So, you heard another public library ran a successful program, you better run it at your library, right? Wrong!
After months of research, we were able to discover that the majority of library programs implemented, as well as technology purchased, was a direct result of hearing that another library had also ran a similar program or acquired that technology.
We will examine why public libraries are playing follow the leader with one another and why that’s restricting libraries from growing as community lead institutions. While collaboration between libraries is acceptable, more and more libraries have begun to rely on one another to come up with the next “big thing” for their organizations. This model is failing to identify the direct needs of a library’s community; therefore, risking the important roles that public libraries play within their unique and diverse settings.
Outcomes:
Learn how to stop this cycle, identify specific community needs and recycle ideas only when appropriate.
