Leadership Styles and Continuous Professional Development Impacts (CPDI) in University Libraries in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Continuous Professional Development Impact (CPDI) captures the value derived from professional development activities in enhancing staff abilities and service delivery in university libraries. Despite the growing availability of continuous professional development (CPD) initiatives, their impact on professional practice in university libraries in Southwest Nigeria has not been adequately examined. This study, therefore, investigated leadership style as a determinant of CPDI in university libraries in the region. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from library personnel across federal, state, and private universities. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine the relative influence of leadership styles on CPDI. The findings revealed that the workforce structure of university libraries reflects a mixed staffing model, with paraprofessional staff predominating. Democratic leadership emerged as the most prevalent style, though other styles were also present. The study further showed that a variety of CPD activities are available to library personnel and that these initiatives contribute to improved learning, professional confidence, networking, and professional recognition. In addition, leadership style was found to significantly influence CPDI, highlighting the critical role of leadership in shaping the effectiveness of professional development initiatives in university libraries. The study concludes that participatory and supportive leadership practices can strengthen the impact of continuous professional development. It therefore recommends that university libraries invest in leadership development programmes and strengthen communication and feedback mechanisms to enhance professional growth and service delivery.