Managing Exploratory Units in Academic Libraries |
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| Authors: | Matt Cook Betsy Van der Veer Martens |
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| Institution: | 1. Head, Emerging Technologies, University of Oklahoma Libraries, Bizzell Library, Norman, OK, USA mncook@ou.edu;3. Associate Professor, School of Library and Information Studies, University of Oklahoma, Tulsa, OK, USA |
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| Abstract: | AbstractThis article describes the role of exploratory teams in leading radical innovation within academic libraries, empirically expanding on Jantz’s research on the managerial and environmental conditions necessary for the creation of such units. Using historical and contemporary private-sector examples, as well as an in-depth case study from successful implementation of one such unit, this article documents the components, characteristics, and return on investment associated with academic library R&D. Finally, by tackling the concept of exploratory activities at the organization, team, and individual levels, the article presents actionable techniques for fully supporting, and adequately nurturing creative professionals whose job is to redefine 21st century librarianship. |
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| Keywords: | emerging technologies librarianship research and development academic librarianship library management |
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