Law libraries are experiencing rapid transformation — shifting technologies, evolving user expectations, and increasing demands on already stretched teams. In this environment, leadership rooted in empathy, clarity, and human connection isn’t just helpful; it’s essential. This session introduces a practical, research backed framework for fostering engagement and well being by centering everyday leadership—regardless of title—on the core human needs of significance and belonging. Drawing on insights from The Power of Mattering (Zach Mercurio), How to Know a Person (David Brooks), Leaders Eat Last(Simon Sinek), and Dare to Lead (Brené Brown), as well as and Gallup’s Q12 and CliftonStrengths, attendees will explore how to cultivate resilient, energized teams even in high pressure environments.

Participants will learn how to help people feel valued and known, build trust and psychological safety, set healthy boundaries, and align work with individual strengths to create sustainable joy and engagement. We’ll address common leadership challenges — including managing overburden, navigating perfectionism, supporting giver oriented teams, and combating the invisibility often experienced in service driven roles. Whether you’re mentoring peers, managing staff, or preparing for succession, this session will equip you with actionable tools to advocate for your team, redefine excellence, and lead with purpose and confidence.

Please note: The opening segment of this recording was re-recorded following a technical issue during the live program that prevented the first ten minutes from being captured.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This program is designed for law library professionals at all levels—managers, team leads, solo librarians, and aspiring leaders—who are navigating change, managing teams, or seeking to grow their leadership capacity. It will be especially relevant to those involved in recruitment, mentoring, policy influence, and organizational culture development.

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Participants will learn how to apply human-centered leadership principles to build trust, foster collaboration, and support resilient teams.
2. Participants will identify strategies for managing overburden, setting boundaries, and sustaining passion in times of change.
3. Participants will learn how to advocate effectively for themselves, their staff, and their libraries in environments where roles may be undervalued or underfunded.

SPEAKER:

• Karen Wallace, Drake University Law Library

COORDINATOR/SPEAKER:

• Deb Grimm, Troutman Pepper Locke

AALL BODY OF KNOWLEDGE DOMAINS: Professionalism + Leadership At Every Level, Management + Business Acumen

CANCELLATION AND OTHER POLICIES:

No refunds will be given for any purchased AALL conference recording. This applies to non-AALL members only as the recordings are free for AALL members.

The opinions shared during this program represent the views of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL). Recording, capturing, or using AI tools to duplicate, transcribe, or otherwise reproduce an AALL program in any form is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from AALL. This includes, but is not limited to audio, video, or any other content shared. By accessing an AALL recording, you agree to adhere to this policy.