In the 21st century there is a constant rise in library patron needs and expectations. As dwindling budgets and less staff prevail, libraries are looking at new models of outreach and engagement to prove their value. Looking through a “creative” lens focuses on “what is possible” and encourages individuals and organizations to work in unconventional ways while using tools which are readily and easily accessible for teaching, learning, or solving problems.
Creative and playful experiences can be freeing and allow for spontaneity, which is crucial when performing scholarly research, solving problems, or honing life-long learning skills. They also provide casual teaching moments and opportunities for patrons to engage with library staff in non-traditional ways. Playful learning events can be a dynamic and creative way to highlight collections and services which can also be assessed to help capture and share the value and importance of an organization.
Through this webinar participants:
• will learn more about creativity in libraries,
• discuss the skills and tools needed to “be creative,” and
• learn how to implement a culture of creativity within your own lives and organization.
Presenter: Megan Lotts is the Art Librarian at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, where she teaches research workshops, builds collections, facilitates programming and events, and closely engages with students and faculty researching in the Arts. Lotts has presented her research both nationally and internationally and has published articles in portal: the Libraries in Academia, Art Documentation, Journal of Library administration, College and Research Libraries News and is
currently working on a book for the American Libraries Association focusing on creativity and play in libraries.