From cooperation to collaboration: Developing and implementing a research-based framework for information organizations

Information professionals are expected to engage in collaboration in developing and delivering programs and services, creating systems, and conducting research, as evidenced by attention to collaboration in various standards and guidelines. However, when assessed against a collaboration spectrum (Himmelman, Collaboration defined: A developmental continuum of change strategies, 2002) many existing collaborative projects lack the characteristics of an integrated partnership, meaning they may not be reaping the full benefits of collaboration, including ability to leverage each other's resources, expertise, and respective audiences. In this session, the presenters will share their Framework for Collaboration (Saunders & Corning, The Journal of Library Administration, 2020, 60), reviewing common barriers to collaboration and discussing approaches for overcoming those barriers. They will share best practices for meaningful collaboration, including identifying community needs and potential partners; aligning vision and goals; and implementing and managing a successful collaboration.