Welcome! GBCLA was founded in 1972 by the librarians from Dana Hall School, Rivers School, and Winsor School. The group has grown steadily, and now includes more than 50 member schools. The mission of GBCLA is to exchange ideas, to inform ourselves about new trends, and to produce and promote programs or materials related to libraries and reading.
Top10Reasons to Join GBCLA 1. Networking: We meet four times each year to discuss independent school library topics and trends. 2. Hosting: Volunteer to host a GBCLA meeting at your school -- it's great PR for your school, and it's an efficient way to attend meetings! 3. Grants: for professional development requests up to $750.00 is available each year, through grant rounds in the fall and spring. Total amount/year is $3000 ($1500 for each grant round). 4. Low yearly dues: Only $50 per school per year! 5. Listserv: Active Google Group for communication and support. 6. ILL: Interlibrary loan system (CLASS) to share resources. 7. Leadership: Opportunities for committee and leadership roles to advance the profession of library and information science. 8. Social Gatherings: In addition to meetings, we are trying a new initiative to host area-specific social gatherings to allow a variety of connections. 9. Site Visits: Attend meetings and visit GBCLA libraries across the area to see best practices in action. 10. Fun! We love to share stories, gather ideas, and partake of good snacks.
2019-2020 Schedule Fall Meeting: Phillips Academy, Andover MA October 2019 Noon - 3:00pm Late Fall Meeting: Bancroft School, Worcester MA November 2019 Noon - 3:00pm
Winter Social Gatherings Evenings in February 2020 North Shore, South Shore, Boston-Area, West/Central
Spring Meeting: Rivers School, Weston MA May 2020 Noon - 3:00pm
We welcome New England independent school librarians to join this fine collegial group. Yearly dues are $50.00 per school. Please contact Jeff Smith, Membership Secretary.
