About the New Professionals Special Interest Group

NPSIG is an open global network for LIS New Professionals and supporters. We are meeting at IFLA Congresses and other events organizing sessions and workshops. We are also very active when it comes to virtual meetings and online collaboration.

NPSIG is a working group within the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), affiliated with the Management of Library Associations Section (MLAS). The only two official positions are currently held by Sebastian Wilke (Convenor) and Dierk Eichel (Information Coordinator) from Berlin, Germany. Together with a global network of enthusiasts, they drive the activities of NPSIG – all on a voluntary basis.

IFLA Communicator of the Year 2011 Award

Why you should go international

Going international in the LIS landscape brings along many benefits, especially if you are a student or new graduate. By getting involved in our global network, you will:

  • expand your professional network through valuable contacts,
  • stay updated on topics of interest for your early career,
  • gain experience in organizing events with us,
  • get introduced to the IFLA network and associational work on an international level.​

And on a more personal note, but no less important: You can make lasting friends and have a lot of fun!

international LIS activists

Join NPSIG!

Getting involved in NPSIG is very simple, as our group has an open structure with no associational membership required.

You will get the basic NPSIG package by following our blog, Facebook page and Twitter account. We are regularly posting news about NPSIG and other resources related to New Professionals on these channels.

To get involved in the internal work of NPSIG, there are two ways: By attending our virtual business meetings, you will be updated on current and future plannings of the group and meet other New Professionals online on a regular basis. Additionally, we are maintaining an internal wiki to share all kinds of resources and work on NPSIG activities such as conference sessions. Joining the wiki will let you stay updated on all organizational details and see if there is anything you could help with or give feedback.

NPSIG is an initiative for and by New Professionals. That is why we are generally open for suggestions regarding any kind of events and online activities. Also, if you organize some online or on-site event that is of interest to our global community, we are happy to spread the word and help with our international contacts. If you want to share a story about any recent development or experience you have made, the NPSIG blog is open for you as well. Just let us know!

Do you have any more questions about NPSIG or need help with something? Then get in touch via npsig.ifla@gmail.com!

We are looking forward to having you aboard!
Your NPSIG crew

New Professionals, mission statement, goals

Last update: 15 February 2013