Call for papers and essays
Working Title: The Ideabook of Positive Change in the Library Workplace
Editors: Heather Seibert, Amanda Vinogradov, Amanda H. McLellan
Deadline for drafts: September 5, 2018
Publisher: American Library Association Press (ALA Press)
Submission Form: https://goo.gl/forms/wny3vqnKvRRsLVxz1
We are soliciting a diverse range of essays and narratives from practicing U.S. academic, public and special libraries staff, for inclusion in a curated anthology that empowers library employees to change real-world issues pertaining to library staff. Submissions may include any phase of project development, but we are especially seeking: perspectives and advice on how to make and implement change, how to talk to administration about needs, the specific steps taken in the process, solutions to roadblocks and recognition of the future needs of staff. We also seek narratives, steps and ideas from administrators on how to implement and create a positive work environment and the challenges faced in this process. Paraprofessional staff and first-time authors are encouraged to apply.
Possible topics include but are not limited to the following:
Lactation accommodation
Flexible scheduling
Development of policies and procedures allowing remote work (i.e. weather related absences for employees with leave time deficits)
Childcare accommodations
Changing tables in restrooms
Parental leave policies
Space and time for dialysis or other medical needs
Standing desks
Promotion of exercise at work
Inclusive ideas for work outings, gatherings or meetings
Veterans on active duty or return from duty
Race and ethnicity inclusion and sensitivity
Gender neutral bathrooms
Dealing with bias
Providing space for prayer and/or meditation
Inclusive recruitment practices
Updating policies to be more inclusive
Development of policies and space for employees with varying sensory needs (Autism spectrum, PTSD, etc)
Case studies of libraries that have successfully handled difficult situations regarding discrimination or harassment.
Employees returning to school for further education
Timeline
Deadline for Draft Submission: September 5, 2018
Notification/Feedback regarding submission: October 10, 2018
Final submission for accepted drafts: Jan. 12, 2019
Submissions:
*This anthology will contain commentary, narratives and experiences. Drafts accepted must be between four to six pages double spaced (about 350 words per page). A suggested template will be provided for all accepted submissions to the anthology.
*Materials cannot be previously published or simultaneously submitted.
*All photos, illustrations, graphs etc. must have a Creative Commons License or be in the public domain. The submission’s author is responsible for verifying that these materials fall under the respected licenses. Each will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and will be at the discretion of the editors for inclusion.
*If your submission is tentatively accepted, we may request modifications.
*Accepted contributors should expect to sign a release form in order to be published, and will agree to follow submission guidelines.
*Compensation includes one complimentary copy of published anthology for each contributing author
We STRONGLY encourage submission from all regardless of classification of positions within academic and public libraries. We are seeking input from administrators, faculty, as well as staff employees.
