Call for Participants for CARL’s Academic Libraries Leadership Institute
January 15, 2026 – The Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL) is pleased to announce that it is accepting nominations for participants in the third offering of the Academic Libraries Leadership Institute (ALLI). These participants will attend a six day cohort style training program at Memorial University (May 31 – June 5, 2026, with an opening reception the evening of May 30) developed by the Gardiner Centre, the engagement arm of the Faculty of Business Administration, Memorial University, with input from CARL directors and Associate-level academic Librarians.
The face-to-face program has been tailored specifically for Associate-level academic librarians, to assist their growth so that they are well positioned to lead Canada’s university libraries into the future. This rich and engaging program will enhance critical leadership capabilities, teach valuable new skills and help build strong networks across the country for Associate-level library leaders – all in an enjoyable and unique setting on the eastern edge of Canada. The program will help participants to enhance their leadership strengths, develop and nurture their teams, effectively problem solve, and navigate their libraries through change. Classes will include lectures, application exercises (“wicked problems”), case study analysis, reflection, group break outs and collaborative discussion.
Program components include:
- Leadership development sessions which include: Managing Difficult Conversations, Fundamentals of Project Management, Understanding the Change Management Process, Engaging & Motivating Employees, Library budgeting, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion as it applies to a leadership role, Civil Discourse, and a Library Director panel discussion on career progression.
- Opening Welcome Event at a local St. John’s venue
- Breakout sessions (Problem Solving and the Academic Library)
- Downtown St. John’s dinner and Irish Music evening
- Ample opportunity to relax and enjoy scenic Signal Hill during session breaks
- Opportunities to engage/discuss issues with fellow attendees outside of daily programs
Registration is anticipated to be capped at 30 participants. Applications from all Canadian academic libraries are welcome. Priority will be given to applications from CARL member libraries, but a minimum of five spaces will be allocated to non-CARL academic libraries.
Applicants must submit a nomination package which should include the following:
- a current CV;
- a short letter of intent outlining why the participant wishes to attend, and;
- a letter of endorsement from the Library Dean/Director.
Nomination packages should be sent to the attention of Julie Morin (), on or before March 6, 2026.
Fees: $5,000 plus HST. Fees include all programming, breakfasts, lunches and breaks and a welcome cocktail reception. Participants will be responsible for travel and accommodation costs, some evening meals, and any non-structured social activities.
Note that the program will be delivered in English but that supporting materials will be available in both English and French in advance of the institute.
For more information:
Susan Cleyle
CARL Visiting Program Officer – Leadership Development Initiatives
Julie Hannaford
Deputy Chief Librarian, University of Toronto Libraries
