INFOhio Community

The State Library of Ohio and OhioNet are again collaborating to bring you Library Leadership Ohio (LLO) in 2024. Library Leadership Ohio program spans nearly 30 years and includes hundreds of alumni in a variety of positions in libraries across Ohio and across the country. LLO supports great libraries by developing great leaders. Offering exceptional programs focused on personal development and transferable leadership skills, LLO fosters connections and collaboration within Ohio’s diverse library community. 

Recognizing the ongoing challenges (book challenges, staff shortages, low morale, etc.) faced by all Ohio libraries in the coming year and beyond, the LLO planning committee believes that developing the next generation of library leaders is vital to ensure the continued depth, growth, and quality of library services for all.  

“Library Leadership Ohio has a great reputation for challenging and enriching library leaders at every level, and the 2024 program will be no different,” expressed Evan T. Struble, Associate State Librarian, State Library of Ohio. “We are grateful for the support and partnership of our colleagues at OhioNet, and we look forward to meeting this year’s LLO cohort.”  

Library Leadership Ohio will be held July 23-25 at Cherry Valley Hotel in Newark, Ohio. Applications for the program will open Wednesday, February 20. The event will be facilitated by OhioNet and The State Library of Ohio.  A virtual information session about Library Leadership Ohio will be held on February 22. To register and learn more visit:  https://www.ohionet.org/event/library-leadership-ohio-2024-info-session. 

Library Leadership Ohio 2024 will feature acclaimed guest speakers who will address important topics in librarianship. Past speakers for LLO have included Steven Bell (Temple University), Fobazi Ettarh (Rutgers University), Felton Thomas (Executive Director, Cleveland Public Library), Tracie Hall (Executive Director, American Library Association), Patrick Sweeney (EveryLibrary), and Paul Hilt (Management Coach & Consultant). 

"Library Leadership Ohio isn't just about creating the next generation of leadership in Ohio libraries; it's about learning how to lead heart-centered change,” noted Andrew Whitis, Interim Executive Director for OhioNet. “Participants emerge with a clearer understanding of their leadership styles, refined skills to mentor and grow the people they manage, and a collaborative network empowering them to drive positive transformations in Ohio's diverse library communities." 

LLO welcomes any library employee working in public, school, special, and academic libraries; all are eligible to apply. The LLO selection committee is seeking individuals with a commitment to the profession, including the ability to foster diversity and inclusivity; the potential to lead and innovate in their current position and beyond; and a passion for libraries and willingness to explore the impact they can have in their communities.  

If you have any questions, please contact Erin Kelsey, Library Consultant at the State Library of Ohio, at ekelsey@library.ohio.gov or 614-644-6889.