Central Australia Regional Group
January-June 2003 report
How group activities have fulfilled the objects of the Association
Much networking and support occurs on an informal basis between our members as needed. This is one of the main objectives of our group.
A recent work placement by a library student has resulted in a request for membership details (object 5).
A second student librarian has spent time with the Convenor discussing the profession and was referred to a part-time vacancy in a special library which she is now filling. (object 3)
The Convenor has had discussions with senior goverment managers to emphasise the importance of professionals in Departmental libraries. This has been beneficial for the association and positions have maintained at professional levels. (objects 3 and 4)
Library Week celebrated. (Object 2)
Individual submission to Senate Inquiry on Libraries (Objects 1 and 2)
Have we met our goals?
This ALIA group is over 1000km from any other ALIA group. The problems of isolation are very real for those wishing to build on their professional skills and a strong network exists to support each other in other professional lives. Several members have been fortunate to attend specialist conferences and brought the benefits of these experiences back to the group.
Purpose and program of the group for the past six months
There has been one formal meeting and one dinner in this six-month period.
Many informal discussions occur in this community where members often find themselves at functions and take the opportunity to network with their peers.
Purpose and program for the next six months, and
A set calendar of meeting dates, library visits and social functions for the coming six months.
ALIA will have a booth at the annual careers evening of St Philip's College.
A planning meeting will be held in early August to finalise this.
The recent dinner attracted 16 participants. Of these, six were newcomers to the region.
Many members have retired or resigned from positions and new appointees are often relocated from Eastern states. The Group is actively welcoming these new professionals and will be encouraging them to align their group membership if appropriate, or join if they are not already members/associates.
How the group communicates with it's members
Mainly by e-mail and occasionally by telephone. Important messages from ALIA National Office are distributed via e-mail.
Objects of the Association (taken from the ALIA Constitution)
- To promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interest of all Australians and a thriving culture, economy and democracy;
- To promote and improve the services provided by all kinds of library and information agencies;
- To ensure the high standard of personnel engaged in information provision and foster their professional interests and aspirations;
- To represent the interests of members to governments, other organisations and the community; and
- To encourage people to contribute to the improvement of library and information services through support and membership of the Association.
Diane Clifford
Convenor
5 July 2003
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