The Tennessee State Library and Archives is bolstering leadership at its public libraries through a new Public Library Management Institute. The three-year program is designed to improve the management, leadership, and partnership skills of directors overseeing small to medium-sized public libraries or branches within the Tennessee Regional Library System who do not hold a Master of Library Science (MLS) degree.
The institute features annual week-long sessions focusing on leadership development in the first year, management skills in the second, and partnerships in the final year. The curriculum covers topics such as personality styles, meeting planning, time management, communication, long-term planning, resource allocation, policy writing, technology integration, public awareness, fundraising, and Tennessee library law.
Upon completing the program, participants receive a Public Library Management Certification from the Tennessee Secretary of State's office. A capstone project, relevant to their library, is a graduation requirement.
The institute is part of the Tennessee Regional Library System's broader continuing education efforts, which include workshops and online resources for all library staff and trustees. Topics covered range from STEM training to data collection and trustee certification. The Tennessee Electronic Library (TEL) also offers training on its extensive online resources.
Lauri Thompson, Continuing Education Coordinator at the Tennessee State Library and Archives, is the contact for more information about the institute and other training opportunities.
The Public Library Management Institute aims to enhance the operational efficiency and community impact of smaller public libraries by developing skilled and engaged leaders. Recently graduating from the program is Melissa Dawes, Director of Charles Ralph Holland Memorial Library here in Gainesboro
The Tennessee State Library and Archives believes this investment in leadership development will strengthen the state's library network and improve services for all Tennesseans.
