TLA: TALL Texans Round Table - Frequently Asked Questions

TALL Texans Round Table
Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the TALL Talk Tips (PowerPoint or HTML) to answer more questions and provide important information for applying.

Just what is TALL Texans, anyway?
The TALL Texans Round Table consists of people who have completed the TALL Texans Leadership Institute.

The Leadership Development Institute is the major activity by which TLA, through its Leadership Development Program, is endeavoring to provide a statewide impetus for expanded leadership education opportunities for all TLA members. The Institute is designed for Texas Library Association members, mid-career library and information science practitioners (degreed and non-degreed) who are currently employed in the field and have at least five years' experience in library and/or information science. Library laypersons with at least three years of service to the library community are also eligible.

When and where is the Institute held?
The Institute is held for five days each summer. Check the Institute's website for this year's location and dates.

What is taught at the Institute?
Each class attends intensive leadership training provided by some of the country's top trainers. The goals of the Institute are to: nurture leadership capabilities, define leadership development activities for TLA members, and foster cultural diversity in library leadership.

What criteria are sought for TALL Texans candidates?
Candidates must meet these criteria:

Have at least five years' experience in the library or information science fields; laypersons must have at least three years' recent involvement in these fields
Be currently employed in the field of library or information science (employment is not required for laypersons)
Be a current member of the Texas Library Association

How do I apply for the Institute?
Start by completing this nomination form. (You may nominate yourself or be nominated by someone else.) If you meet the necessary criteria, you will be sent an application and reference forms, which must be completed and sent to the TLA office by the January deadline. (Check with the office at 512-328-8852 for this year's deadline.) Twenty- four applicants and five alternates will be selected; they are notified in April.

How do I nominate someone for the Institute?
Nominations should be sent to the TLA office at 3355 Bee Cave Rd., Suite 401, Austin, TX 78746-6763. You may fax your nomination to the TLA office at 512/328-8852. The deadline for nominations is in early December. (Check with the office at 512-328-1518 for this year's deadline.).

How much does the program cost? Is funding available?
The cost for instruction, room, board, and related planned activities is $450. This does not include transportation costs. Many TLA units make supporting funds available. Check with TLA division and round table chairs to see if funds are available. Participants' employing institutions may also be willing to help with funding.

What happens once I'm a TALL Texan?
Participants in the Institute will continue TLA leadership development activities. Each TALL Texan makes a two-year commitment through a Personal Action Agenda, which is created at the Institute with the aid of the mentors.

How do I apply to be a TALL Texans mentor?
Begin by completing this application form. Criteria for mentors can be found here.

Check out the TALL Talk Tips to answer more questions and provide important information for applying.

Talk Tips (PowerPoint) Talk Tips (pdf)