The term ‘Participatory libraries’ was originally used in the mid-2000s to describe an operational concept frequently associated with Library 2.0. This concept suggested an inter-dependent relationship with library users and information technology where patrons actively contributed to the library by interacting with the library’s tech or digital networks, such as by adding comments to blogs, reviewing collections, etc. In the last decade, libraries across all sectors have evolved rapidly with changing technologies, as well as social and economic changes. Specifically, many have had to dramatically develop their digital spaces and capabilities to stay open and accessible during the recent Covid-19 pandemic. In many ways, Library 2.0 and ‘participatory libraries’ have organically, and perhaps unintentionally, grown to become the default expectation of library institutions. But just as libraries have changed and developed over the years, so too has the participatory library evolved beyond its original concept. 

Although public and academic libraries have had to adjust in similar ways for similar reasons, the two sectors have diverged at the point of service and how they view their users. Academic libraries have typically opted for structured educational programs that reflect their parent institution, whereas public libraries have branched out towards more experimental interactive programs. Many academic libraries have adopted a user-centric service model to fit the needs of its users. However, in doing so the library user is situated as an outside entity separate from the library, who must seek out the library to fulfil a specific need. 

Participatory libraries are similar to user-centric models in that the library adapts with its users. However, unlike user-centric models the users are not externalised. Any person that has any form of connection to the library, whether they be faculty, students, community members or stakeholders, are actively considered as internal components that exist within the library. By belonging within the library, the new ‘library user’ can actively and consciously affect, engage and contribute to the library’s culture, space and services. This suggests that users are not external factors that require a service but are active agents within a living library ecosystem. 

As we begin to see more elements of participatory culture make its way into academic libraries, the perception of participation as the exclusive domain of public libraries begins to break down and leaves us with the question: what could this mean for the future of academic libraries? With this question in mind, this presentation looks at some examples of participatory initiatives currently offered in Australian university libraries, and how their success is shaping the next generation of academic libraries and library operating models. As we explore these topics, we will address and challenge preconceived perceptions and attitudes towards participatory design in academic library contexts.