Partnering for Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship: A New Role for Library Spaces

Abstract

From information commons to coffee shops to makerspaces, academic library spaces have evolved in recent years in response to both changing student needs and new roles for libraries within higher education. In response to broader economic trends, many universities see innovation and entrepreneurship as key strategic priorities. As inherently inclusive and interdisciplinary hubs on their campuses, academic libraries offer ideal spaces and services to become campus centers for innovation and entrepreneurship. In turn, creating these centers gives libraries “a seat at the table” as administrators and faculty turn their attention to growing support for innovation. This talk will discuss the development and design of the Toaster, an innovation and entrepreneurship center built through a collaboration between the University of Minnesota Libraries and the The Gary S. Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship. With a focus on the practical, attendees will leave with concrete ideas for why such space might make sense for their library, tips and lessons learned along the way, as well as specific space recommendations.