Landing in the United States of America and a program like the Mortenson Centre Library Leadership program is always a dream. I arrived at the University of Illinois on 30th May 2026 (Saturday). On arrival at the airport, I was welcomed by Dr Clara M. Chu, the Director of the Mortenson Centre, which was quite surprising and reflects true leadership beyond imagination.

The day was followed by a welcome dinner by Ms Lisa Janicke Hinchliffe. The experience was amazing, allowing me to explore American culture and share it with other associates from Bulgaria, Doha, Qatar, Ghana, Japan, Kenya, the Philippines, South Korea and Spain.

(Welcome Dinner at Ms. Lisa Janicke Hinchliffe House)

Program Overview and Introduction – 1st June 2026

The Associateship program began on 1st June 2026 with a welcome from Dr Clara M. Chu, the director of the Mortenson Centre International Library Associateship Program, followed by introductions from participants from Bulgaria, Doha, Qatar, Ghana, Japan, Kenya, and the Philippines. South Korea and Spain. The participants introduced themselves and explained why they were attending this program for their future endeavours.

Program Learning

DiSC (Dominance, Influence, Conscientiousness, Steadiness) Leadership Assessment Workshop — 2nd & 3rd June 2026

As part of the Mortenson Centre Associateship Program, I participated in a workshop on the DiSC Leadership Assessment, a behavioural framework designed to enhance self-awareness, interpersonal effectiveness, and leadership development, conducted by Ms Shirley N. Smith-Crew from Learning Alliance. The DiSC model categorises behavioural tendencies into four primary dimensions: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). Each dimension represents distinct communication styles, decision-making approaches, and workplace preferences that influence how individuals interact with colleagues and respond to organisational challenges. I was assessed in iD category of DiSC Assessment.

The workshop provided participants with an opportunity to identify their behavioural profiles and understand how these characteristics affect leadership practices. Through interactive discussions and assessment activities, participants explored the strengths and potential limitations associated with each DiSC style. The workshop emphasised that effective leadership is not dependent on a single personality type; rather, successful leaders adapt their communication and management approaches to meet the needs of diverse teams and situations.

For library and information professionals, the DiSC framework offers valuable insights into team dynamics, conflict resolution, stakeholder engagement, and organisational collaboration. By recognising behavioural differences and leveraging individual strengths, leaders can foster more inclusive, productive, and responsive work environments. Overall, the workshop highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence, adaptability, and self-reflection as essential components of effective leadership in contemporary organisations.

Learn more about DiSC available at https://www.everythingdisc.com/

Reflections

• The workshop enhanced my self-awareness by helping me understand my natural leadership and communication styles, and how they influence my interactions with colleagues and stakeholders.
• I learned that effective leadership requires flexibility and the ability to adapt communication strategies to accommodate different personality and behavioural preferences.
• The DiSC framework provided practical tools for improving teamwork, managing conflict constructively, and fostering a collaborative organisational culture within libraries and other professional settings.

Change Management Workshop – Ms Shirley N. Smith-Crew

Change management refers to a structured approach for preparing, supporting, and guiding individuals and organisations through transitions to achieve desired outcomes. In libraries, change management has become increasingly important due to rapid technological advancements, evolving user expectations, digital transformation, and changing educational and research environments. The William Bridge Transition Model of Change Management was discussed. The three-step model elucidates how effective change management enables libraries to successfully implement new technologies, redesign services, adopt innovative practices, and respond to emerging community needs while minimising resistance and disruption.

A key aspect of change management in libraries is engaging staff and stakeholders throughout the transition process through clear communication, training, and participation in decision-making. Library leaders play a critical role in creating a shared vision, fostering adaptability, and building a culture of continuous learning. By strategically managing change, libraries can enhance service delivery, improve operational efficiency, and remain relevant in a dynamic information landscape. Ultimately, successful change management empowers libraries to transform challenges into opportunities for growth, innovation, and sustained community impact.

Reflection on Change Management

• Change is most successful when staff are actively involved in planning and implementation rather than being passive recipients of new initiatives.
• Effective communication and continuous professional development are essential for reducing resistance and building confidence during organisational transitions.
• Libraries that embrace change strategically are better positioned to innovate, meet evolving user needs, and demonstrate their long-term value to their communities.

Assessment of Information Literacy Instructions – 3rd June 2026

The workshop on Assessment of Information Literacy (IL) Instruction, facilitated by Alex Deeke and Piper Martin, emphasised the critical role of assessment in demonstrating the impact and effectiveness of library instruction programs. The session highlighted assessment as a strategic tool for understanding student learning, improving instructional practices, aligning library initiatives with institutional goals, and advocating for resources. Participants explored key assessment concepts, including formative and summative assessment methods, backward design, and the development of meaningful learning outcomes.

Drawing on the experience of the Teaching, Learning, and Academic Support (TLAS) unit at the University of Illinois Library, the presenters demonstrated how assessment data can be systematically collected and analysed to evaluate student perceptions of information literacy skills, library engagement, and academic success. A central theme of the workshop was the importance of aligning assessment activities with broader institutional objectives and using evidence-based practices to communicate the value of library instruction.

The session further stressed that assessment findings should be strategically shared with various stakeholders, including library administrators, faculty members, and campus leaders, by framing the results around their specific interests and priorities. Overall, the workshop reinforced the importance of intentional, flexible, and outcome-oriented assessment practices in strengthening information literacy programs and demonstrating their contribution to student learning and institutional success.

Reflection

The workshop reinforced my understanding that assessment is not merely a process of collecting statistics but a strategic approach to demonstrating the value and impact of library instruction. The session encouraged me to think more intentionally about designing learning outcomes, selecting appropriate assessment methods, and using evidence to improve instructional practices. It also highlighted the importance of communicating assessment results to different stakeholders by addressing their specific interests and priorities. As a library professional, I gained valuable insights into how assessment can support advocacy, strengthen decision-making, and enhance the overall effectiveness of information literacy programs.

Visit to OCLC – Dublin, Ohio

The visit to OCLC in Dublin, Ohio, provided associates with an insightful opportunity to learn about one of the world’s leading library and information service organisations. Upon arrival, the associates received a warm welcome from the OCLC team and were introduced to the organisation’s mission, services, and global impact on library cooperation and information management.

Following the welcome session, the program featured an informative presentation by Nancy Lensenmayer, who shared insights into OCLC’s operations, strategic initiatives, and commitment to supporting libraries and knowledge-sharing communities worldwide. Her presentation highlighted the organisation’s role in advancing access to information through innovative technologies and collaborative partnerships.

The visit also included a guided campus tour, offering associates a firsthand look at OCLC’s facilities. Highlights of the tour included the state-of-the-art Data Centre, where critical information systems and digital resources are managed and maintained. The data centre tour was facilitated by Myke Welch. Associates also visited the OCLC Library and Service Operations areas, gaining insight into the processes that support library services on a global scale, as demonstrated by Kem Lang, OCLC’s librarian.

Overall, the visit was both educational and inspiring, providing associates with a deeper understanding of OCLC’s contributions to the information and library services sector.

Reflections from the Visit

1. The Power of Collaboration: OCLC’s global network demonstrates how libraries collaborating can significantly expand access to information and resources for communities worldwide. WorldCat is a classic example of shared catalogue data that libraries worldwide are using.
2. Technology as an Enabler: The Data Centre tour highlighted the critical role of technology infrastructure in ensuring reliable, secure, and efficient access to knowledge and library services.
3. Mission-Driven Innovation: The importance of aligning innovation with organisational mission, showing how OCLC continually adapts to meet the evolving needs of libraries and users.

Overall, the visit was both educational and inspiring, providing a deeper understanding of OCLC’s contributions to the information and library services sector.

Visit to Ohio State University Libraries, Ohio

While visiting the Ohio State University Libraries, I observed a highly integrated and user-centred library ecosystem that strategically combines data, technology, and service excellence to support research, teaching, and learning. The visit demonstrated how Ohio State Libraries has positioned itself as a modern academic library that is both data-informed and impact-driven.

A key learning was the effectiveness of the Libraries’ Search discovery platform, which provides a unified search experience across books, articles, databases, digital collections, research guides, and resources available through OhioLINK and interlibrary loan networks. The platform’s advanced search, filtering, citation management, and personalised features illustrate how user behaviour and discovery data are leveraged to enhance resource accessibility and improve research outcomes.

The Thompson Library exemplifies a service-oriented approach through diverse study environments, extensive technology infrastructure, research assistance, and integrated support services. The availability of collaborative learning spaces, technology help, and information services reflects a strategic commitment to creating an inclusive and productive learning environment.

Another significant learning was the Research Commons’ role as a hub for advanced research support. Through workshops, consultations, and specialised services in data management, GIS, digital scholarship, research impact assessment, and data visualisation, the Research Commons supports researchers throughout the entire research lifecycle. This demonstrates a shift from traditional library services toward partnership-based research support that aligns with institutional priorities and emerging scholarly practices.

Overall, the Ohio State University Libraries illustrate how strategic use of data, user-centred design, and collaborative service models can enhance library impact. The integration of discovery systems, research support services, and flexible learning spaces provides a strong example of how academic libraries can remain relevant, innovative, and responsive to evolving user needs while advancing institutional research and learning goals.

Visit to Westerville Public Library, Ohio

I had the opportunity to visit the Westerville Public Library in Westerville, Ohio. The visit provided valuable insights into how a modern public library serves as a community learning hub and a bridge to opportunity. The library’s mission emphasises open access to information, inspiration, and understanding, reflecting a strong commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement.

One of the most impressive aspects of the library is its wide range of innovative services. The Innovation Lab, Recording Studio, Memory Lab, Craft & Print Station, and Sewing Station demonstrate how libraries are evolving beyond traditional book lending to support creativity, digital literacy, and workforce development. The library also offers computer labs, technology training, homework assistance, study spaces, and extensive accessibility services, ensuring that resources are available to users of all ages and abilities.

The availability of free meeting rooms and study spaces further strengthens the library’s role as a community gathering place. A key learning outcome from this visit is the importance of user-centred services and inclusive programming. Westerville Public Library successfully combines traditional library functions with innovative technologies and community-focused services, making it a model for contemporary public librarianship and community engagement.