The foundational standard: integrity

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to expound upon integrity, which is the first of the “leadership performance standards” introduced in the last installment of this column. It shows how integrity in the library staff is foundational to good cost‐effective library service and how it can and should be modeled and encouraged by the library administrator. Design/methodology/approach – The article sets forth several assertions regarding integrity and then explains and supports them one at a time, concluding with a checklist for developing an atmosphere of integrity. Findings – Integrity is the most highly sought after attribute in library directors and is foundational to all good cost‐effective library service. An atmosphere of integrity for the workplace can and should be fostered by the example of the library administrator. Originality/value – Learning why integrity is necessary and how to foster it in library staff and in the atmosphere of the library is the first step toward ensuring that the library will be able to fulfill its mission in a cost‐effective manner.