Strengthening Skills and Connections: Reflections on the LIBER Middle Management Training
The newest addition to the LIBER Leadership Programmes portfolio, the Middle Management Training, completed its first Cohort in April 2025. In this blog, you’ll hear from one of our participants about their experience with the course.
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to participate in the LIBER Middle Management Training. This professional development course was designed specifically for middle managers working in research libraries, and it proved to be both insightful and rewarding.
The training consisted of five well-structured sessions, each focusing on a key aspect of library management: the fundamentals of managing, team leadership, communication skills, change management, and conflict resolution. Interestingly, the topic of the final session was selected based on participants’ own interests, which added a layer of personalisation and relevance to the programme.
Each session came with pre- and post-session assignments — a combination of reading and written reflections — which helped reinforce what we learned and prepared us for meaningful engagement during the live sessions. The format encouraged active participation and real-life application of the concepts discussed.
One of the most valuable aspects of the training was the emphasis on group work. Every participant was encouraged to share their own experiences, reflect on challenges, and comment on one another’s contributions. This created a truly collaborative learning environment. With around twenty participants from different corners of Europe, the diversity of perspectives was both enriching and eye-opening. It was especially helpful to connect with colleagues who face similar challenges in their roles — the shared experience fostered a strong sense of professional community.
The trainers were exceptionally well-prepared, responsive, and open to feedback. They not only delivered the content effectively but also adapted the course based on our input, making it even more relevant and engaging. Their approachability and expertise significantly contributed to the programme’s success.
Overall, I found the LIBER Middle Management Training to be a highly valuable experience. It offered practical tools, fresh perspectives, and the opportunity to network with peers from across Europe. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any library professional looking to grow their leadership skills and connect with like-minded colleagues. 10/10 would recommend!
Dorja Mučnjak
National and University Library in Zagreb
Participant LIBER Middle Management Training Cohort 1
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The LIBER Middle Management Training Programme, aimed at mid-management leaders in LIBER libraries, supports managers who are starting out or looking to further develop their leadership skills in what is often described as “the toughest job in the library.” The first cohort, held from January to April 2025, welcomed 21 middle managers from libraries across Europe. The course is delivered by the LIBER Leadership Programmes Working Group.