Leading Professional Development: Growing Librarians for the Digital Age

Though not all librarians are required to participate in professional development activities, most do so regularly in some form or another throughout their careers. Editors Moen (Graduate Sch. of Library and Information Studies, Univ. of Rhode Island) and Buchanan (Sch. of Information Science and Learning Technology, Univ. of Missouri) acknowledge that commitment by focusing on lifelong learning and learning opportunities aligned with different career stages. Case studies combine with tips and techniques for designing and facilitating continuing education programming. As the title implies, many chapters stress training that involves digital elements, such as developing an online community for networking with others, using digital badges to encourage and recognize participation, and combining passive conference attendance with digital interaction to increase engagement. Several case studies describe successful programs, such as the Lilead Fellows, a school librarian leadership skill program that emphasizes the importance of in-person sessions for developing connections among participant cohorts.

VERDICT A quick read with guidance for creating myriad enrichment activities for library professionals. Will appeal broadly across all types of libraries, professional organizations, and library science programs.