Context:
This research explores impact, value and return on investment (ROI) of serving in high-level leadership roles within health sciences library (HSL) professional associations as perceived by the librarian leaders and the administrators to whom they report. The objective of the first phase of the study discussed here is to gather and share insights from a global range of library leaders on the value of such service to them as individuals and their institutions.
Methods:
The librarian survey targeted two audiences. First, individuals who served in leadership roles within MLA, CHLA/ABSC, EAHIL, AHLIA, and HLA over the past ten years. Second, current library directors in the Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries Directory of U.S. and Canadian institutions. The 25-question survey asked about motivations and perceived benefits at key points in the leadership trajectory: when participants were invited to serve, after agreeing to run for office, and during their term. The online survey included closed and open-ended questions to capture a range of experiences.
Two independent analysts coded the open-ended responses, compared codes to establish a codebook, and then re-coded the data. We examined the codes to come to consensus on the themes and identify exemplar quotes.
Discussion:
From the literature and our own experiences, we anticipated themes related to professional growth, institutional visibility, and strategic alignment. Preliminary findings will be shared to foster dialogue on the value of leadership contributions within the HSL profession and to inform those considering future service.