I've finally taken the plunge and went running after well over a year's rest much to my dog's delight. I only did about 3 miles round the local wood and had a few "blackberry" stops on the way but I've got the bug again and hopefully will keep this up.
Attending
Back to thing 15, I've attended a few conferences and events in the past including Umbrella (for one day) but it has become more difficult recently due to finance and lack of staff. I recommend taking advantage of any free places being offered, I managed to attend the Libraries Change Lives Award last year this way. I had to write a piece afterwards for the CSG Newsletter but it's a good opportunity for professional development. I also try and volunteer myself to help out on the RNIB Stand where possible as it's a good chance to network with fellow professionals and, in some case, our customers.
I've become more involved with the East Midlands CILIP Branch as the visits and the AGM's have been free or a nominal fee charged and some have also involved a workshop. For example, the visit to Worksop Library also included a workshop on portfolios and chartering/revalidation. Although it's always abit daunting to start with, it's quite nice to see familiar faces as you start going to a few events and it's also a good chance to talk to people that are in a different sector to yourself. I also recommend checking out your Special Group's AGM. This year's CSG AGM incorporated a workshop on Public Libraries and Social Justice.
Presenting
I've never spoken at a Conference before and haven't really considered it. I'm not sure if I feel comfortable doing this though I did do a Train the trainers course several years ago and enjoyed presenting in front of the rest of the class. I think I'll be too worried about the question and answer session afterwards that I won't be able to answer the questions! Maybe this is something I ought to think about in the future.
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