[Editor's note: Youth librarians, this training is for YOU! Often youth staffers "lead from the middle" - leveraging partnerships within and without the library, building community networks, and developing and managing projects from annual SLP's to community-wide efforts. Developing leadership skills is not the exclusive territory of directors, management and administrative positions. It is for all front-line staffers. Learn valuable tools to enhance your leadership!] Read on:
Applications due March 6
The Wisconsin Library Association (WLA) aims to develop goal-oriented and agile library leaders who are creative problem solvers able to navigate uncertainty, rapidly changing technology, and shrinking resources. The 2023 Leadership Development Institute is a highly immersive training program designed specifically for our profession. Based on several overarching leadership competencies, participants will interact in cohort groups throughout the six-month program. Each module includes the introduction of problem-solving skills and real-life applications. Instructors represent a wide range of disciplines both within the library community as well as outside of our profession.
Based on feedback from past Institute participants and our current membership and including recommendations from UW-Madison Extension instructors, the 2023 LDI program curriculum has been refreshed with updated content and a new format designed to make the program more inclusive. We strive to have a mix of emerging and experienced leaders representing a variety of roles and library types participate in the program.
Who is encouraged to apply?
People from various departments in library organizations, including youth services, outreach, adult services, marketing, technical services, etc.
People across the organizational hierarchy: frontline staff, administration, directors, emerging and incumbent leaders, etc.
People from all backgrounds and identities, including those who identify as BIPOC, neurodivergent, disabled, or LGBTQ+.
LDI 2023 will kick off as a one-day in-person pre-conference workshop at WAPL on April 26 and wrap up in person at the WLA Fall Conference on October 24. Participants will also attend 10 virtual modules May through September.
Tuition
The LDI tuition is $475 for WLA members and $550 for non-WLA members. Tuition includes:
Thirteen distinct educational programs developed and delivered by highly skilled experts from both in and outside the library sector. As a bonus, participants will also have access to a virtual advocacy series offered through the UW-Madison iSchool Continuing Education Department at a reduced rate.
Leadership assessments and related curriculum materials.
Program Partners and Sponsors
This program was developed in partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. It was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Download the program flyer
Apply July 7–28, 2025
Tuition: $545 (WLA members), $620 (non-members)
