What do you do if library employees are hesitant to share their innovative ideas and solutions?

4 Celebrate Success

Celebrating success is a fantastic way to motivate library employees to share their innovative ideas. Recognize and reward individuals and teams for their contributions, no matter how small. Public acknowledgment, whether through an internal newsletter, a staff meeting, or a simple thank-you note, can go a long way in reinforcing a positive culture where innovation is valued and encouraged.

5 Adapt Policies

Adapting policies within your library to support innovation is a crucial step. Review existing policies and procedures to ensure they don't inadvertently discourage employees from thinking creatively or taking initiative. Consider introducing new policies that specifically encourage innovation, such as setting aside time for creative work or establishing an idea submission process. By aligning your policies with the goal of fostering innovation, you send a clear message that creative thinking is not just welcomed but expected.

6 Lead by Example

Leading by example is perhaps the most powerful way to encourage your library staff to share their ideas. Demonstrate your own willingness to take risks and embrace new approaches. When employees see leadership actively participating in innovation, it signals that their contributions will be taken seriously and that there's a genuine commitment to evolving library services. Your example can inspire others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of creativity and problem-solving throughout the organization.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?