Improvisational Theater as a Tool for Enhancing Cooperation in Academic Libraries

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of improvisation and its potential role in fostering collaboration and teamwork in academic libraries. It explains basic principles of theatrical improvisation and discusses their practical value in organizational culture. The discussion draws from the literature of organizational improvisation to identify skills applicable to academic libraries and make recommendations for developing improvisational cultures within libraries. The author presented this paper at the 14th National Conference of the Association of College and Research Libraries in Seattle, Washington.