What do you think of when you imagine a library? When you close your eyes, do you see a dim space, lined with books wrapped in expectations of silence? Or do you see an interactive space filled with activity and a low thrum of conversation? An exciting environment full of possibilities to be discovered? We have left behind the stereotypical hushed, endless stacks filled with books to embrace the fact that libraries have morphed, many times, to meet the ever-changing needs of the continuously evolving communities we serve. Libraries are chameleons of a sort, reflecting the values of the community that patronizes us, but also offering a window into other points-of-view and alternate experiences.
As a programming librarian, the fluidity of the definition of library is exciting and can push the limits of what we can do. Somedays the library is an art studio, with enthused patrons painting their visions on rocks or drawing them on the sidewalk with chalk. Other days the library houses concerts, or open mic poetry night. Other times the library takes on the role of providing a safe space for opposing viewpoints to come together to listen as well as to share- to invite real discussion rather than attempt to sway the opposition to your side or to prove your point. Programming is a realm where the rule of 80/20 comes in to play; we want to provide the programming that patrons will enjoy, but we also want to provide important programming that patrons may not know they will enjoy or benefit from. The challenge is knowing your community and how to create content that will entertain them as well as dare them to see things from another point-of-view without taking them too far out of their comfort zone. A library is no longer a static concept, it has become a dynamic concept that continuously morphs its form to be what the community needs it to be.
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AuthorMy name is Angie and I am pursuing a degree in Library Science while also working in a library in Washington. Archives
April 2019
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