In the 21st century there is a constant rise in library patron needs and expectations. As dwindling budgets and less staff prevail, libraries are looking at new models of outreach and engagement to prove their value. Looking through a “creative” lens focuses on “what is possible” and encourages individuals and organizations to work in unconventional ways while using tools which are readily and easily accessible for teaching, learning, or solving problems.

Creativity and playful experiences can be freeing and allow for spontaneity, which is crucial when performing scholarly research, solving problems, or honing life-long learning skills. But also, these casual teaching moments provide opportunities for patrons to engage with library staff in non-traditional ways. Playful learning is a dynamic and creative way to highlight collections and services which can also be assessed to help capture and share the value and importance of an organization.

Throughout this presentation viewers will learn more about creativity in libraries, the skills and tools needed to “be creative”, and how to implement and embrace a culture of creativity within their own work lives.

Presenter: Megan Lotts is the Art Librarian at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, where she teaches research workshops, builds collections, facilitates programming and events, and closely engages with students and faculty researching in the Arts. Lotts has presented her research both nationally and internationally and has published articles in portal: Libraries and the Academy, Art Documentation, Journal of Library Administration, and College and Research Libraries News. Her first book titled, Advancing a Culture of Creativity in Libraries: Programming and Engagement, will be published by American Libraries Association and available in July of 2021. Her research interests include creativity, outreach & engagement, makerspaces, play, and the work of library liaisons. She is known for her work implementing LEGO® play, curating the exhibition spaces at the Rutgers University Art Library, as well as teaching a semester long seminar “Playing to Learn in Higher Education.”

Megan earned her MFA (2004) and MLIS (2007) from University of Wisconsin-Madison and has a BFA in Painting (2000) and BFA in Art History (2002) from the University of Illinois- Champaign-Urbana. She currently lives in New Brunswick, NJ where she continues to explore, make, and engage in daily activities involving creativity and play.

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