Days 3 and 4 offered a rich blend of learning experiences, starting with the conclusion of the DiSC Workshop and a deep dive into Change Management. This was followed by a session on Strategic Foresight, introducing tools for planning future-ready library services. Associates also engaged with the SSHEL Subject Librarians Panel, focusing on user-centered services and engagement. The day wrapped up with a guided tour of the UIUC Library, led by a Visual Resources and Outreach Specialist, showcasing the integration of visual media in library outreach.Day 3 and 4: Conclusion of DiSC Workshop and Introduction to Change Management

Understanding team dynamics is key to creating productive and positive work environments. The DiSC model such as Dominance (D), Influence (i), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C) is a practical framework that helps us recognize how people prefer to communicate, make decisions, and engage at work. A key takeaway from our DiSC session was recognizing that words make up only a small part of communication. The way we say things, our tone and body language often speak louder than the words themselves.

People with different DiSC styles respond to communication in their own unique ways. Here’s how we can adjust our styles to connect more effectively:

• D (Dominance) communicates best when a confident, firm tone is used, supported by strong, focused body language and clear, concise language free of unnecessary detail.
• i (Influence) responds well to expressive tones and animated gestures; energetic and engaging communication, paired with lively body language, leaves a strong impression.
• S (Steadiness) thrives in environments where a warm, calm tone is maintained, with softened body language, open gestures, and a steady pace that helps build trust and a sense of safety.
• C (Conscientiousness) prefers communication that is measured and precise, with minimal emotional expression, and a strong emphasis on data, clarity, and professional posture.

What I have learned from this is that even the most well-crafted message can be misinterpreted if the tone or body language sends a different signal. It is important to align words, tone, and body language, especially when communicating with different DiSC styles.

Change Management Workshop Highlights

This workshop offered valuable insights into how individuals and teams can effectively navigate workplace transformation. A key focus was the distinction between change (external events like restructuring or new leadership) and transition (the internal emotional journey of adapting to those changes).

Common workplace stressors and emotional responses, such as anxiety and resistance, were identified, with an understanding that these reactions are normal parts of the change process. The concept of the “neutral zone”, the in-between stage of change was introduced, along with reflective strategies to support progress.

To manage personal impact, the 5 Cs Framework was shared which includes: Commitment, Control, Challenge, Connections, and Counterbalance practical principles to foster resilience and well-being. The workshop concluded with tools and questions to help participants lead themselves and others through change with empathy, clarity, and confidence.

My key takeaway from the Change Management workshop is that while change is inevitable, the way we navigate and transition through it ultimately determines our success. By recognizing the emotional impact of change, embracing the “neutral zone” as a space for growth, and applying the 5 Cs Framework, we can better support ourselves and others through uncertainty with resilience and clarity. The tools and reflective strategies shared offer practical ways to lead with empathy and confidence during times of transformation.

Strategic Foresight

This interactive session introduced associates to futures thinking, a strategic approach for anticipating and shaping the future of scholarly communication. Through scenario analysis, including Plan S and shifts in institutional publishing, and tools like the futures wheel and black swan analysis, participants explored how to prepare for multiple possible futures.

The session emphasized evidence-based reflection, collaboration, and adaptability. While trends can influence change, they do not dictate it. Associates were encouraged to reflect critically on global trends, in their local context and use them to guide, not define, institutional strategies.

Insights from the Pew Research Center survey highlighted the rising trust in educators and researchers over institutional leaders, underscoring the value of expertise in shaping teaching, learning, and research futures.

The key takeaway: futures thinking is not about predicting a single outcome, but about exploring possibilities, identifying preferred directions, and developing adaptive, informed strategies to thrive in a changing academic landscape.

Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library (SSHEL) Subject Librarians Panel

As part of their professional development journey, associates had the opportunity to attend and engage with a dynamic panel hosted by the Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library (SSHEL) at the University of Illinois. The session, led by SSHEL subject librarians, focused on user-centered library services and strategies for user engagement, offering valuable insights into the evolving role of academic librarianship.

The panel showcased the library’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its academic community through a robust array of personalized services. These include frontline support offered via the Information Services Desk and the Ask a Librarian service, both of which provide timely research assistance and facilitate access to library resources.

Associates learned how SSHEL librarians actively support teaching, learning, and research through instructional sessions and individual research consultations. These services are designed to build users’ information literacy skills and foster independent, confident scholarship.

The discussion also highlighted the librarians’ critical role in collection development, particularly in curating subject-specific resources aligned with academic programs in social sciences, health, and education. Emphasis was placed on the integration of technology tools, electronic resources, and special collections, all of which enhance the user experience and support interdisciplinary research. The panel emphasized the value of collaborative partnerships with faculty and students. By engaging directly with academic departments and staying attuned to shifting research priorities, SSHEL librarians ensure that their services remain responsive, relevant, and future-focused.

The session offered associates a meaningful perspective on the library’s role as an academic partner and underscored the importance of user engagement, adaptability, and innovation in shaping impactful library services.

UIUC Library Tour by a visual resources and outreach specialist

Day 3 ended with an engaging and informative tour led by a Visual Resources and Outreach Specialist. This session provided associates with a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of visual media, digital collections, and user engagement within academic library services.