Many library professionals don’t see themselves as creative, assuming innovation is reserved for artists or tech developers. In reality, creativity is a key part of library services—whether it’s finding new ways to engage the community, making the most of limited resources, or developing fresh programming ideas. Without embracing creative thinking, libraries risk stagnation and missed opportunities to better serve their patrons. When creativity isn’t encouraged, problem-solving becomes reactive instead of proactive, and staff may feel stuck using the same approaches. Tight budgets, evolving patron needs, and changing technology require libraries to think in new ways, yet without the right tools, generating fresh ideas can feel overwhelming.

This workshop empowers library staff to recognize and harness their creativity to enhance services and solve challenges. Participants will learn how to foster an environment that encourages innovation, use structured problem-solving techniques, and generate creative ideas individually and as a team. Through interactive exercises, you’ll explore ways to design engaging programs, optimize resources, and bring fresh thinking to library operations. Whether you're looking to develop innovative community initiatives, improve workflows, or rethink traditional services, this course provides practical tools to help you think differently and bring creative solutions to life.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Recognize Creativity in Library Work – Identify how creative thinking applies to library services, programming, problem-solving, and community engagement.
2. Develop a Creative Mindset – Challenge limiting beliefs about creativity and cultivate habits that encourage innovative thinking.
3. Foster an Innovative Library Culture – Create an environment where staff feel empowered to explore new ideas and experiment with fresh approaches.
4. Enhance Problem-Solving Skills – Use structured techniques to analyze challenges, generate solutions, and implement effective changes.
5. Generate and Refine Ideas – Apply individual and group brainstorming methods to develop innovative library services, programs, and workflows.
6. Turn Creativity into Action – Move from idea generation to practical implementation, ensuring new ideas align with library goals and community needs.
7. Navigate Constraints with Creativity – Learn how to maximize resources, work within budget limitations, and adapt services in response to changing demands.
8. Engage the Community Through Innovation – Design forward-thinking programs and services that anticipate patron needs and strengthen community connections.