Public libraries are well positioned to support the lifelong learning aspirations of their communities, and they are doing so with ingenious new ways of connecting people, places, ideas and information. In Vancouver, that means launching Pop Up Libraries on the beaches, installing Literary Landmarks along the streetscapes and the seawall, producing a podcast series created in the library’s own digital media lab, coordinating free access to 20 cultural venues from the opera to the aquarium, and sparking the curiousity of residents of all ages with a Summer of Learning promotional campaign. This session will demonstrate how VPL is harnessing powerful community connections to create more free opportunities for informal learning – and creating truly surprising experiences for people who encounter them in the most unexpected places.
Learning Outcomes
increase awareness and understanding of the public library’s role as a community conveynor of learning opportunities
increase access to ideas and concepts that extend the reach of the public library well beyond traditional audiences
increase understanding of innovative, measurable library programs that support and strengthen communities.
