Always a Novice: Feminist Learning and Leadership Practice

Abstract

Learning about the theory and practice of intersectional feminism played an important role in my development as a librarian and a library director, and the ongoing study of feminism continues to be integral to my leadership work. Th e definition of feminism that I prefer is the concise and powerful statement by bell hooks: “feminism seeks to end sexism, sexist exploitation, and oppression.” While I did not attend a library and information science graduate program with the express intention of becoming a library director, that is where I find myself. And while I have always considered myself a feminist, I had never studied feminism until recently and I am still new to feminist theory and practice. In sharing my experiences of embracing a novice mindset I hope to encourage others who support feminism—and especially intersectional feminist practice—to consider a leadership path in libraries