The Public Library Association is currently accepting applications for the PLA Leadership Academy: Navigating Change · Building Community. This special event will offer intensive, empowering leadership education for public librarians who want to increase their capacity to lead not only within the library, but also in the community.
The academy will be held March 20-24, 2017, in Portland, Oregon.
Developed in collaboration with the International City and County Managers Association (ICMA), and supported by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the PLA Leadership Academy offers a groundbreaking focus on developing the skills needed to work with municipal officials and other community stakeholders to enhance the position of the library within the community and improve the overall effectiveness of library services and programs.
The Leadership Academy consists of:
* A three and a half day, in-person educational/networking event;
* A professional coach program with experienced public library leaders and city managers; and
* Development of real-world projects to implement at attendees’ libraries.
Learning Outcomes
As a result of participating in the PLA Leadership Academy, applicants will:
* Understand the nature of effective leadership in public libraries and the context in which that leadership will be needed in the coming years;
* Build personal leadership awareness and effectiveness;
* Understand the opportunities for and challenges of civic engagement, including skills for effective community partnerships;
* Form a long term, sustainable mentoring network with colleagues and other experienced leaders; and
* Know how to apply the above in the context of their particular library and community.
Cost
PLA, with support from IMLS, has made a strong investment in leadership training for its members and, as a result, is able to waive participant registration fees for this highly selective program. Participants will be required to cover travel costs and lodging.
Registration
Interested participants must apply, submit two letters of recommendation, and be accepted to participate in the PLA Leadership Academy. Applicants must be PLA members and MLS/MLIS librarians with at least five years of increasingly responsible experience in a public library.
The application deadline is September 19, 2016. Attendance is selective and will be limited to 28 participants.
