Poster Session

Presentation Description:

Across the world, libraries are navigating environments shaped by technological advances, evolving models of scholarly communication, and ongoing financial and staffing pressures. While the specifics may vary by country or institution, one reality is constant: leaders are being asked to make decisions with fewer resources and shifting priorities — all while still continuing to demonstrate the library’s value to various stakeholders. At the same time, many new leaders are stepping into roles without formal leadership training (much leadership in libraries comes through “learning on the job”), often without the benefit of a clear playbook. Thoughtful, informed strategic decision-making is an essential skill necessary for positioning the library not just to respond to change, but to thrive. But, with so many competing demands, how do we determine which decisions can be delegated, which lend themselves to quick thinking and decisive action versus those which are best suited for deliberate data gathering and reflection? Moreover, what concrete approaches can we implement to ensure we have identified all the relevant factors necessary to make a determination that is solid?

This presentation is designed for emerging and rising leaders such as team managers, program leads, and new directors, who find themselves leading in times of scarcity and change. The session will share practical frameworks and relatable examples that equip participants to take the next step and identify decision-making strategies in their own setting, even when the landscape is shifting.

We will explore several interconnected areas, including:

1. An overview of decision science
2. Decision-making key points and context
3. Determining when using a decision framework may be useful/appropriate
4. Selected frameworks that help identify what matters most and communicate trade-offs transparently
5. Examples of how to apply such frameworks in a library environment

Throughout, we will draw on leadership and decision-making research as well as potential scenarios from libraries in various contexts, highlighting not only the difficulties of leading without a playbook but also the opportunities that can be discovered and explored. Participants will leave with frameworks for decision-making, strategies for applying these frameworks, and confidence in their ability to lead with clarity.