Introduction

Health sciences libraries serve a diverse population of adult users, providing access to varied services, supports, and spaces. There are many factors that may make a user’s visit to the library a productive and joy-filled experience. In addition to the standard (and important) functions as a space for learning, study, and research, this presentation will argue that health sciences libraries are a logical space for play and fun to occur as well.

Description

This presentation will be divided into two parts. The first part will introduce the case for play and why bringing play into library spaces is worth the time and resources. A variety of arguments to this case will be shared, included the supporting literature behind play in adult psychology, and the argument that libraries are an ideal space for this to occur.

The second part of the presentation will share resources and strategies for implementing play-based activities, including utilizing strategic plans and setting budgets. A few examples of easy to execute play-based activities will be shared.

Outcomes and Conclusion

This session will be of interest to those who wish to bring play into their library spaces, or those who would like to know more about this means. By the end of the session, attendees will have had the opportunity to reflect on the meaning of play in library settings, as well as consider applications in their own library spaces.