Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the CLA?
- Why should I join the CLA?
- How much does it cost to join the CLA?
- What does the student chapter do?
- Do I need a membership with the CLA to participate in student chapter activities?
- How can I get involved with the student chapter?
- Who is on the student chapter executive and how do I contact them?
- Who is the faculty advisor for the student chapter?
- What is mentorship and how can I get involved?
1. What is the CLA?
The Canadian Library Association (CLA) consists of people and organizations who are involved with library and information sciences. More information may be found on our About the CLA page, and the CLA's website has a wealth of information about the organization, as well as issues that face information professionals.
2. Why Should I Join the CLA?
There are many benefits to joining the CLA, including access to a special members only section of the website, a subscription to Feliciter, discounts on CLA workshops and the annual conference, and excellent networking opportunities. Many more benefits are explained in detail on the CLA's website.
3. How Much Does it Cost to Join the CLA?
Student membership is $25 a year, which is up to $175 less than a personal membership will be once you graduate. This is a great opportunity to see what the CLA is about at a reduced rate.
4. What Does the Student Chapter Do?
The student chapter here at UWO plans events and lectures that provide networking opportunities between students and the greater professional community. Being a part of the student chapter is a great way to become involved and network with the library and information community before graduation. Our mission statement may be read on our Who We Are page.
5. Do I Need a Membership with the CLA to Participate in Student Chapter Activities?
No, membership is not required to participate in activities organized by the student chapter, or to attend the general meetings. Membership is required to be a part of the CLA student chapter executive.
6. How Can I Get Involved with the Student Chapter?
Our general meetings occur approximately once a month, and anyone is free to attend. Announcements about meetings as well as any activities the student chapter is organizing are e-mailed to the MLIS students, and notices are posted on the bulletin board in the lounge in North Campus Building. If you are interested in being a part of the executive, please attend the final general meeting which is held at the end of each term.
Special committees are usually comprised of both executive and general members, and information about joining these is provided at the general meetings.
7. Who is on the Student Chapter Executive and How do I Contact Them?
Information about the Executive and their contact information may be found on our Who We Are page.
8. Who is the Faculty Advisor for the Student Chapter?
Our faculty advisor is Bill Irwin
9. What is Mentorship and How Can I Get Involved?
Mentorship is a new program which pairs librarians and information professionals in the field with students who have completed their first term of the MLIS program. It is an exciting opportunity for students to gain valuable insight into the profession, and for professionals to share their wealth of knowledge. Please view our Mentorship Page for more information.