Journal Article (preprint): “Excellence in Research Library Leadership: The Key Virtues”

The article (preprint) shared below was posted today on the portal: Libraries and the Academy website.

Title

Excellence in Research Library Leadership: The Key Virtues

Author

Stephen Town
University of York, UK

Source

Preprint Version
portal: Libraries and the Academy
Vol. 25, No. 3 (2025)

Abstract

This paper seeks to define the qualities of a good research library leader through a qualitative study using the lens of Aristotelian virtue theory. Narrative evidence was collected from library directors in the UK and North America on their ethical identity, how they develop excellence in their libraries, and how they deal with complex problems. A set of virtues are identified and presented in a model of a flow of influence from the leader into the organization, with beneficial effects on character, culture and social impact. The paper provides a unique perspective on library leadership and organization in the academy.

Direct to Full Text Article
24 pages; PDF.

Direct to Complete Table of Contents (preprints)

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