Full Description
Deemed "essential" by Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA), "a great read" by School Library Journal, and "comprehensive" by Reference & User Services Quarterly, the first edition of Weisburg's guide won plaudits for its inspirational yet pragmatic approach. At a time when school librarians are facing challenges as never before, from straightened budgets and censorship battles to uncertainty about the future and burnout, the updated second edition is timelier than ever. Weisburg builds on her decades of experience and mentorship in school libraries to offer a carefully crafted roadmap that guides readers step by step through the process of transforming into a leader, from becoming aware of what's at stake to learning and mastering the necessary skills for leadership. From this book, which offers "Key Ideas" at the end of each chapter, you will learn
why you can't be an effective advocate for your school library unless you're a leader;
how to tackle common fears about taking on a leadership role, and ways to move past them and gain confidence;
guidance on managing classes in the library and the importance of leading with your attitude;
approaches that will help you become an expert teacher, from "Creating a Climate for Questions" to inquiry-based learning and other variations;
techniques for uncovering your strengths, identifying your skill set, and improving your leadership expertise;
methods for building credibility among stakeholders and peers through strategic risk-taking;
pointers on communicating effectively, becoming visible, behaving ethically, dealing with Imposter Syndrome, maintaining a healthy life-work balance, and navigating other important career issues; and
how to create a three-year strategic plan to further your mission and your vision, enabling you to become a local educational leader who also has a presence on the state and national level.
Contents
Foreword, by Susan D. BallardIntroduction
Part I Safe First Steps to Leadership
Chapter 1 Why Be a Leader?
Accepting the Challenge
Roadblocks to Leadership
Qualities of a Leader
Measuring Up
Fear Factor
Key Ideas
Chapter 2 Getting Grounded
Who Are You?
Mission Statements
Vision Statements
Procrastination—the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Key Ideas
Chapter 3 Managing Classes in the Library
The Challenge—Part 1
Control vs. Management
Your Attitude Leads
Rules and Routines
Key Ideas
Chapter 4 Becoming an Expert Teacher
The Challenge—Part 2
Anticipate
Essential Questions and Enduring Understandings
Creating a Climate for Questions
Assessing
Collaborate or Cooperate
Inquiry-Based Learning and Other Variations
Standards
Key Ideas
Part II Building Your Leadership Skills
Chapter 5 Becoming a Leader
Developing Confidence
Identifying and Using Role Models and Mentors
Testing Your Leadership Skills
Being a Team Player
Imposter Syndrome and Self-Assessment
Key Ideas
Chapter 6 Uncovering Your Strengths
Five Bases of Power
Your Skill Set
Relationship Building
Being Likeable
Key Ideas
Chapter 7 Improving Your Leadership Expertise
To Do and To Don't
Emotional Intelligence
Leading and Managing
Making Meetings Matter
Key Ideas
Chapter 8 Knowing How to Handle Important Communications
Communicating in Person
Written Communication
Digital Communication
Making a Presentation
Recognizing the Messages You Send
The IT Department and You
Key Ideas
Part III Playing Larger
Chapter 9 Always Have a Plan
Your Brand and Taglines
Know Your Goals
Identifying Your Targets
SOAR Rather Than SWOT
The Strategic Plan
Showcase Your Advocacy Plan
Key Ideas
Chapter 10 Staying Visible and Vital
Empowering Stakeholders
Standards and Ethics
Staying Current
Seek to Innovate
Toolkits
Key Ideas
Chapter 11 Maintaining Joy
Writing and Presenting
Delegating
Giving Back
The Gift of Time
Key Ideas
Index
