ABSTRACT
The task of finding and developing potential leaders from within the library profession requires an understanding of what a leader is, as well as the challenges that librarianship will face as it enters the twenty-first century. This article explores five fundamental leadership competencies: vision, communication, trust, risk-taking and empowerment and examines how individuals learn from personal and organizational experiences. It suggests ways of incorporating programs and activities into the workplace that support the development of leadership skills. If everyone within the library community assumes responsibility for recognizing untapped talent and providing developmental opportunities for it to mature, it will ensure that the library field has a pool of competent, confident, committed leaders for the future.
