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D. What if libraries were like Zipcar?
1. With Zipcar, people in a neighborhood are sharing a group of cars.
Libraries could make it possible for users to share items that are checked out (opt in to protect privacy).
2. When you are a member of Zipcar, you can use that membership in multiple cities automatically. (via your Zipcard)
Libraries could make arrangements for users to use the libraries of a worldwide network of libraries (rather than local networks such as the Boston Library Consortium). This would span a much larger geographic area, depending on where in the world MIT students and faculty are working.
3. Zipcar makes it easy to see which cars are available in which neighborhoods at a specific time.
Libraries could have a way to reserve equipment or space in various neighborhoods around the world at specific times that are bookable online.
4. Zipcar sends a text message alert to remind you when the car is due back and to let you know if it's free after your alloted time, so you can easily extend the reservation.
Libraries could send text message to remind people when items are due, or when reserved equipment or space is needed by others.
5. Zipcar has covers the gasoline and insurance for users (it's rolled into the cost). This creates convenience and delights the users.
Libraries could cover the cost of lost or damaged items, or have some sort of fee that covers this that's rolled into the cost of doing business. This would make users lives easier and delight them.
6. Zipcar has social events and gatherings for zipcar members to meet in person.
Libraries could organize more social events and meetups in order for users to meet in person (with librarians and each other).
7. Zipcar has a fun, quirky feeling to it, seen in all their communications.
Libraries could emphasize the fun and quirky (which is a long tradition at MIT).
Other thoughts:
- Credit cards have rewards programs with points.
What if libraries had point systems to reward good behavior. Contributing reviews to the system could be a way to build up points that could be redeemed for books or other rewards. In effect, we are paying users to contribute reviews to the system. Some users would become like Ebay power users.
Exercises were inspired by the book: Thinkertoys