Transforming a Curriculum Center for the 21st Century at Eastern Washington University Libraries

Abstract

Teacher education is a vital component of Eastern Washington University’s (EWU) mission and history. In 2006, after several years of decline in collections and usage of its curriculum center, EWU Libraries made a commitment to transform it into a center for twenty-first century educators. The center has changed greatly in a short time with five conditions facilitating the center’s rapid transformation from an outdated, infrequently used corner of the library to a vibrant and busy hub. These conditions for change include: a librarian who acts as catalyst; a visioning process; essential structures upon which to build; the ability to reallocate resources, and the underlying element in this transformation: organizational leadership. Next steps in the transformation will include systematic assessment of resources and services, increased access to instructional technologies, and development of collaboration spaces.