The heretical library manager for the future

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to explore what it means to be a library leader in the future. Design/methodology/approach - The paper begins with an exploration of the intelligences library leaders need to pursue their work and their lives. It then assesses the understanding of those intelligences and their relative values. Finally, the paper attempts to bring the threads together. Findings - Building the bridge across the chasm from one form of library service to another will require many intelligences, perspectives and different skills if it is to happen. Originality/value - The paper advocates a robust approach to the future, with managers re-examining their own values, their ability to listen, keep an open mind, think heretical thoughts and think the unthinkable.