Conference on Academic Library Management 2026

As remote and hybrid work structures become increasingly common in academic libraries, managers face new challenges in keeping employees engaged, motivated, and connected. This session presents original research exploring the relationship between transformational leadership behaviors and work engagement in remote and hybrid academic library environments.

Drawing on a quantitative study of over 100 library workers, attendees will learn which transformational leadership behaviors have the strongest impact on engagement in remote contexts. By focusing on the two dimensions of transformational leadership that emerged as significant predictors of work engagement, this session will offer practical, research-backed guidance for library leaders navigating reduced face-to-face interaction, digital fatigue, and a growing demand for flexible work arrangements.

The session will connect leadership theory with actionable management strategies, including values-based communication, modeling purpose-driven behaviors, and reframing innovation support to avoid burnout. Attendees will explore how to implement these findings at the micro and macro levels, in everyday interactions and throughout their organizations.

Whether you're currently managing a completely distributed team or trying to maintain a cohesive feel in a hybrid model, this session will help you identify what truly drives engagement and how to lead with intention across distance.