Transforming Libraries: Mortenson Associates Program Week 2 Reflections

Dr. Elizabeth D. Malabanan

The Mortenson Associates Program has been an exciting and insightful experience, marked by a series of enriching sessions and activities. Our second week journey began with a visit to the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning (CITL), where we were introduced to innovative teaching methods, e-tags, instructional design, and the creation of roadmaps. The hands-on session at the Instruction Studio and Media Hub, guided by Mr. Bob Dignan, was particularly engaging and provided practical insights into using advanced technology.

Following a break and a practical journaling session, we delved into Human-Centered Design with Mr. Saad Shehab, emphasizing collaborative design to meet user needs. Cheelan Boolin’s session on workshop facilitation offered valuable strategies for participant engagement and practical activities, enhancing our ability to conduct effective workshops. The day concluded with hands-on activities involving AI and high-tech printing, as well as group podcast interviews, adding a dynamic dimension to our learning.

In our new blended learning, Mandi Gossett’s discussion on Open Educational Resources (OER) and the DORA assessment highlighted the importance of evaluating research on its merits. The session on rhetoric—Logos, Ethos, Pathos—was insightful, providing us with tools to enhance our persuasive communication. Informative sessions with speakers like Mandi Gossett and Mary Jo Romaniuk, followed by an enlightening session on LibGuides by Piper Martin, added depth to our understanding of these resources.

The focus on Libraries for Sustainable Development, led by Ms. Clara, underscored the pivotal role libraries play in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through various collaborative activities and discussions, we explored how libraries can support these objectives and contribute to community transformation. A panel discussion on the evolving roles of metadata librarians provided valuable insights into emerging roles and best practices in the field. Ms. Clara’s session on preparing a Professional Development Plan was particularly engaging, offering practical guidance on aligning our activities with our training theme.

Our trip to Chicago began with a visit to the ALA office, where Dr. Michael Dowling discussed the ALA’s commitments to advocacy, diversity, intellectual freedom, and more. The visit to the University of Chicago showcased their high-tech library facilities and digital services, inspiring us with their innovative approaches. At Upshot Marketing, we learned about their divergent thinking and multi-dimensional marketing strategies, gaining valuable ideas to enhance our library services. The visit to the Chicago Public Library was particularly inspiring, highlighting their commitment to community engagement and resource management.

Overall, the Mortenson Associates Program week 2 has been a transformative experience. From the sessions on innovative teaching, human-centered design, workshop facilitation, and sustainable development have equipped us with practical skills and new perspectives. Engaging with experts, participating in hands-on activities, and exploring new technologies have reinforced the role of libraries as active participants in societal development. The insights and skills gained from this week 2 program will undoubtedly enhance our ability to serve our communities more effectively.

This week has not only been about professional growth but also personal discovery. I learned that I thrive in environments that challenge me to think creatively and collaborate with others. The exposure to innovative teaching methods and technology has inspired me to implement similar strategies in my role as a library director. Specifically, the human-centered design approach resonated with me deeply, reminding me of the importance of tailoring our services to meet the unique needs of our diverse user base.

Moving forward, I plan to integrate these insights into my work by fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within my team. The workshop facilitation strategies and the emphasis on sustainable development will guide our future programming and outreach efforts. Additionally, the skills gained in persuasive communication will be invaluable in advocating for the library’s role in academic success and community engagement.

This experience has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of libraries. As we continue to evolve and adapt to new challenges, I am confident that the knowledge and skills acquired during this program will enable me to lead our library towards greater impact and relevance in our community.