Design thinking and methods in library practice and graduate library education

Rachel Ivy Clarke,Ann Rosenblad,Satyen Amonkar

doi:10.1177/0961000619871989

Rachel Ivy Clarke, Ann Rosenblad + Show 1 more

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https://doi.org/10.1177/0961000619871989

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Abstract

Despite interest in the application of design thinking and methods in librarianship, there seems to be a disconnect between application and education to support it. This study used an online questionnaire to elicit feedback from library workers in the United States about interest in and use of design thinking and methods in library practice, and the need for design skills and abilities in library education. We found that practicing librarians perceive design thinking and methods have relevance to library work, but opinions vary based on library type and nature of the work. Design thinking and methods were used mostly for space planning and program development, with applications emphasizing empathy and user/community understanding aspects—despite myriad other possibilities. Most respondents were in favor of including design thinking and methods in MLIS programs, which can support more robust applications through inclusion of the theoretical, philosophical, and epistemological underpinnings from which design thinking and methods emerge.

Highlights

In the 21st century, future librarians increasingly require new skill sets beyond what has been traditionally taught in master’s level library education programs
It seems evident that more education and experience regarding how to apply design thinking to intangible intellectual products may be necessary and highly relevant to library work. This might occur through formal coursework in graduate library education programs or via professional development workshops, conference presentations, or other similar venues
We found that while many design methods and approaches are currently being used in library practice, there is an emphasis on the empathy and user/community understanding aspect of design thinking, perhaps to the detriment and neglect of other aspects

Summary

Introduction

In the 21st century, future librarians increasingly require new skill sets beyond what has been traditionally taught in master’s level library education programs. The Aspen Institute’s recent report on the future of public libraries emphasizes the need for libraries to foster new organizational cultures that emphasize innovation, calling out design thinking as an integral part of this paradigm shift (Garmer, 2016). Design thinking--a multi-stage cyclical problem-solving process originating in design fields--helps leaders in other fields achieve these characteristics through a unique, problem-centered, iterative approach. Businesses such as Proctor and Gamble, Kaiser Permanente and Costco have applied design thinking to strategic planning, business models, and organizational structures and processes (Leavy, 2010, 2012). These organizations that have embraced design thinking and methods have been shown to do better financially than their less design-conscious competitors (Guterman, 2009: 42)

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