New AASL publication takes the mystery out of leadership

CHICAGO — “Empowering Leadership: Developing Behaviors for Success,” a new publication from the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), takes the mystery out of leadership by unveiling the hidden qualities that create confident, successful leaders. Written by Ann M. Martin, the book provides essential questions school librarians can use to assess their leadership skills and offers suggestions to put into practice.

In “Empowering Leadership,” Martin reveals the potential leadership opportunities hidden in the essential tasks school librarians complete every day. She illustrates how leadership applies to school librarians and how developing leadership skills can increase stakeholder support in their school library programs. Each chapter contains essential questions, reflective strategies and practical tips school librarians can use to improve the leader within and develop their own unique leadership style.

"In a rapidly changing educational landscape, being a leader in our learning communities is not an option, but a requirement of all school librarians," said Susan Ballard, AASL president. "And in this regard, we could not have a better guide to conduct us on the journey than Ann Martin. We are in the best of hands in 'Empowering Leadership: Developing Behaviors for Success' as she engages and encourages us to identify and leverage opportunities to cultivate potential and prospects."

Ann M. Martin is currently the educational specialist for library information services for Henrico County Public Schools in Richmond, Va. Martin is a past president of both AASL and the Virginia Educational Media Association. She is a recipient of the 2011 AASL National School Library Program of the Year Award for the district and the 2002 AASL National School Library Program of the Year Award for an individual school.

The publication is available in both print and e-book formats, as well as a print/e-book bundle, and can be purchased through the ALA online store. Copies of “Empowering Leadership” will also be available for purchase in the bookstore at the 2013 American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference in Chicago. AASL offers a rich variety of publications on topics essential to school librarians everywhere. For a complete listing of publications available from AASL, visit the AASL books and products page.

The American Association of School Librarians, www.aasl.org, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), promotes the improvement and extension of library services in elementary and secondary schools as a means of strengthening the total education program. Its mission is to advocate excellence, facilitate change and develop leaders in the school library field.