Call for Proposals: Communities of Practice Book Chapters Needed

Submitted by: Kay Strahan

Good Afternoon Colleagues!

We are coeditors for an upcoming book, Cultivating Collaboration: Communities of Practice in Librarianship, from Rowman and Littlefield Publishers. We are seeking chapter authors and would like to invite you to share your work in this area. 

Communities of practices play a crucial role in library science by providing a structured yet flexible approach for information professionals to share knowledge, solve problems, and develop innovative solutions. This book aims to explore the significance of these communities in addressing feelings of isolation within the profession, highlighting their potential to build supportive networks that contribute to personal and professional development. This text will examine practical strategies for establishing and nurturing communities of practice alongside real-world examples that illustrate their impact. By fostering connections and collaborative relationships, communities of practice not only enhance individual practice but also strengthen the resilience and adaptability of the profession as a whole.

Description

Each chapter should be no more than 15-20 double-spaced pages (case studies are expected to be no more than 5-10 double-spaced pages); Times New Roman, 12pt font; Citations in APA style. Authors are encouraged to include tables, graphs, case studies, images, and citations when appropriate.

Part I: What Are Communities of Practice?

We invite authors to contribute chapters that explore the concept of communities of practice within librarianship, focusing on the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications. Contributions should encompass a range of perspectives, including critical analyses that address the evolution of communities of practice, their diverse forms, and the benefits they bring to professional development and collaboration among librarians. Authors are encouraged to provide insight into how these communities enhance knowledge sharing, innovation, and support within the profession.

Preface: Contributor Confirmed

Chapter 1: Introduction to Communities of Practice in Librarianship

This chapter introduces the concept of communities of practice (CoPs) and their significance in librarianship, exploring various types and benefits. 

Chapter 2: Types and Formation of Communities of Practice

This chapter categorizes different types of CoPs in librarianship, including those based on identity, geography, and career stage, with case studies from health sciences and other library domains. 

Chapter 3: Building and Sustaining Communities of Practice 

Strategies for initiating, nurturing, and maintaining CoPs are discussed, focusing on leadership, inclusion, and engagement strategies.

Chapter 4: Challenges and Solutions in Community Building

Identification and discussion of common challenges faced by CoPs along with practical solutions and strategies for overcoming barriers.

Chapter 5: Integrating Communities of Practice into Professional Development

Practical guidelines on integrating CoPs into professional development frameworks for librarians to enhance career growth and community engagement. 

Part II: Case Studies

Tell us more about your experience and views in the first person. Expected length is shorter 5-10 pages per case study. Talk about their experiences creating, being a part of, sustaining, and sunsetting communities of practice from all walks of librarianship. What do you want someone reading this book to take away from it?

Part III: Looking Toward the Future of Librarianship

Final Chapter: The Future of Communities of Practice in Librarianship

Speculation on the evolution and potential trends of CoPs in librarianship, considering technological advancements and demographic shifts. 

Tentative Timeline

November 10, 2024 – January 10, 2025: Editors will identify potential authors and contact them for their interest.

January 12, 2025 – May 2025: Authors write their chapters. First draft due EOB (end of business) on June 4, 2025 EOB (end of business).

June 5, 2025 – September 30, 2025: Editors edit chapters. Goal is to get chapters back to authors by October 3, 2025 for final editing process

October 6, 2025 – December 12, 2025: Final edits between editors and authors due by EOB December 12, 2025.

If you’re interested in contributing to this work, please complete the Proposed Chapter Submission Form at by January 10, 2025.

We hope you will join us on this journey and share your stories, experiences, and wisdom for the book. 

Thank you in advance for considering this invitation!