or resume reviews.

For questions, please contact [email protected]