As libraries grow and evolve to meet new challeneges, many rank-and-file librarians find themselves filling leadership positions without ever receiving any formalized training. This lack of preparation often leads to added stress as they scramble to learn how to lead, to formulate departmental goals, to conduct effective assessment, to think and plan strategically, to counsel employees, and fulfill the many unanticipated tasks of library leadership. Those working for new supervisors can quickly become frustrated with managers who are unaware of their leadership style and ill-prepared to cope in library environments where rapid organizational change to meet user needs is simply part of the landscape. Lessons in Library Leadership: A Primer for Library Managers and Unit Leaders has been written as a handbook to address and explores these concerns. It is written equally for librarians new to management and for those needing a refresher in basic management concepts. Seasoned managers may also look to this guide as a quick reference resource covering multiple management subjects. From overviews of leadership theories and styles to concrete tips and tricks for building teams, creating respectful workplaces, and increasing diversity, this handbook will guide new managers through planning, assessment, project management, problem-solving, and decision-making in a library context. Each chapter includes addtional information for further leadership skill development. -- from back cover.
|
