I have had this phrase written on a whiteboard at my desk for the last several years. Curiosity was a driving force in my previous occupational therapy career. I was happy to see that this sense of curiosity is equally important in the library world. It is vital for librarians to approach every day with curiosity, as it is what drives innovation, encourages lifelong learning, and helps the library respond to the changing needs of the community. In my blog post for Assignment X: Play in the Library, I shared the mission statement for five different public libraries. Three of them specifically call out fostering curiosity as a mission, and three of them call out lifelong learning.
In Module 8: New Models, we learned that curiosity has influenced several libraries to completely rethink the entire library experience.
The Scandinavian concept of hygge has inspired libraries around the world to incorporate this sense of coziness into their library services, through book recommendations and creating cozy spaces in the library. Stephens (2018, p. 63) describes it as a “feeling, a vibe, a state of mind” and that “it’s about connections, conversations, and comfort.” We have monthly themes on our Bookmobile. Last winter, we explored the concept of hygge. We created a book display of hygge-related books and included a mini hygge kit with tea or hot chocolate, a tea light, and tips for creating hygge at home. Patrons loved being able to take this reminder home to stay warm and cozy in the cold Illinois winter.
Curiosity led Anythink, a public library in Colorado, to build the Anythink Nature Library, which will open in August of this year. This innovative space is inspired by nature and will help patrons learn through their connection with nature. While this looks like an amazing space with exciting new features and amenities, as I look through their website, I can’t help but wonder if Anythink is taking innovation a step too far? I admit that it took me a bit to even realize it was part of the public library system, as the logo is a scribble and it doesn’t say “Library” in the name. In fact, looking at all the branch locations, the only ones with “Library” in the name are the Anythink Nature Library and the two Express Libraries. While we all know that libraries are much more than books, in looking at each branch listing, they use words like “warm sense of community,” “cozy,” and “magical.” And they talk about the sustainable and eco-friendly features. But none of them actually mention books in their short description and “What you can find here” section, except for the Express Libraries that haven’t even opened yet. If I were new to the area, looking up library services, I would be a bit confused.
But here is where I must lead with curiosity for myself. Anythink is a very large library system that serves an entire county. As HBM Architects (2023) discuss in the article Centering Your Library Around the Community, when creating any library space, whether it is a new building or a remodel, it is important to really get to understand your community and what they would like to get out of the library. Anythink is clearly an innovative library system and has shown a willingness to explore new ways in which the public library can serve their community, instead of thinking that the status quo is the way to go. By asking questions, listening to patrons, and observing the community needs, librarians can develop programs and services that are more inclusive and relevant to the community they serve.
And so I will end with the thought that Michael Casey shared with our class when asked for advice to new MLIS grads, “Always stay curious.” In a world where technology and society are constantly changing, embracing curiosity will allow librarians to remain adaptable and responsive in creating welcoming spaces that will continue to enrich the lives of the patrons they serve.
Curiosity killed the cat, but it helped the librarian discover new possibilities and change lives, one question at a time.
References:
Anythink. (n.d.). https://www.anythinklibraries.org/
HBM Architects. (2023, February 9). Centering your library around the community. Library Journal. https://www.libraryjournal.com/story/centering-your-library-around-the-community-lj230207
Stephens, M. T. (2019). Wholehearted librarianship: finding hope, inspiration, and balance. ALA Editions.
I love the idea of the nature library! So cool—providing REI gear and outdoor programs seem like a such a great opportunity for that community.
I actually had a similar reaction to the Anythink name when watching some of their YouTube videos… when is this sort of rebranding serving the institution and its patrons versus just being quirky and cutting edge? Where libraries are widely respected and beloved institutions, even in our divided political environment, I wonder if getting rid of the word “library” from their name was necessary or even beneficial. I’m SURE there were a billion discussions about this, and I would love to see a summary of them!
@lauraskor, I’m so happy to hear you shared similar thoughts about the library branding. Have you looked at their job descriptions? The post I saw is no longer listed, but I want to say it was something like a Wrangler. In reality, it sounded like a circulation aide or shelver. I do understand wanting to go with the new and edgy vibe if that is what the community is like, but they are inventing a whole new vocabulary. Sometimes, it’s nice to know exactly what you are getting rather than a flashy term.
@jenfredrick hurrah! One of my favorite soft skills that is also a heart skill. Curiosity. I enjoyed this post, thank you.