The Experiential Library: Transforming Academic and Research Libraries through the Power of Experiential Learning

The Experiential Library: Transforming Academic and Research Libraries through the Power of Experiential Learning features contributions—in a relatively conversational, practical, and "how-to" format—from various academic libraries across broad educational levels that have implemented experiential learning programs, services, or resources to enhance the learning and development of both students and library employees. As academic libraries and academic librarians are seeking ways to transform themselves and create collaborative synergies within and without their institutions, this timely book suggests exciting ways to integrate experiential learning into the library’s offerings.

Ranging from integrated service learning and Information Literacy instruction that "takes the class out of the classroom," to unique experiential approaches to programming like Course Exhibits and the Human Library, the book is a one-stop-shop for libraries looking to expand their repertoire. It will also help them create connections between experiential learning and their institutions' missions and contributions to student success, by grounding these programs and services on a sure methodological footing. Librarians and educators wishing to learn more about the connections between experiential learning/experiential education and academic libraries would benefit from the advice from authors in this book.

Covers experiential learning for academic and research librariesPresents diverse aspects of experiential learning in academic libraries across the spectrum of educational levelsOffers a one-stop-shop for librarians keen on bringing experiential learning to their institutionsAdds to current conversations in both LIS and experiential education, enabling further synergies in both disciplines

Part 1: The Experiential Library: New Paths for Information Literacy Instruction 1. Integrating experiential learning into information literacy curriculum  2. Experiential Learning in a Faculty of Education Library  3. Beyond Object Lessons: Object-Based Learning in the Academic Library  4. Taking the Class out of the Classroom: Libraries, Literacy, and Service Learning   5. Training Student Drivers: Using a Flipped Classroom Model for IL Instruction  6. Handheld Learning: Authentic Assessment Using iPads

Part 2: The Experiential Library: Programs, Collections, Spaces, Staff Development and Training 7. “Out of the Vault”: Engaging Students in Experiential Learning through Special Collections and Archives  8. Game On! Experiential Learning with Tabletop Games  9. Building Knowledge Together: Interactive Course Exhibits in the Academic Library  10. Going Vertical: Enhancing Staff Development and Training through Vertically Integrated Instruction  11. From Training to Learning: Developing Student Employees Through Experiential Learning Design

Part 3: The Experiential Library: Innovation and Multi-Library Collaborations 12. Home Grown: Lessons Learned from EL partnerships in an Academic Library  13. Grasping a Golden Opportunity: Librarian Support for Students on Summer Internships  14. The New Hampshire Human Library Project: Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges by Engaging Communities of Learners   15. Conclusion: An Experiential Librarian's Creed