Leading the Change: Libraries Breaking New Ground

Libraries in the U.S. often look to each other for inspiration. Leading the Change reminds us that great institutions—and fresh approaches—can also be found in other countries. This program bridges foreign and domestic, examining two libraries in The Netherlands (the Tower of Books Library in Spijkenisse and the DOK Library in Delft) and a couple American counterparts (the San Diego County Library and Darien Public Library in Connecticut)—all organizations that are renowned for their innovations. Taking a rather counterintuitive stance, Spijkenisse, which features plenty of high-tech elements, has directly confronted the notion that physical books are passé by making books the primary design motif; volumes literally cover much of the wall space, and while in some cases they are just for decoration, a surprising number serve as back stock for circulating titles. Clever marketing is just one way the DOK fulfills its mission to be “the living room of Delft,” while similar outreach efforts in San Diego and Darien help reach a broad swath of patrons. A recurring theme here is the importance of focusing on the services that are most needed by the communities being served. Although manifesting in different ways at different libraries, the key points are to maintain a local emphasis and be willing to embrace risk—and the interviewees offering insights on best practices here are quick to acknowledge failures as well as successes. Libraries embarking on a building or remodeling program would be well-served by this armchair tour of four exemplary sites, while the ideas presented will also help spark general discussion amongst staff. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)