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Artwork for Libraries Lead!
Artificial Intelligence
Misinformation
Community Engagement
AI In Libraries
Librarianship
Censorship
Education
Tiktok
IMLS
University Of Texas Libraries
Libraries and Technology
Syracuse University's Master In Library and Information Science
March Madness
Hurricane Katrina
Generative AI
Academic Freedom
Libraries
American Library Association
Public Libraries
Access and Accuracy In Cataloging

Libraries Lead! is a provocative podcast about all things information & library hosted by Beth Patin (Assistant Professor, School of Information Studies, Syracuse U), Dave Lankes (Professor, iSchool, U of Texas), and Mike Eisenberg (Dean/Professor Emeritus, iSchool, U of Washington). Information age opportunities and challenges affect every aspect of human existence. We wrestle with such topics as... more

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Artwork for Libraries Lead!

Latest Episodes

Every so often the way we make information changes enough that the field built around it must rebuild. It happened after WWII when a flood of scientific data and the digital computer turned librarianship into library and information science. It is ha... more

This episode examines the ascent of library science education  from the academic periphery to becoming central to the modern university within Information Schools (iSchools). Over the past fifty years, the field has transformed from a niche, single-d... more

Libraries aspire to be a place where everyone belongs — and in Episode 50, we explore what that commitment looks like in today's world. Far from simply reaffirming tradition, libraries are actively expanding their roles, From welcoming undocumented c... more

America's obsession with crime, from Serial to Investigation Discovery marathons, runs deep, and libraries are right there with our patrons, stocking the thrillers and hosting the book clubs. 

 But in Episode 49, Dave, Beth, and Mike ask a harder qu... more

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Recent Guests

Todd Marshall
Director of the Expansion for the Prison Seminary Foundation
Prison Seminary Foundation
Episode: Episode 49 (March 2026): It's a Crime! And, that's an INFORMATION Problem.
Kate Winkler Dawson
True crime podcaster and author
Self-employed/Author
Episode: Episode 49 (March 2026): It's a Crime! And, that's an INFORMATION Problem.
John Kraska
Executive Director of Every Library
Every Library
Episode: Episode 47 (January 2026): Life in the Digital Fast Lane: Who's Drivin' and Who's Ridin'?
Erik Boekesteijn
Senior Advisor at the National Library of the Netherlands and Library Avenger
National Library of the Netherlands
Episode: Bonus Episode 43+: Erik Boekesteijn
Rebekah Cummings
Librarian and 2024 Candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Utah
University of Utah Marriott Library
Episode: BONUS INTERVIEW (September 2024) - Rebekah Cummings, Librarian & 2024 Candidate for Lt. Gov of Utah!

Hosts

David Lankes
Bowden Professor of Librarianship at the University of Texas at Austin; frequent host exploring libraries, information science, and governance.
Beth Patin
Co-host with roles in Syracuse University; focuses on information studies, library education, and leadership.
Mike Eisenberg
Dean Emeritus and Professor Emeritus at the iSchool, University of Washington; brings seasoned perspectives on librarianship and education.

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 22 ratings
  • Libraries Lead

    Excellent discussion topics for us in the Libraries profession realm. Lively and engaging presentations on well referenced and relevant topics by proven academic experts in the field.

    Apple Podcasts
    3
    G. Maitr'd
    United States6 months ago
  • Dr. Patin is the best!

    I really love this podcast. Every topic is interesting even for this non-librarian!!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    zelle no bueno
    United States7 months ago
  • Something for everyone

    I'm not an information scientist or librarian, but I find the content on this podcast to be hugely relevant to my life. It's inspiring to hear what these leaders in their field are doing to combat mis/disinformation and violence against librarians and educators. Thank you!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Seattle Lisa
    United States3 years ago
  • This show make libraries and the library sciences so interesting!

    I love this podcast, Dr. Patin is the best!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    zelle no bueno
    United States3 years ago
  • Stellar show!

    I love this podcast, Dr. Patin is the best!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    zelle no bueno
    United States3 years ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Many appreciate the host expertise and practical examples from libraries.
Some mention strong leadership and educational value for librarians.
Fans note engaging conversations that mix theory with real-world impact.
Listeners praise the depth and relevance of library-focused discussions.
Audiences highlight inspiring coverage of mis/disinformation and advocacy.

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Bonus Episode 44+: Saskia Scheltjens, Head of Research Services, Rijksmuseum, the Netherlands.
Q: What do you look for in people who you might hire?
I look for people with a sense of humor and mental flexibility to adapt and evolve.
Bonus Episode 44+: Saskia Scheltjens, Head of Research Services, Rijksmuseum, the Netherlands.
Q: Are you folks experimenting now or working or implementing AI in different ways?
Yes, we are, and we're not only experimenting, but we're also in different aspects of the museum, intensely working with AI.
BONUS INTERVIEW (September 2024) - Rebekah Cummings, Librarian & 2024 Candidate for Lt. Gov of Utah!
Q: So what was that process like?
Cummings explains that campaigning involves many challenges such as fundraising and being prepared to discuss a wide range of political issues.
BONUS INTERVIEW (September 2024) - Rebekah Cummings, Librarian & 2024 Candidate for Lt. Gov of Utah!
Q: How did this happen?
Cummings shares that she received an unexpected email from Representative Brian King's team asking if she would be interested in running for Lieutenant Governor.
Episode 32 (April 2024): Optimistically Realistic (or Realistically Optimistic) About AI?
Q: What about disclosure when using AI tools?
It's not necessary to disclose when using AI for personal lists or brainstorming, but it may be more appropriate for published works.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Libraries Lead!

What is Libraries Lead! about and what kind of topics does it cover?

A provocative, education- and information-focused show that explores libraries, information science, and the broader information age. Across episodes, listeners encounter thoughtful discussions on AI literacy, information governance, intellectual freedom, and the evolving role of libraries in society, education, and public life. Notable strengths include high-profile academic hosts, emphasis on ethics and governance in technology, and real-world library programs that illustrate social impact. The format often blends expert insight with practical examples, making it valuable for information professionals, educators, and policy-minded listeners curious about how libraries adapt to AI, misinformation, and civic challenges.

Where can I find podcast stats for Libraries Lead!?

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How many listeners does Libraries Lead! get?

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What are the audience demographics for Libraries Lead!?

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How many subscribers and views does Libraries Lead! have?

To see how many followers or subscribers Libraries Lead! has on Spotify and other platforms such as Castbox and Podcast Addict, simply upgrade your account. You'll also find viewership figures for their YouTube channel if they have one.

Which podcasts are similar to Libraries Lead!?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Libraries Lead!:

1. The 404 Media Podcast
2. 99% Invisible
3. Science Friday
4. WSJ Tech News Briefing
5. The Daily

How many episodes of Libraries Lead! are there?

Libraries Lead! launched 5 years ago and published 58 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact Libraries Lead!?

Our systems regularly scour the web to find email addresses and social media links for this podcast. We scanned the web and collated all of the contact information that we could find in our podcast database. But in the unlikely event that you can't find what you're looking for, our concierge service lets you request our research team to source better contacts for you.

Where can I see ratings and reviews for Libraries Lead!?

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What guests have appeared on Libraries Lead!?

Recent guests on Libraries Lead! include:

1. Todd Marshall
2. Kate Winkler Dawson
3. John Kraska
4. Erik Boekesteijn
5. Rebekah Cummings

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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