The LibrarIN project has made significant progress in understanding value co-creation in libraries through the latest deliverable, D2.2 Conceptual Framework and Model of Participatory Management and Sustainable Growth v2.0. Developed by a multidisciplinary team, this report consolidates theoretical advances and demonstrates their applicability in studying library innovation.
In its second year, LibrarIN has produced a conceptual framework identifying drivers and enabling factors of value co-creation in libraries. Addressing challenges such as scarce funding, legal obligations, societal detachment, and service transformation, the framework integrates two key theoretical foundations:
- Kelvin Lancaster’s Theory of Consumer Demand – Defines service characteristics consumed by end users.
- Service-Dominant Logic – Emphasizes experiential value creation from individual perspectives.
Building on these foundations, a multi-agent framework was developed, considering the roles of users, librarians, and policymakers within the library innovation ecosystem. It maps direct and indirect interactions, offering insights into service innovation across various library types, including reading, lifelong learning, community engagement, health, creativity, and financial services.
LibrarIN’s findings have influenced multiple work packages:
- Policy and Collaboration – Contributed to the first LibrarIN Policy Brief on tackling 21st-century library challenges.
- Use Case Design – Provided a structured approach for WP5.
- Case Studies and Surveys – Supported WP3’s case study designs and WP4’s surveys on national, academic, and municipal libraries.
These advancements have also resulted in published research, including a paper in Research Policy, reinforcing LibrarIN’s role in shaping the future of library services. With all objectives met for Year 2, the project continues to drive impactful research and collaboration.