Learning Services Librarian Diana Bang
Learning Services Librarian Diana Bang was recently selected as one of two Canadians to attend the Minnesota Institute Leadership Training Program, held this year from July 21 to 27. The institute — which is geared towards librarians from underrepresented groups in the early stages of their careers — is a program that the University of Minnesota libraries have been offering every two years since 1998.
“I felt that this was a timely opportunity for me to develop fundamental expertise in aspects of leadership, organizational behavior and management, “ says Bang.
The institute provides participants with intensive managerial and leadership training, as well as a focus on practical applications such as grant development and professional writing. The institute also gives participants an opportunity to build a network of peers for support and collaboration.
Upon returning home, participants are encouraged to establish a mentorship relationship with a more senior librarian in order to continue the skills and leadership practices learned while at the institute.
“Great leaders at the UBC Library have a combination of intrinsic abilities and developed specialized skills to effectively lead, manage and work well with others,” Bang says, remarking on why effective leadership is key to an organization’s success. She adds that leaders are highly motivated and dedicated individuals who have exceptional competencies to make critical decisions and exemplify the core values of the organization. Great leaders are also creative visionaries with the ability to see the bigger picture and think outside the box.
