To learn more about the value of the Innovative Users group, we spoke with both former chairman Wes Osborn (Executive Director of the Central Library Consortium) and his successor, Jeff Campbell (Head of Infrastructure Management Services and the University of North Carolina Libraries).
Their passion for this unique organization is palpable, rooted not only in its facilitation of communication with Innovative but in the myriad other benefits it offers to its members.
The Innovative Users Group was founded in 1991 as an international organization of member libraries who used the Innovative library software. It is an independent organization, with the mission to:
- Serve as a forum to influence the development and improvement of Innovative™, Part of Clarivate™, products for the benefit of IUG members.
- Foster and improve relationships and communication among members by maintaining an electronic forum and through other networking opportunities.
- Foster and improve relationships and communication between members and Innovative.
- Gather and disseminate information on the use of Innovative products among the users of the systems.
Networking and Inspiration: Fueling Growth and Innovation
One of the standout features of IUG highlighted by Wes and Jeff is the in-person annual conference, which offers unparalleled capacity for fostering networking and inspiration.
For Wes, who initially held reservations about the number of open forum sessions regularly featured in the conference schedule, these short, informal assemblies have proved to be a transformative space where discussions spark profound insights.
“It’s a place where public librarians, often hesitant to take center stage, can lead discussions that resonate deeply with peers,” Wes emphasized. This organic exchange of ideas is invaluable, often leading to unexpected collaborations and innovations.
The 2024 IUG Annual Conference was held May 25-27 in Detroit, MI with more than 400 IUG members and Innovative staff in attendance, including executive leadership, product experts, User Experience (UX) specialists, customer support and others.
Participants took advantage of the opportunity to share knowledge and expertise, learn from each other, collaborate and network, and come away inspired to deliver patron-centered library experiences for their communities.
Professional Development: Going Beyond Requirements
For academic librarian Jeff, fulfilling professional development requirements could be a checkbox exercise elsewhere.
However, his involvement in IUG goes beyond compliance; it’s a choice driven by a genuine desire to contribute and learn. “This is where I want to be to fulfill this requirement,” Jeff remarked, highlighting how IUG’s leadership roles and committee engagements offer substantial growth opportunities that align with personal and professional aspirations.
“Professionally, it’s the best organization I’ve ever been involved with,” Jeff affirmed. “The community here not only meets my professional development needs but also satisfies my desire for meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.”
Making an Impact: From Ideas to Implementation
Beyond personal growth, IUG members also relish the chance to influence the direction of Innovative’s solutions through initiatives like the Member-Exclusive Enhancements Process (MEEP).
This structured approach allows members to propose and vote on enhancements, ensuring that user needs directly shape product development.
“Seeing changes implemented can inspire people to actively participate,” Wes noted, emphasizing how these tangible outcomes reinforce commitment and enthusiasm within the community.
Embracing Diversity and Collaboration
A hallmark of IUG is its inclusivity, bridging gaps between different library types and operational focuses. Jeff highlighted the enriching exchange between public and academic libraries, where insights on electronic resources management from one sector complement customer service excellence from another.
This diversity of voices not only broadens perspectives but also accelerates innovation across the board.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As library staff face growing demands, IUG reminds members that they are here to help. Despite significant changes post-COVID, IUG has found new ways uphold its values of community, collaboration, and innovation.
Effective communication of both tangible benefits and intangible rewards will be crucial in sustaining engagement and relevance in a dynamic library environment.
Get Involved
While the annual IUG conference is an incredible opportunity to meet, collaborate, and celebrate in person, the real work of the Innovative community happens all year round. Here are some of the ways to keep up the momentum from this successful event:
- Monthly virtual discussion: The IUG holds a monthly virtual discussion group with a different topic each month. Topics range from Sierra™ cataloging to Polaris™ Technical Services to library marketing tips. It’s a great way to get connected and learn from other Innovative libraries.
- Online user forums: The IUG hosts independent online forums where users can submit questions and get answers from other libraries. For example, two of the most viewed posts are a custom Polaris database query and a post on how to use with Sierra SIP2 self-check machines. This is a great place to consult other users.
- Product Enhancements: The Idea Exchange is a platform where any Innovative user can submit enhancement ideas for Innovative products. IUG Members can also get involved with the Member Exclusive Enhancement Process (MEEP).
- Free Newsletter: IUG has a free monthly newsletter available to everyone. You can sign-up on their website using this link: https://innovativeusers.org/newsletter
- IUG Conference Presentations: The IUG posts all user presentations from the conference on their membership website. Even if you didn’t attend the conference in person, you can still benefit from the great presentations and best practices shared at the conference.
IUG 2025 Conference will be held March 13-15 (pre-conference sessions held March 12), 2025 in Denver, Colorado. Registration is open now.
Interested in learning more or getting involved? Check out the Innovative Users Group website.