Change Management for Libraries (Spring 2026)

AFTER YOU ATTEND THIS COURSE, YOU'LL BE ABLE TO:

• Understand the change management cycle.
  
  
• Design systems to support and prepare staff for upcoming changes.
  
  
• Communicate about changes clearly with staff and external stakeholders.
  
  
• Garner collaboration and buy-in from team members.
  
  
• Scope and plan for change.
  
  
• Analyze risks involved with change.
  
  
• Track key performance indicators over time.

COURSE MODULES

Module 1: Planning and Initiating Change Management

How can you successfully plan for change? What types of change exist, and what unique preparations should you take for each? This module introduces the foundations of change management and explores the purpose and goals of planning for change. Learn how to plan effectively in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) environment and anticipate human responses to change. Leave with practical strategies to set your organization and team up for success.

Module 2: Structures and Cultures for Change

What change management methods and models can you use to support your organization’s evolution? This module covers both classic and modern change management models, including how to select the right approach for your context. Explore ways to build a work culture that embraces change and supports staff throughout transitions. You’ll leave with a toolkit of practical methods to foster adaptability and resilience across your organization.

Module 3: Engaging Stakeholders in Change

Successful change requires collaboration and clear communication. This module focuses on stakeholder engagement and communication strategies. Learn how to identify and prioritize stakeholders, set measurable outcomes, and communicate effectively with leaders, staff, and community members. By applying these approaches, you’ll be able to build trust, gain buy-in, and maintain alignment throughout the change process.

Module 4: Overcoming Challenges to Change

What obstacles can arise during change, and how can you overcome them? In this module, you’ll explore common challenges such as anxiety, resistance, and scarcity mindsets. Learn about the “charisma trap” and “rigidity trap,” and how to build organizational trust and psychological safety. You’ll also have opportunities to apply what you’ve learned to real-world challenges, leaving with actionable ideas to address obstacles and ensure sustained success.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE:

This course is designed for current and aspiring library leaders who want to strengthen their ability to manage organizational change, improve team communication, and guide staff successfully through transitions.

THIS WILL BE A SELF-PACED, ASYNCHRONOUS COURSE.

EXPECTED TIME COMMITMENT:

This course includes 4 modules, each designed to take approximately 4 hours to complete. You can move through the content at your own pace and on your own schedule. You'll earn 16 hours of PD credit and a Library Journal certificate of completion.

ON-DEMAND ACCESS:

You'll have access to all course materials for six months.

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION:

Complete the course and earn 16 professional development credit hours. We provide a certificate that is emailed to you upon completion.

ACCESSIBILITY:

All video sessions feature auto-captioning. Please email course-support@libraryjournal.com if you require any special accommodations, and we will make every effort to support your needs.

SUPPORT:

For support with online courses, please contact course-support@libraryjournal.com.

COURSE ADVISOR INSTRUCTOR

Audrey Barbakoff, EdD, MLIS , CEO, Co/lab Capacity LLC

Dr. Barbakoff is a passionate public library leader, consultant, speaker, and author. She helps libraries and other social good organizations facilitate engaged learning that becomes the foundation for shared creativity and resilience. Barbakoff applies human-centered design and community-led practices to help libraries develop locally relevant, sustainable innovations that lead to more equitable, diverse, and inclusive services. She specializes in topics such as strategic planning, change management, and community engagement.

DISCOUNTED RATES ARE AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY.

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GROUP RATES

We offer discounts for groups of 3 or more.

For larger groups of 15 or more, we offer the option to apply group rates across multiple courses to receive significant discounts. For more information, select “Bulk Course Credits Packages” in the form below.

Request Discounted Group Pricing

For support with group purchases, please contact groupsales@libraryjournal.com.