NEWS For Immediate Release April 5, 2013

Contact: Mary Mackay

CHICAGO - There is still time to consider applying - or nominating a colleague - for Leading to the Future, a four-day immersive leadership development program for future library leaders offered by the American Library Association (ALA) Aug. 12-15, 2013 at the Eaglewood Resort Spa in Itasca, Ill. Applications are accepted through May 10.

Designed for mid-career librarians eager to develop their leadership potential and ready for increased responsibility, the institute will help participants develop and practice their leadership skills in areas critical to the future of the libraries they lead. Participants will have the opportunity to form a vibrant learning community and network—an essential and powerful element of effective leadership growth and development. Through reflective and active learning, the institute offers an opportunity to delve into leadership practices, concepts and frameworks and for participants to shape their own sustainable leadership vision and ethos. With content based on real world cases and nuanced situations, participants will explore topics related to the greatest challenges and possibilities of leading into a future marked by turbulence and ambiguity. 

The curriculum will include, among other topics:          

• Leading in turbulent times;
• Interpersonal competence;
• Power and influence;
• The art of convening groups;
• Creating a culture of inclusion, innovation and transformation

Participants will also: return to their institution with greater self-awareness and self-confidence, equipped with better skills for leading, coaching, collaborating and engaging within their organizations and in their communities; return as better leaders, prepared to identify, develop and implement solutions that will benefit all stakeholders; and earn approximately 30 hours of continuing education contact hours.

Led by ALA President Maureen Sullivan with ACRL Content Strategist Kathryn Deiss, this inaugural Leadership Institute will include a structured learning track as well as the opportunity for individual development and is limited to 35 participants who will earn about 30 hours of continuing education contact hours.

The Leadership Institute selection committee seeks a diverse participant mix based on type of library (public, academic, school, special, etc.), organizational responsibility, geography, gender and race/ethnicity. The selective process will be based on demonstrated leadership potential, professional achievement and community or campus involvement.  Particular attention will be given to applicants’ personal statements as well as those of their references.  Additional criteria are on the ALA Leadership Institute page. Inclusion in the institute is by online application only, and applicants may nominate themselves or be nominated by their employer. Thanks to a subsidy from ALA in this inaugural year, the total cost for each participant (including food, lodging and materials but excluding travel) will be $750.

Completed applications are due by May 10, 2013. Applicants will be notified of selection results no later than June 7, 2013.

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