Core Webinar: Rebooting Complex, Intractable Library Services

CHICAGO—Join Core for the webinar "Rebooting Complex, Intractable Library Services" on November 19, 2025, at 1 p.m. CT. Organizations are often plagued by problems that seem unsolvable: stalled initiatives, multi-unit services that never quite align, or programs that limp along despite repeated fixes. These challenges are rarely in the hands of senior leadership; more often, they land on the desks of middle managers or individual contributors who must make progress without full control of the problem’s scope. Success in these situations depends on collaboration, negotiation, and finding ways to work across boundaries.

Using a case study of the revamp of a failing cross-departmental program at a real-life library, this session will demonstrate a framework for approaching intractable problems while equipping attendees with the tools necessary to face similar challenges in their own institutions. Participants will conduct an inventory of necessary units—both high-level and functional expertise—needed to address persistent issues effectively. Attendees will be guided in reconstructing analyses of previously insurmountable problems, helping to distinguish between meaningful, achievable outcomes and those requiring compromise. This critical reframing fosters a more realistic and optimistic approach to problem-solving while grounding the process in real, actionable steps. Additionally, we will create a framework for multi-unit solutions that emphasize rewarding interpersonal strengths rather than focusing on punishing weaknesses. By creating an environment that fosters a culture of collaboration and support, libraries can leverage diverse skill sets to achieve larger goals..

Rebooting Complex, Intractable Library Services
Live Webinar: Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 1 - 2 p.m. CT

Presenters:

John Mack Freeman, Assistant Dean for Interdisciplinary Initiatives (GT Library) and Director of Clough Undergraduate Learning Commons, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA

Liz Holdsworth, Head of Academic Engagement, Georgia Tech Library, Atlanta, GA
 

Registration Fees:

Core Member: $57.85
ALA Member: $80.10
Nonmember: $89.00
Student: $44.50

How Do I Purchase Group Registration?

You can register a group by specifying the number of people who will be accessing the webinar during checkout. We offer webinars discounts based on the number of registrations you specify at checkout. If you are a Core member, you can purchase seats for yourself and your colleagues at the Core discount rate; ALA's new e-Learning store allows you to extend Core member savings to colleagues at your institution.

Can't attend the live event? No problem! All registrants will receive a link to the recorded session for later viewing at their convenience.

Register online or by phone at 1-800-545-2433 (press 1 to reach our customer service representatives).

For questions or comments related to Core webinars, please contact Core staff at corece@ala.org.

About Core

Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, Futures is the national association that advances the profession of librarians and information providers in central roles of leadership and management, collections and technical services, and technology. Our mission is to cultivate and amplify the collective expertise of library workers in core functions through community building, advocacy, and learning. Core is a division of the American Library Association. Follow us on our Blog, Instagram and LinkedIn.