Library Innovation Lab

Welcoming Immigrants at America’s Public Libraries

Library Innovation Lab provides an intensive professional development experience for public library professionals who want to better meet the lifelong learning needs of immigrant communities through innovative cultural programs. Each year, ten librarians participate in the cohort learning program. Meetings are conducted virtually. Over the course of one year, with support from experienced mentors and peers, the cohort learns more about the immigrants in their communities. They design new events to engage these communities through public humanities programs while gaining skills in project management, collaborative program design, and sustainable community partnerships.

Each cohort member’s library receives a grant of up to $6,000 to support program costs. Applicant institutions must be public libraries or nonprofit friends groups with active federal 501(c)(3) status.

Since 2018, more than 100,000 people have attended over 2,000 programs conducted by 84 California libraries participating in the program. Attendees report feeling a stronger connection to their communities and gaining a deeper understanding of their neighbors’ stories and hopes for the future. Libraries who participate benefit from increased visibility and recognition for the important services they provide and the role they play in civic life.