2024 Core Forum

As the role of the library continually evolves to serve all ages of lifelong learners, careful consideration and planning in design allows your organization to shine as a true, multi-generational community asset. While the professional world grapples with the nuances of a "five-generation workplace," libraries are uniquely tasked with serving the full population not just as a library, but as a flexible community center. Doing so successfully requires a level of adaptability and creativity that begins with the built environment and supports and enhances programming, planning and services long into the future. Nationally, a number of library systems are adopting hybrid partnership models that further blur this line between traditional library, community center and senior center through blended funding methods and creative wide-reaching partnerships. Whether your system is on the leading edge of pioneering new possibilities or enacting small, incremental changes locally, our team of library and design professionals will inspire creativity and energy to improve the lives of your community members of all ages.   Viewed through the lens of recently-opened and currently in-design library projects, as well as national perspectives on emerging best practices, topics will include diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility, patron awareness, organizational partnerships and advocacy.