“No matter how full the river, it still wants to grow.”
~ Congolese Proverb
“A bird that flies from the ground onto an anthill does not know that it is still on the ground.”
~ Nigerian Proverb

Introduction

The first day of the Mortenson Center training was nothing short of transformative. The theme, “Libraries Unbound: Open, Inclusive and Engaged,” came alive through powerful discussions and engaging group exercises that unpacked the metaphor of “unbound” libraries. As we listened to diverse global experiences and perspectives, it became clear that being “unbound” is not merely about removing physical or digital barriers—it’s about a mindset shift. This lens has since shaped the way I’ve perceived every subsequent session, tour, and interaction during the training.
What stood out were the open conversations that challenged our long-standing assumptions about the role of libraries. From redefining space and service to embracing fluidity in policies and practices, the discussions made me reevaluate what it means for a library to be truly modern and responsive. Group work allowed participants from different continents to interrogate the traditional boundaries of library service and to reimagine their institutions as dynamic, community-responsive ecosystems.

Deconstructing Libraries Unbound
To fully appreciate what it means to deconstruct “libraries unbound,” it’s essential to first understand what makes a library bound. A bound library is one restrained by rigid structures. This can range from visible things like fixed physical spaces, limited service hours, hierarchical service delivery models, outdated technology, to the not so visible things such as narrow definitions of who constitutes a library user, and culture of the library. These libraries are typically characterized by exclusivity, inaccessibility, and resistance to change.

In contrast, an unbound library transcends traditional limitations by reimagining its role in space, service, and community engagement. At the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), the library has thoughtfully reconfigured its environment to include food-friendly areas—an initiative that would have been considered unconventional in the traditional library setting. This adaptation reflects a deep understanding of students’ lived experiences, particularly the need to sustain themselves during extended periods of study. Recognizing that students may not have the convenience of returning to distant accommodations, and that hunger can disrupt cognitive flow, the library’s decision supports both academic productivity and student well-being. Such user-centered design ensures that learners are not forced to choose between their health and their academic momentum.

Similarly, UUIUC library has developed media spaces for podcasting, video recording, and content creation, recognizing that users increasingly need multimedia capabilities for coursework, storytelling, and digital literacy. The creation of makerspaces, where students can tinker, innovate, and build projects, further breaks the mold of the traditional library as a silent repository of books.

At Ohio State University libraries, this unbound philosophy is evident in the Research Commons, which has become a collaborative, interdisciplinary hub. Westerville Public Library exemplifies this by integrating community-centered programs, outreach services, and digital access points like self-checkout kiosks in remote areas.

Openness
Openness in libraries goes beyond access to books—it encapsulates accessibility, technological innovation, cultural responsiveness, and strategic partnerships. Openness also means no restrictions in physical space—movable furniture, collaborative work areas, and accessible design ensure spaces serve varied user needs. A library that embraces openness welcomes all users without restriction, shares knowledge freely, and adapts to technological shifts. Accessibility is exemplified by the removal of restrictive entry requirements, flexible hours, and user-friendly interfaces. Technology is leveraged to bridge divides. Westerville Public Library’s drive-thru pickup and remote lockers demonstrate a commitment to convenience and digital-age expectations. Ohio State University libraries utilize an integrated library system that supports seamless interlibrary loan services across the OhioLINK network and internationally, ensuring users are not limited by institutional boundaries. Multicultural collections reflect openness to diversity. Libraries at UIUC have curated materials in multiple languages, acknowledging and respecting the linguistic and cultural identities of users. OCLC’s slogan, ““Because what is known must be shared, together we make breakthrough possible,” encapsulates the essence of openness. This is seen in their desire to collaborate and partner institutions in resource sharing.

Inclusiveness
Inclusivity is the heart of an unbound library. It recognizes and responds to the diverse needs of users—regardless of age, gender, nationality, ability, or socio-economic background. It includes areas such as:
Policy regulation: While very important, it must ensure that no user feels marginalized. Inclusive libraries adopt user-centered policies that reflect equity and justice. Ohio State University libraries have introduced family-friendly zones, and also accommodating users who are also caregivers—an explicit acknowledgment of students’ complex lives.
Human resources: It plays a pivotal role. Inclusive recruitment, sensitivity training, and diverse leadership ensure that libraries reflect the communities they serve.
Technologies: such as adaptive software, screen readers, and assistive listening devices enhance the library experience for users with disabilities. The Research Commons at OSU exemplifies responsiveness by redesigning spaces based on user feedback—introducing dual monitors for advanced data analysis and expanding virtual computer bookings to meet demand.
Communication: This must also be inclusive—multilingual signage, simplified guides for first-time users, and responsive digital platforms ensure that all users are informed and empowered.
At the Westerville Public Library, inclusivity is seen in services like drive-thru pickups, delivery lockers, and offsite book booths. These cater to users with mobility challenges, time constraints, or unique circumstances.

Engagement
Engagement goes beyond programming—it involves rethinking the library’s role in co-creating community narratives and solutions. Both physical and virtual spaces must inspire interaction, discovery, and collaboration.
Collaborations are vital. Ohio State’s partnership with global institutions for data sharing, open repositories, and research collaboration highlights how openness can be a force multiplier.
Spaces such as collaborative zones, flexible meeting areas, and sensory-friendly rooms invite users to connect, work, and learn together. The Westerville Public Library’s initiatives such as “Borrow a Librarian,” book reading challenges, and meet-the-author events are powerful engagement tools.
Collections are tailored not just for consumption but for conversation—diverse formats, languages, and local content are prioritized. Ohio State’s initiative to develop inclusive, research-aligned collections in consultation with faculty and students exemplifies participatory curation.
Services are designed with users in mind—outreach programs, digital literacy workshops, and embedded librarianship. The UIUC libraries conduct regular user surveys, adapt services based on community input, and involve both staff and users in strategic planning.
Staff that support professional development, foster interdisciplinary teamwork, and reward innovation empower librarians to be proactive partners in engagement.
Systems: includes provision of user-friendly technologies for teaching and learning, and assistive technologies for users with disabilities.
Strategies also include public-private partnerships, open days, and exhibitions. Libraries that go beyond serving users to involving them build trust and strengthen relevance.

Conclusion
Deconstructing the concept of “libraries unbound” has been a profound intellectual journey—one that began with the eye-opening discussions on Day One of the Mortenson training. The sessions, tours, and group interactions illustrated that openness, inclusivity, and engagement are not peripheral concepts—they are the pillars of 21st-century librarianship.

Whether through Ohio State’s adaptable services, Westerville’s deeply community-rooted initiatives, or the UIUC’s brave redefinition of what libraries can be, the message is clear: libraries must be unbound to remain vital. They must not only reflect the diversity and dynamism of their users but also actively and collaboratively work together to shape their futures. In doing so, they transform from passive spaces into active agents of knowledge, inclusion, and empowerment.