Dark Times For Libraries: Keeping the Lights On Together

This is my twentieth year working in a library. I've worked in public and school libraries, and in that time, I’ve seen libraries evolve, adapt, and rise to meet the needs of their communities over and over again. I’ve seen how libraries transform lives, provide safety nets, and bring people together in ways that are quite profound.

🕯️I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a darker time for libraries than right now🕯️

Between budget cuts, the changes with IMLS, and the growing uncertainty about our future, many of us are feeling the weight of it all. It’s a lot to carry and if you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed about it, you’re not alone.

Libraries are often seen as the hub of the community. Did you know that libraries can:

• Offer a safe place for unhoused individuals to rest, recharge, and feel human

• Provide free internet, printing, and access to technology many can’t afford at home

• Help with job applications, resumes, and unemployment benefits

• Guide people through complicated forms, housing applications, and social services

• Answer reference questions, from simple curiosities to urgent health or legal concerns

• Share accurate, reliable information in an age of misinformation

• Offer programs that support early literacy, workforce development, mental health, and more

• Welcome families, teens, seniors, and everyone in between—no questions asked

• Connect people to the world of books, imagination, learning, and lifelong curiosity

The Lake Oswego Library in Oregon helped people get their books by creating their "Librarian is IN" service in the parking lot during the pandemic. Photo courtesy of City of Lake Oswego. 

During the pandemic, many of us were frontline workers. We served our communities at our front doors, sometimes in parking lots like the Lake Oswego Library, and sometimes virtually from our living rooms. Some of us volunteered as disaster workers, answered phones in call centers, distributed supplies, and provided free printing and hotspots for vulnerable populations to help them stay connected. We chatted on the phone with people who just needed a human voice. One woman called simply to hear what was in the collection because she was lonely and missed the sound of someone speaking to her.

My point is that we've never stopped helping and we made it through a very challenging time. We adapted, we pivoted, and we found new ways to serve the public. Because that's what library workers do.

What gives me hope are the people who love and care about libraries. The librarians, the library staff, the volunteers, the patrons, the advocates, the neighbors, our partners, and more. 

I know one thing. Library workers are resilient. When things get hard, we show up and we just keep going. We will figure this out one step at a time.

 

Show Your Support

Here are a few simple ways you can help:

• Write a note to your local representatives about why libraries matter

• Post a memory or message on social media using #LibrariesTransform

• Submit a letter to the editor of your local paper

• Tell a friend, neighbor, or coworker how the library has impacted your life

How Are You Feeling? Don’t Forget to Practice Self-Care

If all of this feels really heavy, just remember that you’re not alone and you don’t have to carry it alone. When we’re under a lot of stress, taking care of ourselves is very important.

Make sure to find time for rest. Try to reach out for support. Do something kind for yourself today.

If you’re looking for guidance, inspiration, or gentle ways to support your own wellbeing, my self-paced course Self-Care for Library Workers will be launching through the American Library Association's eLearning platform. Stay tuned, it should be coming out very soon!

Want to Talk or Share A Story?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed because of the changes that libraries are facing I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to leave a comment or reach out to me directly at teachingmydream@gmail.com.

We can get through this together, 

the Compassionate Librarian 💛

Toxic Leadership in Libraries: Would You Work for the Wicked Witch of the West?

Would You Work for the Wicked Witch of the West?

I have always loved The Wizard of Oz. Growing up, I watched the movie every year, and the book remains one of my all-time favorites. One of my favorite characters that fascinated me the most was the Wicked Witch of the West. In many ways I admired her because she was so determined, very powerful, and unapologetically off the hook. But as I got older and entered the professional world, I encountered a different kind of Wicked Witch which I would call the Toxic Leader. 

My first experience with a toxic leader happened many, many years ago, but I still remember the moment vividly. She snapped at me over something minor and in that moment I had to fight back the tears. I headed to the break room as quickly as I could and when I was alone I let the tears fall. She was terrifying, and the most ironic part? I was actually one of her favorites!

What Does Toxic Leadership Look Like?

Much like in the Wizard of Oz, a toxic leader creates an environment filled with fear, manipulation, and control. Here are some telltale signs:

• Micromanagement & Power Hoarding – Just as the Wicked Witch coveted the ruby slippers, toxic leaders cling to power, unwilling to delegate or trust their staff. Every decision must go through them, no matter how small.

• Emotional Manipulation – The Wicked Witch wanted Dorothy’s slippers and she used scare tactics and intimidation to try to get them. Toxic library leaders may use guilt, passive-aggressiveness, or even outright hostility to control their staff.

• Favoritism & Nepotism – In the land of Oz, there was always preferential treatment going on, and in toxic workplaces it is prevalent, certain staff members receive special privileges while others are ignored or set up for failure.

• Lack of Support & Unrealistic Expectations – Much like when the Wicked Witch sent her minions after Dorothy without a solid plan, toxic leaders demand results without offering guidance, resources, or realistic expectations.

• Punishing Dissent & Stifling Innovation – The Wicked Witch didn’t take well to opposition, and neither do toxic leaders. Employees who challenge bad policies, offer new ideas, or advocate for improvements may find themselves sidelined or retaliated against.

Here are a few examples of how the Wicked Witch is toxic:

🔥 She rules through fear instead of respect
🔥 She micromanages (obsessing over the ruby slippers instead of leading effectively)
🔥 She uses others to do her dirty work 
🔥 She lashes out at others instead of self-reflecting
🔥 She can’t handle opposition—When anyone stands up to her she completely unravels

The Impact of Toxic Leadership

Working under toxic leadership can be emotionally and physically draining. Employees in these environments often experience:

• Burnout and high stress levels

• Decreased motivation and engagement

• Fear of speaking up or advocating for change

• High turnover rates, creating an unstable work environment

How to Survive or Escape

If you find yourself working under the library world’s version of the Wizard of Oz, here are some strategies to help you navigate the storm:

1. Document Everything – Keep a record of incidents, unfair treatment, and unrealistic expectations. If things escalate, documentation can be crucial.

2. Find Your Glinda (aka a Support System) – Seek out supportive colleagues, mentors, or professional networks to validate your experiences and provide guidance. 

3. Establish Boundaries – Toxic leaders thrive on overextending employees. Learn to say no and protect your mental health.

4. Seek Professional Development Opportunities – If advancement within your current library isn’t possible, consider gaining skills that will help you transition to a healthier work environment.

5. Know When to Leave – Sometimes, no amount of ruby slippers will make a toxic environment better. If leadership is unwilling to change, seeking employment elsewhere may be the best option for your well-being.

Building a Better Library Culture

Not all library leaders are diabolical villains. Many are compassionate, supportive, and dedicated to fostering a positive workplace. The key to combating toxic leadership is advocating for healthy work environments, recognizing red flags early, and promoting professional development and leadership training that emphasizes emotional intelligence, collaboration, and staff well-being.

If you’ve ever worked under a toxic manager, know that you’re not alone. There’s no place like a healthy library workplace, and sometimes, the best thing you can do is follow your own yellow brick road to a better environment.

Have you experienced toxic leadership in libraries? Share your thoughts in the comments or let’s continue the conversation on how we can make libraries a healthier place for all.

Wishing you well,

the Compassionate Librarian