Promoting transformative encounters in libraries and archives

Purpose In several existing studies of Information Encountering (IE), a recurring sub-phenomenon serendipity arises that indicates the potential for certain unexpected encounters with information to be transformative. The author labels this Transformative (TIE), deriving its definition from an application Education (TE) theory understandings IE. This paper aims discuss librarians and archivists promote TIE through everyday practices. Design/methodology/approach After defining identifying in IE, article will put models IE conversation theories TE propose ways which may arise work archivists. Findings theory, there are three phases process critical premise reflection especially relevant libraries archives. These disorienting dilemma (phase 1); recognition transformation is shared 4); acquiring knowledge skills 7). Each these aligns aspects models. Practical implications Understanding how might inform Library Science (LIS) increase positive impact cultural institutions have on communities they serve. Originality/value While suggested existence as sub-phenomenon, none thus far attempted define it or apply understanding LIS work.