School librarians often work independently. We collaborate with teachers, support students, and participate in school initiatives, but we may be the only person in the building (maybe even the district!) who fully understands the responsibilities and challenges of our position. That can make leadership a lonely undertaking.

Who do you turn to when you have a question, face a difficult decision, or need a fresh idea? If you’re the only school librarian in your building, the answer may not be someone down the hall. Because effective leadership doesn’t happen in isolation, we need colleagues who understand our work.

On October 28, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) announced its commendation of School Librarians United, a podcast that provides school librarians with opportunities to learn, connect, and share professional experiences. In recognizing the podcast, AASL emphasized the importance of accessible professional learning and collaboration. Steve Tetreault, AASL Chapter Assembly Chair, noted that one of the profession’s greatest strengths is the ability to learn from and support one another.

This recognition highlights something every school librarian should remember: Professional connections aren’t simply nice to have. They’re essential to our effectiveness as educators and leaders. A professional learning network (PLN) gives us access to experiences beyond our own schools allowing us to discover solutions to challenges others have already faced, learn about emerging practices, and stay connected to developments in our profession.

Just as importantly, a strong network provides encouragement when the work becomes difficult. Sometimes knowing that others are facing similar challenges is enough to help us approach a problem with renewed confidence.

How can you build and strengthen your professional network?

• Look beyond your building. Connect with school librarians in your district, region, or state. If there aren’t regular opportunities to meet, consider organizing an informal gathering or virtual conversation. Sharing experiences doesn’t require an elaborate program.
• Participate in professional organizations. State and national library associations provide opportunities for professional development, advocacy, and collaboration. Attend meetings, join committees, and take advantage of the resources they offer. Your involvement strengthens both your knowledge and the profession.
• Use online communities thoughtfully. Podcasts like School Librarians United and professional discussion groups make it possible to learn from colleagues regardless of location. Don’t limit yourself to listening or reading. You can also join over 18,000 professionals on the School Librarians Workshop Facebook group. Ask questions, share ideas, contribute your own experiences and get quick help from your peers.
• Seek different perspectives. Connect with educators outside librarianship as well. Classroom teachers, technology specialists, administrators, and public librarians can introduce approaches you might not have considered. These relationships can lead to valuable collaborations.
• Give as well as receive. A professional network is a community, not simply a source of answers. Share a successful lesson, recommend a useful resource, or offer encouragement to someone facing a challenge. Your experience may be exactly what another librarian needs.

Yes, building these connections takes time, and time is something none of us have in abundance. But professional networking doesn’t have to mean adding another major commitment to your schedule. One meaningful conversation or shared resource can make a difference.

Think about the people who have helped you become the librarian and leader you are today. What did you learn from them? How have those relationships influenced your work? Now consider whose professional journey you might help shape. Leadership grows through connection. Who is part of your network, and how are you helping one another become stronger leaders?