Symposium on the Future of Libraries
DESCRIPTION:
Gensler Research Institute is supporting the work of a national core team of architects, designers and strategists to explore the meta and micro-trends impacting public libraries and to develop a framework for engaging the communities served.
Representatives of the core team of researchers will share the results of our research methodology which includes a nationwide snap survey of library staff and administrators; and three “Dialogue” panel events (Houston, D.C, and Minneapolis).
Panelists include individuals from Hennepin County Library, Houston Public Library, Harris County Public Library, DC Public Library, DC Office of Planning, Urban Libraries Council, Mayor of City of Minneapolis, Board member from Friends of Library, Spoken word artist/storyteller, Educators, Executive Director of People Serving People (largest homeless shelter in state of MN), Senior editor of Library Journal.
Panel topics addressed are based on survey findings:
- Economic Anxiety: Serving Vulnerable Communities
- Resilience: Social Resilience and Promoting Equity
- Libraries as Third / Fourth Place and Libraries Beyond the Library
- Private and Non-Profit Partnerships
- Serving Changing Demographics and Bridging Inequities
- Impact to Design
We will include a “live poll” to engage participants as a kick off to the session. We will share our research findings.
ALA Unit/Subunit: ALA, Center for the Future of Libraries
Meeting Type: Symposium on the Future of Libraries
Cost: Included with full conference registration.
Open/Closed: Open
Sara Rothholz Weiner
Architect
Gensler
Anthony Harris
Architect
Gensler
Allison Marshall
Design Manager
Gensler