Advancing a Culture of Creativity in Libraries: Programming and Engagement

This book provides guidance on nurturing a culture of creativity in academic and public libraries, encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration, launching active-learning events, fostering goodwill and trust-building, and forming partnerships to promote library visibility. It examines creativity and how it can be applied in library work culture, programming, and outreach, and offers case studies and tips on collaborating with communities and assessing project impact.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2021
Publisher: American Library Association

Today's library workers have a multitude of roles to fulfill: information gatekeepers, connectors, collaborators, and storytellers. The essential ingredient is creativity, which serves as the cornerstone of effective teamwork and positive community impact. This book explores creativity and its application in library work culture, programming, and outreach. Lotts showcases how libraries can foster a culture that encourages staff to approach teaching, learning, and problem-solving in innovative ways. This invigorating book offers a compelling argument for why the challenges of our current historical moment present us with a unique opportunity to pause and reflect on our work and our goals. It delves into several case studies of creative and playful library projects, many of which can be adapted for reuse. These case studies explore the origins and outcomes of these projects, highlighting their impact on their communities. The book also discusses securing buy-in from administrators and funding organizations, collaborating with communities, assessing the impact of projects, and learning from failure and frustration. By embracing creativity, library workers can create dynamic and engaging spaces that inspire learning, exploration, and community engagement.

Weight: 182g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780838949474