Abstract
<jats:p>This article analyzes a model of interdepartmental and interinstitutional collaboration implemented by the Yekaterinburg Municipal Library Association in partnership with the education system (schools, a teacher training college, and a creative industries university). Using the example of a cultural and educational project (2024–2026), it demonstrates how a public library is transforming into an integrator of continuous project-based education—from primary school to vocational training. The relevance of the study stems from the need to bridge the gap between the competencies developed in schools and the current needs of the professional community in the creative industries.</jats:p> <jats:p>The theoretical and methodological framework is based on systems and activity-based approaches, allowing us to view the partnership between these institutions as a holistic ecosystem. The empirical portion of the study is based on an analysis of regulatory, reporting, and analytical documentation, open source data, and relevant scientific publications. A combination of methods was used, including content analysis, case studies, comparative analysis, and theoretical generalization. The article consistently explores the key elements of the model: a mechanism for identifying social needs through dialogue with the teaching community, a multi-level structure of project activities that ensures continuity at different stages of education, and the building of partnerships with secondary and higher vocational education institutions.</jats:p> <jats:p>Particular attention is paid to the horizontal interaction between teachers and librarians, as well as the role of the university as a resource center for career guidance and methodological support. The presented empirical data demonstrate the effectiveness of the model in developing project-based competencies, career guidance, and the institutional transformation of libraries. Typical barriers to interdepartmental cooperation are identified and ways to overcome them are proposed. The conditions necessary for scaling the model in other municipalities are formulated.</jats:p> <jats:p>The practical significance of the work lies in the potential use of the presented solutions in developing programs for integrating libraries into supplementary education and career guidance. The presented model can serve as a tool for developing human potential in the creative industries.</jats:p>