Managing From the Middle: Branch Managers
An introductory course for new and aspiring branch managers on the ins and outs of this tricky but vital role in public libraries.
Format
Live via Zoom with pre-work
Dates
July 14 - October 6
Facilitators
Kelsey Hughes & Michelle Hamiel
Credit Hours
20 credit hours
Schedule
Live meetings every other Monday, 2-4pm ET
Price
$3,000
About the course
Though management is a core responsibility of many within the field of librarianship, it is not always a skill taught in library school or easily learned on the job. In order to be effective, a branch manager must understand how to build upon the needs, skills and talents of the staff they lead to achieve impact as a team. They also must carefully balance the needs of the branch and local community with the interests and priorities of the larger library system of which they are a part. Effectively managing and, further, confidently leading others requires self-reflection, intentional learning, and continued practice. This three-month course will instruct new or aspiring branch managers to build the skills necessary to achieve impact in their role. At the end of the course, successful participants will earn a certificate recognizing the expertise they have gained.
Course live meeting dates (all at 2-4pm Eastern Time):
July 14, July 28, Aug. 11, Aug. 25, Sept. 8, Sept. 22, Oct. 6
Learners are expected to attend and actively participate in all live sessions. Recordings will be provided should a conflict arise, but registrants should plan to attend all or almost all sessions live.
Course live meeting dates (all at 2-4pm Eastern Time):
July 14, July 28, Aug. 11, Aug. 25, Sept. 8, Sept. 22, Oct. 6
Learners are expected to attend and actively participate in all live sessions. Recordings will be provided should a conflict arise, but registrants should plan to attend all or almost all sessions live.
Personalized Learning
Identify your individual management style and the strategies you might use for working with staff of different skill sets, cultural backgrounds, individual needs, and interests, to operate a highly functional team.
Practical Tools
Learn the best practices for ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and identify resources they may use to ensure they are in compliance and resolve questions when they arise.
Future-Focused
Gain confidence in your role as a branch manager, and the methods you may employ to continue to develop within your current role and into potential future roles within the field.