Design a Participatory Learning Program for a Library This option invites you to create an innovative and evolving participatory learning program tailored to the unique needs of a specific audience—either library users or staff. Grounded in the principles of Infinite Learning and the idea of the library as a classroom, your program should inspire continuous exploration and support the learner’s journey beyond a single event or session. Start by making a conscious choice about your audience. Will your program empower staff with ongoing professional growth opportunities? Or will it offer users new pathways to develop skills, discover interests, or connect with others in meaningful ways? Consider how your design invites participation, collaboration, and reflection. Because this assignment emphasizes sustained learning, think about how your program could grow over time. Could it include modular content, mentorship components, or an evolving digital toolkit? How might the library support independent learners who wish to delve deeper—through resource guides, online communities, or follow-up sessions? Your final concept should reflect a thoughtful integration of course themes—participation, innovation, and learner-centered design—while offering a forward-thinking vision of what a library-based learning experience can be.
OR Create your own Personal Learning Plan! This option invites you to design a personalized roadmap for your professional growth, rooted in the spirit of Infinite Learning. In this version of the Inspiration Report, you’ll articulate a thoughtful strategy for how you intend to remain curious, informed, and engaged in the evolving landscape of libraries and information science. How will you continue to expand your expertise, connect with others, and nurture your role as a lifelong learner? You might map out your plans to participate in professional development activities such as workshops, online courses, communities of practice, or conference attendance. You can reflect on how you’ll incorporate emerging technologies, storytelling, or participatory approaches into your ongoing learning. This plan is an opportunity to blend intention with inspiration—showing how you will sustain momentum, embrace change, and chart your own evolving path in the field. Think of it not just as a list of goals, but as a dynamic, living document that reflects your learning philosophy and professional aspirations.
Revisit some of these for even more inspiration:
- Breeding, M. (2019). Public Libraries are Teaming Up…Middle Schoolers and Stem Learning Opportunities.
- Stephens, M. (2016) “Library as Classroom” in The Heart of Librarianship, page 126.
- Stephens, M. (2016). “Learning everywhere” in The Heart of Librarianship, page 123.
- Mathews, B. (2013). Curating learning experiences: A future role for librarians?
- Sensory Space at Marsden Library. (2018). Sensory Spaces
- White Plains Public Library Teens (2015). Hour of Code
Staff Professional Development:
- Stephens, M. (2021). “The Strategic, Curious & Skeptical Learner”
- Stephens, M. (2016). “Lessons from Learning 2.0” in The Heart of Librarianship, p. 134
- Rudai 23 (n.d.). A 23 Things Collaboration from Ireland.
Sample Personal Learning Plan Infographic:
