I was deeply disappointed by the American Libraries article on the future of library leadership. Apparently, the authors' survey of current ARL library directors and assistance/associate directors indicated that the following leadership characteristics (among others) were considered low-priority: facilitation of group processes, developing extra-library partnerships, implementing systems assessing the library's value to users, and "creation of an environment that fosters accountability." Also considered unimportant or low-value personal traits were: a sense of humor, interpersonal skills, team-building, and "commitment to explaining decisions."

This article really brought into focus for me my frustrations with the library field as it currently stands. It's not that I don't approve of the many important traits that were rated highly. It's that I was saddened by the idea that team-building, accountability, assessment, and relationships with staff were ranked so low. Academic libraries desperately need to embrace their staff (librarians and paraprofessionals alike) and to encourage their input and participation. Many of these low-rent traits would be valuable in achieving those goals. It's too bad our current directors don't think they're important.

Posted by Hilary at May 23, 2004 12:37 PM