Toxic Dynamics: Disrupting, Dismantling, and Transforming Academic Library Culture, Edited by Russell Michalak, Trevor A. Dawes, and Jon E. Cawthorne, Association of College and Research Libraries, 2024, 347p. Softcover, $90. 9798892555517

Toxic Dynamics: Disrupting, Dismantling, and Transforming Academic Library Culture, edited by Russell Michalak, Trevor A. Dawes, and Jon E. Cawthorne, is a comprehensive examination of the pervasive issue of toxic workplaces within academic libraries. Each chapter is authored by different contributors, bringing a rich diversity of perspectives and expertise to the subject. The book’s primary argument is that toxic dynamics in academic libraries are a significant barrier to effective and healthy work environments. The chapter authors argue that toxic workplaces are often a result of poor leadership, systemic inequities, and institutional failures. They emphasize the need for supportive leadership, clear definitions of workplace toxicity, and actionable steps to address these issues. The introduction sets a clear roadmap for the book, emphasizing its relevance to a broad audience within the academic library community. The chapters are credible and each of the authors communicate clearly to a general academic library audience. There are many unfamiliar terms and acronyms in the book, but each author explains and defines the terms used in their chapter. While there is already literature on this subject, many of the chapters address more nuanced topics relating to toxicity which have not received as much attention in the literature. The book is organized so that the early chapters lean more heavily on defining toxic workplaces and the following chapters lead into case studies and more specific topic areas.

Each of the chapters provides a thorough literature review, some more in-depth than others. The methodology varies across chapters, including case studies, an autoethnographic approach, action research methodology, as well as multiple chapters that derive insights from the source material in the literature review. This variety allows for a comprehensive exploration of the topic from multiple angles. For instance, the use of autoethnography in Chapter 9 provides a personal account of working in a toxic environment, which is both validating and insightful. The thorough literature reviews throughout the book support the material presented, highlighting topics ranging from leadership failures and their impact on personnel and unions as well as consolidations of higher education institutions (HEIs).

Chapters also include practical advice and/or recommendations on how to implement changes, improve work environments, or what steps individuals can take. Most recommendations emphasize the significant role management and leadership have in fostering a healthy work environment; however, not all recommendations are targeted to upper management. Many of the suggestions are directed at individuals looking to make personal changes, groups of like-minded individuals who are interested in forming a community of practice, professional organizations who should be rising to the occasion, as well as the entire field of academic librarianship.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its clear definition of a toxic workplace, in multiple chapters, which is crucial for readers to identify and understand their own experiences. Yet, the book is not without its weaknesses. Some chapters, such as Chapter 4, suffer from a lack of clarity in their arguments, with terms like “misrepresentation” not being adequately explained. Additionally, while the book provides numerous actionable steps, some recommendations are based more on personal experiences than empirical data, which may limit their generalizability.

The book is highly relevant to current trends and issues in academic libraries, such as public programming, accessibility, and technology integration. For example, Chapter 10 examines digital scholarship and proposes a feminist approach to balance expectations and team dynamics. This chapter highlights the gender disparities in digital scholarship, where maintenance work is often undervalued compared to innovative work, typically dominated by men. The book also addresses the dynamics between tenure-track and tenured librarians, generational disparities, and the lack of mentoring, which are critical issues in today’s academic libraries. The emphasis on systemic inequities and the harm caused by patriarchal white supremacy in Chapter 6 is particularly timely given the ongoing discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. The chapters illustrate the challenges of implementing change and the importance of supportive leadership.

Toxic Dynamics makes a significant contribution to the literature on workplace toxicity in academic libraries. It addresses nuanced topics and provides real-world examples and recommendations for leaders and staff. The book is well-organized, with each chapter building on the previous ones to create a comprehensive understanding of the issues. It is a valuable resource for academic librarians, particularly those in leadership positions, but also for anyone interested in improving workplace dynamics in academic libraries. The book is highly recommended for deans, directors, and senior administrators, but it also offers significant insights for all library workers, leaders, managers, and educators. It offers practical insights and actionable steps for addressing workplace toxicity, making it a valuable addition to any academic library’s collection. This book is directed at individuals with multiple chapters imparting real-world examples and recommendations for leaders as well as employees to implement at their own institutions. Most importantly, this book is validating to those working in toxic environments. Whether you are a senior administrator or a library worker, Toxic Dynamics provides the tools and knowledge needed to foster a healthier and more supportive work environment. — Ruthann Mowry, Curator of Rare Books and Manuscripts, Rare Book & Manuscript Library, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.