In the 21st century librarians are thinking more about outreach, engagement, collaboration, and innovation when it comes to everyday tasks such as programming, building collections, and providing instruction and reference support. Many libraries are beginning to think more about what is happening outside of their spaces, to provide better services and resources inside their spaces.
Some libraries are moving from traditional models of reference and instruction, to active mobile spaces outside the libraries, where communities come together to collectively produce, curate, and consume information. The Rutgers University Art Library uses the ideas of turning outward to connect with the local campus and New Brunswick communities, to provide innovative programming that engages a wide range of patrons.
Through this webinar you will learn:
- more about outreach, engagement, and what it means to turn outward;
- how to create low-cost high-impact innovative programming within your own organization;
- about the Rutgers Art Library Exhibition Spaces, Pop-up Makerspaces; and
- a recent Banned Books Week celebration funded by the Freedom to Read Foundation.
Outreach & Engagement for Unconventional Community Collaboration
Megan Lotts is a reference and instruction librarian for the Rutgers University Libraries. Megan currently serves as a liaison to the departments of Art History, Digital Filmmaking Landscape Architecture, and Visual Arts. As well as her work as an Art Librarian, Megan works closely with the undergraduate population including teaching a course for the Rutgers SAS Honors program. At Rutgers, Megan has served as the chair of the Rutgers University Libraries Undergraduate Experience Team, the chair of the Rutgers University Libraries Advisory Committee of Library Services for Person with Disabilities, and 2 years as Faculty Secretary. Megan is involved in multiple professional organizations including American Libraries Association (ALA), Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL), and Art Libraries Society of North America (ARLIS/NA).
