Leading for School Librarians: There Is No Other Option

by Hilda K. Weisburg, Susan D. Ballard

With the recent passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), school libraries are poised for a potential turnaround. But there's only one way school librarians must become leaders, fully interwoven into the fabric of the educational community. And to become a truly effective leader you've got to have a plan. In her new book, Weisburg builds on her decades of experience and mentorship in school libraries to offer a carefully crafted roadmap that guides readers step by step through the process of transforming into a leader, from becoming aware of what's at stake to learning and mastering the necessary skills for leadership. Using a pragmatic approach that acknowledges the challenges to come while also offering unabashed inspiration, this book By starting with the basics and then offering concrete ideas for moving forward, the book shows readers how they can slowly build their confidence and skills to become the leaders their students and the profession needs them to be.

Genres: Adult, Professional Development, Education, Nonfiction

157 pages, Paperback

Published March 20, 2017

Reviews

[Barbara Band · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starts with the premise that all school librarians are leaders ... and that you have to be a leader to be an advocate.

Excellent book - very readable, lots of practical advice and examples of best practice (even though it's US-based it's still very relevant to UK librarians) - and covers a huge range of topics!

This book challenges the reader to “never stop reimagining the role and relevance of the school librarian to positively impact student achievement and to recognise our role as catalysts for teaching and learning”. The author recognises that most school librarians do not have any way to advance or role models within the hierarchy but that librarians cannot be advocates without also being leaders. Thus the aim of the book is to look at the steps for school librarians to become leaders within their establishments.

It is written in three parts, with each chapter having a list of key ideas and bibliography/notes to references in the text. Part one looks at the first steps required: the reasons for being a leader; the qualities needed; organising your workload; and the librarian as teacher. Part two encourages the reader to consider their strengths and skill set, looks at how to be a team player via building relationships and considers various methods of communication. Part three includes: ensuring you are seen as vital and indispensable; staying current; having a plan and knowing your goals; as well as empowering stakeholders.

This is an extremely relevant and useful book that is an easy read. It is solution oriented with lots of examples of good practice plus ideas to adapt to individual situations. Although it has a US slant, there is much that UK (and other) school librarians would find beneficial and could use to reflect on their current practices.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been an elementary school librarian for 9 years, and found this really helpful on a number of levels. The author’s guidance and insights were tangible, and can be put into immediate action where appropriate. It was refreshing to read a professional book that felt so personalized to what I do, and to be reminded that I’m part of a larger community. Definitely recommend this to practicing librarians who need a boost of positivity and professional encouragement.

[Jennisen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It felt like this book was written for me. School librarians must become leaders in our schools, districts, states, and even nationally. It is important for us to band together, share our knowledge, and empower each other to be stronger. We must show our teaching colleagues how impactful our programs are for the life-long learning of our students. This book is a great starting point for anyone's leadership path.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a wonderful resource. Hilda mentors readers on the many leadership opportunities for librarians. As a seasoned librarian, I gleaned many invaluable nuggets. I especially see this book being a wonderful resource for new to profession librarians.

[Sandra Pyeatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A valuable professional resource, easy to read with sections to revisit and use when I’m in the position to do so (actually working as a librarian).

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good professional book from one of the best. I learned a lot.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written, easy to read book. Fully of inspiring ideas and practical suggestions. One that you will want and need to go back to often.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a lot of new ideas, but good for what it is.