Collaboration is Key: Supporting Workforce and Economic Development

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

In 2017, the Erie County Public Library (ECPL) introduced an Idea Lab – a creative and collaborative space where people can develop their ideas, learn design skills, and spark their entrepreneurial spirit. The space is designed to bring community experts into the library to teach individuals interested in learning about starting a business, writing a grant, or learning new skills. Library staff members identified a gap in services and a need for entrepreneurial, job skills, and business-related classes within our community and actively collaborated with local organizations and individuals to offer high quality, expert-led classes. These classes are now offered on a regular basis and provide an accessible jumping off point for individuals interested in learning about starting a business, writing a grant, or learning new skills.