Candidacies are welcomed for 1 position as co-opted member of IFLA’s incoming North America Regional Division Committee.

Alongside other Members of the Committee, which consists of 10 Americans and 10 Canadians when fully configured, the successful candidate is responsible for working together to develop and deliver action plans responding to the needs of the library field in their region and review progress on delivering the IFLA Strategy.

They will build capacity to advocate at all levels, and identify and work on advocacy priorities, cooperating with Sections and Advisory Committees, as well as other organisations, and also contribute actively to efforts to engage Members in the region, building awareness of IFLA’s work, and reach out to non-Members.

As with other members of the Committee, in addition to being based in the region (see list of countries), they are expected to be able to show:

  • an interest and experience in library policies and advocacy;
  • expertise, experience and interest in/across libraries in the region;
  • ability to represent the interests of a diverse range of colleagues;
  • experience in communication, representation and networking;
  • willingness and ability to devote time and energy to the role – this is usually several hours per month;
  • time allowance to prepare and attend meetings of the Regional Division Council;
  • an ability to act with respect, trust, confidentiality and transparency and recognize the need to protect personal and privileged information. They must declare any conflicts of interest and abstain from discussions where they have a conflict or potential conflict of interest.

The purpose of co-option is to increase the range and diversity of experience and expertise in the Committee. Following consultation with the incoming Chair of the Committee, as well as the incoming Chair of the Regional Council, candidacies are therefore particularly welcomed from:

  • The United States.  There are currently 9 representatives from the USA and we seek a 10th to work with the 10 Canadian members.
  • Strong connections with and support from their national library association.
  • The candidate should be able to bring:
    • exceptional expertise and qualification of the nominee in the library sector and advocacy
    • experience of leading successful innovative and distinguished initiatives that have benefited the library profession in the region
    • experience of promoting library development and advocacy both regionally and internationally
  • Bids are particularly welcomed from candidates with experience outside of academic libraries.

Candidates should submit a statement of up to 200 words explaining their experience and motivation for standing for the Committee by 12:00 EST on 13 July 2023 (see what time this is for you). Candidates should apply using this form.

The incoming Chair of the Committee will make an initial selection from the candidacies received, which will be approved by the incoming Regional Council.