Reasons, not excuses: lessons from Elizabeth I CEO on leading, not managing libraries

Seldom is a book relevant to the entire spectrum of libraries we encounter. However Axelrod’s Elizabeth ICEO is one such work. Highly readable his examination of Elizabeth I from the perspective of a business leader and manager contains several strategic lessons that librarians and especially financial managers can apply to stay viable in our current political and financial climate. Whether from the public or private library viewpoint the two reviewers of this work remark that there is much to be gleaned from Elizabeth I’s aggressive leadership style and political acumen which is relevant in managing today’s libraries. While there is nothing new in the information presented the fresh approach interesting reading and use of a historical figure to examine today’s issues drive home important tenets which the head of any successful organization not only needs to know but also must practice.