An everybody institution: Experimentation in the Los Angeles public library

A Capabilities-Based Look at Innovation Through Partnerships in the Los Angeles Public Library

At the Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL), experimentation is a core partnership capability that drives how the institution evolves to meet the growing needs of residents. 

An Everybody Institution: Experimentation in the Los Angeles Public Library is one of four case studies by former Bloomberg Public Innovation Fellow Tommi Laitio (2022-24) that detail the components of a partnership capabilities framework. This study examines how LAPL leaders, library branches, and service areas collectively pilot new programs and create lasting impact through a culture and structure of experimentation.

Experimentation is one of four interdependent capabilities—along with navigation, convening, and codification—that collectively equip institutions with the skills and practices for the partnerships needed to advance public innovation. Download the case study to learn how experimentation as a strategy drives innovation and builds organizational confidence for change.