LIB118W: The Dynamics of Rural and Small-Town Libraries

Lecture Hours 3 Lab Hours 0 Credits 3

The Dynamics of Rural and Small-Town Libraries examines the dynamics of libraries in rural and small-town communities. These communities face barriers to effective library services, including staffing, healthcare, resource sharing, community engagement, technological infrastructure, postsecondary educational opportunities, and state and local funding. For their culminating research project, students conduct a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) of a library and its community. Leading up to this project, students engage in activities related to it: e.g., writing reflection papers, reading scholarly and other sources, participating in online discussions, and the like.