This post was submitted by Mary Mackay and Dhaivyd Hilgendorf.

CHICAGO — Applications are being accepted through May 10 for Leading to the Future, a unique four-day immersion leadership development program for future library leaders offered by ALA in Chicago, Aug. 12-15, 2013. Led by ALA President Maureen Sullivan with ACRL Content Strategist Kathryn Deiss, this inaugural Leadership Institute will include a structured learning track as well as the opportunity for individual development and is limited to 35 participants.

Designed for mid-career librarians ready for increased leadership responsibility, the institute will help participants develop and practice their leadership skills in areas critical to the future of the libraries they lead. The curriculum will include, among other topics:

• Leading in turbulent times
• Interpersonal competence
• Power and influence
• The art of convening groups
• Creating a culture of inclusion, innovation and transformation

Participants in the program will have the opportunity to form a vibrant learning community and network—an essential and powerful element of effective leadership growth and development. Participants will also: return to their institution with greater self-awareness and self-confidence, equipped with better skills for leading, coaching, collaborating and engaging within their organizations and in their communities; return as better leaders, prepared to identify, develop and implement solutions that will benefit all stakeholders; and earn approximately 30 hours of continuing education contact hours.

The Leadership Institute selection committee seeks a diverse participant mix based on type of library (public, academic, school, special, etc.), organizational responsibility, geography, gender and race/ethnicity. The selective process will be based on demonstrated leadership potential, professional achievement and community or campus involvement.  Particular attention will be given to applicants’ personal statements as well as those of their references.  Additional criteria can be found on the ALA Leadership Institute page. Inclusion in the institute is by online application only, and applicants may nominate themselves or be nominated by their employer. Thanks to a subsidy from ALA in this inaugural year, the total cost for each participant (including food, lodging, and materials but excluding travel) will be $750.

Completed applications are due by May 10, 2013