Session

Create a window into the community, into the world, into imagination by using hyper-local characteristics to unlock discovery, caregiver/child connection, and foster a love of libraries and learning for the next generation.

In this playful community building workshop, attendees will learn about the successful implementation of a system-wide regionally themed playspace in Spokane, Washington, United States.

Following the case study presentation and overview of the landscape of play in libraries, attendees will gather in small groups for play-based interactive sessions to evaluate how to foster play in their own systems. Prompts will encourage a focus on hyper-local elements to unlock discovery, imagination, and learning.

Learn how to create a playful infrastructure that can live beyond the walls of the library through collateral, stories, and memories that last a lifetime.

Maximum capacity: 50 people

Hosts

Amanda Donovan, David Schnee, Mason Neil & Caris O’Malley

Amanda Donovan, Marketing and Communication Director, Spokane Public Library, USA.
Amanda Donovan has served as the Director of Marketing and Communication at Spokane Public Library since 2017. A John Cotton Dana Award and PR-Xchange Award winner, Amanda has 20 years of marketing, communication, and design experience in various fields including consulting, financial services, non-profits, and libraries. Amanda is an experienced public speaker having presented at several national Library conferences.

David Schnee, Principal Architect, Group 4 Architecture, Research + Planning, USA.
David Schnee applies his boundless energy to the planning and design of innovative, forward-thinking, beautiful community architecture. He has planned or designed over 500 libraries across the US including leading the master planning for Spokane’s system and the designs for their Central and largest branch locations. David is one of the top public meeting facilitators and has included play in workshops held around the world – and is always looking for new ways to learn, create, and have fun.

Mason Neil (they/them), Youth Environmental Specialist, Spokane Public Library, USA.
Mason Neil enjoys using their energy and curious optimism to create dynamic learning opportunities for young library users in the Inland Northwest region of the US. With their background in environmental education and advocacy, they enjoy bringing a place-based perspective to fun and play at the library. Mason believes libraries are integral to community resiliency efforts in a changing world, and is passionate about having fun along the way.

Caris O’Malley (he/him), Deputy Director, Spokane Public Library, USA.
Caris O’Malley is a dynamic and dedicated library professional, currently serving as the Deputy Director at the Spokane Public Library. He is the creator of the Great Reading Adventure, a highly successful literacy program that has had a significant impact on the community. With over a decade of experience in library management and administration, Caris has a proven track record of success in developing and implementing innovative programs that engage and educate people of all ages. He is passionate about promoting literacy and lifelong learning, and is committed to providing access to information and resources for all. Caris is a true leader in the field, known for his creativity, intelligence, and candor.