Join a Live Empower Session

Next cohort starts February 2026 — live sessions on 2pm - 4pm (UK time):

3rd Feb · 3rd Mar · 14th Apr · 5th May · 2nd Jun · 7th Jul

This flagship leadership programme is for library professionals who want to lead with courage, compassion and clarity, without burning out or becoming someone they’re not.

Over six months, we’ll explore how to lead in a way that is deeply kind, deeply brave, and deeply human. You’ll learn practical tools rooted in psychology and systems thinking, build your confidence in leading conversations and change, and be part of a trusted learning community that helps you stay accountable and inspired.

“This has really helped me articulate what kind leadership looks like. Before I think I just knew it when I saw it.” “I’ve found this so useful. I can feel myself thinking differently, even in how I show up day to day.” “I’ve been talking about this course with my manager. It’s helped me speak up and have different conversations at work.”

Each month includes:

• A live 2-hour workshop with Helen Rimmer

• A small-group Action Learning Set (you’ll be paired with a group and agree dates together)

• Optional co-working and reflection spaces

• A private Community of Practice for shared learning and support

This isn’t just a course — it’s a space to grow alongside others who care as much as you do about making work better.

Who is this for?

This programme is for library workers who are already leading — or stepping into more strategic roles — and want to do it in a way that is values-led, sustainable, and rooted in kindness.

You might already be:

• Managing a team or service and wanting to strengthen your leadership style

• Moving into a senior or strategic role, and looking for clarity, confidence, and support as you step up

• A mid-career leader wanting to realign how you lead with how you truly want to show up at work

• Working in a complex or change-heavy environment, where leading with care, clarity and courage feels more important than ever

• Looking for a safe, supportive space to explore your leadership edge, reconnect with your values, and learn practical tools that make a real difference

This programme is ideal for those who already have some management experience and want to deepen their leadership, not just for today’s challenges, but for the culture they want to create.

Time commitment: Around 4–5 hours per month

Format: All sessions held on Zoom with recordings available for live workshops

Mapped to the CILIP Professional Knowledge and Skills Base (PKSB) to support your CPD and professional growth

Included in the Empower membership

Next intake: February 2026 (limited places available)