Creators in the Academic Library : Collections & Spaces

Engineering students, designers, studio artists, and other student creators have unique research needs that libraries are well-positioned to meet. They use academic literature to inspire and ground creation, but also seek information from trade literature, patents, technical standards, and how-to manuals. They apply tacit knowledge and need to learn not only how to write within academic discourse but also create objects, designs, and experiences.
 
In four parts, Creators in the Academic Library: Collections and Spaces explores how academic libraries can build collections, spaces, and communities that serve creators.

• Tailoring Collections for Creators
• Making in the Academic Library
• Creating Experiences in the Library
• Cultivating Creator Communities 

Chapters identify innovative ways the academic library can support creators by building new kinds of collections, resources, and experiences, including the use of rare books and archives; building a comprehensive technology and research equipment lending collection; performing in library spaces; supporting sustainability across disciplines; and creating equitable access to creator spaces, tools, and resources. Creators in the Academic Library documents spaces and collections that strive for equity and authenticity, for playfulness and joy, and offers strategies for creating a library open to all comers seeking a place to create in a liberating environment.
 

Rebecca Zuege Kuglitsch is the faculty director and team lead for Branches & Services at the University of Colorado Boulder. Her research draws on her experience in science and engineering librarianship. She received her undergraduate degree in history and biology from Knox College, a master’s degree in history from UCLA, and her MLIS from the University of Washington.
 
Alexander C. Watkins is the art and architecture librarian and an associate professor at the University of Colorado, Boulder. His research focuses on methods for critical, engaging, and effective teaching in libraries. He received a bachelor of arts degree in the history of art and anthropology from the University of California Berkeley, and master’s degrees in the history of art and design and library and information science from Pratt Institute.