Building Connections: Community Engagement and Inclusion Trends in Cultural Institutions

Abstract

Libraries, archives and museums faced many challenges and found opportunities during and after the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lyrasis staff worked with external researchers to review the literature on trends in community engagement and inclusion from 2020-2023, held focus groups with members and field leaders, and surveyed its membership and cultural organizations on their work in building community ties during this difficult period. The results of this research provide the basis of this report. The report provides an opportunity for all types of institutions to learn about trends and see case studies related to work with their audiences and communities.