“Kindness was demonstrated in many different ways as we studied the space and the people who use it. It was seen in people’s descriptions of feeling cared for, and caring for others. Small things, such as being welcomed into a space or being offered a cup of tea, could have a big impact and foster a sense of community”.
To end the year, we are proud to share an independent report, based on a major research and consultation project about and at Glasgow Women’s Library.
Transformative Servicescapes and Consumer Vulnerability (2020-2022) (view the full report here) was a two-year project funded by The Leverhulme Trust and based at the University of Strathclyde, with GWL as the case study.
The project explored the role of physical space in contributing towards positive transformative experiences for those who make use of its resources. The project expanded on this theme to gain an in-depth understanding of many other aspects of the organisation, from organisational culture to partnership working. The project looked particularly at how spaces have the capacity to transform the lives of those experiencing vulnerability.
“Embedding creativity within the culture of an organisation can help generate ideas and encourage different ways of thinking and working. In recognizing that a creative mindset is open to all, enabling people to work together can benefit well-being. Opportunities for expression through art can help break down barriers, lead to meaningful conversations, and build relationships”.
The researchers hope that their findings can be useful for other organisations working with people who experience vulnerability and their findings highlight that small actions can have hugely positive impact on people. Unlike many academic reports, this one is deliberately accessible and easy to read and full of uplifting quotes, illustrations, and colourful riso prints* created by volunteers, staff and learners as part of the research. We hope you enjoy reading it as much as we have.
View the report here.
We hope to see you in 2023 when you can come and experience kindness and creativity at GWL for yourself. Visit us any time during our opening hours, pop in to a Warm Welcome Saturday (1st Saturday of the month, 12pm to 4pm), or join us for the launch of the next programme (February to May 2023) on Thursday 2nd February, 3pm to 5pm (more information here).
*Some of the risos have been reproduced as greeting cards and be purchased online or in person at GWL.
