LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: A LIBRARIAN’S GUIDE TO ISOLATION

摘要

The library and information services profession faces many challenges in developing leaders and leadership potential. Such challenges can be particularly confronting to those living and working in geographically remote regions. This paper uses examples from a geographically remote region in Australia to outline possible approaches to attracting, retaining and developing leaders. The author fills a senior leadership role at the University of Western Australia (UWA) Library in Perth, one of the most remote capital cities in the world. Attracting, retaining and developing leaders in the library profession in Perth can be challenging. In response to the challenge of geographic remoteness, the author describes an initiative adopted by the UWA Library to develop leadership. In a fast changing and demanding environment, it is essential that all managers be forward thinking, pro-active and ready to lead others. 'Taking the Lead' is a programme designed to provide continuing professional development opportunities for senior library staff in leadership positions. The author also outlines some of the strategies adopted by the library professional association in Western Australia. The author is convenor of one of the local groups which coordinates and communicates strategic professional issues and organises continuing professional development activities state-wide and sector-wide.