https://cathryncopper.cargo.site whatthetect Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:39:53 +0000 https://cathryncopper.cargo.site en https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/01 Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:18:20 +0000 whatthetect https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/01 01Experience Leadership across libraries with an expertise in technology and design ︎ https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/02 Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:18:20 +0000 whatthetect https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/02 02Engagements Public dialogues advancing conversations on the future of libraries ︎ https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/03 Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:18:20 +0000 whatthetect https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/03 03Publications Research at the intersection of libraries and technology and advancing art, architecture, and design education ︎ https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/04 Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:11:59 +0000 whatthetect https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/04 04Press and Interviews What people are saying about The Experimental Library and other conversations ︎ https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/Experience Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:39:53 +0000 whatthetect https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/Experience WHATTHETECT 01 Experience <img width="6000" height="4000" width_o="6000" height_o="4000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/43e78f9f58590c84cd7dffb25b72c1ecd2216d1a01094b27259b667a51a7f539/DSC00025.jpg" data-mid="236401574" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/43e78f9f58590c84cd7dffb25b72c1ecd2216d1a01094b27259b667a51a7f539/DSC00025.jpg" /> Cathryn Copper, Eberhard Zeidler Library, University of Toronto, 2022. Head, Eberhard Zeidler Library, University of Toronto 2022 - Present Awarded a LEAF+ Generative AI in Teaching and Learning grant to explore how architecture libraries can support the use of text-to-image AI tools during the concept phase of design research. Co-founded the Community for Belonging, a grant-funded reading group in collaboration with the Assistant Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, to foster dialogue around identity within the Daniels community. Led a strategic shift toward a digital-first model that enhances accessibility and optimizes space, while reaffirming the enduring importance of a robust core print collection. <img width="3024" height="2419" width_o="3024" height_o="2419" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/24e0e204e45d01b058f46a82c70807304603395b3ede328d7dfddb1e2a087030/A7D426EF-A7D3-4074-873A-5CD5A4A61451.JPG" data-mid="236401684" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/24e0e204e45d01b058f46a82c70807304603395b3ede328d7dfddb1e2a087030/A7D426EF-A7D3-4074-873A-5CD5A4A61451.JPG" />Visual Sensory Convergence, Institute for Creativity, Arts, &amp; Technology, Virginia Tech, 2021. Head, Art &amp; Architecture Library, Virginia Tech 2018-2022 Led transformative initiatives that modernized the space through a hybrid collections model, blending digital and physical resources. Fostered a culture of experimentation rooted in empathy and innovation, and developed a scaffolded instruction system through curriculum mapping and course integration. Organized inclusive programming like Intersections, a social justice panel series, and launched a gallery showcasing diverse artists.&nbsp; Architecture Librarian, Woodbury University, School of Architecture, San Diego Campus 2010-2018 Established the San Diego branch as a fully self-sufficient library by overhauling key workflows, and launched a 250-piece materials collection to support hands-on learning. Developed key policy documents, including a strategic plan and accreditation reports, and launched the Library South Series to foster interdisciplinary dialogue. Co-taught undergraduate and graduate architecture thesis courses. Oversaw a major design/build studio renovation to support expanded programming. https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/Engagements Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:18:22 +0000 whatthetect https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/Engagements WHATTHETECT 02 Engagements <img width="4032" height="3024" width_o="4032" height_o="3024" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/71c88d9d05f6facf53cee14ee90db193b728eba70db15504f970eb1adf713b02/IMG_1729.png" data-mid="235633462" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/71c88d9d05f6facf53cee14ee90db193b728eba70db15504f970eb1adf713b02/IMG_1729.png" /> Elevate Festival, Toronto, Canada, 2023. Popular Speaking Topics and Workshops From Startups to Libraries: Experimentation as a Catalyst for Change As AI and emerging technologies continue to reshape the information landscape, libraries should embrace experimentation to navigate uncertainty and drive innovation. Using techniques from startups and rapidly evolving tech companies, this program explores how experimentation can lead to evidence-based decisions and transformative initiatives. Through interactive activities, you’ll learn how to cultivate curiosity and innovation within traditional library constraints. We’ll uncover the secrets to effective experimentation using design thinking, IDEEA methodology, and user engagement techniques to develop and test prototypes. Finally, you’ll walk away with a concrete roadmap to integrate experimentation into your library work—embracing iteration, learning from failure, and communicating change effectively to propel libraries forward in this new era. Reskilling the Information Professional Explore strategies for reskilling information professionals to thrive in the evolving digital landscape. This presentation emphasizes cultivating adaptability, fostering a growth mindset, and integrating emerging technologies to meet future demands. Attendees will gain insights into critical competencies for the next decade and walk away equipped with the tools and mindset needed to remain agile, innovative, and impactful in a rapidly changing environment. The Feedom to Fail Invites you to reimagine failure as a catalyst for growth and innovation. This session explores how fostering a culture of risk tolerance can empower teams, spark creativity, and support adaptive change. Participants will examine barriers to risk-taking, share real-world examples, and discover strategies to create safe, supportive environments where learning from failure becomes an essential part of progress. AI X Creativity: Possibilities and Potential Impacts on the Information Professional This workshop introduces visual resource professionals to the evolving world of text-to-image generative AI—technologies that are reshaping art, design, and digital collections. These tools offer exciting possibilities for inspiration and representation, but they also raise complex questions about authorship, ethics, and the role of human creativity. List of Appearances 2025Visual Resources Association Workshop, virtual presentationReaching Across Illinois Library System, virtual presentationNational Library of Lithuania, virtual presentation Keynote at the University of Toronto Federated Colleges Library Workshop, Toronto, Canada University of Toronto Faculty of Information iSkills Workshop, virtual presentationALA CORE Webinar, virtual presentation 2024 Sharjar International Library Conference, Sharjar, United Arab EmiratesInternational Conference for Art Libraries, Barcelona, Spain Expert Talk at the Multidisciplinary Research Centre for Innovations in SMEs at the Gisma University of Applied Sciences, virtual presentationAmerican Library Association, San Diego, California Key speaker at the Michigan Library Association event Think Space, Mackinaw Island, MichiganAssociation of Collegiate Schools of Architecture, Vancouver, Canada Book talk at the Long Island Library Resources Council, virtual presentation2023Art Libraries Society of North America, Mexico City, Mexico <img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcQGVKMowFF5Cqr0ND3Gab7dNvc0sUETNphdxrxOg8gZE3ntj5ecdQVopQrB213s8xyX2iXqUGpBgNA-UElTzvY5K4wQnTfiSNfSU-nfJOb7Q6qCj0jivO3wptC2FLo9MYWequX8k2EGNG9bv1DhMoK5w?key=s65wxpe6jw1NtR16R0RH2w" width="126" height="126" style="width: 126px; height: 126px;"> https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/Publications Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:18:22 +0000 whatthetect https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/Publications WHATTHETECT 03 Publications Using techniques garnered from startups and quickly evolving technology companies, The Experimental Library educateds information professionals on using experimentation to make evidence-based decisions to advance innovative initiatives. Available through the ALA Store and other major book distributors. For customers ouside North America, visit Facet Publishing for purchasing information. https://alastore.ala.org/IDEEA <img width="1800" height="2700" width_o="1800" height_o="2700" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b9c7bc3f0614ff7b4d7866ce44edc0c5428ea46a1b472e92cd97a2bf27b838ad/9780838939659.jpg" data-mid="235407866" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b9c7bc3f0614ff7b4d7866ce44edc0c5428ea46a1b472e92cd97a2bf27b838ad/9780838939659.jpg" /> <img width="1384" height="1984" width_o="1384" height_o="1984" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d20c50b36eb834fe7013507a149ea9d4e4b45450f5efac18f0bf8030cb43a6b7/Copper_1p_Page_007.jpg" data-mid="235408074" border="0" data-scale="50" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d20c50b36eb834fe7013507a149ea9d4e4b45450f5efac18f0bf8030cb43a6b7/Copper_1p_Page_007.jpg" /> <img width="1384" height="1984" width_o="1384" height_o="1984" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/06e634a4290b0f1affb537b7cee5b3b0b0c062c41e1f0b538e584bec4baf460f/Copper_1p_Page_021.jpg" data-mid="235408076" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/06e634a4290b0f1affb537b7cee5b3b0b0c062c41e1f0b538e584bec4baf460f/Copper_1p_Page_021.jpg" /> <img width="1384" height="1984" width_o="1384" height_o="1984" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5c1a6a2475cc5272358e5e349f3c37d3ee5e9cf63842a571724bd964c46c38dd/Copper_1p-56.jpg" data-mid="235408077" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5c1a6a2475cc5272358e5e349f3c37d3ee5e9cf63842a571724bd964c46c38dd/Copper_1p-56.jpg" /> <img width="1384" height="1984" width_o="1384" height_o="1984" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/3fe733db792fce550070b839504677a10e2d24c9aaf749202656fac3341da977/Pages-from-Copper_1p.jpg" data-mid="235408078" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/3fe733db792fce550070b839504677a10e2d24c9aaf749202656fac3341da977/Pages-from-Copper_1p.jpg" /> The Experimental Library. American Library Association, 2024. Other Publications BOOKS AND BOOK CHAPTERS Copper, C. (2024). The Experimental Library: A Guide to Taking Risks, Failing Forward, and Creating Change. Chicago, IL: ALA Editions. Copper, C. &amp; Zellner-Basset, P. (2024). Change Agents: Libraries and Archives Confronting Gender Issues in Architecture In N. Clements (Ed). Art at the Intersection of Librarianship and Social Justice. Sacramento, CA: Litwin Books. PEER-REVIEWED PUBLICATIONS Copper, C., Harrison, P., &amp; Yang, Z. (2024). Artificial Intelligence Literacy: Collaborating to Support Image Research in Architecture Education. ACSA 112th Annual Meeting Paper Proceedings. Matthews, E., Salmon, L., Copper, C. &amp; Wratschko, K. (2023). And That is the Basis of ARLIS/NA: Enduring Values Across ARLIS/NA’s Fifty-Year History. Art Documentation, 41(2). Copper, C., &amp; Jamal Eddin, S. (2023). Breaking Barriers: How Libraries Can Better Support Female Architecture Students for Professional Success. College &amp; Research Libraries, 84(2), 260. doi:https://doi.org/10.5860/crl.84.2.260 Copper, C. (2021). Explorations in Library Design: A Study of Master of Architecture Thesis Projects. Art Documentation, 40(2), 249-267. doi: 10.1086/716737 Copper, C. (2018, March). A Faculty-Librarian Collaboration in the Undergraduate and Graduate Degree Project and Thesis Preparation Courses. ACSA 106th Annual Meeting Paper Proceedings. doi: 10.35483/ACSA.AM.106.66 Copper, C. (2014). Incorporating Technology: Using Tablets and Apps as Reference and Teaching Tools in Architecture School Libraries. Art Documentation, 33(1), 119-128. doi: 10.1086/675711 SELECTED ARTICLES Copper, C. (November 2024). Using the Library for Research in the Building Sciences. Journal of Green Building, 19(4), 263-271. https://doi.org/10.3992/jgb.19.4.263 Copper, C. (November 2024). Using Style Guides and References in the Building Sciences. Journal of Green Building, 19(4), 247-262. https://doi.org/10.3992/jgb.19.4.249 Copper, C. (2020, February). Experimentation in Academic Libraries: How to Do It and Why Libraries Need It. Retrieved from https://crln.acrl.org/index.php/crlnews/article/view/24276/32088 Copper, C. (2016, July). CATTt: An Anti-Method for Architectural Research. ACSA News. Retrieved from http://www.acsa-arch.org/acsa-news/read/read-more/acsa-news/2016/07/14/cattt-an-anti-method-for-architectural-research https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/Press-and-Testimonials Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:18:23 +0000 whatthetect https://cathryncopper.cargo.site/Press-and-Testimonials WHATTHETECT 04 Press and Testimonials 🎤&nbsp; &nbsp;Listen to my interview on The Library Leadership podcast now! <img width="6000" height="4000" width_o="6000" height_o="4000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/f3441e0bbeea52193934277700760ff471b758c208864a82dfacae4d69c79c2d/DSC01468.JPG" data-mid="235636527" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/f3441e0bbeea52193934277700760ff471b758c208864a82dfacae4d69c79c2d/DSC01468.JPG" /> Community for Belonging, John H. Daniels Faculty for Architeture Landscape and Design, Toronto, Canada, 2024. Testimonials Cathryn was invited to present on her research into startup culture and how it can inform library strategic planning as part of a staff retreat for my medium-sized academic library. She opened the day and shared many inspiring insights into how our work within libraries—often mired by conservative thinking and a fear of change—can be informed and reimagined by alignment with start-up culture and a willingness to experiment. Following Cathryn’s talk my team spent the afternoon planning for the year ahead and I can genuinely say echoes of Cathryn’s words were heard throughout their work. -James Roussain, University of St. Michael’s College Chief Librarian Cathryn challenged the group to think about incorporating experimentation in our libraries, to not be constrained by fear of failure, and to maximize the unique opportunities we have as smaller libraries within a large system. We finished the day by discussing opportunities among the three federated library teams to collaborate on some joint initiatives. Our library and archives staff were energized by this session and are looking forward to incorporating some new experiments and collaborations in our work this coming academic year. -Kate MacDonald, Librarian and Director of the John W. Graham Library &amp; Trinity College Archives Other Press and Interviews Herrick, Juarez, A. (Host) (October 15, 2024). Discussing the Experimental Library with Cathryn Copper. [Audio podcast episode]. Library Leadership Podcast. Retrieved from https://libraryleadershippodcast.com/162-discussing-the-experimental-library-with-cathryn-copper/ Hakala-Ausperk, C. (May/June 2024). The Experimental Library: A Guide to Taking Risks, Failing Forward, and Creating Change. Public Libraries Magazine, 63(3), 53-55. Hoyer, J. (Host) (March 30, 2024). The Experimental Library: A Guide to Taking Risks, Failing Forward, and Creating Change. [Audio podcast episode]. InNew Books in Library Science. New Books Network. Retrieved from https://newbooksnetwork.com/the-experimental-library American Libraries Association. (January/February 2024). Purpose and Productivity: How Leaders Can Empower their Team through Reskilling. American Libraries Magazine. Retrieved from https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/AL-0124v2.pdf Hays, L. (2023). Interview with Author: Cathryn Copper on the Experimental Library. Lucidea Station. Retrieved from https://lucidea.com/blog/interview-with-the-author-cathryn-copper-on-the-experimental-library/ Lotts, M. (2021). Experimentation Station. Advancing a Culture of Creativity in Libraries: Programming and Engagement. Chicago, IL: ALA Editions. SXSW EDU. (2020, January). SXSW EDU 2020 Programming Trends. Retrieved from https://www.sxswedu.com/news/2020/the-future-of-libraries-at-sxsw-edu-schedule-highlights/ SXSW EDU. (2019, November). SXSW EDU 2020 Programming Trends. Retrieved from https://www.sxswedu.com/news/2019/sxsw-edu-2020-programming-trends/