The week concluded on an incredibly positive note, marked by experiences that have the potential to transform my perspectives on librarianship. These life-changing experiences resulted from engaging in interactive presentations, lively discussions, observations, and tours. Reflecting on the week, I aim to highlight the main areas of interest that have left a lasting impact. Please understand that time and space constraints prevent me from delving into every aspect of the week.

Seeing the word ‘reimagine’ on June 9, 2025, reminded me of the exhilarating brainstorming exercise I led during my first months at Cave Hill Campus (March to July 2024). The thrill of exploring the what, how, when, why, and who through the staff’s creative input was palpable. This exercise was the catalyst for reimagining the library spaces and services and repositioning the library as the intellectual hub of the University.

The Mortenson Associate Program theoretically framed the exercise in which I engaged my staff. Now, I have a tested and approved structure to guide and help me persevere through the challenging and sometimes uncomfortable problems I might encounter, such as budget constraints or adapting to new technologies. Based on my understanding, the design thinking approach and the human-centered technique guarantee greater outcomes and user satisfaction. They also empower librarians with another novel problem-solving technique. While most librarians are naturally curious and creative, using a design-thinking frame may seem remote and unrelated to our field. However, DTA applies to any field. It allows me to delve into the curious minds of my users and capture their innovative ideas.  This fuels my appreciation for these sessions and encourages me to take a structured approach to the further development of the library.

Design thinking is more than understanding the users’ needs and interests and incorporating those in the design process. When practiced, it will strengthen my confidence as a creative and curious practitioner and provide a means to engage with staff and users in open and direct dialogues that build trust. By so doing, I can be better at solving problems, positively impacting the outcome.

How could I forget the enlightening presentation on Libraries for Sustainable Development? What specific actionable measures does my library or libraries generally engage in to enable the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals? These measures include promoting access to information, organizing educational programs, and advocating for policy changes. How can I and my library get involved in these actions?

As library leaders, it is our pivotal role to champion the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals within our diverse library communities, whether public, school, special, or academic. Our actions are not just significant but integral to advancing these goals.  

Access to information is critical to achieving the Sustainable Goals in 2030. Hence, libraries and librarians are the nexus. Yet, we are often oblivious of our importance. Access to high-quality research and information is needed to enable researchers to develop evidence-based solutions to achieve inclusive, equitable, and quality education, promote lifelong learning opportunities for all, advance climate action, and promote good health and well-being, to name a few.

How can I be involved? The potential impact of my involvement is immense. Let me count the ways:

• Examine the goals to determine how my current state of affairs aligns with the SDGs.

• Join the conversation and action group/s/taskforce to learn more.
• Raise awareness in my local constituency.
• Be an advocate

Despite the barriers, our collective commitment to the progress and development of the library and the cause of libraries remains unwavering. We will not focus on the obstacles but forge ahead, determined to overcome them and continue the innovation journey for transformation.