PI26: 90 Seconds with Masud Khokhar

Masud Khokhar introduces the 2026 ARIRL President's Institute taking place in Chicago, framing the central theme around the critical challenge of sustaining innovation within libraries. While libraries have historically been leaders in adopting new technologies and methods, maintaining that momentum over time remains a significant hurdle. Drawing on experience from the University of Leeds in the UK and various growth library partnerships, Khokhar presents a developed model focused on collaboration, sustainability, and thoughtful continuous improvement. This approach is designed to help organizations not only achieve innovation but also ensure it endures through practical strategies that attendees can immediately apply to their own teams and institutions. Khokhar emphasizes that meaningful change and lasting innovation do not rely solely on large-scale programs or isolated initiatives; instead, they are deeply rooted in shifting mindsets and fostering cultural transformation. He argues that a successful library environment must cultivate a culture where individuals learn to think slowly while acting quickly, creating the necessary conditions for breakthrough ideas to flourish. By prioritizing these internal shifts, libraries can build robust partnerships and collaborations that serve as the foundation for enduring innovation, moving beyond temporary fixes to create a resilient ecosystem of growth and adaptation. The core message of his presentation is an invitation to explore exciting solutions that unlock sustainable innovation through a holistic approach to organizational behavior. Rather than viewing technology adoption as a one-time event, Khokhar suggests that the true measure of success lies in embedding a mindset of continuous improvement into the daily fabric of library operations. This involves encouraging staff to embrace change, question established norms, and actively seek ways to enhance services through collaborative efforts. The ultimate goal is to transform how libraries operate by ensuring that innovation becomes a self-sustaining process driven by cultural values rather than just external mandates or funding cycles. In conclusion, the 2026 institute aims to bring together leaders from across the library sector to collectively address the question of how to keep innovation alive and thriving in an evolving landscape. Khokhar promises to share numerous practical insights that will empower attendees to take actionable steps back to their organizations, fostering environments where thoughtful collaboration leads to lasting results. By focusing on the intersection of mindset, culture, and strategic partnership, libraries can overcome the challenge of sustaining their innovative edge and continue to serve as vital hubs for knowledge and progress in the future.