I find radical trust fascinating as it challenges the traditional boundaries that most libraries have operated within for a very long time. Throughout my life, I’ve only known traditional libraries with the “for books, not necessarily for people” mindset. Thus, I am captivated by the idea of discovering how libraries can become more than just places for books, but rather spaces that empower people to explore, create, and thrive independently. It’s a whole new world for me!
Lending Beyond Books
Georgette Raymond Village Library. Sourced from The Windham Eagle (n.d.).
By definition, radical trust in libraries is a philosophy that emphasizes deep confidence in patrons’ ability to use library resources and spaces responsibly (Ashikuzzaman, 2024). As libraries evolve into community hubs that offer much more than just books, they rely on this trust to successfully extend services by lending non-traditional items like pots and pans, toys, tools, knitting kits, or fishing poles at the Honeoye Library in the Finger Lakes region, where people fish year-round (Blair, 2013). By enabling users to take ownership of their library experience through accountability, libraries transform into dynamic community hubs where individuals feel valued and are more likely to actively contribute to the library’s success (Ashikuzzaman, 2024).
Creating Dynamic and Inclusive Spaces
Radical trust is also essential for successful implementation of programs such as makerspaces. Users are often given access to expensive equipment or digital resources requiring proper care and safekeeping in hopes of exploring emerging technological tools like digital cameras (Stephens, 2010). However, how is one to know if they have any interest in photography or filmmaking without access to the right tools necessary for the endeavor? Trusting one’s library to provide access to such high-end equipment through the means of makerspaces allows users to see if a particular hobby sticks before spending loads of money on such expensive gear (Griggs, n.d.).
3D Scanning at the Castlewood Makerspace. Sourced from the Arapahoe Libraries (2023).
Building Trusted User-Centered Services
As librarians, trusting our users to responsibly manage borrowed items and respect library spaces contributes to a positive atmosphere where patrons view the library as a collaborative space rather than a restrictive one, thus strengthening the relationship between the institution and community. By trusting them, we can reduce unnecessary barriers and truly improve their user experience through a culture of mutual respect and responsibility. This might involve offering self-checkout services.
SFPL Book Stop on Treasure Island. Sourced from SF.gov (2023, March).
One notable example of radical trust in action is the implementation of self-checkout systems, such as the San Francisco Public Library’s first book kiosk, the SFPL Book Stop, which not only reduces the need for staff intervention but also empowers users to manage their borrowing activities independently. The success of self-checkout systems is evident in their widespread adoption and positive feedback from users who appreciate the increased control over their borrowing experiences while reducing time spent standing in line at the circulation desk (Bibliotheca, n.d.).
Balancing Trust with Structure
However, trust doesn’t mean a lack of structure. Clear guidelines and education on proper usage of resources are essential to maintaining this relationship. Rather than timidly avoiding patrons misusing library resources, our focus should remain on open communication and the continuous reinforcement of existing policies rather than banning the trusted service due to a few users breaking the rules (Stephens, 2007). Through radical trust, libraries can become more than repositories of information, but rather dynamic spaces for community collaboration, creativity, and shared growth.
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez. Sourced from Unspash (2018, April).
Reflection
As a future information professional, incorporating radical trust involves examining and addressing my own mental limitations and trust issues. Having witnessed others damaging resources or misusing library services in the past, I’m naturally inclined to be cautious about placing confidence in others’ ability to act responsibly without close supervision. However, I recognize that this mindset can limit the potential for innovation and community engagement. Moving forward, I hope to address these personal barriers and foster an open, participatory environment where users are truly empowered to take ownership of their experiences, ultimately creating a more dynamic and inclusive library.
References
Ashikuzzaman, M. (2024). Community engagement in libraries. LIS Education Network. https://www.lisedunetwork.com/community-engagement-in-libraries/
Bibliotheca. (n.d.). Why self-checkout is a game changer for libraries. https://www.bibliotheca.com/insights-trends-why-self-checkout-is-a-game-changer-for-libraries/
Blair, E. (2013). Beyond books: Libraries lend fishing poles, pans and people. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2013/08/13/211697593/beyond-books-libraries-lend-fishing-poles-pans-and-people
Casey, M., E. & Stephens, M. T. (2007). Ask for what you want. In The Transparent Library 2. Library Journal. https://tametheweb.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/TheTransparentLibrary2.pdf
Griggs, M. B. (n.d.). Libraries are great at lending all sorts of things—not just books. Smithsonian Magazine. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/checking-out-tools-and-telescopes-local-libraries-180952662/
Schmidt, A. (2013). Earning Trust. Library Journal, 138(18), 28. http://libaccess.sjlibrary.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=lls&AN=91632225&site=ehost-live&scope=site
Stephens, M. T. (2010). The hyperlinked school library: Engage, explore, celebrate. Tame The Web. https://tametheweb.com/2010/03/02/the-hyperlinked-school-library-engage-explore-celebrate/
Hi all,