"Our first Leadership Challenge has involved and engaged so many staff members --- as participants, advisory panel members and general administrative supporters --- that we have achieved broad buy-in. This made the decision to put forward a second Leadership Challenge an easy one. The Challenge itself, however, which is to develop a new collection development strategy and structure, is going to put us to the test. We are grateful to have the support and wisdom of those involved in ELI behind us."
-- Mary K. Conwell, Sponsor, New York Public Library
formerSenior VP and Director, Branch Libraries

I find in every decision I make I’m looking back or thinking of a class session that will help me make the decision. Each session has been an enlightening session and I don’t think that any experience has been a waste of time. I’ve advanced or been promoted twice since I began ELI.
--Fellow, ELI Class One

"I came prepared to support the fellow   and project and went away with a lot of new learning I will apply every day."
--Donna Nicely, Sponsor, Nashville Public Library
Library Director

"Our Leadership Challenge enabled me to identify a staff member who, given internal constraints, would not have the opportunity for mentoring and grooming.  The project also created a mechanism for me to advance a project that I knew was important in a manner that would garner broader internal support vis-à-vis the ELI paradigm rather than soliciting support for another "administrative imperative."  The ELI paradigm also enables me to build relationships internally, heighten the project's legitimacy, and see the project in ways I would not have."
--Daniel Walters, Sponsor, Las-Vegas-Clark County Library District
Library Director

"We are participating because we share the concerns of others about how/where we groom the leaders of tomorrow -- it's an issue we face just as the other participants do. We see a lot of potential in Georgia, our Fellow, and we see potential for this program to be able to help Georgia develop so that we can benefit both her and library system."
--Linda Glenicki, Sponsor, King County Library System
Business Manager

"Our time is now. With declining funds, rising costs and several retirements we determined that all areas of the B&ECPL were vulnerable. Declining stats have indicated the need for review and revitalization in the area of our Leadership Challenge – the Library’s Mobile Service unit. The ELI will help strengthen and support future library leaders to determine if this service or how this service can exist in the 21st century."
-- Mary Jean Jakubowski, Sponsor, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library
Assistant Deputy Director, Human Resources

"The materials were great, but when the actual author was there to provide further explanations and/or exercises, well, that was even better."
-- Salvador Avila, Fellow, Las Vegas-Clark County Library
Community Outreach Librarian

My Coach really helps to keep me grounded and focused. When I become frustrated she lets me vent but she finds a way to help me move beyond me frustrations.
--Fellow, ELI Class One

I am so grateful for the opportunity to have coaching. I might like to continue at my own expense after the program ends.
--Fellow, ELI Class One

Fellows and Sponsors, Class II

Donna Nicely, Director, Nashville Public Library