Developing Library Leaders

Developing Library Leaders further examines Dotson s foundational 2007 study to determine the impact of the internship experiences on the development of leadership competencies. Dotson's 2007 study focused on the development of knowledge and competencies required for school librarians. An examination of the library internship program, through the lens of situated learning theory, was conducted in order to determine the value of the internship in preparing school librarians to be leaders in the school setting. Eight leadership competencies essential to school librarians were identified and used as the foundation for development of a survey instrument addressing three areas: theory, practice and professional identity. Factor analysis and descriptive statistics clarified the extent school librarians reported that the library internship prepared them for leadership in the professional role. Findings may suggest paths to develop course offerings aligned with internship opportunities to more effectively afford future librarians the leadership competencies needed to meet the demands of the 21st century.