This study sought to examine the role of library leaders within university leadership and shared governance at liberal arts universities. While much has been written on library leadership and on higher education leadership, few scholars have examined the two topics together. This study bridges that gap in understanding and organizational theory informed the study. The study employed a qualitative, phenomenological methodology in order to understand the lived experiences of participants, including both what they experience and how they experienced it. Participants included library directors at liberal arts universities and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Key themes that emerged from the study include proactive leadership strategies, the power of relationships, value in being interdisciplinary, and growing student success. The findings of this study will be beneficial to both library and higher education practitioners. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]