T01: Collaboration: what is it and how to build it.
Session Description
Generously sponsored by: DFC Events
Collaboration is a cornerstone for innovation. Increasingly, libraries are building relationships across sectors, within GLAM, with cities, corporations, and other institutional partners. But are libraries building internal collaborative environments? What is it that makes collaboration really work? We seek to support collaboration within our organizations through team building exercises, new technology tools, personality tests and skill profiles. Yet, do we have a clear definition of collaboration, and do we know how it will benefit the future of our libraries?
Designing a workplace conducive to collaboration is a topic worth exploring in this year's future-focused BC Library Conference. Our cross-section panel of presenters will present a ½ hour of condensed research defining collaboration, and on cultivating it within organizations. Participants will engage with the topic through Q&A, and will take-away resources for learning and implementation at their own institutions.
Speakers
Tamarack Hockin, Fraser Valley Regional Library
Biography
Tamarack Hockin has been working and creating in libraries since 2009, and is now the Collection Services Specialist at Fraser Valley Regional Library. Tamarack is passionate about facilitating community within the profession. She is an active member of the Code4LibBC community, past Chair for BCLA LTAS, and co-founder of the BCLA Mentorship Committee.
Jennifer Wile, Surrey Libraries
Biography
Jennifer Wile is Manager, Information Services at Surrey Libraries. She is passionate about understanding organizational culture, and facilitating community learning and workplace collaboration. She received her MLIS in 2001, and an MBA in 2018.
Paola Ardiles, Faculty of Health Sciences - Simon Fraser University
Biography
Paola Ardiles is a teaching fellow at SFU, a public health champion, an educator and a social entrepreneur. Throughout her career she has led various collaborative and innovative approaches in research, policy and practice, to enable a broader understanding of our collective role in promoting health and well-being for all. She is a multi-award winner for her research and her work.
Stephen O'Shea, Arts Council of New Westminster
Biography
Stephen O'Shea is a dedicated and passionate arts advocate, and Executive Director of the Arts Council of New Westminster. He is the founding member and bass player of international touring band You Say Party, past Artistic Director of Jam in Jubilee Music Festival, and sat on the Board of Directors of the Devon Clifford Music Foundation. Stephen is Chair of the City of New Westminster’s Public Art Advisory Committee, Secretary on the Board of Directors of Tourism New Westminster, New Westminster Chamber of Commerce 2018 Citizen of the Year, and a member of the City of New Westminster’s Arts Commission.