FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IMLS Press Contact
202-653-4630
Mamie Bittner, mbittner@imls.gov

IMLS Hosts Library Stakeholder Meeting May 15 at San Francisco Public Library

Experts to discuss how library spaces are changing to adapt to new learning models

Washington, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) will hold the second in a series of three stakeholder convenings about trends in library service on Thursday May 15, from 8:30 a.m.-- 4:00 p.m. PST at the San Francisco Public Library. The focus of the meeting is reimagining learning spaces in libraries.

IMLS invites broad participation via a live webcast, accessible here, and library professionals and the public are encouraged to participate through social media using the Twitter hashtag #imlsfocus. Seating at the event is limited.

Supporting learning experiences in libraries and highlighting the role of libraries as community resources for lifelong learning is a key strategic priority of IMLS. New learning models are emerging that deepen community engagement in libraries, particularly through learning labs, makerspaces, and digital commons.

The San Francisco meeting will focus on current trends, challenges and opportunities to consider for framing future investments in this area. The discussion will cover the following:

• The Shift to Participatory Learning
• Approaches to Technology and Space
• Staffing and Mentorship Models
• Connected Learning
• Community Engagement: Partnerships and Programming
• Measuring Success: Evaluation

Among the speakers are:

• Luis Herrera, City Librarian, San Francisco
• Jen Humke, Program Officer, Digital Media & Learning, MacArthur Foundation
• Amy Eshleman, Program Leader for Education, Urban Libraries Council
• An-Me Chung, Chief of Partnerships and Policy, Mozilla Foundation
• Catherine Bracy, Director of Community Organizing, Code for America
• Corey Wittig, Digital Learning Librarian, Teen Services, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
• Andrew Sliwinski, Co-Founder, Design & Engineering, DIY.org
• Andrea Saenz, First Deputy Commissioner, Chicago Public Library

Click here for the full agenda.

The final meeting will be on June 5 on STEM learning at the Chicago Public Library. IMLS will release a revised National Leadership Grant application this summer that will reflect the priorities identified during these meetings.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.