In the last post following the June webinar we talked about the differences between training and learning. In this post we’ll look at what a culture of learning looks like and how to implement that change from training to learning within our libraries.

I would bet that in most libraries a culture of learning exists already. It is our nature to be curious and take initiative to research and learn. The key is to find ways to make the process of learning easy so that it becomes an everyday event and so that staff enjoy the process of learning.

Here are some examples of successful learning initiatives from other libraries:

• Starting with my own library most everyone has heard of Learning 2.0 and 23 Things which has been replicated at libraries and other organizations around the world. If your library has not embarked on a similar journey, what’s stopping you? Take a look at the Learning 2.0 website for more information. If you’re library has completed Learning 2.0 take a look at Learning 2.1 to continue the Web 2.0 adventure.
• As a follow up to Learning 2.0 and Learning 2.1, PLCMC created the Technology Scholars Program to give any staff member the opportunity to work on a project from start to finish over a six-month period. We are on our second round of participants and have some great projects underway as a result. Who better than front line staff to come up with creative solutions to every day problems!
• Maurice Coleman and Annette Gaskins of the Harford County Public Library in Maryland created a Technology Petting Zoo for their library where staff could come in and try out the latest and greatest in technology gadgets. You can learn more about this program from Maurice and Annette right here on WebJunction next Thursday when they present a webinar about the program.
• Melanie Huggins, Director of the St. Paul Public Library has created Cliff Jumper Award for a staff member who tries something out of the box whether it was successful or not. We all know that learning is about the process not the outcome. What better way to celebrate learning than to reward a creative endeavor. You can hear about this program in the latest MaintainIT Project spotlight interview with Helene Blowers.

Have you implemented a successful learning initiative in your library? If so we’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment on this blog post or join in the discussion on WebJunction.

Lori Reed
Employee Learning & Enrichment Coordinator
Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County

Note: View the archive of both the June and August webinars that Lori Reed (see her WebJunction Public Profile) presented as part of WebJunction’s Learning Webinars series.