AtoZ Blogging Challenge – Knowledgeable

During the month of April, I’ll be participating in the 2017 Blogging from A to Z Challenge. For this year’s theme, I chose to look at leadership qualities as I’ve just recently (within the past 6 months) become the director of my public library. We have about 50 staff members, most of whom are part-time employees serving a 30,000 resident community by providing high-quality programs and resources. Each day, I’ll look at one trait and how it’s helped me to become a better director.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are days where I spend the majority of my time asking questions. I want to be knowledgeable about all the working parts of my library – not to micro-manage, but to better understand work flow and to be able to help where I can. I love getting the chance to jump in and answer reference questions, help at the circulation desk and assist patrons with computer issues. I want my staff to be comfortable to ask me to pitch in when necessary.

I want my staff to know they can ask me questions and I hope to have the answer, but if I don’t have the answer, I want to be able to know who to ask to get the information I need. Knowledge doesn’t come quickly, but after eight years in this organization, and hopefully many more to come – I’m excited to see what else I’ll learn!