Design with Community is a virtual, four-session learning series developed to build the capacity of library staff to co-design programs and services with their communities. Rooted in the principles of participatory design, the series introduces practical tools and methods that support authentic, community-led engagement. Participants will learn how to center community voices through techniques such as mind mapping, How Might We questions, developing design challenges, and prototyping.
Between sessions, participants will complete hands-on activities that reinforce key concepts and provide opportunities to apply what they’ve learned. These activities are designed to build both confidence and skill, enabling participants to make meaningful progress on a pilot project within their library setting. The program emphasizes experiential learning and will encourage participants to test ideas, reflect on process, and iterate with input from their communities. By the end of the series, participants will be equipped with foundational co-design skills and have a prototype project and clear plan for engaging their communities in co-design efforts.
Participants will be able to:
- Articulate core co-design principles central to developing library programs and services with communities
- Critically use tools and activities such as mind maps, “How Might We” questions, moodboards, and prototypes in co-design processes.
- Reflect on and adapt professional practice to advance justice and community-driven design
- Exhibit confidence and capacity to facilitate co-design initiatives with local communities and libraries.
Dates & Times: October 7, October 21, November 4, and November 18 from 12 pm – 2 pm ET. Registrants should plan to join all four sessions in the series.
Platform: Zoom
Cost: $150 for METRO members, $200 for Non-members
Registration is open to anyone, however, some spots are being held for individuals working at METRO member organizations. Certificates of attendance will be available to participants. Sessions will not be recorded.
About the Facilitators
Juan Rubio is a creative technologist with a background in education and design. His work spans a wide range of contexts—from designing and building learning experiences and curriculum for youth and adults to designing public programs that bring together ideas in design, art, and technology.
In 2025, Juan founded JR Learning Labs, a lab dedicated to designing, building, and implementing innovative experiences grounded in technology and design. His Learning Lab is leading projects for clients including the DC Public Library and cultural organizations including the Renton Arts Commission, and PPICPU, a youth organization in Honduras.
Linda W. Braun has over 30 years of experience as a project manager, strategic consultant, and learning designer specializing in library and community-based services. She has co-led co-design initiatives with institutions such as the Seattle Public Library, the California Library Association, the Pennsylvania State Library, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her work emphasizes relationship-building as a core strategy for successful project outcomes, especially in complex, community-centered initiatives. She is known for guiding multi-stakeholder teams through inclusive planning, implementation, and evaluation processes that center community voices.
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