Adaptive Leadership Strategies for Advancing Digital Transformation and Innovation in Academic Libraries in Kenya

This article discusses how adaptable leadership practices can help Kenyan academic libraries move forward with digital transformation and innovation. Kenyan academic libraries are under significant pressure to adapt and change their operations to meet the needs of the 21st century. This is because digital technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics are advancing rapidly. Even though there could be benefits, there are problems that hinder digital transformation. Some of these are limited resources, inadequate digital infrastructure, staff who are reluctant to adapt, and insufficient digital literacy. Adaptive leadership, which emphasizes flexibility, shared vision, collaborative work, and continuous learning, is suggested as a way to deal with these problems. The study used a mixed-methods research approach, which involved collecting both quantitative and qualitative data using semi-structured questionnaires. The results of the study show that adaptive leadership qualities, which encourage innovation, include openness to change, emotional intelligence, empowering others, and systems thinking. The findings further show that adaptive leaders surmount resistance by establishing shared digital transformation visions, using strategic relationships to secure resources, and involving employees in decision-making. However, gaps remain in leadership agility and systematic change management capabilities. The study’s findings show that Kenyan academic libraries need to create specific leadership frameworks and programmes to build capacity in order to promote long-term digital transformation. Policymakers should prioritize infrastructure development, provide financial support, and foster inclusive leadership styles. In practice, library administrators should support cultures of continual learning, teamwork, and a balance between big ideas and practical action. This research contributes to the adaptation of adaptive leadership theory in resource-limited African contexts. It delivers practical insights to guide academic libraries in Kenya and similar settings through effective digital transformation.