Thanks to the APLL program, I was able to successfully transition to the next level of library leadership (CEO). The program gave me the confidence to take the next step, opened doors to new opportunities, and solidified my leadership skills so that I could succeed once in my new role. My learnings were not limited to the course work, but were further enhanced by the extensive knowledge and varied experiences of my classmates.
~ Colleen Lipp, CEO, Caledon Public Library
The APLL Institute is a two year certificate program designed to expand and advance the leadership capacity of public library CEOs and managers. A new cohort moves through the program every two years, taking a number of online courses and attending highly interactive classroom sessions together. The development of a rich learning environment with a network of peers is an important aspect of the program. The APLL Institute promotes a practice-based approach to public library leadership.
Each two year cycle of APLL is different and adapted to the participants and the current climate in libraries. However, the program structure remains constant, consisting of an introductory course, followed by courses in two streams: Organizational Leadership; and Leading in the Municipal Environment. At the end of the program, sucessful participants will have earned a Certificate in Public Library Leadership awarded by SOLS and presented at the OLA conference.
Courses are developed and presented by experts within the public library community, or the municipal or not-for-profit sectors. Experts involved in the APLL curriculum include:
- Rebecca Jones, renowned library consultant and Service Delivery Director for Brampton Library
- Nigel Bellchamber and Fred Dean, with extensive experience training municipal staff and elected officials
- Brian Lambie, media expert who serves as the media contact for the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
- Robert Hubsher and Karen Watson, an expert team with years of experience planning library facilities.
To receive more information on the next cycle, contact Anne Marie Madziak at 1-800-387-5765 ext. 5117 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..