Daring librarianship: What library leaders can learn from Brene Brown

Abstract

Brene Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston who studies courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. Her books Daring Greatly and Dare to Lead explore how vulnerability can help us lead fulfilled lives and become courageous leaders. Brown’s writing has something for everyone, including library leaders. This article addresses Brown’s definitions of vulnerability and leadership and then briefly explores the three key benefits of vulnerability for library leaders: courage, clarity, and connection.