Location, location, location: a librarian's guide to isolation

Liz Burke

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference paperConference paper

Abstract

The library and information services profession faces many challenges in developing leaders and leadership potential. Such challenges can be particularly confronting to those living and working in geographically remote regions. This paper uses examples from a geographically remote region in Australia to outline possible approaches to attracting, retaining and developing leaders.

The author fills a senior leadership role at the University of Western Australia (UWA) Library in Perth, one of the most remote capital cities in the world. Attracting, retaining and developing leaders in the library profession in Perth can be challenging. In response to the challenge of geographic remoteness, the author describes an initiative adopted by the UWA Library to develop leadership. In a fast changing and demanding environment, it is essential that all managers be forward thinking, pro-active and ready to lead others. ‘Taking the Lead’ is a programme designed to provide continuing professional development opportunities for senior library staff in leadership positions. The author also outlines some of the strategies adopted by the library professional association in Western Australia. The author is convenor of one of the local groups which coordinates and communicates strategic professional issues and organises continuing professional development activities state-wide and sector-wide.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationContinuing professional development
Subtitle of host publicationpathways to leadership in the library and information world
EditorsAnn Ritchie, Clare Walker
Place of PublicationMünchen
PublisherK.G. Saur
Pages271-287
Volume2007
EditionJohannesburg, South Africa
ISBN (Print)9783598220340
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2007
Event7th World Conference on Continuing Professional Development and Workplace Learning for the Library and Information Profession - Durban, South Africa
Duration: 14 Aug 200716 Aug 2007

Conference

Conference7th World Conference on Continuing Professional Development and Workplace Learning for the Library and Information Profession
Country/TerritorySouth Africa
CityDurban
Period14/08/0716/08/07

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