Leading Modern Public Libraries Celebrating Success The Leading Modern Public Libraries programme has: - supported library services to turn the Framework for the Future vision into reality
- given individuals greater self-confidence
- encouraged creativity and new ways of working
- demonstrated strengths of library leaders and shown areas for further development
- provided a sound platform on which individuals and services can continue to develop
In January 2004 the MLA, in partnership with the Society of Chief Librarians (SCL) commissioned the Leading Modern Public Libraries Programme as a strategic intervention to support library services to deliver the vision of Framework for the Future. Background and context Research had identified the need for leadership development at all levels in library services but opportunities to meet this were limited. In consultation with library staff, a new national, contextualised programme was created. Between October 2004 and July 2007, every library authority in England participated in the programme.  Background, context and initial development (Word 52KB)
Facts and figures (Word 47KB) Evaluation The programme was evaluated at all stages and changes made to improve it. The Steering Group, in acknowledging the lessons learned for the future, has concluded that the programme was a great success. The factors contributing to this success include: partnership of MLA, SCL and DCMS; a national, strategic, contextualised programme; Heads of Service attending the programme themselves; having participants at different levels within a service; and the residential and modular structure of the programme. Evaluation (Word 74KB) Transformational leadership The Transformational Leadership Questionnaire (TLQ), used on the Heads of Service and Senior Managers programmes indicate that, in comparison with leaders in other parts of local government, public library leaders display stronger Transformational Leadership behaviours. However, many library managers underestimate their strengths in leading others. The programme has helped to raise self-confidence and encourage library leaders to play a stronger and wider role in their local authorities. Case studies Individual experiences of the programme testify to its impact. Case study one (Word 40KB) Case study two (Word 42KB) Case study three (Word 40KB) Case study four (Word 40KB)
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Transformational Leadership Behaviour among Participants in “Leading Modern Public Libraries”