Innovation for the engaged librarian

Abstract

As librarians, we constantly innovate to meet the needs of our users and to utilize new technology. Discovery is an important part of this process. When we discover our patrons' pain points, we can more easily adapt to their needs. As the National Science Foundation's Innovation Corps program is implemented in more and more universities, engineering and patent librarians facilitate faculty and scientists in using the Business Model Canvas. Librarians can help faculty and scientists with familiarizing themselves with library resources to fill key parts of the Canvas. Additionally, this canvas is often implemented in innovation centers across campuses, and becoming familiar with this canvas can assist students as well. Understanding the innovation ecosystem at one's university is fundamentally important, since intellectual property plays an important role in innovation. This Business Model Canvas, as well as understanding the innovation ecosystem, can provide librarians with useful tools to engage with innovators and entrepreneurs.