CILIP NW Bursary: Academic Libraries North Conference 2023

by Nicola Glynn

I was over the moon to receive funding from CILIP NW to attend the ALN conference 2023 (the process of applying was quick and easy, thank you so much!). Attending the conference was on a list of activities I was aiming to complete whilst working towards professional registration and it was a fantastic opportunity to gain an insight into the sector within which I work.

The conference was held on 21st and 22nd June, the first day online and the second day in person in Leeds. This year's theme was ‘Revolutionary thoughts: constructively disrupting the status quo in libraries for the new normal.’ A reflection of the pressures which have encouraged new ways of working.

As the conference approached, I eagerly awaited the release of the program, I was amazed at the variety. It was bursting with guest speakers, sponsor presentations, a panel discussion, short papers, lightening talks and workshops. With topics ranging from wellbeing (staff and students), AI, outreach and engagement, inclusion and equality, staff development and information, and digital literacy, to name but a few! I rapidly read the abstracts, finding it difficult to choose between the parallel rooms.

The two days were inspiring, engaging and fun. I have so much to takeaway, share, learn from, put into practice, and follow up. Overall, attending the conference was a brilliant experience, being able to explore latest ideas, enhance my professional development, improve, practice, and contribute towards a better experience for service users.

I am already looking forward to next year!!!

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