Libraries are Living Labs: My Visit to the University of Twente Library

Libraries are Living Labs: My Visit University of Twente Library

-Dr Ayodele John Alonge

Imagine stepping into a library and finding yourself surrounded not just by books, but by cutting-edge technologies, immersive experiences, and a vibrant community of researchers and learners. This was the exciting experience I had on Monday, September 18, 2024, when I had the privilege of visiting and speaking at the University of Twente Library, Enchade, the Netherlands, to an audience of librarians and information specialists.

The topic of my presentation was "Transforming Libraries into Living Labs: Bridging Emerging Technologies, Research, and Education." It's a subject that holds immense significance in our rapidly evolving world. Libraries, once revered as the temples of knowledge, are now undergoing a profound transformation to remain relevant and effective in the realms of learning and research in the digital environment.

The heart of this transformation lies in reshaping traditional libraries into dynamic, interactive spaces that actively engage with the latest technologies, research initiatives, and educational endeavors. This shift enables libraries to break free from conventional boundaries and fully embrace their potential as centers of innovation and knowledge creation.

One crucial aspect of this transformation is the seamless integration of state-of-the-art technologies within library spaces. These libraries are envisioned as fertile grounds for exploring cutting-edge innovations, such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality. By providing access to these tools and promoting a culture of experimentation, libraries empower students, researchers, and the wider community to harness technology's potential in addressing real-world challenges.

The vision of transforming libraries into living labs is not just a trend; it's a compelling necessity for the digital age. It calls upon all stakeholders—educators, librarians, information specialists, Qatarpolicymakers, and communities—to unite in the pursuit of this transformative vision. Together, we can usher in an era where libraries become active catalysts for intellectual growth and progress.

As my presentation concluded,  I embarked on a tour of the University of Twente Library. This immersive experience further emphasized the practicality of the living lab concept, showcasing how technology and innovation can seamlessly coexist with the traditional library setting.

In closing, the journey to transform libraries into living labs is an exciting one, and I am thrilled to have been part of this transformative process and conversation. Let us all join hands in embracing the new libraries as dynamic hubs of knowledge, innovation, and progress. Together, we can ensure that libraries continue to be beacons of enlightenment in our ever-evolving world.

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Appeeciation 

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the University Librarian, Dr. Wendy van Ginkel, and Olga Steen for making this enlightening visit possible. I also want to express my appreciation to Dr. Marco van Veller, an information specialist at ITC, for expertly moderating the meeting and ensuring a productive discussion. Last but not least, a big thank you to Lisalotto vader Tas for graciously guiding me through the university library, making the experience even more enriching.