In the United States, public libraries are established and governed under state law. But to develop and defend ethical collections and programming, library leaders need to understand the broader Constitutional context in which they operate.

The information field is constantly changing. By monitoring trends, engaging with stakeholders, and building new skills, iSchool leaders can help ensure a future-ready workforce.

My experience as an “accidental” librarian taught me the value of non-library specific skills. Diversifying our workforce can benefit the industry as well as individual librarians.

When library professionals chase trends, they miss the opportunity to invest in more fundamental skills

I arrived at the library without credentials and left with a vital set of skills. If library leaders can meet the evolving needs of the library workforce, they will be preparing information professionals to thrive across knowledge-generating career fields.

Generative AI will transform library work. What can past upheavals teach us about how to find our way forward?

The traditional image of the librarian is transforming. To remain at the forefront of innovation and support, librarians must embrace diversity, foster continuous development, and stay attuned to sector-wide trends.