Women as library leaders : a case study for Malta

Abstract

Although librarianship is a feminine profession and most library workers are women, library directors in general are male. What are the reasons for this? Do men, more than women, obtain higher qualifications allowing them to apply for higher posts? Do women’s roles as caregivers prevent them from advancing in their careers? Furthermore, librarianship values and feminist values are similar, thus it would seem that a feminist library leadership would improve library practices for staff and users. To better understand this category of society, determine the problems women face and find any possible solutions, women’s issues in library leadership must be studied. In Malta, there is no such research, a gap in the knowledge, which this dissertation aims to address. Based on a review of the literature and a study of feminist theory, leadership, and library leadership, ten semi-structured interviews were conducted with female library managers in Malta, within academic and public/national libraries. A qualitative research method was deemed the best way to be able to listen to the voices of these women. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analysed according to feminist theory and the literature review. The situation in Malta is encouraging, since practically all library directors and managers are women. Nonetheless, analysis of the transcripts has demonstrated that some women have found an unfavourable work climate, where their strength and tenacity were put to the test to progress and eventually earn the respect of staff members. Others found fewer problems. Their stories and experiences are documented in this dissertation. Based on this research, it is recommended that society develops a better awareness of the barriers women face when taking on directorship positions. Maltese culture has made strides in accepting women leaders, but more needs to be done. A study into other minorities in Malta and their progression to leadership roles, could also be conducted.