CHICAGO – The Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) announces the publication of “Toxic Dynamics: Disrupting, Dismantling, and Transforming Academic Library Culture,” edited by Russell Michalak, Trevor A. Dawes, and Jon E. Cawthorne. The book provides evidence-based solutions to mitigate the negative effects of toxicity, change management strategies, and ways to confront and challenge values that harm library workers and their well-being.
Academic libraries are full of inspiring collections, resources, and services, but libraries are special because of the people who work in them. And what people believe about and face in their culture impacts ideas, plans, and outcomes. Academic library workers endure many contemporary challenges that contribute to toxic work cultures—the rapid change of higher education, diminishing resources, lack of diversity, power hierarchies—and addressing these problems requires innovative solutions, ongoing professional development, and effective leadership.
“Toxic Dynamics: Disrupting, Dismantling, and Transforming Academic Library Culture” provides practical solutions for confronting these complex issues and innovative ways to promote a healthy and sustainable work culture. It addresses critical and timely challenges such as faculty versus staff or us versus them mentality, unionization, gendered labor, organizational change, self-care, tenure, and promotion.
By understanding the root causes of toxic cultures, recognizing their impact, and implementing solutions, leaders can create a more supportive and positive work environment and improve morale, retention, and productivity. “Toxic Dynamics” is an important resource for anyone interested in improving workplace culture and addressing issues related to toxicity and inequity, and for library leaders at all levels.
“Toxic Dynamics: Disrupting, Dismantling, and Transforming Academic Library Culture” is available for purchase in print and as an ebook through the ALA Online Store; in print through Amazon.com; and by telephone order at (866) 746-7252 in the U.S. or (770) 442-8633 for international customers.
The Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) is the higher education association for academic libraries and library workers. Representing nearly 8,500 individuals and libraries, ACRL (a division of the American Library Association) develops programs, products, and services to help those working in academic and research libraries learn, innovate, and lead within the academic community. Founded in 1940, ACRL is committed to advancing learning, transforming scholarship, and creating diverse and inclusive communities. Find ACRL on the web, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, and YouTube.
