For immediate release | June 9, 2021

Library worker engagement for positive, diverse institutions

91ý

CHICAGO — Gallup’s 2019 State of the American Workplace Report found that 70 percent of employees are disengaged at work. Why is worker engagement so important? Engaged workers lead to engaged libraries — vibrant institutions that nurture their workers’ dedication, creativity, and innovation so they can serve their communities most effectively. “,” published by 91ý Editions, walks library managers and administrators through concrete steps to change their organization’s culture. Throughout, author Elaina Norlin incorporates first-hand accounts from library staff to illustrate both successes and failures. Readers will discover:

  • why libraries often fall short at hiring good leadership and ways to develop better recruitment strategies moving forward;
  • how lack of trust pushes workplace culture towards incivility, hostility, and lower morale, and what library leaders can do to rebuild it;
  • methods for using recognition and praise as tools for sustaining a positive work environment;
  • the rationale for eliminating annual performance reviews in favor of less formal one-on-one conversations and “just in time” continuous feedback;
  • the secrets behind high performing teams, strategies to support dysfunctional teams, and tips on how to develop remote teamwork; and
  • why viewing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as separate from workplace culture is counterproductive, since it is actually the positive result of a strong foundation, with advice on combating the factors that contribute to low retention rates of BIPOC librarians.

Norlin is the Professional Development DEI Coordinator for the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries. She is an accomplished teacher, technology and leadership development trainer, and writer with extensive leadership experience and a flair for public relations, organizational development, marketing and persuasion and communications. The author of two other LIS books, she has delivered over 70 workshops, training sessions, presentations, and institutes both nationally and internationally on marketing, web usability design, facilitation, strategic influence, and conflict management.

Many book retailers and distributors are experiencing service disruptions or delays, including Amazon. For speediest service, from the 91ý Store. purchases fund advocacy, awareness and accreditation programs for library and information professionals worldwide. publishes resources used by library and information professionals, scholars, students, and educators to improve programs and services, build on best practices, enhance pedagogy, share research, develop leadership, and promote advocacy. 91ý authors and developers are leaders in their fields, and their content is published in a variety of print and electronic formats. Contact 91ý Editions | 91ý Neal-Schuman at editionsmarketing@ala.org.

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