The Neurodivergent Library and Information Staff Network (NLISN) is an emerging peer support network for neurodivergent library and information staff in the UK. Library, information and knowledge workers are the frontline experts supporting access to information resources and educating in information literacy, and talented neurodivergent professionals are already represented in this sector, but are not open about this and without support their talent is going to waste.
After working hard behind the scenes, our committee is ready to launch our offer to the network, which includes a buddying scheme for peer support, some training (online and in person), and sharing of resources. This crowdfunder is aiming to start off our brand new bank account with a little bit of seed funding, that will provide a buffer to enable us to cover our expenses. At the moment, this is a small amount for webhosting, refreshments at our in person event in October and preferably the ability to subsidise some people that otherwise wouldn't be able to attend. This would make a massive difference to us getting started, and in return you get an improved existing information workforce that is able to support itself, and ultimately better public access to information.
All money will be spent transparently. You can see what NLISN has already done and our story so far on our website.
NLISN's deliverables:
- A visible online presence including: website, forum, email discussion list, newsletter/blog, resources list.
- A buddying service, providing a named person for informal chat.
- Regular in person and online themed networking events.
- Occasional research outputs, such as conference papers, or partnered research projects.
Our scope:
- NLISN welcomes individuals who are both diagnosed, waiting for diagnosis, or are suspected or self-diagnosed neurodivergent.
- NLISN also welcomes individuals who are current, past, aspiring, student or adjacent library, information and knowledge workers.
- NLISN includes staff from academic, health, public, school, college, law, government, business libraries and information services, and strives to make our deliverables suitable for all sectors.
- NLISN is based in the UK and is aimed primarily at colleagues in the UK and Ireland.