Exploring Library Leadership

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To ensure a strong and exciting future for libraries of all types, library workers must embrace effective leadership as a core component of our professional practice. Opportunities to lead abound, both within libraries and in the communities we serve. And the leadership role is not limited to managers or supervisors – there is a need for leaders at all levels in a library organization.

  • Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a leader?
  • Would you like to learn more about your own current areas of leadership competence? (Yes, everyone has some!)
  • Could you use practical information about how to take the initiative and lead more effectively?
  • Do you want to help transform libraries to meet the challenges of the future?

Maybe it's time for you to discover the leader within!

Workshop Description: This one-day workshop will explore current theories and practices of effective leadership, especially those that have practical application in a library environment. Through discussion, a personal assessment inventory, and interactive exercises, participants will learn practical steps to become better leaders and will chart their own course for further developing their leadership skills.

Preliminary Course Outline:

  • Leadership in Libraries Today: Challenges and Opportunities
    • Every library professional has the opportunity to lead
    • Why a positive, optimistic approach is so important
    • Leadership in practice, by position held, and by opportunity taken
  • Principles and Practices of Effective Leadership
    • Definitions of leadership
    • Brief overview of leadership theory in evolution
    • Leadership in practice: the five key areas
  • Leadership and Emotional Intelligence
    • Emotional intelligence defined
    • Self-assessment of personal strengths
    • How to become a "resonant leader"
  • Leadership Development: Charting A Course
    • Assessment of areas for competency development
    • Creation of a personal plan

Who Should Attend: This workshop is designed primarily for those who are early to mid-career -- i.e., those who have up to 10 years in the profession and are interested in developing leadership skills. No management or supervisory experience is required.

Prerequisites: None

Please note: Additional dates and locations throughout California are being scheduled and will be announced shortly.

Check-in: 8:30 to 9 AM Instruction: 9 AM to 4:30 PM

Available for contracting: 
No