ReThinking Libraries Blog
ReThinking Libraries would not be successful without the insights and innovations that librarians, library staff, community members, and our partners share with us on a regular basis. This is how we keep our finger on the pulse of the most important library issues out there—and even better—creative solutions for addressing them. We want to make these great ideas count so watch our ReThinking Libraries blog for inspirational stories and ideas.
Beyond the Building: How Libraries Are Reimagining Outdoor Spaces
Libraries have always been gathering places, but increasingly, those gathering spaces extend beyond the walls of the building itself.
At the 2026 American Library Association Annual Conference in Chicago, ReThinking Libraries Principal Janet Nelson joined Sun Prairie Public Library Director Svetha Hetzler and landscape architect Garret Perry of design studio, etc. to explore how libraries are creating outdoor environments that support community connection, learning, programming, and wellness.