Building a library subculture to sustain information literacy practice with second order change

Abstract

This article addresses development for information literacy (IL) practice through building internal library organizational culture. Using an analysis of relevant literature and reflection on lived experience, the authors explore issues and concepts for instruction librarians and leaders to consider as they advance and sustain IL initiatives. Through a lens of second order change the article proposes change agency theory and organizational development as theoretical approaches: calling on librarians to adopt roles and techniques that honor personal learning and continuing education while simultaneously focusing on student learning. The authors also suggest a flexible roadmap for managed change processes including organizational assessment techniques, inspiration for conversations and inclusive dialogues, reasons for and ways to address resistance, and steps to implement action plans. The authors conclude IL initiatives will be more effective if supported by an internal library culture that is embraced and implemented by knowledgeable instruction librarians and their leaders.