Libraries That Impact Outline

This is a great primary activity in a team development program, as an icebreaker, or to introduce your library to the value of synergy. With video simulation, audio and powerful materials, we re-create the "survivor" type episode. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork to become an efficient group.

Situation Summary

It is approximately 10 a.m. in mid-August. Returning from a recent trip in a light, twin engine plane, you and your group are flying over the Sonora Desert in the southwestern United States. You notice that the immediate area is quite flat and, except for occasional barrel and saguaro cacti, appears to be rather barren. The last weather report indicated the temperature would reach 110 degrees that day. The pilot just indicated that you were approximately 70 miles from a mining camp, which is the nearest known habitation, when the plane begins to experience difficulty. The plane crash lands in the Sonora Desert, burning up and leaving only the air frame. Before the plane caught fire your group was able to salvage 15 items. You survived the crash, now you must survive the desert!

The Task

In the Desert Survival Situation, participants work individually and then as a team to rank order the survival importance of 15 salvaged items. This is a great exercise in leadership, as well as teamwork.

Time Needed:

This program is a 1 to 2 hour event, depending on the accompanying lecture, and follow up activity.