I have been paying close attention to how librarians connect to those that are not using the library. There are so many questions to ask and lots of data to go through as you research and try to find the perfect approach to bring in user participation. I’m really interested in finding ways to bring the library out of the building and into the community. What better way to connect to those who might not know what the library offers.
This week’s readings inspired me to do a video about an idea I had last year to introduce a “Library Café” to a local mall. I wanted to introduce library resources to teens but in a space that works in their own environment. The idea that the library can be part of a community in a mall setting is very intriguing to me. It’s forward thinking and different because it connects new and old users by linking people to the library through technology in a retail setting and it still stays true to today’s library standards by providing a safe space for all to enjoy.
Here’s a link to my thoughts on the Library Café at Stonestown Mall. Thanks for watching!
Module 5 Inspirational Readings and video:
Connaway, L. S.(2015). The Library in the life of the user: engaging with people where they live and learn. OCLC Research. https://doi.org/10.25333/C3SP9X.
Stephens, M. (2016) “Reaching All Users” in The Heart of Librarianship, p. 41 The Heart of Librarianship
TED. (2009, May 11). Seth Godin: The tribes we lead [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQGYr9bnktw
West, J. (n.d). 21st century digital divide. librarian.net/talks/rlc14