Since the summer of 1998, the Sci-Tech Division of the SLA has offered a mentoring program for new members and students. This program was originally created by the Student Relations Committee, and helps partner interested persons with an experienced member of the profession in their area of interest.

What mentees get out of participating:

Having a contact person within the profession who can act as a guide and mentor.

Being able to ask questions of the mentor regarding job searching and preparation for the profession.

What mentors get out of participating:

The satisfaction of supporting the “Next Generation” of the library community.

Meeting new people in the profession.

What the relationship is like between mentors and mentees:

Typically, the mentor will contact the mentee several times during the year just to touch base. Otherwise, the mentee can contact the mentor whenever they have a question or concern they wish to discuss with their mentor. Anything relating to the profession is fair game: job search and interview tips, help with answering reference questions in a field, guidance with professional development, etc.

How many mentors/mentees have participated:

Over 30 mentees and over seventeen mentors have participated in the program in its brief existence. More participants are desired and encouraged to join.

How do I become involved as a mentor/mentee or who do I contact if I wish to ask further questions:

Students and newcomers to the division are encouraged to contact the Chair of the Student Relations Committee of the Science-Technical Division to be assigned a mentor. The current Chair contact information is:

Thea Allen, Chair
Interlibrary Loan/Cataloging Librarian, EPA Library
UNC Contract Staff
Mail Drop C267-01
109 TW Alexander Drive
RTP, NC 27711
Phone: 919-541-1370
Email: theaallen@gmail.com