Turning Outward to Lead Change in Your Community: Aspirations #alamw15#librariestransform

Agenda Libraries Transforming Communities The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation How to get the most out of this session Aspirations conversation – Experience – Benefits and how to do at home Other sessions and tools for community engagement Evaluation #librariestransform #alamw15

Benefits for Libraries & Library Professionals Repositioning libraries and library professionals as conveners and facilitators of community innovation and change Bringing new tools, skill development and learning opportunities that support enhanced capacity for community engagement Demonstrated results in communities to increase their ability to effectively work together on issues the community cares about #librariestransform #alamw15

I would describe our library’s community engagement as:  Just getting started; moving beyond outreach  Off to a good start and actively exploring  Part of how we work now  Well established; refining our skills #librariestransform #alamw15

About Harwood National nonprofit working with you to address community challenges in a way that makes your library and community stronger Proven 25-year track record What’s different: “Turning outward” If you turn outward and make more intentional judgments and choices in creating change, you will produce greater impact and relevance in your community. #librariestransform #alamw15

Turning Outward An orientation toward community – literally about the direction we are facing! Without it, there is little chance for change. #librariestransform #alamw15

#librariestransform #alamw15 The Turning Outward Approach: Four Foundational Tools Aspirations Turn QuizIntentionality Sustaining Yourself Talk to your community, framing the conversation to best understand their hopes, challenges and conditions for change Approach your work with the community, not the institution, at the heart of all discussion and action Act intentionally and authentically, evaluating your success as you go Rejuvenate; make well-being for yourself and your team a priority

Harwood Aspirations Exercise Aspirations: What people will “go to bat” for The tool can be used for any definition of community For today’s session: Define community as the place where you live #librariestransform #alamw15

#librariestransform #alamw15

Spokane County, WA A Community Aspirations Narrative We want a caring and supportive community with a vibrant economy, a quality education system, and recreational and cultural opportunities for all ages. We want safe and diverse neighborhoods where people know and talk to one another. However, people are concerned about the businesses and jobs that have been lost and the feeling that people don’t know their neighbors or what’s going on in their community. People don’t feel safe and miss having a stronger sense of community and they are looking for places and ways to connect with each other and with information about events and services. Some people are waiting for someone else to take action while others are willing to take small steps to create the community they want. There are a lot of trusted groups and organizations engaged in splintered effort to support economic growth and community building. By creating a shared vision and collaborative effort we could build momentum towards stronger towns and neighborhoods where people feel welcomed and a part of the community. #librariestransform #alamw15

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More “Turning Outward” Sessions Today Turn Quiz (10:30 a.m. – noon): Are you “turned outward” or “turned inward”? Intentionality (1 – 2:30 p.m.): Become intentional about the choices you make, staying true to the “urge within.” Sustaining Yourself (3 – 4:30 p.m.) Staying motivated means asking, “What rejuvenates me? Who rejuvenates me?” All sessions take place in this room, W178. #librariestransform #alamw15

Evaluation #librariestransform #alamw15

Join Us at These Related Programs “Libraries Fostering Community Engagement Reception” A networking reception with library professionals working on community engagement Tonight from 5-6 p.m., HRM – Hyde Park/CC 11A “Leading in Times of Crisis: A Conversation with Ferguson (Mo.) Library Director Scott Bonner” Sponsored by Libraries Transforming Communities Monday from 1-2:30 p.m., W183C #librariestransform #alamw15

Keep the Conversation Going #librariestransform #alamw15 To be part of the conversation with other library professionals, go to ALA Connect (connect.ala.org) and join the Libraries Foster Community Engagement group.connect.ala.org

Take the Tools Home! #librariestransform #alamw15 A Step-by-Step Guide to “Turning Outward” to Your Community Digital and paper workbooks available on your way out.

Contact us or visit Mary Davis Fournier Deputy Director, Public Programs Office American Library Association Cheryl Gorman Vice President of National Programs The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation Carlton Sears Certified Coach The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation #librariestransform #alaac15

#librariestransform #alamw15