CCLI 2024 - Play & Playfulness in Library Instruction

In the environment of academic libraries, where there is pressure to be more standardized and efficient, we look for ways to engage and center students while being inclusive and equitable. How can we prepare students to think critically (about such topics as bans on books and critical race theory, anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, reproductive rights, and voting restriction/democracy) with information literacy instruction?

Embracing play and playfulness in instruction is one strategy for building capacity in order to grapple with weighty topics. The act of play can make it possible to gain distance from reality in order to think past the constraints of life, and instead adapt to a task with curiosity and fresh perspective. Incorporating play simply for the sake of engagement is also worthwhile. Real world examples of playfulness as tied to social movements abound, such as with Teatro Campesino's work within the UFW farm workers movement, role playing in bystander training, ‘zines and DIY/punk rock efforts, and more.

Attendees will learn about ways of incorporating play and games into library instruction while also engaging students critically.

Host or Publisher California Conference on Library Instruction