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The ideas in this book are all about helping your library building become a more exciting, interesting, experiential space where people are engaged and want to spend time.  More time spent in the library increases the library’s value and relevance to its users—and the more intriguing the space is, the more it helps draw in new patrons.  Taking inspiration and examples from companies and non-profits outside the library world, this book’s engaging ideas include

• using “biophilic design” to bring nature into your library through gardens, plants, and greenery;
• transforming static spaces into “Instagram bait”;
• putting art installations in bathrooms;
• turning underutilized spaces like hallways and mezzanines into welcoming “chill” zones;
• creating pop-ups and other flexible spaces that change regularly;
• developing co-working spaces in libraries;
• preserving and promoting silent spaces; and
• creating “parklets” from parking spaces.

Complete with lists of additional resources for discovering even more ideas, this book will help all kinds of libraries create innovative spaces that will delight their communities.

Some of the most engaged and frequent users of public libraries are over the age of 50. They may also be the most misunderstood. As Baby Boomers continue to swell their ranks, the behavior, interests, and information needs of this demographic have changed dramatically, and Schull's new book offers the keys to reshaping library services for the new generations of active older adults. A must-read for library educators, library directors, and any information professional working in a community setting, this important book

• Analyzes key societal trends, such as longer lifespans and improved population health, and their implications for libraries' work with this demographic
• Profiles Leading-Edge States and Beacon Libraries from across the nation at the forefront of institutional change
• Discusses issues such as creativity, health, financial literacy, life planning, and intergenerational activities from the 50+ perspective, while showing how libraries can position themselves as essential centers for learning, encore careers, and community engagement
• Spotlights best practices that can be adapted for any setting, including samples of hundreds of projects and proposals that illustrate new approaches to 50+ policies, staffing, programs, services, partnerships, and communications

The wisdom and insight contained in this book can help make the library a center for positive aging.

In her new book Kroski, bestselling enthusiast of makerspaces, cosplay, and geek culture in libraries, has gathered creative and crafty librarians to share their most popular Kawaii programs. Running the gamut in terms of cost and difficulty, this book’s 53 programs are sure to include many that will fit your budget, space, and skills. Just scan the estimated budget, age range, materials, equipment needs, and learning outcomes in each listing. Projects include

• keychains with felt or 3D printing;
• slime squishies;
• 3D printed animal earrings;
• hosting a stuffed animal fashion show;
• monster emoji paper bookmarks;
• origami fortune cookies;
• buttons with anime or comic book art;
• crocheted coffee cozy or puppy nose warmer;
• tiny top hats with laser-cut felt cameos; and
• how to Kawaii-ify a planner.

What’s more, the plentiful suggestions for “next projects” scattered throughout the book will help you keep the super-cute fun going!

This new compilation from editor and maker Kroski spotlights a multitude of creative projects that you can tailor for your own library. Librarians and makers from across the country present projects as fun as an upcycled fashion show, as practical as Bluetooth speakers, and as mischievous as a catapult. Included are projects for artists, sewers, videographers, coders, and engineers. The handy reference format will help you quickly identify the estimated costs, materials, and equipment; and because several projects don’t even require a dedicated makerspace, every library can join in. Inside you’ll find how-to guidance for projects like

• a foam rocket launcher;
• stop-motion animation with 3D print characters;
• found-object robots;
• glowing ghost marionettes;
• Arduino eTextiles;
• magnetic slime;
• yarn painting;
• fidget flannels;
• an LED brooch; and
• cardboard sculpture.

With takeaways like origami tea lights or a t-shirt tote bag, your patrons will be sure to remember how much fun your library can be.