Northeast Ohio Regional Library System

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Mastering Uncomfortable Conversations with Employees, Co-Workers, and Bosses
1/1/2016

Learn ways to deal with recalcitrant employees, manipulative co-workers, and bullying bosses.
If you knew what to say and do, and how to say and do it, you would be more likely to take effective action. Learn how the experts deal with the every day chaos of a library and what works, most of the time, with most people, in most situations.

Presenter:

Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.






Mastering Uncomfortable Conversations with Library Visitors
1/1/2016

Your job is to enforce a rule, protect property, and create a safe place for people who come to work and play. If you knew what to say and do, and how to say and do it, you would be more likely to take effective action. Learn how the experts deal with the every day chaos of a library and what works, most of the time, with most people, in most situations.

Presenter:

Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.






What is your BODY Saying: Interpreting Body Language of Patrons and Staff
1/1/2016

  • ​How to demonstrate confidence and approachability with staff and patrons.
  • How to present yourself.

  • Ways to exude confidence.

  • What NOT to do in certain situations.

Presenter: Holly Klingler

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.






Now We're Talkin: Multilingualism at the Library
1/12/2017

What lingual gems might your staff and community be hoarding?  Learn how the Westerville Public Library has engage their staff and community to reach non-native English speakers with name badges, grants, and community partners.


 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Best Foot Forward: Using Body Language to Strengthen Your Professional Interactions
7/26/2017

What does a skillful interviewer, a memorable presenter, a motivating team facilitator and a strong negotiator all have in common?  They understand and use body language effectively!
 
Body language is an essential ingredient to create and enhance professional interactions. From how we impact others in our presentations or analyze candidates in the interviewing process to the effectiveness of our team facilitations and the persuasive abilities of our negotiations, understanding body language can help us both decipher and even influence those with whom we communicate.  By learning body language, we can read others more skillfully and utilize our own body language so that we can project the message we desire.  
 
In this program, you will learn:
  • How to use and interpret body language productively in a variety of environments
  • How to project confidence and expertise as a presenter while still remaining approachable
  • Ways to foster comradery, positivity and synergy in your team through non-verbals
  • How to better analyze prospective candidates skillfully as a perceptive interviewer
  • Ways you can interpret and utilize body language in order to have a productive meeting and even help push a negotiation your way

Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






ALAO/SWON Innovation Conversation: What We (don't) Talk About When We Talk About Diversity
1/24/2018

ALA lists “diversity” as one of its 11 core values. Lately, the rhetoric around “diversity” has expanded to include the terms “inclusion” and “equity.” Typically, when we use the word “diversity” we refer to specific categories of identity: race, gender, ability, and sexual orientation, to name a few. As colleges and universities engage in more diversity initiatives, how is the conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion taking shape? What do we mean when we talk about diversity in academic libraries? What is left unsaid when these conversations take place? Focusing on race, this session will challenge attendees to unpack, rethink and reframe the diversity conversation. 

ALAO Members, to attend this webinar for free, you must register via the ALAO Website at alaoweb.org/eventsI
 
When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 
Location: Online
You will be sent a link to login to the






Highly Effective Meetings
3/14/2018

Meetings are important to organizations although many times we feel that nothing is accomplished and we have wasted our time.  This webinar will focus on how to run an effective meeting by covering the following topics:
 

  • How to prepare

  • Who to invite

  • Creating an Agenda

  • The Meeting Setup

  • Dealing with Problem Personalities in a Meeting

  • The Value of Disagreement

  • The Importance of Action Steps and Minutes

Presenter:  Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS


When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Understanding the Myers Briggs Type Indicator for You and Your Library
4/11/2018

The Myers Briggs Type Indicator assessment is one of the most popular and well-known personality tests today, taken by 80% of Fortune 500 companies and 89% of Fortune 100 companies according to the CPP. There has recently been a lot of buzz, both positive and negative, surrounding the assessment, but it continues to be a highly demanded test to be taken by professionals. What is the Myers Briggs Type Indicator assessment? How can it help you work more effectively as a colleague, manager or customer service representative?

In this webinar, you will:              
  • Learn about what the Myers Briggs Type Indicator measures and how it is related to your personality preferences

  • Understand how you can utilize the information in your work dynamics and effectiveness, from problem-solving to communication to leadership development

  • Be provided with practical strategies for working more productively with others of different and diverse personality preferences

Presenter:  Holly Klingler,  Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
She helps people learn to use and love technology. She is also a certified Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) Facilitator, coaching others on how to understand their preferences and type, how to work and lead others with a variety of different personality traits and capitalize on each other’s strengths and talents, and ways to utilize these strengths to build a strong, dynamic and productive team.
 
When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Beyond Rosetta Stone: How Libraries Can Support English Language Learners
11/28/2018

Providing Library access to English Language Learners (ELL) can be much more than developing your foreign language and ESL collections.  Those learning English can have more pressing information needs and all staff can play a part in creating a welcoming environment.  Keep ESL patrons coming back (hint, it’s not just the free services but the new connections and relationships they make at the Library) and provide programming opportunities for the entire community to engage.

Learning objectives:
  • How to effectively welcome the ELL community into the Library using best practices in outreach

  • How to engage ELL patrons with staff encounters, signage, relevant programming, collections and volunteerism

  • Learn about grant funding and potential community partnerships

Presenter:

Ginger Hofstetter developed a variety of impactful and innovative Spanish language programs as Spanish Language Outreach and Programming Coordinator during her time at Perry Public Library and Ashtabula County District Library and translated Guiding Ohio Online’s technology training materials into Spanish for the State Library of Ohio.  Her most recent projects are ELL Guide and Residential Houseparent for international boarding students at Hershey Montessori Farm School and as a freelancer providing individual casework for English Language Learners.  Ginger studied Humanities at a Mexican university and has conducted business internationally.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 






Learning does not end in the classroom: Workbooks for self-directed learning about equity, diversity and inclusion
4/23/2020

While classroom training has an important place in library staff education, learning is extended and reinforced when staff have the opportunity to work through difficult topics outside of the classroom. In order to support staff learning about issues of equity, diversity and inclusion, Multnomah County Library has developed a “Racially Just” toolkit, containing activities staff can use to learn on their own, with colleagues or in their staff groups. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Recognize some of the indications that an organization is ready to support staff with self-paced learning about EDI 

  • Describe the process staff at Multnomah County Library undertook to develop self-paced learning about EDI, and how you might modify that process in your own organization

  •  Access resources to help with your own EDI training efforts

Presenter:
 
Amy Honisett has been working in libraries for ten years. Her work has focused on education and training, as well as supporting health and digital literacy awareness. She is currently the Learning and Development Specialist at Multnomah County Library, where she enjoys supporting her colleagues’ professional development. Amy has an MA in English Literature from Portland State University and an MSLIS from Drexel University. 


When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.

 
Location: Online via Adobe Connect






Customer Service on the Telephone and by Email
6/3/2020

Communicating with a customer on the phone or via email can sometimes be a difficult task. Without seeing an individual’s body language, messages can lose clarity and meanings easily misinterpreted. And when clarity and understanding are lost, the communication can be frustrating for both the customer and the employee.

This interactive and informative webinar will explore best practices in creating positive experiences with customers on the phone and via email. Attendees will learn techniques for redirecting conversations that are off point, going nowhere fast and to help diffuse situations that are becoming, angry, hostile and threatening.

Learning Objectives:

  • The Do’s and Don’ts of effective email communication

  • The 3 phrases customers want to hear in a phone conversation to help them feel valued and appreciated

  • 5 things to remember and practice when talking with a customer on the phone

Presenter:  

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for libraries and library organizations for more than twenty-five years. He has presented Web-based, On-line, and Face-to-Face sessions on Management and Leadership, Customer Service and Communication Skills in the U.S. and numerous countries around the world.

He is the chairman of the board of the Haywood County Public Library and a monthly donor to EveryLibrary, advocating for libraries everywhere that support is needed.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.


Location: Online via Adobe Connect






Communication Strategies: Working With the Deaf Community
7/16/2020

It is increasingly important to make certain we are able to communicate effectively with everyone in our communities.  The Deaf community faces new communication barriers as the presence of face masks at work and in public becomes the new norm.   Join Bill Morgan, Artistic Manager, SignStage, for an overview of Deaf culture and  the opportunity to learn common ASL (American Sign Language) signs used in a library setting.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Learn about Deaf Culture

  • Learn common ASL signs for Libraries

Presenter:

William (Bill) Morgan is the Artistic Manager at CHSC (The Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center) where he controls the day to day activities of SignStage, a Deaf awareness program within the Community Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing department.  In Oct. 2013, Bill received an award from the Mayor of Cleveland for his “Creativity in Promoting Awareness of Deaf Culture”.  Bill also has several years experience producing and implementing school residencies that integrate theatre arts programming with American Sign Language and the State of Ohio Standards for the Arts.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Making the Shift: Increasing Staff Engagement & Reducing Drama
8/4/2020

Wouldn't it be great to be getting things done quicker and with less drama?  Prior to the session, participants are encouraged to identify a situation which they would
like to improve in their facility as we will be completing a worksheet to apply the principles learned.

Learning Objectives:
  • Increase leader effectiveness
  • Improve staff engagement
  • Advance operational effectiveness
Presenter:

Joe Pannitto is a Trainer, Speaker and Coach. He is a Certified Instructor in the 3 Vital Questions / TED* (The Empowerment Dynamic). He collaborates with non-profit organizations in the area of staff development, executive coaching and strategic planning. In addition, he works with individuals interested in personal development and addiction recovery.  He is a member of the International Coach Federation, Cleveland Chapter and Toastmasters International.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Making the Shift: Increasing Staff Engagement & Reducing Drama
8/4/2020

Wouldn't it be great to be getting things done quicker and with less drama?  Prior to the session, participants are encouraged to identify a situation which they would
like to improve in their facility as we will be completing a worksheet to apply the principles learned.

Learning Objectives:
  • Increase leader effectiveness

  • Improve staff engagement

  • Advance operational effectiveness

Presenter:

Joe Pannitto is a Trainer, Speaker and Coach. He is a Certified Instructor in the 3 Vital Questions / TED* (The Empowerment Dynamic). He collaborates with non-profit organizations in the area of staff development, executive coaching and strategic planning. In addition, he works with individuals interested in personal development and addiction recovery.  He is a member of the International Coach Federation, Cleveland Chapter and Toastmasters International.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online via Zoom






Ditch the Drama: Strategies for Peak Performance: More Peace, Less Drama
8/20/2020

We are living and working in dramatic and demanding times. A lot of focus and energy are dissipated on drama instead of productive, proactive work. This workshop focuses on changing your mindset and behavior in ways that help you find happiness and success regardless of your circumstances.  In addition, you will learn how to deal  with negativity, complaints, and gossip as well as learning tools to coach others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Take personal responsibility for your happiness and success
  • Diffuse drama
  • Learn positive ways to deal with negativity at work

Presenter:  
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Marti holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The University of Steubenville and a Master’s of Education Degree from Kent State University.  She is an annual presenter for executive leadership programs such as the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio and the Executive Education Program at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 313 spots remaining out of 450





Ditch the Drama: Strategies for Peak Performance: More Peace, Less Drama
8/20/2020

We are living and working in dramatic and demanding times. A lot of focus and energy are dissipated on drama instead of productive, proactive work. This workshop focuses on changing your mindset and behavior in ways that help you find happiness and success regardless of your circumstances.  In addition, you will learn how to deal  with negativity, complaints, and gossip as well as learning tools to coach others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Take personal responsibility for your happiness and success
  • Diffuse drama
  • Learn positive ways to deal with negativity at work

Presenter:  
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Marti holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The University of Steubenville and a Master’s of Education Degree from Kent State University.  She is an annual presenter for executive leadership programs such as the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio and the Executive Education Program at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.


 
Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 361 spots remaining out of 450





Whose Lives Matter?
10/1/2020

Join us for an interactive dialogue on race relations in the United States.  This 2-hour conversation will explore the benefits of diversity in the workplace and provide for confidential small group discussion of the Black Lives Matter/All Lives Matter debate. 
Learning Objectives:
  • Explore the meaning and benefits of diversity in the workplace.
  • Discuss the intent of both Black Lives Matter/All Lives Matter proponents.
  • Brainstorm ways to bridge the divide between the two groups.
Presenters:  
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.


Brittney C. Howard is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). She joined the agency in March of 2018 and currently serves in the Cleveland, Ohio field office. In this role, Ms. Howard aids in the resolution of labor and management disputes by providing collective bargaining mediation and grievance mediation services. Ms. Howard also provides training tailored to parties’ needs and covering a variety of labor and management topics, including labor/management committees, contract administration, grievance processing, steward/supervisor relationship building, interest-based problem solving, and consensus decision making.  Ms. Howard is a licensed attorney in the State of Ohio. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ohio University and obtained her Juris Doctorate from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law (Cleveland State University).
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 6 spots remaining out of 40





How To Be An Effective Anti-Racist
12/8/2020

When engaging in conversations around race and racism in our society, a common point that is made is “I don’t see color” or “I treat everyone the same.”  However, we know that “not seeing color” means ignoring an important part of a person’s identity.  This session will introduce the topic of anti-racism and discuss some strategies to effectively engage in anti-racism. 

Topics will include:
 
  • Racial Identity Development
  • History and Impact of Segregation
  • Hierarchy, Power, and Passivism
  • Anti-Racist Resources
  • Anti-Racism In Action
Presenter:

Caitlin Hawkins, Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
As a community social worker, Caitlin is passionate about creative, authentic engagement in workplaces and communities. Her educational and professional experiences in community development and higher education lead her to the understanding that relationships matter, and that relationships with people who are different from ourselves provide opportunities for immense growth and collaboration, as long as we know how to harness those connections.  At The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, she works alongside businesses and organizations through every step of the consulting process and engages staff in customized workshops around the topics of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Caitlin works with the express intention of facilitating the growth of inclusive and equitable workplaces.


Location: Online via Zoom







How to Improve Your Workplace When You are Not the Boss
1/25/2021 - 1/29/2021

It’s not enough to criticize and complain if you want to make your workplace better, particularly when you don’t have power or authority. Also, being right about the technical details of the problem and possible solutions is usually not enough either. You can improve your situation by building better workplace relationships, learning to navigate the political maze of your workplace, and ensuring your own behavior is beyond reproach.

Learning Objectives:
  • Build status through accomplishment and good workplace relationships
  • Identify first steps for making successful change
  • Create a support team of mentors and like-minded change agents

Presenter:

Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.

 

 









Patience! Patience!
1/25/2021 - 1/29/2021

Considering it takes just 2.45 seconds to load a typical web page and just a few more than that to send a text, it’s not surprising that anything in the range of 10 seconds has us huffing and puffing about why it’s taking so long. Google has even found that a web page on a mobile device takes a “jarring” 7 seconds to load – gasp!
 
Add to that the many other things that might be testing your patience (running late, boredom, doing too many things, health issues, relationship irritants, and any number of life’s other stressors – such as a pandemic!), and it shouldn’t really surprise you that it’s a rare person who moves through each day in a warm, fuzzy blanket of patience.
 
Constant impatience, though, can cause other issues for you. Allowing your impatience to reign supreme, you can damage relationships, make poor decisions, say things you regret, DO things you regret, contribute to your own health problems, and the list goes on. I think you’ll agree that those are all pretty good reasons to develop our patience!  

Learning Objectives:
  • You will learn to develop an awareness of your own impatience
  • You will learn tips on how to increase your level of patience – and your happiness

Presenter:
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between!  Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions.  She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.






 







We Need to Talk: A Step by Step Guide to Difficult Conversations
1/25/2021 - 1/29/2021

This highly interactive webinar will give participants the tools for having difficult conversations that achieve results. Participants will learn, and practice, a step by step process for managing difficult conversations about a variety of workplace issues. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Discuss the sources and costs of workplace conflict
  • Understand the neuroscience behind difficult conversations
  • Learn steps for successful difficult conversations
  • Practice difficult conversation scenarios
Presenter:  
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.


 






Professional Writing Online Workshop Series
3/2/2021 - 5/18/2021

Have you been asked to write basic correspondence, a short article for a newsletter or the newspaper, a grant application or any variety of other things, only to feel that your writing wasn't quite what was needed?  Excellent writing skills are imperative for effective communication internally and externally and many of us could use some personalized feedback in order to improve the quality of our writing.  If you would like to increase your ability to write better, please join us for this 8 week, online writing workshop focused specifically on actual writing tasks that you may have encountered in your current library job and will continue to encounter throughout your career.  In addition to interactive lectures and assignments with personalized and direct feedback, supplemental resources for further information on each topic will be offered.  

This online workshop will meet every Tuesday from March 2 - March 23 for 1 hour and every other Tuesday beginning April 13 - May 11 for one hour, with peer to peer interaction or student-instructor interaction in the off weeks.  The online workshop will be limited to 15 participants in order to ensure an optimal learning environment.

Learning Objectives:
  • Practice grammar skills and increase ability to self-edit
  • Improve writing clarity through word choice and placement
  • Understand and execute best practices for writing emails in a professional environment
  • Produce formal written documents, such as letters, newsletters, instructions, and directions
  • Practice techniques to deepen audience engagement through advertising and document design
Presenter:

Alexis Vaughan, has an MA in English from Cleveland State University and has been an Adjunct Instructor at Bryant & Stratton College for the past eleven years where she teaches English, Communications, Information Technology and Internship courses.  In addition, Ms. Vaughan has been an Instructor with the Berlitz Corporation for the past two years, tutoring individual students from overseas looking to improve their spoken and written business English.  Ms. Vaughan was named the Adjunct Faculty Member of the Year for 2015 and is a highly accomplished professional with classroom based and virtual instruction.  She is an expert problem solver able to devise creative solutions to help learners reach their goals and has consistently received the highest possible evaluation rating during classroom observation.
Location: Online via Zoom


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



Bystander Intervention in the Library
3/3/2021

We have all likely been a bystander, seeing a situation where someone is acting inappropriately with another person, and we didn't know what to do or how to help make a difference. In this session you will be transported to the "bystander zone" and learn how to safely intervene as a bystander to help defuse a situation and still provide a level of service beyond any other.

Learning Objectives:
  • List the 5 decision-making steps and the 5 Ds of intervention
  • Apply the ways to take action in order to intervene in a situation
  • Implement the practice of intervention to impact the social environment around you
Presenter:

Donna Seaton has over 30 years working at EVPL public library system, first as a customer services representative, then as a supervisor for 20 years and for the last 8 years the system wide training specialist. Donna develops and conducts training for both new and existing employees and conducts On-Boarding for all EVPL staff. Donna has conducted the Bystander Intervention presentation for many library conferences and library systems.   Donna loves the library, reading, traveling and spending time with her husband, family and friends.
Location: Online via Zoom






Bystander Intervention in the Library
3/3/2021







We have all likely been a bystander, seeing a situation where someone is acting inappropriately with another person, and we didn't know what to do or how to help make a difference. In this session you will be transported to the "bystander zone" and learn how to safely intervene as a bystander to help defuse a situation and still provide a level of service beyond any other.

Learning Objectives:
  • List the 5 decision-making steps and the 5 Ds of intervention
  • Apply the ways to take action in order to intervene in a situation
  • Implement the practice of intervention to impact the social environment around you
Presenter:

Donna Seaton has over 30 years working at EVPL public library system, first as a customer services representative, then as a supervisor for 20 years and for the last 8 years the system wide training specialist. Donna develops and conducts training for both new and existing employees and conducts On-Boarding for all EVPL staff. Donna has conducted the Bystander Intervention presentation for many library conferences and library systems.   Donna loves the library, reading, traveling and spending time with her husband, family and friends.
Location: Online via Zoom






Single Story Bias
3/9/2021

We are aware of the ways in which we can most effectively serve diverse clients, but we aren’t always aware of the ways in which our unconscious biases can interfere. This program explores the “Single Story” bias and how it can negatively impact our interactions with others, especially when the bias is operating outside of our awareness.  Single stories are single accounts or stereotypes that we hold about others, based on the social group we assume that they belong to.  This workshop will explore this concept through interactive activities and discussions.  

This is an introductory webinar.

Presenter:

Jeff Modzelewski, Senior Engagement Manager, SHIFT Consulting, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
As a member of The Diversity Center, Jeff leverages his unique experience to bridge the gap between the non-profit and corporate world.  With both community organizing and sales experience, Jeff is able to effectively listen to the concerns of potential clients and help them execute the best Diversity and Inclusion solutions for their organization.  Jeff is passionate about making workplaces and communities more inclusive and equitable spaces, and is thrilled to have the opportunity to live out his values as a part of SHIFT Consulting.

 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 51 spots remaining out of 100





Introduction to Coded Language
3/24/2021

Language and communication can be explicit and implicit; it is a component of culture that is coded with meanings, attitudes, beliefs and power dynamics. These codes are pervasive and have impacts on relational and structural outcomes. Over time, our language and its meanings become layered and can therefore function in different spaces in different ways and for different purposes. In other words, meanings of words and their implications change over time.
 
In this hour-long introduction to the concept of coded language, participants examine the definition, history, and implications of coded language (also called dog-whistles). Participants will increase their awareness around the coded language that many of us use in our daily lives, and gain practical skills around how to critically assess one’s own language, and respond when others use coded language.

Presenter:

Mannie Brown, Diversity, Equity and INclusion Consultant, SHIFT Consuting Team, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
In this role, they focus on the development, design, implementation, and delivery of Diversity Center programs for professionals throughout Northeast Ohio. They assist organizations in fostering inclusion in the workplace, so that all employees are connected, respected and valued for their individual and collective differences.
 
With an emphasis on empathy and mindfulness, Mannie is passionate about LGBTQ+ rights and experiences. They focus on debunking myths around privilege and oppression in connection to all forms of socialized and internalized identity.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 100





Assertiveness for the Unassertive
5/19/2021

Assertiveness – grrrrr! Oh wait, that’s being aggressive! In this webinar, we’ll discuss the differences between being assertive and aggressive, as well as the dangers of being passive. Moving through today’s world, no matter what our position is in the workplace, learning to be assertive can be a valuable skill. But there can definitely be a fine line between that and aggressiveness. And it won’t serve us well to cross that line, just like it typically doesn’t serve us well to be passive.
 
In the midst of our daily activities, it’s easy to just let things go, which is sometimes the best choice. But being passive can create big problems – as can being aggressive. We can contribute to tension in our workplace, low morale, a poor public image, and lots of other problem areas we would all rather prevent.
 
Assertiveness can help us be more confident in our interactions on a daily basis. AND it can relieve some of the stress in our lives. Why not develop this important skill?

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the difference between assertive and aggressive
  • Understand the dangers of being passive
  • Learn to be more confident in your daily interactions
Presenter:

Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between!  Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions.  She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.


Location: Online via Zoom






Assertiveness for the Unassertive
5/19/2021







Assertiveness – grrrrr! Oh wait, that’s being aggressive! In this webinar, we’ll discuss the differences between being assertive and aggressive, as well as the dangers of being passive. Moving through today’s world, no matter what our position is in the workplace, learning to be assertive can be a valuable skill. But there can definitely be a fine line between that and aggressiveness. And it won’t serve us well to cross that line, just like it typically doesn’t serve us well to be passive.
 
In the midst of our daily activities, it’s easy to just let things go, which is sometimes the best choice. But being passive can create big problems – as can being aggressive. We can contribute to tension in our workplace, low morale, a poor public image, and lots of other problem areas we would all rather prevent.
 
Assertiveness can help us be more confident in our interactions on a daily basis. AND it can relieve some of the stress in our lives. Why not develop this important skill?

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the difference between assertive and aggressive
  • Understand the dangers of being passive
  • Learn to be more confident in your daily interactions
Presenter:

Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between!  Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions.  She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.


Location: Online via Zoom






Are You Listening? Improving This Power Skill
6/9/2021

Have you ever been guilty of “not listening” (who, me??), even when you are right there in front of the speaker, looking them in the eye? Communication experts say that 42% to 57% of our time communicating is spent listening – or maybe we should say “hearing,” since we all can be adept at hearing without listening! 
 
Even in this day of emailing, instant messaging, texting, and online chats, we still need to “listen” to be able to communicate effectively.

Do you know the biggest puzzle about listening? No? Come to this webinar and find out!!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Discuss your preferred listening style – and the listening styles of others. Do you know somebody who shows signs of impatience when you are sharing important details? Perhaps they have a different preferred listening style than you do
  • Discover why preferred listening styles might change
  • Become more aware of your own style so that you can adapt that style to whoever is speaking
  • Look closely at how you can become a more effective listener – and improve your life!
  • Come up with at least 20 tips you can use to help you use this power skill to ensure that you are really listening to those around you
 Presenter:

Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between!  Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions.  She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.


Location: Online via Zoom






Are You Listening? Improving This Power Skill
6/9/2021







Have you ever been guilty of “not listening” (who, me??), even when you are right there in front of the speaker, looking them in the eye? Communication experts say that 42% to 57% of our time communicating is spent listening – or maybe we should say “hearing,” since we all can be adept at hearing without listening! 
 
Even in this day of emailing, instant messaging, texting, and online chats, we still need to “listen” to be able to communicate effectively.

Do you know the biggest puzzle about listening? No? Come to this webinar and find out!!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Discuss your preferred listening style – and the listening styles of others. Do you know somebody who shows signs of impatience when you are sharing important details? Perhaps they have a different preferred listening style than you do
  • Discover why preferred listening styles might change
  • Become more aware of your own style so that you can adapt that style to whoever is speaking
  • Look closely at how you can become a more effective listener – and improve your life!
  • Come up with at least 20 tips you can use to help you use this power skill to ensure that you are really listening to those around you
 Presenter:

Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between!  Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions.  She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.


Location: Online via Zoom






Bargaining Basics and Best Practices
10/20/2021

This interactive webinar will give participants an overview of traditional collective bargaining negotiations, typical contract provisions, “dos and don’ts” at the bargaining table and hot topics in collective bargaining.  This webinar will help people new to negotiations learn about collective bargaining as well as giving seasoned bargaining team members the opportunity to brush up on their skills.

Presenter:

Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Location: Online via Zoom






Bargaining Basics and Best Practices
10/20/2021

This interactive webinar will give participants an overview of traditional collective bargaining negotiations, typical contract provisions, “dos and don’ts” at the bargaining table and hot topics in collective bargaining.  This webinar will help people new to negotiations learn about collective bargaining as well as giving seasoned bargaining team members the opportunity to brush up on their skills.

Presenter:

Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Location: Online via Zoom






Professional Office Etiquette Basics
11/3/2021

Welcome to the updated 2021 Professional Etiquette Basics.  Based on our latest needs analysis we have updated this popular class. Perhaps you heard that professional behavior and performance does not matter anymore. The reality is that if you want to be successful, the way you look, talk, write, act and work will determine whether you are seen as a professional or not.  Being professional is more than just about taking responsibility for yourself and your work, it's about seeing beyond your immediate needs and thinking about the long-term perceptions of you, your workplace, and the people you serve.

Learning Objectives:
  • What being “a professional” really means
  • Learn how being professional increases your value in the workplace
  • Understand the importance of “Greetings” and best practices for face, phone, ands virtual
  • Develop Telephone Etiquette (Tone, Vacation/Out of office message, “Is there anything else we can do for you?” probe?
  • Apply Printer protocols of beset dos and don’ts when working with printers.
  • Utilize Proper Gossip-Handling Techniques
  • Enhance Email dos and don’ts.
  • Define and use two Assertive Behavior techniques.   (Open and honest, and asking for help)
  • Understand the consequence of Oversharing information consequences.
  • How to avoid confusion.  Selecting Boundaries: Accountability Chart and Authority Levels (Why two professional baseball players never run into each other during the game)
Presenter:
Dean Russell is a Professional Strategic Coach. He helps organizations and businesses increase their effectiveness through leadership coaching, training, and public speaking engagements. He has a gift and passion for helping people and organizations quickly grasp their company’s vision, gain operational traction, and work as a healthy, functional, and cohesive team.  He is a national speaker and recognized expert specializing in business management, leadership improvement, and better employee performance.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Professional Office Etiquette Basics
11/3/2021







Welcome to the updated 2021 Professional Etiquette Basics.  Based on our latest needs analysis we have updated this popular class. Perhaps you heard that professional behavior and performance does not matter anymore. The reality is that if you want to be successful, the way you look, talk, write, act and work will determine whether you are seen as a professional or not.  Being professional is more than just about taking responsibility for yourself and your work, it's about seeing beyond your immediate needs and thinking about the long-term perceptions of you, your workplace, and the people you serve.

Learning Objectives:
  • What being “a professional” really means
  • Learn how being professional increases your value in the workplace
  • Understand the importance of “Greetings” and best practices for face, phone, ands virtual
  • Develop Telephone Etiquette (Tone, Vacation/Out of office message, “Is there anything else we can do for you?” probe?
  • Apply Printer protocols of beset dos and don’ts when working with printers.
  • Utilize Proper Gossip-Handling Techniques
  • Enhance Email dos and don’ts.
  • Define and use two Assertive Behavior techniques.   (Open and honest, and asking for help)
  • Understand the consequence of Oversharing information consequences.
  • How to avoid confusion.  Selecting Boundaries: Accountability Chart and Authority Levels (Why two professional baseball players never run into each other during the game)
Presenter:
Dean Russell is a Professional Strategic Coach. He helps organizations and businesses increase their effectiveness through leadership coaching, training, and public speaking engagements. He has a gift and passion for helping people and organizations quickly grasp their company’s vision, gain operational traction, and work as a healthy, functional, and cohesive team.  He is a national speaker and recognized expert specializing in business management, leadership improvement, and better employee performance.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Generational Learning Styles 101
12/1/2021

Millennials, Gen X, Baby Boomers: these terms can bring to mind both good and bad characteristics and personal attributes that may automatically influence the way we interact with clients and coworkers. This session will discuss some of the common age-based stereotypes and the way they can influence learning situations and workplace interactions. Different ways to (and not to) think about common situations will be presented so as to break down and prevent prejudices that might exist in your institution.

Learning Objectives
  • Learn the traditional differences in learning styles according to generational groups
  • Learn how to accommodate generational learning styles one-on-one and for a group
  • Learn how to accommodate the generational learning styles of library staff for training purposes
  • Learn how to accommodate learning styles in a virtual environment.
Jessica Curtis has worked in Ohio libraries for 20 years and is currently an adult services librarian for the Westerville Public Library. She specializes in creating user-friendly adult classes for emerging technology and library services. She is also an instructor for Kent State University's iSchool and the author of the ABC-CLIO publication, Teaching Adult Learners: A Guide for Public Librarians (2019). 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Generational Learning Styles 101
12/1/2021

Millennials, Gen X, Baby Boomers: these terms can bring to mind both good and bad characteristics and personal attributes that may automatically influence the way we interact with clients and coworkers. This session will discuss some of the common age-based stereotypes and the way they can influence learning situations and workplace interactions. Different ways to (and not to) think about common situations will be presented so as to break down and prevent prejudices that might exist in your institution.

Learning Objectives
  • Learn the traditional differences in learning styles according to generational groups
  • Learn how to accommodate generational learning styles one-on-one and for a group
  • Learn how to accommodate the generational learning styles of library staff for training purposes
  • Learn how to accommodate learning styles in a virtual environment.
Jessica Curtis has worked in Ohio libraries for 20 years and is currently an adult services librarian for the Westerville Public Library. She specializes in creating user-friendly adult classes for emerging technology and library services. She is also an instructor for Kent State University's iSchool and the author of the ABC-CLIO publication, Teaching Adult Learners: A Guide for Public Librarians (2019). 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Creating Calm During Times of Stress
12/7/2021

Managing and responding to the heightened emotions of others can be very challenging in the public service world.  Our ability to do this well relies on our understanding of how stress impacts humans and more important, how we are able to regulate during times of increased stress in order to best manage the emotions of others.  

Learning Objectives:
  • A greater understanding of how Trauma and Stress impact our brains
  • Knowledge on the Stress Cycle and why individuals escalate during times of stress
  • De-escalation techniques to support times of high stress in the library
  • Learn how we can better regulate our own emotions
Presenter:
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention.   Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Creating Calm During Times of Stress
12/7/2021

Managing and responding to the heightened emotions of others can be very challenging in the public service world.  Our ability to do this well relies on our understanding of how stress impacts humans and more important, how we are able to regulate during times of increased stress in order to best manage the emotions of others.  

Learning Objectives:
  • A greater understanding of how Trauma and Stress impact our brains
  • Knowledge on the Stress Cycle and why individuals escalate during times of stress
  • De-escalation techniques to support times of high stress in the library
  • Learn how we can better regulate our own emotions
Presenter:
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention.   Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Staff Development Week: Staff Care as Community Care
1/24/2022 - 1/27/2022

Monday, January 24, 2022
10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Taking Care of Self, Staff, and Community
Self-care is important. Everywhere you look there are articles promoting the value of self-care: eat healthy, get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly. It can be exhausting just reading about all the things we should be doing to feel better! How can we help self-care feel less like a burden and more like genuine kindness and nurturing? What if we could tap into our larger community to bolster our own well-being while increasing social cohesion for all? There is a continuum – from self-care to staff (workplace) care to community care – that gets stronger as it fans out from solo activity to broader inclusive action and impact.

Learning Objectives:
  • Reflect upon what genuine and meaningful self-care looks like
  • Describe the connection between self-care, workplace well-being, and community care
  • Take actionable ideas for community care back to your library
The presenters will share program and activity ideas and examples, and you will be encouraged to think about your own unique interests and how they could connect to the needs in your community. There will be opportunities to share what is already happening in your library and community and to make plans for building supportive connections moving forward.
References: https://www.webjunction.org/news/webjunction/taking-care-of-self-staff-and-community.html 
 
Presenters:
Brenda Hough is a librarian, writer, and learning professional with 25 years of professional experience working in and supporting libraries by providing training and consulting services. She is the author of Crash Course in Time Management for Library Staff and the co-editor of WebJunction’s Competency Index for the Library Field. She is an adjunct instructor for Emporia State University (KS). She has worked on projects for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, WebJunction, the Public Library Association, Infopeople, California Libraries Learn (CALL), the State Library of Arizona, the State Library of Oregon, the Northeast Kansas Library System, and more. She is the owner of EluciDare Learning.

Since joining OCLC’s WebJunction team in 2005, Betha Gutsche has contributed to library staff training through compiling the Competency Index for the Library Field, developing curricula, delivering training, and exploring new strategies. In addition to leading many grant-funded projects, Betha created curriculum and training for Small Libraries Create Smart Spaces, Supercharged Storytimes, Wikipedia + Libraries, and Creating Pathways to Civil Legal Justice. Betha received her MLIS from the University of Washington Information School and interned with the Gates Foundation U.S. Libraries Program 2002-2004.

Tuesday, January 25. 2022
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Words Matter: Mindful communication that creates caring connections
Employing mindful communication strategies creates opportunities to demonstrate caring and enhance connections within the library community. Utilizing mindful communication can also avoid retraumatization for those individuals who have experienced trauma.

Learning objectives:
  • Participants will learn about the characteristics and effects of trauma on the individual.
  • Participants will learn about mindful use of language that will avoid retraumatization for individuals.
  • Participants will become aware of professional resources that provide guidance on non- discriminatory language
Presenter:

Meghan Harper, Ph.D. Director and Professor, School of Information at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.

Wednesday, January 26, 2022
10:00 am - 11:00 am

Library Safety as Burnout Prevention: Reframing Safety and Security for Staff Sustainability

Learning Objectives:
  • Tools to handle acute problems that influence burnout including principles of service, de-escalation phrases, and established boundaries
  • Proactive preparations to avoid or mitigate incidents that cause burnout including interdepartmental communications and establishing community partnerships
  • Unmasking how vocational awe makes us handle safety and security issues poorly and inequitably 
Presenter:

Eddie Kristan ran the Safety & Security Team at Warren-Newport Library in Gurnee, IL for nearly 7 years before finishing his MLIS to become a reference librarian and staff training coordinator in 2020. During his time as Head of Security, Eddie re-wrote procedure and advised on policy to turn a distrusted and counter-productive security team into a force of support and empathy for staff and the community. With the help of Ryan Dowd (author of "A Librarian's Guide to Homelessness") and Warren Graham (author of "The Black Belt Librarian") Eddie was able to balance a need for confident enforcement of policy with a desperate need for trauma informed services and empathy in all things. He was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in the Community Builder group in 2020 and Herbert Goldhor Award Winner for Public Librarianship by the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences in 2021. As Staff Training Coordinator, Eddie has developed monthly content for his library on a wide range of subjects including Person Pronouns, Trauma Informed Services, Material Challenges, and Bystander Intervention.

Thursday, January 27, 2022
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Self-Care: How to Increase Productivity while Avoiding Burnout

Increasing demands from our public for various library services can and will create an environment for burnout as a result of heavy workloads. While some stressors are unavoidable, prolonged exposure to it can cause detachment, pessimism, and a loss of enjoyment in the public library profession. During this session we will explore approaches on how to identify and overcome stressors while retaining optimal levels of efficiency during our workday.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify signals of Physical, Behavioral and Emotional barriers that leads to burnout
  • Understand methods to mitigate stressors caused by public service demands
  • Learn how to adopt self-care techniques at work.

Presenter: 
Nicole BryanMLS Neighborhood Library Supervisor, Brooklyn Public Library
Nicole has spent some of her career within the social services arena, developing programs and meeting constituents' needs. Currently, she assess the delivery of library services, by employing trauma-informed methods, to transitional populations in public library branches and homeless shelters in Brooklyn, N.Y. She received her MLS degree from Long Island University.


2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Be the Change: Improving staff morale from within
Presenter Haley Holmes from the San Antonio Public Library will talk about her experiences leading staff from all levels of the organization to create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to be heard. Operation Transformation was a three year project that resulted in more staff engagement, recognition, and innovation. Haley will explain how the project started and outline several of the initiatives that were created as a result to address the need to improve morale in a workplace with over 500 employees in 30 locations.
 
Learning Objectives
  • Participants will come away with a better understanding of organizational health.
  • Participants will be given specific tools and examples they can use in their organizations to gather staff feedback concerning morale in their work locations.
  • Participants will learn how to turn staff feedback into meaningful change.
Presenter:
Haley K. Holmes, Ph.D., is the Central Library Public Services Administrator for the San Antonio Public Library overseeing Reference Services, Childrens, Texana/Genealogy, the Latino Collection and Resource Center, and Circulation. Haley has been with the San Antonio Public Library for 17 years, serving as a branch manager for 7 years and Coordinator of Services to Adults for 3 years. Before moving to San Antonio, she worked in academic libraries and at the Library of Congress. She is the coauthor of Library Programming Made Easy, part of the “A Practical Guide for Librarians” series and a 2020 Library Journal Mover and Shaker.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 63 spots remaining out of 100





Checking In: Mindful Approaches to Connect and Support Staff and Colleagues During Uncertain Times
3/8/2022

This training will provide practical tools to help staff and supervisors empower employees/colleagues. It will also provide ways to stay productive and inspired in the face of new challenges.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Participants will learn how to recognize their own emotional status and needs 
  • Participants will learn practical ways to connect and support staff and colleagues during uncertain times
  • Participants will learn how to foster positive coping mechanisms for themselves and to share with others when facing new challenges

Presenter: 
Nicole BryanMLS Neighborhood Library Supervisor, Brooklyn Public Library
Nicole has spent some of her career within the social services arena, developing programs and meeting constituents' needs. Currently, she assess the delivery of library services, by employing trauma-informed methods, to transitional populations in public library branches and homeless shelters in Brooklyn, N.Y. She received her MLS degree from Long Island University.


Location: Online via Zoom






Checking In: Mindful Approaches to Connect and Support Staff and Colleagues During Uncertain Times
3/8/2022

This training will provide practical tools to help staff and supervisors empower employees/colleagues. It will also provide ways to stay productive and inspired in the face of new challenges.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Participants will learn how to recognize their own emotional status and needs 
  • Participants will learn practical ways to connect and support staff and colleagues during uncertain times
  • Participants will learn how to foster positive coping mechanisms for themselves and to share with others when facing new challenges

Presenter: 
Nicole BryanMLS Neighborhood Library Supervisor, Brooklyn Public Library
Nicole has spent some of her career within the social services arena, developing programs and meeting constituents' needs. Currently, she assess the delivery of library services, by employing trauma-informed methods, to transitional populations in public library branches and homeless shelters in Brooklyn, N.Y. She received her MLS degree from Long Island University.


Location: Online via Zoom






Resolving Conflict through Trust and Team Building
4/13/2022

Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive webinar will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The webinar will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to create and build a cohesive team
  • Learn the dos and don’ts of creating and maintaining trust
  • Learn a step-by-step process for having difficult conversations
Presenter:

Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.






Resolving Conflict through Trust and Team Building
4/13/2022

Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive webinar will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The webinar will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to create and build a cohesive team
  • Learn the dos and don’ts of creating and maintaining trust
  • Learn a step-by-step process for having difficult conversations
Presenter:

Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.






Effective Workplace Communication Skills for New(er) Supervisors
7/12/2022

Recorded 7/12/2022

Effective communicators are not born, they are continually developing. You can improve your communication skills and forge great relationships with employees by getting more intentional about how you communicate.

In many ways, your success as a supervisor will depend on how effective you are in communicating your messages to others in your library.
 
This program will focus on the dos and don’ts of effectively communicating with others (including your boss)!
 
Specifically, we will discuss:
 
  • How to effectively use the Communication Cycle to determine the best way to create and send your messages (verbal and written)
  • How to give more effective and more easily understood instructions
  • The one question to NEVER ask your employees
  • Tips on writing emails that get results
 
Presenter:

Andrew Sanderbeck is a respected expert presenter and consultant for libraries and library organizations on communication skills, customer service and self-care. He has presented at many national, state and regional conferences, as well as international conferences in the United Arab Emirates and more than a dozen European Countries.  He is the past board president of the Haywood County Public Libraries in Western North Carolina and now resides in Bradenton, Florida.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Harassment Prevention
8/23/2022

This training will focus on understanding what constitutes sexual harassment of library employees, whether from co-workers or customers, and will discuss how to effectively  prevent and handle incidences.

Learning Objectives:
  • Discussion of harassing versus irritating behavior
  • Tips for preventing harassment
  • Effectively responding to incidents
Presenter:

Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.


​ 
Location: Online via Zoom






Harassment Prevention
8/23/2022

Recorded 8/23/2022

This training will focus on understanding what constitutes sexual harassment of library employees, whether from co-workers or customers, and will discuss how to effectively  prevent and handle incidences.

Learning Objectives:
  • Discussion of harassing versus irritating behavior
  • Tips for preventing harassment
  • Effectively responding to incidents
Presenter:

Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.


​ 
Location: Online via Zoom






Kindness in the Workplace: Self-Care, Mindfulness, and Remaining Positive
10/19/2022

Do you ever find it challenging to maintain an optimistic attitude at work? If so, this webinar is for you! Discover how to create a positive workplace culture. 
 
Objectives:
  • Incorporate mindfulness into your every day activities
  • Define and explore the practice of self-care
  • Find ways to implement positivity in challenging situations
Presenters:

 Amber Salmon
Amber has 18 years of library experience. She is currently an Adult Services Librarian in the Business, Government & Science Division at the Akron Summit County Public Library. Amber has a background in Art History.
 

Brooke VanDerlin
Brooke has 17 years of library experience with the Akron Summit County Public Library as a Public Service Assistant and a Children’s Librarian. In addition to Library Science, Brooke has a background in Clinical Counseling.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Kindness in the Workplace: Self-Care, Mindfulness, and Remaining Positive
10/19/2022

Recorded 10/19/2022

Do you ever find it challenging to maintain an optimistic attitude at work? If so, this webinar is for you! Discover how to create a positive workplace culture. 
 
Objectives:
  • Incorporate mindfulness into your every day activities
  • Define and explore the practice of self-care
  • Find ways to implement positivity in challenging situations
Presenters:

 Amber Salmon
Amber has 18 years of library experience. She is currently an Adult Services Librarian in the Business, Government & Science Division at the Akron Summit County Public Library. Amber has a background in Art History.
 

Brooke VanDerlin
Brooke has 17 years of library experience with the Akron Summit County Public Library as a Public Service Assistant and a Children’s Librarian. In addition to Library Science, Brooke has a background in Clinical Counseling.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Leadership Academy
10/20/2022

NEO-RLS Introduces the 2022-2023 Leadership Academy
What does it mean to be a leader and how do the skills needed differ from those needed to be a good manager?  Many people struggle with how to leave behind former priorities and mindsets when they enter a leadership role.  Learning how to balance implementation with vision, connect with others in order to achieve goals, become an effective decision-maker and develop others are all important skills that help build alignment with direct reports and across an organization.  The Leadership Academy will focus on enhancing the skills you already have and building new ones in order to assist you in developing a vision of how you can confidently move into the future as a leader.
  • The Academy is a blended course which runs from March through November and consists of 4 face-to-face workshops and 4 webinars
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety
Session 1
Thursday, October 20, 2022 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am - 4:00 pm


Leading With Your Strengths (Morning Session)
We intuitively understand that strengths are something we’re good at, something that takes less effort than things in which we don’t excel.  Strengths, however, are more than what we do well.  Strengths also energize us.  Leading with Your Strengths focuses on identifying team members’ strengths and encourages them to use them in a way that benefits everyone.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understanding Strengths and Weaknesses
  • Assessing your Signature Strengths
  • Applying This to Your Work
Emotional Intelligence (Afternoon Session)
“Research from Harvard Business School demonstrated that EQ counts for twice as much as IQ and Technical Skills in determining who will be successful!”
This session will introduce participants to the concepts of Emotional Intelligence (self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and relationship management) and arm them with the understanding and tools to help them be more effective in the workplace.  Participants will explore each of the 4 components with interactive exercises and discussion.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the benefits of Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
  • Learn the four core skills of EQ
  • Manage and adapt emotional behaviors for greater effectiveness in the workplace
Presenters:

Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Marti holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The University of Steubenville and a Master’s of Education Degree from Kent State University.  She is an annual presenter for executive leadership programs such as the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio and the Executive Education Program at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.

Ellen Shafer has had a diverse career involving many facets of talent and organizational development. Prior to starting Canterbury Coaching and Consulting, her professional portfolio included working for an employee assistance program, creating and managing customized training programs and conducting employee assessments for a northeast Ohio community college. Most recently, Ellen served as the manager of the Leadership Development Center at Lorain County Community College.

Ellen is a skilled facilitator with over 30 years of experience in talent and organizational development and in working with people as a trainer, mentor, seminar leader and coach. As a leadership and performance coach she specializes in the areas of performance challenges, transition, people skills, emotional intelligence and leadership.

Session 2
Thursday, November 17, 2022 at 10:00 am From Your Desktop
From Peer to Leader


Congratulations you've been promoted in your library!  What an exciting time - until you realize that you are now in charge of your peers.  Navigating the potentially rocky terrain of becoming a supervisor to your former peers can be stressful for all involved, but there are ways to ease the transition.  Learn how to build a foundation with your co-workers, tips to start in a positive way, and how to strive to be an effective leader for all of your staff.  Bring your questions.

Presenter: 
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







Session 3
Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at 10:00 am From Your Desktop
Good Leaders, Bad Decisions


Good decisions do not happen by chance. They are the result of a step-by-step decision-making process that includes understanding the effect of emotional and situational influences. This interactive one-hour webinar will help participants assess their dominant decision-making style and identify factors that can hinder effective decision making.

Learning Objectives:

  • · Assess decision-making style
  • · Explore emotional triggers that affect decisions
  • · Discuss situational decision-making
  • · Learn an easy step-by-step process for making decisions
Presenter:  
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.


Session 4
Delegating Made Easy
Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 10:00 am From Your Desktop


You know you should. You wish you could. But delegation has never been your strong suit. Take heart! This is definitely an area you can improve in – it just takes knowing yourself, knowing your employees, and knowing how to put that knowledge to work for you!

In this session, you’ll learn specific tips to help you delegate more effectively – not just more – and you’ll also discover why doing so is important to your success as a supervisor.

We’ll uncover some important questions to consider when you finally make that leap to delegating on a consistent basis. We’ll also look at not just whether or not a task should be delegated, but also to whom – and how to make sure the delegation process is successful.

Learning objectives:

  • Common obstacles to delegating effectively
  • The key ingredients to an effective delegation process
  • Specific tips to ensure the delegation is successful
Presenter:

Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between!  Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions.  She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.






Session 5
Date February 8, 2023  at 10:00 am From Your Desktop
Strategic Leadership

Learning objectives:
  • Participants will learn the difference between strategy and leadership skills vs operations and management skills, and will understand the importance of weaving these critical skills together.
  • Participants will learn several integral tools for infusing their management style with strategic thinking.
  • Participants will discuss trends emanating from the pandemic and discuss potential impacts on future library operations
Presenter:

Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.

Session 6
Thursday, March 30, 2023 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Peer to Peer Coaching (Morning Session)


In this session, participants will learn how to use a powerful tool to mutually problem-solve challenging issues. The method is built on respect for different points of view and getting to the core issue before implementing a solution. Participants will have opportunities to practice the method on actual problems and design how they will replicate this approach going forward.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn and be able to apply a peer coaching tool used for group problem solving
  • Explore the impact of questioning techniques in the peer coaching tool and other coaching models
  • Gain additional perspectives through practice
Culture by Design (Afternoon Session)

What is your organization’s culture? It’s hard to quantify, but it might be the single most important factor in determining your organization’s success. If you don’t get the right people, your business is going to suffer. The best definition of culture I’ve seen so far is the set of shared attitudes, values, goals and practices that characterize an institution or organization. It’s that feeling you get when you walk through the front door or interact with the staff.

So how exactly do you build a sense of culture within your staff that remains strong even when hours become long and frustrations become high?

There is no easy answer. Creating a positive organizational culture requires hard work, introspection and follow-through. This is one area where managers and senior leaders cannot delegate. Culture always starts with the senior executive and key leaders. You have to look in the mirror and be honest with yourself.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify an eight step framework and prepare a plan to design your organization’s culture
  • Recognize the values and behaviors of the culture you are seeking to create
  • Discuss the rituals that will sustain the desired behaviors and how to make the culture visible throughout the work environment
Presenters:  

Ellen Shafer has had a diverse career involving many facets of talent and organizational development. Prior to starting Canterbury Coaching and Consulting, her professional portfolio included working for an employee assistance program, creating and managing customized training programs and conducting employee assessments for a northeast Ohio community college. Most recently, Ellen served as the manager of the Leadership Development Center at Lorain County Community College.
 

Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients.  Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.



Session 7
Thursday, April 20, 2023 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Achieving Leadership Effectiveness: The Power of Influence

Learning Objectives:

  • Define the elements, background, and benefits of an influential leadership style
  • Review key actions for building leadership effectiveness with influential style
  • Develop plans and strategies for achieving maximum employee motivation
  • Explain how to use the principles of influential leadership to build teamwork and collaboration
  • Develop strategies for creating a culture of shared leadership

Presenter:  

David Hyslop, Professor of Business Education, Bowling Green State University.  David served as consultant to approximately 200 industrial, service, and nonprofit organizations during past 30 years.  He has also conducted over 200 workshops covering the following topics:
Building leadership and supervisory effectiveness skills; developing problem-solving and decision-making skills; enhancing human relations skills; improving employee motivation; establishing effective performance appraisal techniques; planning and implementing quality improvements; creating strategies for effective communication; developing techniques for creating productive teams; developing leadership through coaching and mentoring; designed and implemented 360 leadership assessments for 20 organizations.


Session 8
Thursday, May 18,2023 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 3:30 pm


All Leaders Don’t Have Titles  (Morning Session)

The morning's workshop is designed to develop the participants' leadership skills as follows:

  • Participants will obtain an in-depth understanding of leadership: listening, learning, and leading
  • Participants will understand the importance of developing leadership competencies 
  • Participants will participate in group activities and discuss an article by Lolly Daskal, Why You Should Stop Being a Boss and Start Being a Leader
  • Participants will learn effective leadership skills that they can implement immediately

To enhance learning and establish a baseline for individual development needs, participants will engage in group leadership activities based on their library system's leadership competencies.

Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients.  Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.



The Importance of Mentoring (Afternoon Session)

Learning Objectives:

  • Discover the difference between coaching, counseling, and mentoring
  • Understand the heart and rhythm of coaching conversations and practice with scenario-based learning exercises
  • Identify qualities for being an effective mentor and mentee
Presenter:  TBA
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



NEO-RLS Annual Membership Meeting & Appreciation Breakfast
11/16/2022

Mark your calendars to attend the NEO-RLS 2022 Annual Membership Meeting & Appreciation Breakfast in-person on Wednesday, November 16, 2022.  The Membership Meeting & Appreciation Breakfast are open to library administrators, trustees and staff.
 
  • Learn how NEO-RLS is progressing financially, what our plans are for the future, more about the services we currently provide and tell us what you think
  • Celebrate all those that have contributed time and expertise to NEO-RLS over the past year
  • Congratulate the 2021 Rising Star, Shooting Star, and Advocacy Award recipients and honorees
  • Hear from Wendy Knapp, State Librarian of Ohio
Featured Presentation:  No More Neutral: How to Use Marketing to Position Your Library in Challenging Times   

On top of everything else they need to do, libraries increasingly find themselves at the center of controversy. The American Library Association reports a substantial increase in the number of book bans and challenges in 2021 (double the number of reports from 2020). Oftentimes, the library’s efforts to create collection and service policies that fulfill its mission statement of inclusion are the focus of these challenges. These attacks cost money, lower morale and productivity amongst the staff of small and rural libraries. They also threaten the very existence of libraries as safe spaces. But libraries do have some power, and it comes in the form of promotion. In this session, you’ll learn marketing tactics you can use now to clarify your library’s policies, solidify your library’s positions, and clearly communicate your mission, vision, and values. And you’ll hear tactics to use to rally community and stakeholder support to your defense if your library should face such a challenge.   

 

  Learning Objectives:
  • Concrete tips for strengthening the public’s perception of the library now, including tips on how to promote their mission, vision, and values, the policies they create to protect intellectual freedom, and their place in the community as a safe and welcoming space.  
  • Marketing strategies for handling a censorship challenge, including strategies for responding to statements from critics via email, social media, and in the press. 
  • Promotional ideas designed to rally library supporters.
Presenter:
Angela HurshSenior Engagement ConsultantNoveList
In this role she helps libraries create effective and engaging marketing, within budget and with a personalized approach. Angela’s background includes more than six years as the Content Team Leader for the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, and more than 20 years as an Emmy-award winning broadcast television news journalist. Angela is passionate about library marketing and has expertise in collection marketing, strategy, public relations, email, and social media.
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



From Peer to Leader
11/17/2022

This webinar is also part of the 2022-2023 Leadership Academy.

Congratulations you've been promoted in your library!  What an exciting time - until you realize that you are now in charge of your peers.  Navigating the potentially rocky terrain of becoming a supervisor to your former peers can be stressful for all involved, but there are ways to ease the transition.  Learn how to build a foundation with your co-workers, tips to start in a positive way, and how to strive to be an effective leader for all of your staff.  Bring your questions.

Presenter: 

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
 


Location: Online via Zoom






From Peer to Leader
11/17/2022

Recorded 11/17/2022

This webinar is also part of the 2022-2023 Leadership Academy.

Congratulations you've been promoted in your library!  What an exciting time - until you realize that you are now in charge of your peers.  Navigating the potentially rocky terrain of becoming a supervisor to your former peers can be stressful for all involved, but there are ways to ease the transition.  Learn how to build a foundation with your co-workers, tips to start in a positive way, and how to strive to be an effective leader for all of your staff.  Bring your questions.

Presenter: 

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
 


Location: Online via Zoom






Good Leaders, Bad Decisions
12/7/2022

Good decisions do not happen by chance. They are the result of a step-by-step decision-making process that includes understanding the effect of emotional and situational influences. This interactive one-hour webinar will help participants assess their dominant decision-making style and identify factors that can hinder effective decision making.

Learning Objectives:

  • · Assess decision-making style
  • · Explore emotional triggers that affect decisions
  • · Discuss situational decision-making
  • · Learn an easy step-by-step process for making decisions
Presenter:  

Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups.  Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Good Leaders, Bad Decisions
12/7/2022

Recorded 12/7/2023

Good decisions do not happen by chance. They are the result of a step-by-step decision-making process that includes understanding the effect of emotional and situational influences. This interactive one-hour webinar will help participants assess their dominant decision-making style and identify factors that can hinder effective decision making.

Learning Objectives:

  • · Assess decision-making style
  • · Explore emotional triggers that affect decisions
  • · Discuss situational decision-making
  • · Learn an easy step-by-step process for making decisions
Presenter:  

Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups.  Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






New Supervisors' Academy
2/23/2023

The 2023 NEO-RLS New Supervisors' Academy is looking for new attendees.
Becoming a supervisor adds new and different challenges to your work day regardless of the type of library you work in or the size of library you work in. The Academy's courses will provide you with the skills and confidence you need to handle the many and varied challenges of being a supervisor. Programs will focus on three key areas: leadership, communication and staff development. The Academy is appropriate for new supervisors in multi-type libraries and for those who want a refresher.
  • The Academy is a blended course which runs from February through November and consists of 4 in-person workshops, 2 online workshops and 5 webinars.
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning.
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict.
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety.
Past participants had this to say:
"
I enjoyed getting to know other supervisors and hear about their struggles and victories. Finding common ground was really nice since so many of us were in the same situation."

Session 1
Thursday, February 23, 2022 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am -  4:00 pm

It all Starts with Attitude and Knowing Yourself
Being a good supervisor starts with having a great attitude and our series will begin with the opportunity to listen and interact with leaders as they share their experiences regarding the impact of attitude. Be sure to bring your most pressing questions.

The panel will consist of:
Kacie V. Armstrong, Director, Euclid Public Library
Chuck Vesei, Library Director, Baldwin Wallace University
Anastasia Diamond-Ortiz, Chief Executive Officer/Director, Lorain Public Library System
Carlos Latimer, Executive Director, East Cleveland Public Library
DeeAnna Culbertson, Director, Madison Public Library

The afternoon will focus on a Myers Briggs assessment. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment provides a useful method for understanding people by looking at eight personality preferences that everyone uses at different times. One of the most critical aspects of the MBTI is that it identifies preferences, not abilities or skills. It is designed to bring type awareness to those who might find growth and learning within its ideas. You will have fun exploring and validating your type preferences. The MBTI is the most popular assessment in the world and has been applied as a tool for many years by a variety of users around the globe. This assessment will not only help you to know yourself but give you insights into how your employees work.

Presenter:

Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Marti holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The University of Steubenville and a Master’s of Education Degree from Kent State University.  She is an annual presenter for executive leadership programs such as the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio and the Executive Education Program at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.

Session 2
Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Change Course without Rocking the Boat

As new supervisors you may find unresolved challenges with your staff that need to be addressed sooner rather than later.  How do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time without Rocking the Boat?  Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







Session 3
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 9:30 am to 12:00 pm From Your Desktop

Resolving Conflict through Trust and Team Building
Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive webinar will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The webinar will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to create and build a cohesive team
  • Learn the dos and don’ts of creating and maintaining trust
  • Learn a step-by-step process for having difficult conversations
Presenter:

Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups.  Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.


Session 4
Thursday, May 4, 2023 - Cuyahoga Falls Library
 9:30 am - 4:00 pm

Supervising with Confidence:  A Skills Assessment
Supervisors must balance a variety of competing priorities while working with a variety of people.  Fortunately, the necessary skills of an effective supervisor can be learned. In the morning we will focus on the five key supervisory skills, complete a self-evaluation relating to the five skills and develop a plan of action that relates to the skills you'd like to most improve in the following 90 days. You will have a chance to put the supervisory skills into practice during game simulation. This interactive workshop will focus on the five key supervisory skills that form the New Supervisor's Tool Kit.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the role of the supervisor
  • Identify five key supervisory skills
  • Learn key steps in effective planning
  • Learn how to delegate
  • Learn ways to handle competing and/or shifting priorities
  • Learn about effective goal setting
  • Learn how to get results with your team
Presenter:

Ragan Snead, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System, has 12 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has experience in management, community outreach, and strategic planning. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 







Session 5
Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at 10:00 - 11:30am from Your Desktop 
HR Stuff Every New Supervisor Should Know:  Having a Solid Legal Foundation


Learning Objectives:
  • Understanding the relevant legal landscape as related to leading and supervising employees;
  • Recognizing inappropriate workplace behavior (e.g., misconduct, job performance deficiencies, harassment, tardiness and attendance);
  • Knowing how to respond lawfully and effectively to inappropriate behaviors in the workplace
Presenter:

Jim P. Wilkins,  Shareholder, OSBA Certified Specialist in Labor & Employment Law, Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC
Jim began his law career more than thirty years ago when labor law – dealing with unions -- was in full bloom, and employment law was still emerging. As a result, he has a depth and breadth of experience in labor law that many younger lawyers won’t have because of the decline in the unionized segment of the American workforce.

Throughout his career, he has devoted significant time to representing and counseling employers on union relations matters, including collective bargaining negotiations, arbitration proceedings, and maintaining non-union status. He has negotiated countless labor contracts in both the private and public sectors, both blue collar and white collar. He regularly represents employers before the National Labor Relations Board and Ohio’s State Employment Relations Board in representation and unfair labor practice proceedings.

At the same time, Jim is as much an employment lawyer as he is a labor lawyer. He has been around from the outset of such landmark legislation as the ADA and FMLA. Both have a tremendous impact on the day-to-day advice he provides to employers who look to him to keep them out of trouble. When discrimination claims arise, Jim represents employers in state and federal courts and before the EEOC and state fair employment practice agencies. Jim also assists employers who have federal contracts with their affirmative action obligations, including the preparation of affirmative action plans.

Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at 10:00 - 11:30am from Your Desktop 
HR Stuff Every New Supervisor Should Know:  Skills Needed to Effectively Manage People
  • Development of effective leadership and employee relations skills, particularly for new supervisors and those who have been promoted from within;
  • Considering effective performance management and corrective action techniques.
  • Developing effective documentation
Presenter:
Jim P. Wilkins,  Shareholder, OSBA Certified Specialist in Labor & Employment Law, Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

Session 7
Wednesday, July 12, 2023
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Time Management Yours and Theirs

Time management is one of the most important skills that any manager/supervisor should have.   Understanding, implementing and following effective time management practices will help you accomplish more.
 
Learning objectives:
  • Valuing your own time
  • Setting realistic priorities
  • Delegating tasks effectively
  • Recognizing and avoiding time wasters
  • Taking Action
  • Practical Tools
Presenter:

Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and co-chairs PLA’s Membership Advisory Group. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.


Session 8
Tuesday, August 22, 2023 
10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Boosting Your Leadership Self Confidence

This webinar offers positive actions leaders must take to help break free from stress, perfectionism and self-doubt so they can find the confidence to work and lead effectively.

Learning Objectives:
  • Achieve confidence and break free from self-doubt
  • Find your voice to speak and act with assertiveness
  • Build resilience and bounce back from setbacks
Presenter:

Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 




Session 9
Thursday, September 14, 2023 -Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
 9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Setting Performance Goals and Evaluations
In the morning session we will learn about setting performance goals, monitoring performance, and conducting periodic evaluations - all critical job skills for all supervisors. We will utilize real-life scenarios through group activities to reinforce these skills.

Performance Planning
The afternoon session will focus on professional language to use in writing the evaluation that will provide clear, empowering conversations with employees.  Scenario-based group learning will also be used in this session.  Handouts will give those in attendance useful takeaways to assist in all aspects of the performance process.


Presenter:

Colleen Kelly, MATLT, MAED
Colleen spent 28 ½ years working for the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library in a variety of roles.  She started her library career as a part-time circulation clerk, worked as the Head of Circulation at the Eastlake Library, served as the Technology Coordinator for 15 years and ended her career as the first Human Resources Coordinator.  Colleen also served as a member of many committees and chaired the Staff Recognition, Staff Development Day and Staff Training committees.  Along the way, she helped form the union and served as the Union President for 6 years – negotiating two contracts.

Serving in her many roles at the library gave Colleen a varied experience with the performance evaluation process.   She supervised several clerks and computer technicians over the years and used many different types of evaluations.  She also served on 2 committees that created the different evaluation forms and processes.

Colleen retired on July 1st of 2021.  She spends most days enjoying the company of her 12 grandchildren.  She has a passion for training and is working on developing training programs on several topics.
 

Session 10
Date  and Presenter TBD 
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Making Budgeting Decisions


Session 11
Thursday, November 9, 2023 - Location TBA
 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
 Interviewing, and Caring for Yourself

The last session of the Academy will focus on supervisory skills that are often overlooked until they are necessary.

Interviewing Techniques for New Supervisors
Hiring great employees is critical to an organization's success and makes life easier for everyone.  The key to hiring the right person starts with the application and interview process. You will learn how to create an interview plan, how to construct appropriate interview questions that provide the information you need, and how to avoid common interview mistakes.  In addition, we will cover what is and isn't legal to ask a candidate and how to evaluate the information you have received in order to make the best decision.
 

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how to present the current open position
  • Develop a workable hiring strategy
  • Understand how to determine which candidates to interview
  • Practice steps and techniques to use in a behavioral based interview
  • Recognize how to use silence effectively when interviewing.
  • Learn how to uncover past personal and work behaviors.
  • Utilize examples of past behaviors to predict future performance.
  • Understand the importance and how to welcome newly hired employees
Presenter:

Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built a robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients.  Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.


Taking Care of Yourself
As supervisors and leaders we know we should care for ourselves but we often don't.  We are focused on taking care of our organizations, our employees and meeting our goals. However, neglecting yourself can become a very real detriment to your team while healthy self-care can actually increase your effectiveness and that of your employees. Self-care is a hallmark of effective leaders. Learn how to recognize when you need to focus on yourself and what questions to ask to begin taking care of yourself.
Lunch and light refreshments will be provided.

Presenter: 

Ragan Snead, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System
 
Location: Online and at various libraries


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
3/1/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with your peers. This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. 

Email topics ahead of time to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






Responding to Uncomfortable Situations in the Library Setting
3/1/2023

Many times we are caught off-guard by inappropriate comments and aren’t prepared to respond in the moment. In this session, we provide simple responses for common scenarios, that prepare you to curtail the behavior and make it clear that what is happening is not ok. Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn how to identify different types of harassment.
  • Participants will become empowered to speak up when faced with an uncomfortable situation.
  • Participants will leave with several statements they can use in future conversations.
Presenters:

Emily Correa is the Deputy Director for the Campbell County Public Library System. She was a member of the 45th Class of Leadership Lynchburg in 2021, and was named one of Lynchburg Business Magazine's Top 20 Under 40 in 2022. Emily currently serves on the editorial board of Virginia Libraries journal. Previously she was involved in leadership with the Virginia Library Association, the Mid-Atlantic Library Alliance, The Power of WE Lynchburg, and the County of Campbell.

Dana Bomba is a Branch Manager with the Chesterfield County Public Library, near Richmond, Virginia and the 2022 Virginia Library Association’s Librarian of the Year. Her primary focuses are strategic initiatives, community outreach opportunities, and staff development. As an experienced manager, Dana is committed to team building and coaching her employees to excellence. As a frontline manager, she is driven to create connections with her community and takes pride in providing personalized service to every customer. Previously she served on the Executive Board of the Central Virginia Young Professionals and the Conference Committee for the Virginia Library Association.
Location: Online via Zoom






Responding to Uncomfortable Situations in the Library Setting
3/1/2023

Recorded 3/1/2023

Many times we are caught off-guard by inappropriate comments and aren’t prepared to respond in the moment. In this session, we provide simple responses for common scenarios, that prepare you to curtail the behavior and make it clear that what is happening is not ok. Learning Objectives:
 
  • Participants will learn how to identify different types of harassment.
  • Participants will become empowered to speak up when faced with an uncomfortable situation.
  • Participants will leave with several statements they can use in future conversations.
Presenters:

Emily Correa is the Deputy Director for the Campbell County Public Library System. She was a member of the 45th Class of Leadership Lynchburg in 2021, and was named one of Lynchburg Business Magazine's Top 20 Under 40 in 2022. Emily currently serves on the editorial board of Virginia Libraries journal. Previously she was involved in leadership with the Virginia Library Association, the Mid-Atlantic Library Alliance, The Power of WE Lynchburg, and the County of Campbell.

Dana Bomba is a Branch Manager with the Chesterfield County Public Library, near Richmond, Virginia and the 2022 Virginia Library Association’s Librarian of the Year. Her primary focuses are strategic initiatives, community outreach opportunities, and staff development. As an experienced manager, Dana is committed to team building and coaching her employees to excellence. As a frontline manager, she is driven to create connections with her community and takes pride in providing personalized service to every customer. Previously she served on the Executive Board of the Central Virginia Young Professionals and the Conference Committee for the Virginia Library Association.
Location: Online via Zoom






Change Course without Rocking the Boat
3/16/2023

This is part of the 2023 New Supervisors' Academy
As new supervisors you may find unresolved challenges with your staff that need to be addressed sooner rather than later.  How do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time without Rocking the Boat?  Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Change Course without Rocking the Boat
3/16/2023

Recorded 3/16/2023

This is part of the 2023 New Supervisors' Academy
As new supervisors you may find unresolved challenges with your staff that need to be addressed sooner rather than later.  How do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time without Rocking the Boat?  Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Increasing Confidence as an In Charge Person
3/28/2023

Designed for non-managerial staff who occasionally serve as an In Charge person, this webinar will incorporate many real life scenarios for discussion with attendees. Cleveland Heights - University Heights Public Library Deputy Director Kim DeNero-Ackroyd will facilitate and share best strategies in handling situations with facilities, security, the media and customers.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Becoming more confident in taking on more responsibility.
  • Recognizing the important of knowing, understanding and communicating policies and procedure.
  • Improve customer satisfaction in resolving issues.
Presenter:

Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and ALA’s Council Orientation Committee. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Increasing Confidence as an In Charge Person
3/28/2023

Recorded 3/28/2023

Designed for non-managerial staff who occasionally serve as an In Charge person, this webinar will incorporate many real life scenarios for discussion with attendees. Cleveland Heights - University Heights Public Library Deputy Director Kim DeNero-Ackroyd will facilitate and share best strategies in handling situations with facilities, security, the media and customers.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Becoming more confident in taking on more responsibility.
  • Recognizing the important of knowing, understanding and communicating policies and procedure.
  • Improve customer satisfaction in resolving issues.
Presenter:

Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and ALA’s Council Orientation Committee. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Dynamic Dialogue: Push Back Against Book Challenges
4/5/2023

The 2023 Dynamic Dialogue conference, entitled “Push Back against Book Challenges”, will focus on methods for counteracting the effort to ban books in libraries.  The day-long format of the conference will include a Keynote speaker, six breakout sessions, and will conclude with a Closing speaker. Breakout sessions will be scheduled so that every attendee may attend two different sessions.  

Keynote:  Understanding the fight against book bans
The library industry is currently facing a political crisis in the form of book bans. But why are political organizations and leaders taking aim at libraries and books? In this session we'll shine a light on some of the data and information behind the book ban movement that you might not know. We'll discuss the motivating factors among the book banners and their long term objectives. We'll also explore some of the ways that libraries can fight back and what it will take to win against this current "culture war" against libraries, reading, and books.

Presenter: Patrick Sweeney is  2007 graduate of the San Jose School of Library and Information Sciences and former Administrative Librarian of the Sunnyvale (CA) Public Library.  He was awarded Library Journal’s “Movers and Shakers” award in 2015 for his library advocacy work. He is co-author of “Winning Elections and Influencing Politicians for Library Funding” as well as “Before the Ballot; Building Support for Library Funding.” He was recently recognized with a “40 Under 40” award by the American Association of Political Consultants for his work fighting for libraries at EveryLibrary. He is a lecturer at the San Jose Information School where he teaches courses on politics and libraries. He is active across social media as PC Sweeney.

Breakout Session 1

Be Prepared! Using Policy to Navigate Materials Challenges 

School and public libraries have experienced unprecedented numbers of book challenges since the fall of 2021. Make sure your organization is prepared! This presentation will focus on developing sound reconsideration policies and proactively responding to materials challenges.

Presenter: Belinda Boon is a Professor at Kent State University’s School of Information where she has taught since 2006. Her graduate and undergraduate courses include Collection Management, Information Services for Diverse Populations, Information Sources & Reference Services, and Information Fluency in the Workplace and Beyond.






What’s the Bottom Line? 
When would-be censors approach you with a complaint, what is it they are really objecting to?  And what’s your best defenses?  We’ll spend some time looking at identities and objections to those identities in books, services, and offerings that spark complaints, and what your best offense and defense is. 

Presenter:  Christina Dorr’s love affair with books began early when her mother took her to the tiny, red-brick public library in their village. This involvement has led her to become an award-winning librarian, faculty member, author, presenter, and consultant. She has served on a number of state and national book award committees, including the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Geisel Award, and Stonewall committees. Profiles in Resilience: Books for Children and Teens that Center the Lived Experience of Generational Poverty is her third book, and second published by the American Library Association. You can visit her website at www.opendorrs2books.com.



A Directors Panel: Who Have Seen the Worst
First Panelist: 
How libraries can respond to book challenges, and related topics.

Bryonna Barton is a seasoned librarian professional residing in Lansing, Michigan. Barton quickly became enamored with local service in 2012 after beginning her career in her hometown of Mulliken, Michigan, at the Mulliken District Library. Recognizing her passion, she attended Wayne State University, earning a Masters of Library and Information Science and a Public Services to Children and Young Adults certification in Dec. 2021.

Before graduating, Barton accepted a position as Library Director for the Hillsdale Community Library in Nov. 2021. Her activism for intellectual freedom began soon after select board members and the community began challenging books. Most recently, joining the Eaton Rapids Area District Library in June of 2022, Barton continues to advance her career and strengthen the conviction of activists nationwide.

Barton is an active member of the Michigan Library Association Intellectual Freedom Task Force and has become a thought leader on intellectual freedom. Her name can be found in articles written for the American Library Association and the Library Journal.

Second Panelist
Are you looking for some insight into what Intellectual Freedom Book Challenges may look like at a Public Library? I will discuss what I learned through this process, how it affected staff, the challenges within the community and so much more. 

​Heather Miller is the Director at the Ashland Public Library. Miller has ten years of experience in libraries, including 5 years as the Support Services Manager and 5 years as the Director. She holds a Masters in Integrative Pharmacology & Toxicology from Michigan State University. Miller grew up in Michigan, but has been in Ashland since 2009. Miller plays an active role in her community serving as the treasurer of the South Central Band Boosters. She loves being a parent to her three kids and her fur babies. She believes in transforming the library to meet the needs of both the community and her patrons.


Breakout Session 2

When Disaster Strikes: How to Handle Staff, Stakeholders, Patrons, the Media, and Yourself in a Crisis
At some point your library will face a crisis. Perhaps it will be a non-lethal but worrisome issue–black mold found in study rooms or a power outage that lasts several days. Perhaps it will be more severe, like a book challenge that threatens to destroy staff morale, ruin the reputation of your library, and put your funding at risk. Now is the time to prepare.

 Learning Objectives:

 • How to create a disaster communications plan
• Five specific tips for handling the media
• The do’s and don’ts of communicating with your patron base during the crisis

Presenter: Angela HurshSenior Engagement ConsultantNoveList
In this role she helps libraries create effective and engaging marketing, within budget and with a personalized approach. Angela’s background includes more than six years as the Content Team Leader for the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, and more than 20 years as an Emmy-award winning broadcast television news journalist. Angela is passionate about library marketing and has expertise in collection marketing, strategy, public relations, email, and social media.

What’s the Bottom Line?:  When It Gets to Be a Stickier Situation with Children’s and Teen’s Materials and Services 
We’ll continue from the previous session and bring it in closer as to why and how would-be censors attack youth books and offerings.  We’ll explore some cases, and actions, and results, and start homing in on defenses and solutions.  We’ll also look at some books for children/teens that deal with the topic. 

Presenter:  Christina Dorr

From Banned Books Week to a Book Sanctuary
With the rise in bans and challenges that libraries are facing across the country, libraries have become a battleground. We all have policies in place regarding bans and challenges, we celebrate Banned Books Week, and we're soldiers for Intellectual Freedom. But what can we do to take these initiatives even farther? Learn how Dayton Metro Library took Banned Books Week even farther!

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the importance of Intellectual Freedom and the issues we face in our Libraries.
  • Gain new and innovative ways to celebrate Banned Books Week.
  • Learn about book sanctuaries and how to become a book sanctuary.
Presenter:  Steve Moser is the Teen Services Librarian at the Trotwood Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. He has worked with teens in a variety of positions in libraries since 2004. He has worked with the Ohio Library Council, serving on multiple committees, and chairing several. Steve is one of the founders of the Teen Think Tank, a grassroots effort to inspire, collaborate, and connect with others, reaching hundreds of librarians in Ohio, and numerous other states. He is currently a part of Ohio's Transforming Teen Services Team through YALSA.





Closing Speakers:
Handling Complaints or Protests About Content Safely
How do we safely and carefully handle one or more angry or outraged patrons who complain about items (books, films, magazines, CDs, etc.) in our library?
This session is for all library staff and library leaders to respond with tact and skill when it comes to complaints about what one or more patrons thinks is inappropriate content in the library. This session will also discuss how to handle the security issues and media management related to an organized protest about potentially controversial materials, both in or near your library.

Presenters:
Steve Albrecht - Business Owner - Dr. Steve Albrecht, PHR, CPP, CTM |  LinkedInDr. Steve Albrecht has trained thousands of library employees in 28+ states, live and online, in service, safety, security, and supervision. His programs are fast, entertaining, and provide tools that can be put to use immediately in the library workspace with all types of patrons. In 2015, the ALA published his book, Library Security: Better Communication, Safer Facilities. He is currently writing the sequel, The Safe Library: Keeping Users, Staff, and Collections Secure, for Rowman & Littlefield.
Steve holds a doctoral degree in Business Administration (D.B.A.), an M.A. in Security Management, a B.A. in English, and a B.S. in Psychology. He is board-certified in HR, security management, employee coaching, and threat assessment.

Barry Trott, Adult Services Consultant with the Library of Virginia
 

Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



Resolving Conflict through Trust and Team Building
4/18/2023

Recorded 4/18/2023

Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive webinar will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The webinar will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to create and build a cohesive team
  • Learn the dos and don’ts of creating and maintaining trust
  • Learn a step-by-step process for having difficult conversations
We will be using breakout rooms.

Presenter:

Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups.  Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.
Location: Online via Zoom






Resolving Conflict through Trust and Team Building
4/18/2023

Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive webinar will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The webinar will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to create and build a cohesive team
  • Learn the dos and don’ts of creating and maintaining trust
  • Learn a step-by-step process for having difficult conversations
We will be using breakout rooms.

Presenter:

Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups.  Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.
Location: Online via Zoom






Customer Service Academy
5/9/2023 - 5/9/2023

Customer service is one of the most frequently requested training topics as it impacts dramatically on a library's ability to serve its community. This is true in a public library, academic library, special or school library and across all levels of staff. In fact, no one in a library is exempt from providing excellent customer service. To that end, NEO-RLS has constructed an Academy which we hope will inspire you to enhance your customer service skills whether you are new to the library scene or an experienced professional. The 2023 Academy includes our popular, pre-COVID, Day for Public Service to be held in four locations as well as three additional webinars.

Below are a list of the sessions.  To register click on the location where you would like to attend the in-person event. This will register you for that location and all of the webinars.

Webinar 1
Becoming Good Library Ambassadors

Thursday, January 19, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop
Are you promoting your library the best you can, both inside and outside the library walls?  Learn ways that you can better represent your library in your community.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Empowering you and your whole staff to become good ambassadors
  • Preparing for successful contacts within your community
  • Enhancing your community's perception of your library
Presenter:

Susan Ungham, former children's associate and retired branch manager with experience in rural, suburban, and urban public libraries; current part-time instructor in Cuyahoga Community College's Encore program for older adults.




Webinar 2
Responding to Uncomfortable Situations in the Library Setting
Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop

Many times we are caught off-guard by inappropriate comments and aren’t prepared to respond in the moment. In this session, we provide simple responses for common scenarios, that prepare you to curtail the behavior and make it clear that what is happening is not ok. Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn how to identify different types of harassment.
  • Participants will become empowered to speak up when faced with an uncomfortable situation.
  • Participants will leave with several statements they can use in future conversations.
Presenters:

Emily Correa is the Deputy Director for the Campbell County Public Library System. She was a member of the 45th Class of Leadership Lynchburg in 2021, and was named one of Lynchburg Business Magazine's Top 20 Under 40 in 2022. Emily currently serves on the editorial board of Virginia Libraries journal. Previously she was involved in leadership with the Virginia Library Association, the Mid-Atlantic Library Alliance, The Power of WE Lynchburg, and the County of Campbell.


Dana Bomba is a Branch Manager with the Chesterfield County Public Library, near Richmond, Virginia and the 2022 Virginia Library Association’s Librarian of the Year. Her primary focuses are strategic initiatives, community outreach opportunities, and staff development. As an experienced manager, Dana is committed to team building and coaching her employees to excellence. As a frontline manager, she is driven to create connections with her community and takes pride in providing personalized service to every customer. Previously she served on the Executive Board of the Central Virginia Young Professionals and the Conference Committee for the Virginia Library Association.




Webinar 3
Passive-Aggressive Behavior: Sources and Solutions for Library Workspaces
Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop

Passive-aggressive behavior can be maddening. It catches us off guard, causes confusion, resentment, and low morale. What causes it and how can you help prevent it? This webinar will bring together research from multiple fields on how to handle passive-aggressive behavior, with particular tips for librarians. It will also explore the causes of passive-aggressive behavior, the benefits of anger, gender biases around anger, and more.

Learning Objectives:
  • How passive-aggressive behavior can be an adaptive trait and encouraged through systems at work, home or in broader society 
  • Signs and examples of passive-aggressive behavior 
  • Tips and techniques on how to reframe the behavior and deal with it appropriately whether it is coming from colleagues, patrons, or superiors 
  • What boundaries are and how they affect our behavior 
  • Role play examples to more effectively communicate
Presenter:

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie has published 5 books, with two coming out in 2022 including a new book co-authored with two school librarians with ABC-CLIO: Advocating Digital Citizenship: Resources for Library and Classroom. In 2021 she received an Outstanding Reference Title award from the Reference & User Services Association of ALA. Carrie is the founder of Digital Respons-Ability, a mission-based company that has educated tens of thousands of students, parents and educators in digital citizenship. Her company’s curriculum and work can be found in multiple states and countries. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others.

In-person Day for Public Service
Morning:  How To Pivot, Thrive, and Bounce-Up™ During Change

Change barreled headfirst into every organization in 2020 and hasn't stopped yet. You've managed disruptions, understaffed days, and unsettling economic events that impact your patrons. No one can escape transitional times. Don't dread it. Instead, take every "change" that comes your way and "Flip-It" into positive communication and action.
This highly interactive program includes momentum-building activities with beach balls, bubbles, and an inflatable punching bag. It's one unique half-day session filled with engagement, fun, and inspirational stories. Mj shares her three core POWER strategies so that you can Bounce-Up higher and stronger. You'll get practical tactics and trademarked techniques to develop your Bounce-Up Mindset and thrive.

Learning Objectives:
  • Eliminate the "bounce-back mentality" that prevents you from taking empowered actions during change.
  • Understand the immediate reactions to challenges and how to flip the script from Change Evaders to Change Makers during transitional times.
  • Shift current challenges into proactive solutions based on an action plan created and customized by you for you.

Presenter:
Mj Callaway delivers outcome-focused programs that include humor, real-life stories, and strategic self-mastery tools you can implement immediately. As a two-time cancer warrior and domestic abuse survivor, Mj shares that every setback is an opportunity to create your Bounce-Up™.
She's the creator of The Bounce-Up™ Principle, a Certified Virtual Presenter, Certified Change Management Specialist, and a Leadership Liaison for the National Speakers Association. In addition, Mj has earned a Holistic Resilience Certificate from Point Park University and four Gold Awards from the Parenting Media Association.
She blends her management, sales, speaking, and journalism experiences to create interactive and impactful workshops. With more than 2,000 consumer magazine features under her pen name, she's interviewed everyone from youth entrepreneurs to CEOs, non-profit founders, and professional athletes. 

Afternoon: Yes… And Customer Service
Based on the Improve Group Second City work, there has been a movement of answering our patrons with Yes… and in place of just saying no.  We work in an industry where the book is checked out, the policies are written pretty clearly, and sometimes we cannot meet our patrons’ requests. Because of this, we can face upset or angry patrons.  This is a training that can help us with what we can do instead of what we are not able to do.  At the end of this, you will have a new mindset that you can use to create more positive patron interactions when we don’t have the answers they want.

Presenter: 
​Molly Meyers LaBadie has worked in libraries for over 20 years in multiple roles and systems.  She has come to learn in this time to expect the unexpected.  Molly has presented on multiple topics, and lately, she has been presenting on Empathy in Customer Service, Empathy in Leadership, Creativity in Libraries, and Bedbugs.  With a background in training, she has worked to develop training for libraries that deal with the issues and realities that staff face in 2022. Molly is currently the Deputy Director at the Delaware County Public Library, where she has been for the last five years.


Please select the location where you would like to attend the in-person event from the list below. This will register you for that location and all of the webinars. Lunch is included for the in-person event.

Tuesday, May 9, 2023-Mentor Public Library-9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Wednesday, May 10, 2023-Medina County District Library-10:00 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday, October 18, 2023-Avon Lake Public Library-9:30 am-4:00 pm
Thursday, October 19, 2023-Canfield Library-9:30 am - 4:00 pm



 
Location: Mentor Public Library
8215 Mentor Ave.
Mentor, OH 44060

There are currently 24 spots remaining out of 50





Day for Public Service-Mentor
5/9/2023 - 5/9/2023

Morning:  How To Pivot, Thrive, and Bounce-Up™ During Change
Change barreled headfirst into every organization in 2020 and hasn't stopped yet. You've managed disruptions, understaffed days, and unsettling economic events that impact your patrons. No one can escape transitional times. Don't dread it. Instead, take every "change" that comes your way and "Flip-It" into positive communication and action.
This highly interactive program includes momentum-building activities with beach balls, bubbles, and an inflatable punching bag. It's one unique half-day session filled with engagement, fun, and inspirational stories. Mj shares her three core POWER strategies so that you can Bounce-Up higher and stronger. You'll get practical tactics and trademarked techniques to develop your Bounce-Up Mindset and thrive.

Learning Objectives:
  • Eliminate the "bounce-back mentality" that prevents you from taking empowered actions during change.
  • Understand the immediate reactions to challenges and how to flip the script from Change Evaders to Change Makers during transitional times.
  • Shift current challenges into proactive solutions based on an action plan created and customized by you for you.

Presenter:
Mj Callaway delivers outcome-focused programs that include humor, real-life stories, and strategic self-mastery tools you can implement immediately. As a two-time cancer warrior and domestic abuse survivor, Mj shares that every setback is an opportunity to create your Bounce-Up™.
She's the creator of The Bounce-Up™ Principle, a Certified Virtual Presenter, Certified Change Management Specialist, and a Leadership Liaison for the National Speakers Association. In addition, Mj has earned a Holistic Resilience Certificate from Point Park University and four Gold Awards from the Parenting Media Association.
She blends her management, sales, speaking, and journalism experiences to create interactive and impactful workshops. With more than 2,000 consumer magazine features under her pen name, she's interviewed everyone from youth entrepreneurs to CEOs, non-profit founders, and professional athletes. 

Afternoon: Yes… And Customer Service
Based on the Improve Group Second City work, there has been a movement of answering our patrons with Yes… and in place of just saying no.  We work in an industry where the book is checked out, the policies are written pretty clearly, and sometimes we cannot meet our patrons’ requests. Because of this, we can face upset or angry patrons.  This is a training that can help us with what we can do instead of what we are not able to do.  At the end of this, you will have a new mindset that you can use to create more positive patron interactions when we don’t have the answers they want.

Presenter: 
​Molly Meyers LaBadie has worked in libraries for over 20 years in multiple roles and systems.  She has come to learn in this time to expect the unexpected.  Molly has presented on multiple topics, and lately, she has been presenting on Empathy in Customer Service, Empathy in Leadership, Creativity in Libraries, and Bedbugs.  With a background in training, she has worked to develop training for libraries that deal with the issues and realities that staff face in 2022. Molly is currently the Deputy Director at the Delaware County Public Library, where she has been for the last five years.




 
Location: Mentor Public Library
8215 Mentor Ave.
Mentor, OH 44060

There are currently 12 spots remaining out of 15





Day for Public Service-Medina
5/10/2023 - 5/10/2023

Customer service is one of the most frequently requested training topics as it impacts dramatically on a library's ability to serve its community. This is true in a public library, academic library, special or school library and across all levels of staff. In fact, no one in a library is exempt from providing excellent customer service. To that end, NEO-RLS has constructed an Academy which we hope will inspire you to enhance your customer service skills whether you are new to the library scene or an experienced professional. The 2023 Academy includes our popular, pre-COVID, Day for Public Service to be held in four locations as well as three additional webinars.

Below are a list of the sessions.  To register click on the location where you would like to attend the in-person event. This will register you for that location and all of the webinars.

Webinar 1
Becoming Good Library Ambassadors

Thursday, January 19, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop
Are you promoting your library the best you can, both inside and outside the library walls?  Learn ways that you can better represent your library in your community.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Empowering you and your whole staff to become good ambassadors
  • Preparing for successful contacts within your community
  • Enhancing your community's perception of your library
Presenter:

Susan Ungham, former children's associate and retired branch manager with experience in rural, suburban, and urban public libraries; current part-time instructor in Cuyahoga Community College's Encore program for older adults.




Webinar 2
Responding to Uncomfortable Situations in the Library Setting
Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop

Many times we are caught off-guard by inappropriate comments and aren’t prepared to respond in the moment. In this session, we provide simple responses for common scenarios, that prepare you to curtail the behavior and make it clear that what is happening is not ok. Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn how to identify different types of harassment.
  • Participants will become empowered to speak up when faced with an uncomfortable situation.
  • Participants will leave with several statements they can use in future conversations.
Presenters:

Emily Correa is the Deputy Director for the Campbell County Public Library System. She was a member of the 45th Class of Leadership Lynchburg in 2021, and was named one of Lynchburg Business Magazine's Top 20 Under 40 in 2022. Emily currently serves on the editorial board of Virginia Libraries journal. Previously she was involved in leadership with the Virginia Library Association, the Mid-Atlantic Library Alliance, The Power of WE Lynchburg, and the County of Campbell.


Dana Bomba is a Branch Manager with the Chesterfield County Public Library, near Richmond, Virginia and the 2022 Virginia Library Association’s Librarian of the Year. Her primary focuses are strategic initiatives, community outreach opportunities, and staff development. As an experienced manager, Dana is committed to team building and coaching her employees to excellence. As a frontline manager, she is driven to create connections with her community and takes pride in providing personalized service to every customer. Previously she served on the Executive Board of the Central Virginia Young Professionals and the Conference Committee for the Virginia Library Association.




Webinar 3
Passive-Aggressive Behavior: Sources and Solutions for Library Workspaces
Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop

Passive-aggressive behavior can be maddening. It catches us off guard, causes confusion, resentment, and low morale. What causes it and how can you help prevent it? This webinar will bring together research from multiple fields on how to handle passive-aggressive behavior, with particular tips for librarians. It will also explore the causes of passive-aggressive behavior, the benefits of anger, gender biases around anger, and more.

Learning Objectives:
  • How passive-aggressive behavior can be an adaptive trait and encouraged through systems at work, home or in broader society 
  • Signs and examples of passive-aggressive behavior 
  • Tips and techniques on how to reframe the behavior and deal with it appropriately whether it is coming from colleagues, patrons, or superiors 
  • What boundaries are and how they affect our behavior 
  • Role play examples to more effectively communicate
Presenter:

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie has published 5 books, with two coming out in 2022 including a new book co-authored with two school librarians with ABC-CLIO: Advocating Digital Citizenship: Resources for Library and Classroom. In 2021 she received an Outstanding Reference Title award from the Reference & User Services Association of ALA. Carrie is the founder of Digital Respons-Ability, a mission-based company that has educated tens of thousands of students, parents and educators in digital citizenship. Her company’s curriculum and work can be found in multiple states and countries. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others.

In-person Day for Public Service
Morning:  How To Pivot, Thrive, and Bounce-Up™ During Change

Change barreled headfirst into every organization in 2020 and hasn't stopped yet. You've managed disruptions, understaffed days, and unsettling economic events that impact your patrons. No one can escape transitional times. Don't dread it. Instead, take every "change" that comes your way and "Flip-It" into positive communication and action.
This highly interactive program includes momentum-building activities with beach balls, bubbles, and an inflatable punching bag. It's one unique half-day session filled with engagement, fun, and inspirational stories. Mj shares her three core POWER strategies so that you can Bounce-Up higher and stronger. You'll get practical tactics and trademarked techniques to develop your Bounce-Up Mindset and thrive.

Learning Objectives:
  • Eliminate the "bounce-back mentality" that prevents you from taking empowered actions during change.
  • Understand the immediate reactions to challenges and how to flip the script from Change Evaders to Change Makers during transitional times.
  • Shift current challenges into proactive solutions based on an action plan created and customized by you for you.

Presenter:
Mj Callaway delivers outcome-focused programs that include humor, real-life stories, and strategic self-mastery tools you can implement immediately. As a two-time cancer warrior and domestic abuse survivor, Mj shares that every setback is an opportunity to create your Bounce-Up™.
She's the creator of The Bounce-Up™ Principle, a Certified Virtual Presenter, Certified Change Management Specialist, and a Leadership Liaison for the National Speakers Association. In addition, Mj has earned a Holistic Resilience Certificate from Point Park University and four Gold Awards from the Parenting Media Association.
She blends her management, sales, speaking, and journalism experiences to create interactive and impactful workshops. With more than 2,000 consumer magazine features under her pen name, she's interviewed everyone from youth entrepreneurs to CEOs, non-profit founders, and professional athletes. 

Afternoon: Yes… And Customer Service
Based on the Improve Group Second City work, there has been a movement of answering our patrons with Yes… and in place of just saying no.  We work in an industry where the book is checked out, the policies are written pretty clearly, and sometimes we cannot meet our patrons’ requests. Because of this, we can face upset or angry patrons.  This is a training that can help us with what we can do instead of what we are not able to do.  At the end of this, you will have a new mindset that you can use to create more positive patron interactions when we don’t have the answers they want.

Presenter: 
​Molly Meyers LaBadie has worked in libraries for over 20 years in multiple roles and systems.  She has come to learn in this time to expect the unexpected.  Molly has presented on multiple topics, and lately, she has been presenting on Empathy in Customer Service, Empathy in Leadership, Creativity in Libraries, and Bedbugs.  With a background in training, she has worked to develop training for libraries that deal with the issues and realities that staff face in 2022. Molly is currently the Deputy Director at the Delaware County Public Library, where she has been for the last five years.


Please select the location where you would like to attend the in-person event from the list below. This will register you for that location and all of the webinars. Lunch is included for the in-person event.

Tuesday, May 9, 2023-Mentor Public Library-9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Wednesday, May 10, 2023-Medina County District Library-10:00 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday, October 18, 2023-Avon Lake Public Library-9:30 am-4:00 pm
Thursday, October 19, 2023-Canfield Library-9:30 am - 4:00 pm



 
Location: Medina County District Library
210 S Broadway St.
Medina, OH 44256

There are currently 15 spots remaining out of 15





Passive-Aggressive Behavior: Sources and Solutions for Library Workspaces
6/13/2023

Passive-aggressive behavior can be maddening. It catches us off guard, causes confusion, resentment, and low morale. What causes it and how can you help prevent it? This webinar will bring together research from multiple fields on how to handle passive-aggressive behavior, with particular tips for librarians. It will also explore the causes of passive-aggressive behavior, the benefits of anger, gender biases around anger, and more.

Learning Objectives:
  • How passive-aggressive behavior can be an adaptive trait and encouraged through systems at work, home or in broader society 
  • Signs and examples of passive-aggressive behavior 
  • Tips and techniques on how to reframe the behavior and deal with it appropriately whether it is coming from colleagues, patrons, or superiors 
  • What boundaries are and how they affect our behavior 
  • Role play examples to more effectively communicate
Presenter:

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie has published 5 books, with two coming out in 2022 including a new book co-authored with two school librarians with ABC-CLIO: Advocating Digital Citizenship: Resources for Library and Classroom. In 2021 she received an Outstanding Reference Title award from the Reference & User Services Association of ALA. Carrie is the founder of Digital Respons-Ability, a mission-based company that has educated tens of thousands of students, parents and educators in digital citizenship. Her company’s curriculum and work can be found in multiple states and countries. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Passive-Aggressive Behavior: Sources and Solutions for Library Workspaces
6/13/2023

Recorded 6/13/23

Passive-aggressive behavior can be maddening. It catches us off guard, causes confusion, resentment, and low morale. What causes it and how can you help prevent it? This webinar will bring together research from multiple fields on how to handle passive-aggressive behavior, with particular tips for librarians. It will also explore the causes of passive-aggressive behavior, the benefits of anger, gender biases around anger, and more.

Learning Objectives:
  • How passive-aggressive behavior can be an adaptive trait and encouraged through systems at work, home or in broader society 
  • Signs and examples of passive-aggressive behavior 
  • Tips and techniques on how to reframe the behavior and deal with it appropriately whether it is coming from colleagues, patrons, or superiors 
  • What boundaries are and how they affect our behavior 
  • Role play examples to more effectively communicate
Presenter:

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie has published 5 books, with two coming out in 2022 including a new book co-authored with two school librarians with ABC-CLIO: Advocating Digital Citizenship: Resources for Library and Classroom. In 2021 she received an Outstanding Reference Title award from the Reference & User Services Association of ALA. Carrie is the founder of Digital Respons-Ability, a mission-based company that has educated tens of thousands of students, parents and educators in digital citizenship. Her company’s curriculum and work can be found in multiple states and countries. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Dealing with Complaints About Library Materials
7/11/2023

Complaints about library collections are increasing, and library staff need to be prepared to encounter users who are upset about library materials. A clear understanding of the foundations of intellectual freedom and how to engage with users who have complaints can keep these situations from becoming a major problem. This session will look at why diverse collections are important, preparing for materials challenges before they happen, addressing both informal and formal complaints, and working with the media, and share additional resources that are available for dealing with these difficult situations.  Please bring your questions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Importance of diverse collections
  • Being prepared for material challenges
  • Addressing both formal and informal complaints
  • Working with the media
Presenter:

Barry Trott is Adult Services Consultant at the Library of Virginia, where he helps public libraries across the Commonwealth plan and develop services for adult library users. He earned his MSLS from The Catholic University of America School of Library and Information Science in 1997 and then worked at the Williamsburg Regional Library for 24 years, starting off as a reference librarian and then as readers’ services librarian. In 2001, he became Adult Services Director, and in 2012 was appointed Digital Services Director, where he served until 2014 when he was appointed Director of Special Projects and Technical Services. Barry is past-president of the American Library Association’s Reference and User Services Association (RUSA). He edited the readers’ advisory column for Reference and User Services Quarterly (RUSQ) from 2004-2012 and served as editor-in-chief of RUSQ from 2012-2018. He was the series editor for Libraries Unlimited’s Read On series and author of Read On . . . Crime Fiction (2008), and has contributed articles or chapters to numerous publications, including The Encyclopedia of Library and Information ScienceReference Reborn (Libraries Unlimited, 2010), Journal of Library Administration, and Research-Based Readers’ Advisory (ALA Editions, 2008). Barry has presented programs at the American Library Association annual conference, the Public Library Association conference, and the Virginia Library Association conference and for library systems throughout the country.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Dealing with Complaints About Library Materials
7/11/2023

Recorded 7/11/23

Complaints about library collections are increasing, and library staff need to be prepared to encounter users who are upset about library materials. A clear understanding of the foundations of intellectual freedom and how to engage with users who have complaints can keep these situations from becoming a major problem. This session will look at why diverse collections are important, preparing for materials challenges before they happen, addressing both informal and formal complaints, and working with the media, and share additional resources that are available for dealing with these difficult situations.  Please bring your questions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Importance of diverse collections
  • Being prepared for material challenges
  • Addressing both formal and informal complaints
  • Working with the media
Presenter:

Barry Trott is Adult Services Consultant at the Library of Virginia, where he helps public libraries across the Commonwealth plan and develop services for adult library users. He earned his MSLS from The Catholic University of America School of Library and Information Science in 1997 and then worked at the Williamsburg Regional Library for 24 years, starting off as a reference librarian and then as readers’ services librarian. In 2001, he became Adult Services Director, and in 2012 was appointed Digital Services Director, where he served until 2014 when he was appointed Director of Special Projects and Technical Services. Barry is past-president of the American Library Association’s Reference and User Services Association (RUSA). He edited the readers’ advisory column for Reference and User Services Quarterly (RUSQ) from 2004-2012 and served as editor-in-chief of RUSQ from 2012-2018. He was the series editor for Libraries Unlimited’s Read On series and author of Read On . . . Crime Fiction (2008), and has contributed articles or chapters to numerous publications, including The Encyclopedia of Library and Information ScienceReference Reborn (Libraries Unlimited, 2010), Journal of Library Administration, and Research-Based Readers’ Advisory (ALA Editions, 2008). Barry has presented programs at the American Library Association annual conference, the Public Library Association conference, and the Virginia Library Association conference and for library systems throughout the country.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Intergenerational Collaboration: In Diversity, We Trust!
7/19/2023

The five generations currently represented in the workforce have their own world view and attitude toward work and life. Oftentimes, each generation's unique approach and/or generational stereotypes create friction among individuals and teams. This fun, interactive workshop will explore how unique views of each generation may impact an individual's approach to work, discuss the harmful effects of generational stereotypes, and identify leadership strategies to leverage the collective strength in generational diversity.

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore how formative events in generational year spans may impact individual perspective
  • Discuss the harmful effects of generational stereotypes in the workplace
  • Identify strategies to leverage the collective strength of generational diversity
Presenter:

Ellen Procida is the Operations Manager in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Cape May County. She has worked in various roles throughout her 26 years with the courts including ombudsman, training coordinator, team leader, and probation officer. Ellen has a Master Degree of Arts in Human Resources and Training Development from Seton Hall University and a Bachelor Degree of Arts in Criminal Justice from Stockton University. Ellen brings her passion for leadership and learning to every training session she facilitates.
 

Location: Online via Zoom






Intergenerational Collaboration: In Diversity, We Trust!
7/19/2023

Recorded 7/19/23

The five generations currently represented in the workforce have their own world view and attitude toward work and life. Oftentimes, each generation's unique approach and/or generational stereotypes create friction among individuals and teams. This fun, interactive workshop will explore how unique views of each generation may impact an individual's approach to work, discuss the harmful effects of generational stereotypes, and identify leadership strategies to leverage the collective strength in generational diversity.

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore how formative events in generational year spans may impact individual perspective
  • Discuss the harmful effects of generational stereotypes in the workplace
  • Identify strategies to leverage the collective strength of generational diversity
Presenter:

Ellen Procida is the Operations Manager in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Cape May County. She has worked in various roles throughout her 26 years with the courts including ombudsman, training coordinator, team leader, and probation officer. Ellen has a Master Degree of Arts in Human Resources and Training Development from Seton Hall University and a Bachelor Degree of Arts in Criminal Justice from Stockton University. Ellen brings her passion for leadership and learning to every training session she facilitates.
 

Location: Online via Zoom






Internal Customer Service: It's More than Just Being Nice!
8/9/2023

You may be surprised to find out that, aside from our regular customers, we also have internal customers...our coworkers! You may be even more surprised to hear that these internal customers are even more important than our regular customers. Being a great coworker (or, providing amazing internal customer service) may seem simple enough but the fact is that it can be a tricky and complex thing to learn. In this workshop you will learn why it is so important to develop the skills of a great coworker and about the four key categories of great internal customer service and you will learn many techniques that you can apply in your daily interactions with your coworkers.
 
Learning Outcomes:
  • You will understand, and be able to explain to others, what internal customer service is and why it is so important.
  • You will know the four main skills that are needed to provide great internal customer service and have the tools you need to develop these skills.
  • You will learn about the Internal Customer Service Standards that were created by the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library staff, and be able to take these back to your library as an example for creating your own. 
 
Mary Frankenfield has worked in the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library system for more than 20 years. During her time at MRCPL, Mary has worked as a page, a clerk, a children's librarian, and a branch manager. She has been in her current position as Deputy Director for a little over five years. Among her many other duties, Mary has an active role in employee training and development and has presented workshops for NEO-RLS, OLC, and the MRCPL staff.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Internal Customer Service: It's More than Just Being Nice!
8/9/2023

Recorded 8/9/23

You may be surprised to find out that, aside from our regular customers, we also have internal customers...our coworkers! You may be even more surprised to hear that these internal customers are even more important than our regular customers. Being a great coworker (or, providing amazing internal customer service) may seem simple enough but the fact is that it can be a tricky and complex thing to learn. In this workshop you will learn why it is so important to develop the skills of a great coworker and about the four key categories of great internal customer service and you will learn many techniques that you can apply in your daily interactions with your coworkers.
 
Learning Outcomes:
  • You will understand, and be able to explain to others, what internal customer service is and why it is so important.
  • You will know the four main skills that are needed to provide great internal customer service and have the tools you need to develop these skills.
  • You will learn about the Internal Customer Service Standards that were created by the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library staff, and be able to take these back to your library as an example for creating your own. 
 
Mary Frankenfield has worked in the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library system for more than 20 years. During her time at MRCPL, Mary has worked as a page, a clerk, a children's librarian, and a branch manager. She has been in her current position as Deputy Director for a little over five years. Among her many other duties, Mary has an active role in employee training and development and has presented workshops for NEO-RLS, OLC, and the MRCPL staff.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Day for Public Service-WTCPL
8/24/2023 - 8/24/2023

Customer service is one of the most frequently requested training topics as it impacts dramatically on a library's ability to serve its community. This is true in a public library, academic library, special or school library and across all levels of staff. In fact, no one in a library is exempt from providing excellent customer service. To that end, NEO-RLS has constructed an Academy which we hope will inspire you to enhance your customer service skills whether you are new to the library scene or an experienced professional. The 2023 Academy includes our popular, pre-COVID, Day for Public Service to be held in four locations as well as three additional webinars.

Below are a list of the sessions.  To register click on the location where you would like to attend the in-person event. This will register you for that location and all of the webinars.

Webinar 1
Becoming Good Library Ambassadors

Thursday, January 19, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop
Are you promoting your library the best you can, both inside and outside the library walls?  Learn ways that you can better represent your library in your community.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Empowering you and your whole staff to become good ambassadors
  • Preparing for successful contacts within your community
  • Enhancing your community's perception of your library
Presenter:

Susan Ungham, former children's associate and retired branch manager with experience in rural, suburban, and urban public libraries; current part-time instructor in Cuyahoga Community College's Encore program for older adults.




Webinar 2
Responding to Uncomfortable Situations in the Library Setting
Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop

Many times we are caught off-guard by inappropriate comments and aren’t prepared to respond in the moment. In this session, we provide simple responses for common scenarios, that prepare you to curtail the behavior and make it clear that what is happening is not ok. Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn how to identify different types of harassment.
  • Participants will become empowered to speak up when faced with an uncomfortable situation.
  • Participants will leave with several statements they can use in future conversations.
Presenters:

Emily Correa is the Deputy Director for the Campbell County Public Library System. She was a member of the 45th Class of Leadership Lynchburg in 2021, and was named one of Lynchburg Business Magazine's Top 20 Under 40 in 2022. Emily currently serves on the editorial board of Virginia Libraries journal. Previously she was involved in leadership with the Virginia Library Association, the Mid-Atlantic Library Alliance, The Power of WE Lynchburg, and the County of Campbell.


Dana Bomba is a Branch Manager with the Chesterfield County Public Library, near Richmond, Virginia and the 2022 Virginia Library Association’s Librarian of the Year. Her primary focuses are strategic initiatives, community outreach opportunities, and staff development. As an experienced manager, Dana is committed to team building and coaching her employees to excellence. As a frontline manager, she is driven to create connections with her community and takes pride in providing personalized service to every customer. Previously she served on the Executive Board of the Central Virginia Young Professionals and the Conference Committee for the Virginia Library Association.




Webinar 3
Passive-Aggressive Behavior: Sources and Solutions for Library Workspaces
Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 10 am from your desktop

Passive-aggressive behavior can be maddening. It catches us off guard, causes confusion, resentment, and low morale. What causes it and how can you help prevent it? This webinar will bring together research from multiple fields on how to handle passive-aggressive behavior, with particular tips for librarians. It will also explore the causes of passive-aggressive behavior, the benefits of anger, gender biases around anger, and more.

Learning Objectives:
  • How passive-aggressive behavior can be an adaptive trait and encouraged through systems at work, home or in broader society 
  • Signs and examples of passive-aggressive behavior 
  • Tips and techniques on how to reframe the behavior and deal with it appropriately whether it is coming from colleagues, patrons, or superiors 
  • What boundaries are and how they affect our behavior 
  • Role play examples to more effectively communicate
Presenter:

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie has published 5 books, with two coming out in 2022 including a new book co-authored with two school librarians with ABC-CLIO: Advocating Digital Citizenship: Resources for Library and Classroom. In 2021 she received an Outstanding Reference Title award from the Reference & User Services Association of ALA. Carrie is the founder of Digital Respons-Ability, a mission-based company that has educated tens of thousands of students, parents and educators in digital citizenship. Her company’s curriculum and work can be found in multiple states and countries. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others.

In-person Day for Public Service
Morning:  How To Pivot, Thrive, and Bounce-Up™ During Change

Change barreled headfirst into every organization in 2020 and hasn't stopped yet. You've managed disruptions, understaffed days, and unsettling economic events that impact your patrons. No one can escape transitional times. Don't dread it. Instead, take every "change" that comes your way and "Flip-It" into positive communication and action.
This highly interactive program includes momentum-building activities with beach balls, bubbles, and an inflatable punching bag. It's one unique half-day session filled with engagement, fun, and inspirational stories. Mj shares her three core POWER strategies so that you can Bounce-Up higher and stronger. You'll get practical tactics and trademarked techniques to develop your Bounce-Up Mindset and thrive.

Learning Objectives:
  • Eliminate the "bounce-back mentality" that prevents you from taking empowered actions during change.
  • Understand the immediate reactions to challenges and how to flip the script from Change Evaders to Change Makers during transitional times.
  • Shift current challenges into proactive solutions based on an action plan created and customized by you for you.

Presenter:
Mj Callaway delivers outcome-focused programs that include humor, real-life stories, and strategic self-mastery tools you can implement immediately. As a two-time cancer warrior and domestic abuse survivor, Mj shares that every setback is an opportunity to create your Bounce-Up™.
She's the creator of The Bounce-Up™ Principle, a Certified Virtual Presenter, Certified Change Management Specialist, and a Leadership Liaison for the National Speakers Association. In addition, Mj has earned a Holistic Resilience Certificate from Point Park University and four Gold Awards from the Parenting Media Association.
She blends her management, sales, speaking, and journalism experiences to create interactive and impactful workshops. With more than 2,000 consumer magazine features under her pen name, she's interviewed everyone from youth entrepreneurs to CEOs, non-profit founders, and professional athletes. 

Afternoon: Yes… And Customer Service
Based on the Improve Group Second City work, there has been a movement of answering our patrons with Yes… and in place of just saying no.  We work in an industry where the book is checked out, the policies are written pretty clearly, and sometimes we cannot meet our patrons’ requests. Because of this, we can face upset or angry patrons.  This is a training that can help us with what we can do instead of what we are not able to do.  At the end of this, you will have a new mindset that you can use to create more positive patron interactions when we don’t have the answers they want.

Presenter: 
​Molly Meyers LaBadie has worked in libraries for over 20 years in multiple roles and systems.  She has come to learn in this time to expect the unexpected.  Molly has presented on multiple topics, and lately, she has been presenting on Empathy in Customer Service, Empathy in Leadership, Creativity in Libraries, and Bedbugs.  With a background in training, she has worked to develop training for libraries that deal with the issues and realities that staff face in 2022. Molly is currently the Deputy Director at the Delaware County Public Library, where she has been for the last five years.


Please select the location where you would like to attend the in-person event from the list below. This will register you for that location and all of the webinars. Lunch is included for the in-person event.

Tuesday, May 9, 2023-Mentor Public Library-9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Wednesday, May 10, 2023-Medina County District Library-10:00 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday, October 18, 2023-Avon Lake Public Library-9:30 am-4:00 pm
Thursday, October 19, 2023-Canfield Library-9:30 am - 4:00 pm



 
Location: Warren Trumbull County Public Library Library
444 Mahoning Ave.
Warren, OH 44483

There are currently 1 spots remaining out of 39





Strategies for Outreach to Marginalized Populations
9/20/2023

The dedicated people who work in libraries support their patrons in many ways. Perhaps one of the most important, and least visible, population segments they assist are marginalized peoples. When those in the LGBTQ+ or homeless communities seek out guidance, libraries are there. But if you want to proactively offer services to them, or to BIPOC teens, disabled individuals, and others, how can you reach them?

This session will teach you the basics of outreach communication, then show you how to apply them to get your messages to those in need, even if they don't have email or internet service.  These strategies will be especially helpful to those who don’t have prior communications training, or who don’t have a plan and / or a budget for outreach. Even solo librarians can benefit. Any library worker will leave this session with more knowledge and confidence in communicating with hard-to-reach segments of their communities.

Learning Objectives:
  • Know how and why to separate populations into “target audiences”
  • Understand the importance of basic audience research
  • Be able to craft attention-getting messages 
  • Know where to place messages so they’ll be seen, online and offline
  • Have ideas for helpful partnerships

Kathy (Miller) DempseyKathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to book The Accidental Library Marketer and founded her own marketing consultancy, Libraries Are Essential. Her work is dedicated to helping librarians and information professionals promote their value and expertise in order to gain respect and funding. Kathy has been the Editor of Marketing Library Services newsletter for 28 years, and was formerly Editor-in-Chief of Computers in Libraries magazine. She's Founding Chair of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference. This writer, editor, and marketing maven has been giving presentations across the U.S. and Canada for 25+ years, always sprinkling them with humor to make marketing concepts more interesting and accessible.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Strategies for Outreach to Marginalized Populations
9/20/2023

Recorded 9/20/23

The dedicated people who work in libraries support their patrons in many ways. Perhaps one of the most important, and least visible, population segments they assist are marginalized peoples. When those in the LGBTQ+ or homeless communities seek out guidance, libraries are there. But if you want to proactively offer services to them, or to BIPOC teens, disabled individuals, and others, how can you reach them?

This session will teach you the basics of outreach communication, then show you how to apply them to get your messages to those in need, even if they don't have email or internet service.  These strategies will be especially helpful to those who don’t have prior communications training, or who don’t have a plan and / or a budget for outreach. Even solo librarians can benefit. Any library worker will leave this session with more knowledge and confidence in communicating with hard-to-reach segments of their communities.

Learning Objectives:
  • Know how and why to separate populations into “target audiences”
  • Understand the importance of basic audience research
  • Be able to craft attention-getting messages 
  • Know where to place messages so they’ll be seen, online and offline
  • Have ideas for helpful partnerships

Kathy (Miller) DempseyKathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to book The Accidental Library Marketer and founded her own marketing consultancy, Libraries Are Essential. Her work is dedicated to helping librarians and information professionals promote their value and expertise in order to gain respect and funding. Kathy has been the Editor of Marketing Library Services newsletter for 28 years, and was formerly Editor-in-Chief of Computers in Libraries magazine. She's Founding Chair of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference. This writer, editor, and marketing maven has been giving presentations across the U.S. and Canada for 25+ years, always sprinkling them with humor to make marketing concepts more interesting and accessible.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Day for Public Service-Canfield
10/19/2023 - 10/19/2023

In-person Day for Public Service
Morning:  How To Pivot, Thrive, and Bounce-Up™ During Change

Change barreled headfirst into every organization in 2020 and hasn't stopped yet. You've managed disruptions, understaffed days, and unsettling economic events that impact your patrons. No one can escape transitional times. Don't dread it. Instead, take every "change" that comes your way and "Flip-It" into positive communication and action.
This highly interactive program includes momentum-building activities with beach balls, bubbles, and an inflatable punching bag. It's one unique half-day session filled with engagement, fun, and inspirational stories. Mj shares her three core POWER strategies so that you can Bounce-Up higher and stronger. You'll get practical tactics and trademarked techniques to develop your Bounce-Up Mindset and thrive.

Learning Objectives:
  • Eliminate the "bounce-back mentality" that prevents you from taking empowered actions during change.
  • Understand the immediate reactions to challenges and how to flip the script from Change Evaders to Change Makers during transitional times.
  • Shift current challenges into proactive solutions based on an action plan created and customized by you for you.

Presenter:
Mj Callaway delivers outcome-focused programs that include humor, real-life stories, and strategic self-mastery tools you can implement immediately. As a two-time cancer warrior and domestic abuse survivor, Mj shares that every setback is an opportunity to create your Bounce-Up™.
She's the creator of The Bounce-Up™ Principle, a Certified Virtual Presenter, Certified Change Management Specialist, and a Leadership Liaison for the National Speakers Association. In addition, Mj has earned a Holistic Resilience Certificate from Point Park University and four Gold Awards from the Parenting Media Association.
She blends her management, sales, speaking, and journalism experiences to create interactive and impactful workshops. With more than 2,000 consumer magazine features under her pen name, she's interviewed everyone from youth entrepreneurs to CEOs, non-profit founders, and professional athletes. 

Afternoon: Yes… And Customer Service
Based on the Improve Group Second City work, there has been a movement of answering our patrons with Yes… and in place of just saying no.  We work in an industry where the book is checked out, the policies are written pretty clearly, and sometimes we cannot meet our patrons’ requests. Because of this, we can face upset or angry patrons.  This is a training that can help us with what we can do instead of what we are not able to do.  At the end of this, you will have a new mindset that you can use to create more positive patron interactions when we don’t have the answers they want.

Presenter: 
​Molly Meyers LaBadie has worked in libraries for over 20 years in multiple roles and systems.  She has come to learn in this time to expect the unexpected.  Molly has presented on multiple topics, and lately, she has been presenting on Empathy in Customer Service, Empathy in Leadership, Creativity in Libraries, and Bedbugs.  With a background in training, she has worked to develop training for libraries that deal with the issues and realities that staff face in 2022. Molly is currently the Deputy Director at the Delaware County Public Library, where she has been for the last five years.


Please select the location where you would like to attend the in-person event from the list below. This will register you for that location and all of the webinars. Lunch is included for the in-person event.




 
Location: Canfield Library
43 W Main St
Canfield, OH 44406

There are currently 9 spots remaining out of 15





Management in Harmony
12/6/2023

Recorded 12/6/23

"Management in Harmony" is an enlightening and engaging webinar that delves into the art of cultivating a management team that operates in perfect harmony. In today's dynamic library landscape, the success of an organization often hinges on how effectively its management functions as a cohesive unit. This webinar aims to provide participants with invaluable insights and actionable strategies to foster a culture of collaboration, effective communication, and synergy within their management teams.
 
Attendees will learn the key principles and practices that enable managers from diverse backgrounds and departments to align their goals, work seamlessly together, and drive organizational success. Throughout "Management in Harmony," participants will discover 7 key strategies that focus on the importance of aligning departmental objectives, building strong inter-departmental relationships, and establishing clear communication channels. Whether you're an experienced manager looking to enhance your team's cohesion or a new or aspiring leader seeking to unlock the full potential of your management cadre, this webinar promises to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to create a management team that harmoniously navigates challenges, maximizes opportunities, and ultimately propels your organization toward its strategic objectives.
 
Join presenter Kim Garrett, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library, for an illuminating session where you'll learn how to orchestrate your management team to perform in perfect harmony, driving excellence and innovation across your organization.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn to Align departmental objectives
  • Build strong inter-departmental relationships
  • Establish clear communication channels
Presenter:

Kim Garret, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System
With a passion for knowledge and a dedication to serving the community, Kim Garrett, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System, brings nearly 15 years of invaluable experience to the table. Having started her career as a youth services librarian, Kim has steadily climbed the ranks, exemplifying unwavering commitment to promoting literacy, fostering a love for learning, and expanding access to resources for all patrons. Her extensive expertise in library management, collection development, and innovative programming has been instrumental in transforming the libraries she has served into vibrant hubs for lifelong learning and cultural enrichment. As a leader in Ohio’s public libraries, Kim continues to champion the role of libraries as vital community assets, shaping the future of our industry and ensuring that libraries remains a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment for years to come.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Management in Harmony
12/6/2023

"Management in Harmony" is an enlightening and engaging webinar that delves into the art of cultivating a management team that operates in perfect harmony. In today's dynamic library landscape, the success of an organization often hinges on how effectively its management functions as a cohesive unit. This webinar aims to provide participants with invaluable insights and actionable strategies to foster a culture of collaboration, effective communication, and synergy within their management teams.
 
Attendees will learn the key principles and practices that enable managers from diverse backgrounds and departments to align their goals, work seamlessly together, and drive organizational success. Throughout "Management in Harmony," participants will discover 7 key strategies that focus on the importance of aligning departmental objectives, building strong inter-departmental relationships, and establishing clear communication channels. Whether you're an experienced manager looking to enhance your team's cohesion or a new or aspiring leader seeking to unlock the full potential of your management cadre, this webinar promises to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to create a management team that harmoniously navigates challenges, maximizes opportunities, and ultimately propels your organization toward its strategic objectives.
 
Join presenter Kim Garrett, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library, for an illuminating session where you'll learn how to orchestrate your management team to perform in perfect harmony, driving excellence and innovation across your organization.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn to Align departmental objectives
  • Build strong inter-departmental relationships
  • Establish clear communication channels
Presenter:

Kim Garret, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System
With a passion for knowledge and a dedication to serving the community, Kim Garrett, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System, brings nearly 15 years of invaluable experience to the table. Having started her career as a youth services librarian, Kim has steadily climbed the ranks, exemplifying unwavering commitment to promoting literacy, fostering a love for learning, and expanding access to resources for all patrons. Her extensive expertise in library management, collection development, and innovative programming has been instrumental in transforming the libraries she has served into vibrant hubs for lifelong learning and cultural enrichment. As a leader in Ohio’s public libraries, Kim continues to champion the role of libraries as vital community assets, shaping the future of our industry and ensuring that libraries remains a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment for years to come.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Leading Through Transitions
2/14/2024

Change is never easy, but understanding the transition process that leads to adopting a change is a critical skill for library leaders.  This session will help you understand the stages of a transition process, where people get stuck (and how to help them if they do!), and how to develop strong team dynamics that support the change.  Drawing on the transition theory work of Bruce Feiler, William Bridges, and Susan Bridges, participants will deeply consider the elements of each stage of a transition and how to support themselves, their team, and their colleagues each step of the way, as well as how to head off tension and conflict along the way.  While change may never be easy, understanding the transition process that leads to change helps library leaders become more intentional and effective.

Learning Objectives:
  • Gain skills to better communicate about change
  • Navigate unintended consequences
  • Ensure that the change sticks
Presenter:

Amanda Standerfer’s passion is helping libraries and nonprofit organizations advance so they can create meaningful impact in their communities. Since 2002, Amanda's consulting practice Fast Forward Libraries has worked with libraries and nonprofits on strategic planning, fundraising, organizational development, and capacity building. Amanda has 15 years of experience at various positions in public libraries, most recently as the Director of Community Engagement for The Urbana (IL) Free Library.  She also has 7 years of experience working in the philanthropy sector.  She has a BA and MA in History from Eastern Illinois University and a MLIS from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Leading Through Transitions
2/14/2024

Recorded 2/14/24

Change is never easy, but understanding the transition process that leads to adopting a change is a critical skill for library leaders.  This session will help you understand the stages of a transition process, where people get stuck (and how to help them if they do!), and how to develop strong team dynamics that support the change.  Drawing on the transition theory work of Bruce Feiler, William Bridges, and Susan Bridges, participants will deeply consider the elements of each stage of a transition and how to support themselves, their team, and their colleagues each step of the way, as well as how to head off tension and conflict along the way.  While change may never be easy, understanding the transition process that leads to change helps library leaders become more intentional and effective.

Learning Objectives:
  • Gain skills to better communicate about change
  • Navigate unintended consequences
  • Ensure that the change sticks
Presenter:

Amanda Standerfer’s passion is helping libraries and nonprofit organizations advance so they can create meaningful impact in their communities. Since 2002, Amanda's consulting practice Fast Forward Libraries has worked with libraries and nonprofits on strategic planning, fundraising, organizational development, and capacity building. Amanda has 15 years of experience at various positions in public libraries, most recently as the Director of Community Engagement for The Urbana (IL) Free Library.  She also has 7 years of experience working in the philanthropy sector.  She has a BA and MA in History from Eastern Illinois University and a MLIS from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






New Supervisors' Academy
2/22/2024

The 2024 NEO-RLS New Supervisors' Academy is looking for new attendees.
Becoming a supervisor adds new and different challenges to your work day regardless of the type or size of library you work in. The Academy's courses will provide you with the skills and confidence you need to handle the many and varied challenges of being a supervisor. Programs will focus on three key areas: leadership, communication and staff development. The Academy is appropriate for new supervisors in multi-type libraries and for those who want a refresher.
  • The Academy is a blended course that runs from February through October and consists of 6 in-person workshops and 3 webinars.
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning.
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict.
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety.
Past participants had this to say:
"This was a great program. I enjoyed meeting everyone who also attended. The conversations and exercises were extremely helpful. My boss has already said he has seen an improvement in my leadership skills thanks to this program."

"I ABSOLUTELY loved this series and think NEO-RLS did an amazing job of offering varied topics that pertain to new supervisors!"


Session 1
Thursday, February 22, 2024 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am -  4:00 pm

It all Starts with Attitude and Knowing Yourself
Being a good supervisor starts with having a great attitude and our series will begin with the opportunity to listen and interact with leaders as they share their experiences regarding the impact of attitude. Be sure to bring your most pressing questions.

The panel will consist of:
Jonathan Harris, Director, Portage County District Library
Carla Sarratt, Director of Libraries, University of Mount Union
Aurora Martinez, Director, Morley Library
Trent Ross, Deputy Director, Rocky River Public Library
Mariana Branch, DIrector, Kingsville Public Library

The afternoon will focus on a Myers Briggs assessment. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment provides a useful method for understanding people by looking at eight personality preferences that everyone uses at different times. One of the most critical aspects of the MBTI is that it identifies preferences, not abilities or skills. It is designed to bring type awareness to those who might find growth and learning within its ideas. You will have fun exploring and validating your type preferences. The MBTI is the most popular assessment in the world and has been applied as a tool for many years by a variety of users around the globe. This assessment will not only help you to know yourself but give you insights into how your employees work.

Presenter:
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Marti holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The University of Steubenville and a Master’s of Education Degree from Kent State University.  She is an annual presenter for executive leadership programs such as the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio and the Executive Education Program at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.

Session 2
Tuesday, March 19, 2024 - Cuyahoga Falls Library
9:30 am - 4:00 pm

Morning Session: Change Course without Rocking the Boat

As new supervisors you may find unresolved challenges with your staff that need to be addressed sooner rather than later.  How do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time without Rocking the Boat?  Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







Afternoon Session-Resolving Conflict through Trust and Team Building
Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive session will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The discussion will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to create and build a cohesive team
  • Learn the dos and don’ts of creating and maintaining trust
  • Learn a step-by-step process for having difficult conversations
Presenter:
Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups.  Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.


Session 3
Tuesday, Apri 16, 2024 - Bainbridge Branch, Geauga County Public Library
 9:30 am - 4:00
pm
Leading with Assurance: Decision-Making and Effective Supervision 
This workshop is designed for library supervisors seeking to enhance their leadership skills, focusing on confident decision-making and effective supervision strategies. Participants will engage in interactive discussions, real-life scenarios, and collaborative activities to strengthen their ability to navigate challenges, set strategic goals, and cultivate accountability within their teams. 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Gain the confidence needed to lead proactively and make informed decisions. 
  • Analyze potential scenarios, responses, and outcomes encountered in a supervisory role. 
  • Participate in group activities and engage with peers to collaboratively explore and share insights, offer mutual support, and exchange best practices. 
Presenter:
Ragan Snead, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System, has 12 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has experience in management, community outreach, and strategic planning. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 






Session 4
Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 10:00 am - 11:00 am From Your Desktop
Time Management Yours and Theirs

Time management is one of the most important skills that any manager/supervisor should have. Understanding, implementing and following effective time management practices will help you accomplish more.
 
Learning objectives:
  • Valuing your own time
  • Setting realistic priorities
  • Delegating tasks effectively
  • Recognizing and avoiding time wasters
  • Taking Action
  • Practical Tools
Presenter:
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and co-chairs PLA’s Membership Advisory Group. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.

Session 5
Tuesday, June 11, 2024 -- Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Morning Session
HR Stuff Every New Supervisor Should Know: Having a Solid Legal Foundation


Learning Objectives:
  • Understanding the relevant legal landscape as related to leading and supervising employees;
  • Recognizing inappropriate workplace behavior (e.g., misconduct, job performance deficiencies, harassment, tardiness and attendance);
  • Knowing how to respond lawfully and effectively to inappropriate behaviors in the workplace
  • Development of effective leadership and employee relations skills, particularly for new supervisors and those who have been promoted from within;
  • Considering effective performance management and corrective action techniques.
  • Developing effective documentation
Presenter:
Jim P. Wilkins,  Shareholder, OSBA Certified Specialist in Labor & Employment Law, Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC
Jim began his law career more than thirty years ago when labor law – dealing with unions -- was in full bloom, and employment law was still emerging. As a result, he has a depth and breadth of experience in labor law that many younger lawyers won’t have because of the decline in the unionized segment of the American workforce.

Throughout his career, he has devoted significant time to representing and counseling employers on union relations matters, including collective bargaining negotiations, arbitration proceedings, and maintaining non-union status. He has negotiated countless labor contracts in both the private and public sectors, both blue collar and white collar. He regularly represents employers before the National Labor Relations Board and Ohio’s State Employment Relations Board in representation and unfair labor practice proceedings.

At the same time, Jim is as much an employment lawyer as he is a labor lawyer. He has been around from the outset of such landmark legislation as the ADA and FMLA. Both have a tremendous impact on the day-to-day advice he provides to employers who look to him to keep them out of trouble. When discrimination claims arise, Jim represents employers in state and federal courts and before the EEOC and state fair employment practice agencies. Jim also assists employers who have federal contracts with their affirmative action obligations, including the preparation of affirmative action plans.

Afternoon Session:
Interviewing Techniques for New Supervisors
Hiring great employees is critical to an organization's success and makes life easier for everyone.  The key to hiring the right person starts with the application and interview process. You will learn how to create an interview plan, how to construct appropriate interview questions that provide the information you need, and how to avoid common interview mistakes.  In addition, we will cover what is and isn't legal to ask a candidate and how to evaluate the information you have received in order to make the best decision.
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to present the current open position
  • Develop a workable hiring strategy
  • Understand how to determine which candidates to interview
  • Practice steps and techniques to use in a behavioral based interview
  • Recognize how to use silence effectively when interviewing.
  • Learn how to uncover past personal and work behaviors.
  • Utilize examples of past behaviors to predict future performance.
  • Understand the importance and how to welcome newly hired employees
Presenter:
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built a robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients.  Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.


Session 6
Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 10 am - 11 am From Your Desktop
Practical Budget Management: How to Avoid Disaster, Make Smart Moves, Report Responsibly, and Stress Less About your Budget

Whether you’re a newly minted library staffer responsible for the budget for Summer Reading, a Director concerned with making the most of your budget, or have budgeting responsibilities somewhere in-between, budgeting can be intimidating. Join Wendy Bartlett, Collection Development & Acquisitions Manager for Cuyahoga County Public Library, and learn basic budgeting do’s and don’ts, how to be ready for unexpected decreases in funding, how to cope if you mess up, and how to educate yourself about the bigger budgeting picture. You’ll leave with practical ideas (and tools!) that will make working with the budget a pleasure rather than a chore.

Learning Objectives:
  • Basic budgeting do’s and don’ts
  • Prepare for the unexpected
  • How to handle a mistake
  • Understanding the bigger budgeting  picture 

Presenter:
Wendy Bartlett serves as the Collection Development & Acquisitions Manager for Cuyahoga County Public Library, a position she has held since 2009. Before that, Wendy was the branch manager for the Beachwood Branch of CCPL, and before that, the Assistant Director of the Kent Free Library. Wendy was the Regional Manager of the Cleveland-Pittsburgh Borders stories before joining the library world. She also served as a Councilperson for the Village of Lodi, her hometown in her twenties, where she first learned about budgeting for government agencies.

Session 7
Wednesday, August 14, 2024 -Location TBD
 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Setting Performance Goals and Evaluations
In the morning session we will learn about setting performance goals, monitoring performance, and conducting periodic evaluations - all critical job skills for all supervisors. We will utilize real-life scenarios through group activities to reinforce these skills.
Performance Planning
The afternoon session will focus on professional language to use in writing the evaluation that will provide clear, empowering conversations with employees.  Scenario-based group learning will also be used in this session.  Handouts will give those in attendance useful takeaways to assist in all aspects of the performance process.

Presenter:
Colleen Kelly, MATLT, MAED
Colleen spent 28 ½ years working for the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library in a variety of roles.  She started her library career as a part-time circulation clerk, worked as the Head of Circulation at the Eastlake Library, served as the Technology Coordinator for 15 years and ended her career as the first Human Resources Coordinator.  Colleen also served as a member of many committees and chaired the Staff Recognition, Staff Development Day and Staff Training committees.  Along the way, she helped form the union and served as the Union President for 6 years – negotiating two contracts.

Serving in her many roles at the library gave Colleen a varied experience with the performance evaluation process.   She supervised several clerks and computer technicians over the years and used many different types of evaluations.  She also served on 2 committees that created the different evaluation forms and processes.

Colleen retired on July 1st of 2021.  She spends most days enjoying the company of her 12 grandchildren.  She has a passion for training and is working on developing training programs on several topics.
 
Session 8
Wednesday, September 4, 2024 -at 10 am - 11 am From Your Desktop
Prioritizing Self-Care 
In our roles as supervisors and leaders, the importance of self-care is often acknowledged but frequently overlooked. Our attention is dedicated to managing our organizations, supporting our employees, and achieving our objectives. Neglecting personal well-being can detrimentally impact our teams, whereas embracing a regimen of healthy self-care can significantly enhance both our effectiveness and that of our employees. Recognizing the importance of self-care is a key characteristic of effective leaders. This session will guide you in identifying when to shift your focus inward and provide essential insights into the questions to ask to begin prioritizing self-care. 
 
Presenter: 
Ragan Snead, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System









Final Session - Thursday, October 3, 2024 at a Location TBD
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Morning Session
Boosting Your Leadership Self Confidence

This workshop offers positive actions leaders must take to help break free from stress, perfectionism and self-doubt so they can find the confidence to work and lead effectively.

Learning Objectives:
  • Achieve confidence and break free from self-doubt
  • Find your voice to speak and act with assertiveness
  • Build resilience and bounce back from setbacks
Presenter:
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 




Afternoon Session

We will conclude the academy with the return of first day panel of speakers with time to network and get those final questions answered.

Location: Online and at various libraries


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



Patron Point Training
4/11/2024

This hour long session will cover all of the primary features of Patron Point's software, including the email builder, segments, campaigns, and reports.

Learning Objectives:
  • Create and send an email in Patron Point
  • Build patron segments
  • Put together a simple Patron Point campaign
Presenter:

Brenna Hill is the Training and Instructional Design Manager for Patron Point and has been with the company since 2022.
Location: Online via Zoom






Patron Point Training
4/11/2024

Recorded 4/11/24

This hour long session will cover all of the primary features of Patron Point's software, including the email builder, segments, campaigns, and reports.

Learning Objectives:
  • Create and send an email in Patron Point
  • Build patron segments
  • Put together a simple Patron Point campaign
Presenter:

Brenna Hill is the Training and Instructional Design Manager for Patron Point and has been with the company since 2022.
Location: Online via Zoom






Using Words to Invite: Crafting Great Program Descriptions
5/1/2024

What makes a strong program description? In this session, you will learn the importance of great program titles and descriptions, and how to write them for audiences of all ages and interests. Master the art of clear, concise, and compelling program descriptions that will engage your community. We will discuss techniques to highlight your library's programs, empowering you to attract and retain participants.

Learning Objectives:
  • How to title your programs
  • Write clear, engaging program descriptions
  • How to write for different audiences and mediums
Presenter:

Heather Feenaughty is the PR/Marketing Manager at Westlake Porter Public Library. Heather brings over 14 years' experience in marketing and public relations. She served as a Public Affairs Broadcast Journalist in the U.S. Army for five years and spent seven years at Case Western Reserve University’s Undergraduate Admissions marketing team. Heather has been in the library world for 2 years and plans to add many more. Heather has yet to receive the prestigious Cannes Lions Award for Creative Effectiveness but is a five-time local scarecrow contest winner (should be six), won a Rosette at the Cuyahoga County Fair in the crochet division, and spear-headed WPPL’s Westlake in Bloom third place win.
Location: Online via Zoom






Using Words to Invite: Crafting Great Program Descriptions
5/1/2024

Recorded 5/1/24

What makes a strong program description? In this session, you will learn the importance of great program titles and descriptions, and how to write them for audiences of all ages and interests. Master the art of clear, concise, and compelling program descriptions that will engage your community. We will discuss techniques to highlight your library's programs, empowering you to attract and retain participants.

Learning Objectives:
  • How to title your programs
  • Write clear, engaging program descriptions
  • How to write for different audiences and mediums
Presenter:

Heather Feenaughty is the PR/Marketing Manager at Westlake Porter Public Library. Heather brings over 14 years' experience in marketing and public relations. She served as a Public Affairs Broadcast Journalist in the U.S. Army for five years and spent seven years at Case Western Reserve University’s Undergraduate Admissions marketing team. Heather has been in the library world for 2 years and plans to add many more. Heather has yet to receive the prestigious Cannes Lions Award for Creative Effectiveness but is a five-time local scarecrow contest winner (should be six), won a Rosette at the Cuyahoga County Fair in the crochet division, and spear-headed WPPL’s Westlake in Bloom third place win.
Location: Online via Zoom






Challenging Employee Conversations Without Fear
5/16/2024

You’re a manager or supervisor with an employee who is missing the mark. It’s your job to help them improve – but how do you approach that tough conversation? This webinar is designed to help you take the fear out of challenging interactions like performance improvement, discipline, and even termination. By preparing now, you can spend that challenging conversation focused on supporting your employee. 

Learning Objectives:
  • How to think about and prepare for challenging conversations in a way that feels constructive and authentic
  • The manager's role in providing difficult feedback or news
  • How to share negative feedback in a way that people can hear
Presenter:

Dr. Audrey Barbakoff is the CEO of Co/Lab Capacity, which helps libraries grow and develop through community-centered consulting. She brings more than a decade of experience in public library leadership and innovation rooted in community engagement. In addition to her MLIS she holds a doctorate in organizational change and leadership; her research focused on building capacity for equity, diversity, and inclusion in public libraries through community-led planning.  Her contributions have been recognized by Library Journal Mover & Shakers, Urban Libraries Council Top Innovators, the Kitsap Peninsula Business Journal “20 Under 40” and the Freedom to Read Foundation.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Challenging Employee Conversations Without Fear
5/16/2024

Recorded 5/16/24

You’re a manager or supervisor with an employee who is missing the mark. It’s your job to help them improve – but how do you approach that tough conversation? This webinar is designed to help you take the fear out of challenging interactions like performance improvement, discipline, and even termination. By preparing now, you can spend that challenging conversation focused on supporting your employee. 

Learning Objectives:
  • How to think about and prepare for challenging conversations in a way that feels constructive and authentic
  • The manager's role in providing difficult feedback or news
  • How to share negative feedback in a way that people can hear
Presenter:

Dr. Audrey Barbakoff is the CEO of Co/Lab Capacity, which helps libraries grow and develop through community-centered consulting. She brings more than a decade of experience in public library leadership and innovation rooted in community engagement. In addition to her MLIS she holds a doctorate in organizational change and leadership; her research focused on building capacity for equity, diversity, and inclusion in public libraries through community-led planning.  Her contributions have been recognized by Library Journal Mover & Shakers, Urban Libraries Council Top Innovators, the Kitsap Peninsula Business Journal “20 Under 40” and the Freedom to Read Foundation.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






2024 Directors' Retreat: Fostering a Thriving Work Culture
5/23/2024 - 5/24/2024

We are excited to announce the 2024 Directors' Retreat:  Fostering a Thriving Work Culture.  We will be returning to the Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center this year. The retreat will kick off with a light breakfast on Thursday, May 23rd at 9:00 a.m. - the perfect time to catch up with your peers. The workshop will begin at 10 a.m. starting with Leading through Low-Morale Experiences: Recognizing Outcomes & Engaging Countermeasures.  The afternoon will focus on How to Talk so your Board will Listen: Education, Communication, and Transformation.  We will conclude the first day at 4:00 p.m. Dinner will be at 6:00 p.m. with the tradition of rich conversations to follow. The second day will start with breakfast at 8:00 a.m. followed by a program on Creating a Compassionate Workplace. We will conclude at noon with a quick lunch.

Thursday Morning, May 23rd:
Leading through Low-Morale Experiences: Recognizing Outcomes & Engaging Countermeasures
 
Low morale is detrimental to the health and well-being of employees, library organizations, and the communities they serve. Kaetrena Davis Kendrick has conducted extensive research on low-morale experiences in libraries, identifying various workplace behaviors, factors and events that can lead to employee disengagement, and revealing the systems and structures that enable organizational or interpersonal dysfunction or compromise how people lead. Join Kaetrena and Sunnie Scarpa, Library Director, to learn more about this important research and leave with actionable ideas that signal incremental systemic changes that will support a healthier work environment for all staff. The presenters will highlight established and emerging countermeasures for library workers, including promoting work-life balance, encouraging candid communication, and cultivating a supportive workplace culture that allows all employees to thrive. Brief pre-work is required for this event.

Presenters:

Kaetrena Davis Kendrick, MSLS earned her MSLS from the historic Clark Atlanta University School of Library and Information Studies. Her research interests include professionalism, ethics, racial and ethnic diversity in the LIS field, and the role of communities of practice in practical academic librarianship. She is co-editor of The Small and Rural Academic Library: Leveraging Resources and Overcoming Limitations (ACRL 2016) and author of two annotated bibliographies. In her daily and long-term work, Kendrick has transformed library programs, services, and culture via creativity, leadership, and advocacy. She is committed to centering well-being, creativity, and empathy in the workplace and promoting career clarity and rejuvenation to workers. In 2019, Kendrick was named the Association of College and Research Libraries Academic/Research Librarian of the Year. Learn more about her mission, coaching, and consultative services.

Sunnie Scarpa is the Director of the Wallingford Public Library, a vibrant library located in central Connecticut. She began her career as a Teen Librarian at the New Haven Free Public Library before serving as Head of Children's Services at the Wallingford Public Library for six years. She left in 2019 to accept her first Director role at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library in Madison, CT, but was very pleased to return to lead her hometown library in 2023. Scarpa is passionate about the library field and loves to read/listen/talk and coach people on career advancement, management, and leadership topics.


Afternoon Session: 
How to Talk so your Board will Listen: Education, communication, and transformation

Communication is the key to all relationships and your relationship with your Board of Managers is no exception. Join Sunnie Scarpa, Director of the Wallingford Public Library in CT, to discuss tips and tricks for defining and strengthening your connection with your Board through education and communication. This session will include time for facilitated discussion and structured group work with your fellow library leaders.

Presenter:  
Sunnie Scarpa is the Director of the Wallingford Public Library

Friday, May 24th:
Creating a Compassionate Workplace
Compassion for yourself, staff, and patrons affects morale, productivity, finances, and satisfaction. Libraries are inherently caring communities and compassion can develop a space of psychological safety as well as mitigate compassion fatigue. Creating a compassionate workplace doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming but may require a slight shift in focus.
 
In this interactive and reflective program, discover the science around compassion and simple techniques for cultivating compassion for yourself, others, and as a work culture.
  • differentiate how compassion differs from pity, sympathy, and empathy
  • connect how your self-care affects compassion
  • design 2 strategies to boost compassion in your library
Presenter:

Laura Greco is a certified wellness coach, author, and speaker/trainer with a 20+ year background in nursing who helps professionals eliminate burnout, manage stress, create life balance, and rekindle their sense of purpose and joy. She believes that self-care (body, mind, and spirit) is the basis for well-being and that we all have the capacity to make positive lifestyle changes. Her books include Wellness Made Simple, and Wellness Made Simple-for Residents. For more information please visit her website
www.YouBloomWellness.com .

Laura has a BSN (University of Michigan), Master in Adult Education (Penn State), trainings from HeartMath and the Mass General Benson Henry Mind Body Institute, and certifications in wellness coaching from both Wellcoaches and Center for Credentialing and Education.
 
Location: Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center
11755 Kinsman Road
Newbury, OH 44065

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 36





Empathic Design: Center Your Library with Empathy, Compassion, and Purpose
7/10/2024

Empathic design, often referred to as empathetic design, takes a user-centered approach with empathy and compassion towards your user. Through observation and listening, empathic design calls libraries to analyze and apply what users need with empathy and purpose. Through visualization and creativity, you will develop knowledge and skills to identify critical needs of your library. Counter to individualistic ideals and gratifications, you will learn the importance of seeing the library through the eyes of others with compassion and grace, putting aside preconceived notions to establish a library that seeks solutions to the problems of the people they serve. 
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Learn empathy skills and translate it to empathic design.
  • Find deeper meaning to people’s needs through observation and motivations.
  • Discover and identify behavior to influence problems and solutions.
  • Develop creativity and practical application in empathic design.
Presenter:

Jennifer Blair is the Head of User Services and Assistant Professor at Azusa Pacific University. Her role is dedicated to the user experience, including marketing the library, and teaching. She has extensive experience teaching online courses in design and computer literacy. Jennifer holds a B.A. in Graphic Design, a M.A in Education with an emphasis in Educational Multimedia, and a M.S. in Library and Information Studies. Her experience in academic and public libraries as well as work experience in art and design allow her to employ visionary strategies to enrich progress and enhance advancement for students.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Empathic Design: Center Your Library with Empathy, Compassion, and Purpose
7/10/2024

Recorded 7/10/24

Empathic design, often referred to as empathetic design, takes a user-centered approach with empathy and compassion towards your user. Through observation and listening, empathic design calls libraries to analyze and apply what users need with empathy and purpose. Through visualization and creativity, you will develop knowledge and skills to identify critical needs of your library. Counter to individualistic ideals and gratifications, you will learn the importance of seeing the library through the eyes of others with compassion and grace, putting aside preconceived notions to establish a library that seeks solutions to the problems of the people they serve. 
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Learn empathy skills and translate it to empathic design.
  • Find deeper meaning to people’s needs through observation and motivations.
  • Discover and identify behavior to influence problems and solutions.
  • Develop creativity and practical application in empathic design.
Presenter:

Jennifer Blair is the Head of User Services and Assistant Professor at Azusa Pacific University. Her role is dedicated to the user experience, including marketing the library, and teaching. She has extensive experience teaching online courses in design and computer literacy. Jennifer holds a B.A. in Graphic Design, a M.A in Education with an emphasis in Educational Multimedia, and a M.S. in Library and Information Studies. Her experience in academic and public libraries as well as work experience in art and design allow her to employ visionary strategies to enrich progress and enhance advancement for students.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Employee Resource Groups and Why They Matter
7/18/2024

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) offer staff a way to connect with other staff members across their organization that share similar identities, backgrounds, or life experiences. Not only can ERGs provide support and resources to their members, they can serve as a collective voice to communicate changes or areas that need additional support within the organization. This webinar will discuss building an ERG that aligns with the goals of the organization and supports staff both in the group and in the organization.


Presenter:

Kristy Lorenz is an Information Services Specialist for Columbus Metropolitan Library. She has been with the organization since 2016, working primarily in the public services department. She was on temporary assignment in Marketing & Communications for 2 years and during that time she was responsible for planning and coordinating large events and campaigns that take place at Main Library and across the 22 branch locations. In 2020, Columbus Metropolitan Library began creating the infrastructure for employee resource groups. Kristy is one of the founding members of the Working Caregivers Employee Resource Group.
Location: Online via Zoom






Employee Resource Groups and Why They Matter
7/18/2024

Recorded 7/18/24

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) offer staff a way to connect with other staff members across their organization that share similar identities, backgrounds, or life experiences. Not only can ERGs provide support and resources to their members, they can serve as a collective voice to communicate changes or areas that need additional support within the organization. This webinar will discuss building an ERG that aligns with the goals of the organization and supports staff both in the group and in the organization.


Presenter:

Kristy Lorenz is an Information Services Specialist for Columbus Metropolitan Library. She has been with the organization since 2016, working primarily in the public services department. She was on temporary assignment in Marketing & Communications for 2 years and during that time she was responsible for planning and coordinating large events and campaigns that take place at Main Library and across the 22 branch locations. In 2020, Columbus Metropolitan Library began creating the infrastructure for employee resource groups. Kristy is one of the founding members of the Working Caregivers Employee Resource Group.
Location: Online via Zoom






Building Digital Communities: Tips and Tricks for Enhancing Your Social Media + Video Content
7/24/2024

All libraries are filled with stories, and we're not just talking books. In this presentation, we will look at organic ways to grow your digital communities on all the common social media platforms. We'll look at strategies that amplify your social media presence and show you free tools that you can use to create standout content. Whether social media is your main job, or something you're just trying out, this presentation gives you the tools to make your life easier.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn what social media channels are right for you + what types of content you should post
  • Takeaway several strategies that can help you grow your channels organically
  • Gain knowledge of free tools that exist that can streamline your content creation
Presenter:

Connor Dunwoodie is an Emmy-winning storyteller, and the founder of Chronicle Creative, a video production and digital content studio based in Columbus, OH. Connor has spent the better part of a decade in the digital storytelling business.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Building Digital Communities: Tips and Tricks for Enhancing Your Social Media + Video Content
7/24/2024

Recorded 7/24/24

All libraries are filled with stories, and we're not just talking books. In this presentation, we will look at organic ways to grow your digital communities on all the common social media platforms. We'll look at strategies that amplify your social media presence and show you free tools that you can use to create standout content. Whether social media is your main job, or something you're just trying out, this presentation gives you the tools to make your life easier.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn what social media channels are right for you + what types of content you should post
  • Takeaway several strategies that can help you grow your channels organically
  • Gain knowledge of free tools that exist that can streamline your content creation
Presenter:

Connor Dunwoodie is an Emmy-winning storyteller, and the founder of Chronicle Creative, a video production and digital content studio based in Columbus, OH. Connor has spent the better part of a decade in the digital storytelling business.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Serving the Neurodivergent in your Library
9/5/2024

Neurodiversity is a concept that encompasses autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette’s, dementia, mental health conditions, dyspraxia and other intellectual disabilities. This umbrella term is more commonly used by organizations and individuals to help define who they are and what they care about. As the neurodiversity movement grows, you may find more individuals using those labels and concepts in your library. This webinar will help participants learn more about neurodiversity and how to serve their community.

Learning Objectives:
  • What is neurodiversity?
  • The neurodiversity movement
  • Online connections with neurodiversity
    • Misinformation and mental health online
  • Communication
    • People first versus identity first language
Presenter:

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie has published 5 books, with two coming out in 2022 including a new book co-authored with two school librarians with ABC-CLIO: Advocating Digital Citizenship: Resources for Library and Classroom. In 2021 she received an Outstanding Reference Title award from the Reference & User Services Association of ALA. Carrie is the founder of Digital Respons-Ability, a mission-based company that has educated tens of thousands of students, parents and educators in digital citizenship. Her company’s curriculum and work can be found in multiple states and countries. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Serving the Neurodivergent in your Library
9/5/2024

Recorded 9/5/24

Neurodiversity is a concept that encompasses autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette’s, dementia, mental health conditions, dyspraxia and other intellectual disabilities. This umbrella term is more commonly used by organizations and individuals to help define who they are and what they care about. As the neurodiversity movement grows, you may find more individuals using those labels and concepts in your library. This webinar will help participants learn more about neurodiversity and how to serve their community.

Learning Objectives:
  • What is neurodiversity?
  • The neurodiversity movement
  • Online connections with neurodiversity
    • Misinformation and mental health online
  • Communication
    • People first versus identity first language
Presenter:

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie has published 5 books, with two coming out in 2022 including a new book co-authored with two school librarians with ABC-CLIO: Advocating Digital Citizenship: Resources for Library and Classroom. In 2021 she received an Outstanding Reference Title award from the Reference & User Services Association of ALA. Carrie is the founder of Digital Respons-Ability, a mission-based company that has educated tens of thousands of students, parents and educators in digital citizenship. Her company’s curriculum and work can be found in multiple states and countries. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Public Speaking: Effective Skills for Libraries
9/19/2024

Public Speaking can be an intimidating experience for most people. However, when we choose to see Public Speaking with an “overcomer mindset,” visualizing what we can do, we emerge as empowered and confident communicators. This workshop will focus on creating dynamic presentations from start to finish with an organized plan. Special topics such as dealing with nervousness, presenting with a confident vocal quality and learning how to capture the audience’s attention will be addressed.  
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Adopt effective strategies for dealing with nervousness
  • Engage the audience’s attention with your voice
  • Choose words to capture the audience’s attention
  • Create speaking notes to effectively communicate your message confidently
Presenter:

Marilee Fini, M.A. CCC/SLP is certified and licensed Speech Pathologist in Cleveland, OH running her own private practice, MLF Speech Therapy where she sees children and adults. She is also a professional speaker and been presenting for over 24 years. In addition, she is an adjunct professor at Lakeland Community College where she teaches Public Speaking. Currently, she speaks for corporations, in healthcare and for other organizations on effective communication, Public Speaking and motivational topics.  As a kid who stuttered, she couldn’t imagine being a speaker or a Speech Pathologist! In her presentations, she shares a message of discovering an “overcomer mindset” and being able to do things you never thought were possible! 
 
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 36





A Day for Public Service: Psychological Safety and Building Connections in the Workplace
10/8/2024

Join us for our ever-popular Day for Public Service! This year we are focusing on psychological safety and building connections in the workplace.

Morning Session:  Psychological Safety
Evidence shows that when teams have psychological safety, they're more willing to acknowledge their own mistakes and figure out how to prevent them from moving forward. They're also more comfortable raising problems and exploring innovative solutions." During this session, we will focus on the "why," "what," and "impact" and create a call to action. 
 
Learning Objectives:
  • How the foundation of a learning culture is psychological safety
  • Being able to take risks without fear of reprisal
Presenters:

Krista L. Allison, J.D. 
Krista L. Allison currently serves as a Program Support Strategist for Stark Education Partnership, Inc., and an Educational Consultant/Coach for the Stark County Educational Service Center and the Ohio Department of Education State Support Team Region 9 in the areas of cradle to career, Ohio’s Whole Child Framework, family and community engagement, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. 

For over 20 years, Krista has served in leadership roles at the state, county, and school district levels. Mrs. Allison has advised public officials on education regulations, provided training and coaching to education leaders, and created and implemented strategic policies, programs, and systems to address the equitable academic and non-academic needs of all students in Ohio schools.   Mrs. Allison holds a Bachelor of Arts from Baldwin-Wallace University and a Juris Doctorate from Case Western Reserve University. She is an Institute for Educational Leadership Policy Fellow, Ohio Early Childhood Leadership Fellow, and a member of Leadership Stark County’s 35th Class Signature Program.
 
LaFlovia “Flo” Ginanni, M.Ed., LPC
LaFlovia “Flo” Ginanni has been at United Way of Greater Stark County since 2013.  She is currently the Vice President of Diversity, Culture, and Engagement. She launched United Way’s Project Blueprint in 2019, a board and committee preparedness program designed to recruit, train, and place ethnically diverse leaders into policy-making roles to enhance the effectiveness of nonprofit agencies.  Flo also represents United Way on the Dismantling Racism Coalition of Stark County, which introduced the 15-Day Unity Challenge to the community in August of 2020.  She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, as well as a certified Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant, and works as a PRN Counselor at CommQuest’s Detox Unit.  She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology, in addition to master’s degrees in both Leadership Studies and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has worked in the social service, mental health, and criminal justice fields for over 30 years.

 

Afternoon Session:  Building Connections in the Library with Effective Communication
Communication is the key to success in the workplace. We have the desire to communicate better but the missing piece is the “know-how.” In this presentation you will get the “know-how” to…. 
  • Express your ideas in a clear and concise format
  • Listen with intent rather than with an agenda
  • Manage communication breakdowns
  • Communicate effectively with difficult people
 When we get the “know-how” we build a connection with others which leads us to become effective and confident communicators!

 
Learning Objectives:

  • Acquire techniques through listening and verbal communication for building connections with co-workers and patrons in the Library
  • Implement strategies for managing communication breakdowns     
Presenter:

Marilee Fini, M.A. CCC/SLP is a certified and licensed Speech Pathologist in Cleveland, OH running her own private practice, MLF Speech Therapy where she sees children and adults. She is also a professional speaker and has been presenting for over 24 years. In addition, she is an adjunct professor at Lakeland Community College where she teaches Public Speaking. Currently, she speaks for corporations, in healthcare and for other organizations on effective communication, Public Speaking and motivational topics.  As a kid who stuttered, she couldn’t imagine being a speaker or a Speech Pathologist! In her presentations, she shares a message of discovering an “overcomer mindset” and being able to do things you never thought were possible! 
Location: Bainbridge Branch
17222 Snyder Rd.
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



2024-2025 Leadership Academy
10/10/2024

NEO-RLS Introduces the 2024-2025 Leadership Academy
What does it mean to be a leader and how do the skills needed differ from those needed to be a good manager?  Many people struggle with how to leave behind former priorities and mindsets when they enter a leadership role.  Learning how to balance implementation with vision, connect with others in order to achieve goals, become an effective decision-maker and develop others are all important skills that help build alignment with direct reports and across an organization. The Leadership Academy will focus on enhancing the skills you already have and building new ones in order to assist you in developing a vision of how you can confidently move into the future as a leader.
  • The Academy is a blended course which runs from October through May and consists of 5 face-to-face workshops, 3 webinars.
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety
Session 1
Thursday, October 10, 2024 - Cuyahoga Falls Library
9:30 am - 3:30 pm


Everything DiSC® on Catalyst™
Everything DiSC® on Catalyst™ is a personal development learning experience that equips people with the social and emotional know-how for more effective interactions at work—no matter who or where they are.

Learning Objectives:
  • Better understand themselves
  • Appreciate and value differences in perspective and approach
  • Adapt to the unique needs of each person or situation they encounter
  • Connect with colleagues through the Catalyst platform
  • Gain access tips to help work better with different DiSC styles in a variety of situations
Presenter:  
Ned Parks has had a rich and varied life that has taken him from police officer to helicopter pilot to successful entrepreneur with management and leadership positions in the journey.
He brings this experience to his consulting practice as a global provider of business consulting and staff development services that help organizations improve management and strategic competencies enhance customer service and improve employee engagement efforts.


Session 2: 
Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library

9:30 am - 4:00 pm
 
Morning Session:  Get Smart About Emotional Intelligence: Enhance Your Effectiveness
People with higher emotional intelligence tend to be better decision makers, more effective leaders, more resilient, better communicators, have more self-awareness and self-control, and more success in life overall. Emotional intelligence is being able to identify and manage your emotions and those of others. It is crucial for working collaboratively and effectively and having difficult conversations.

In this interactive workshop we will discuss emotional intelligence and ways to improve it. The exercises will walk you through activities that help you explore your emotions, improve communication skills, and build empathy.

Discover how to harness the power of emotions for more effective interactions!

Learning Objectives: 
  • Define emotional intelligence and describe the 5 elements of it
  • Explain the benefits of emotional intelligence in the workplace
  • Describe 4 ways you can improve EI
  • Identify personal areas for improvement (and resources for working on them)
Presenter:

Laura Greco is a certified wellness coach, author, and speaker/trainer with a 20+ year background in nursing who helps professionals eliminate burnout, manage stress, create life balance, and rekindle their sense of purpose and joy. She believes that self-care (body, mind, and spirit) is the basis for well-being and that we all have the capacity to make positive lifestyle changes. Her books include Wellness Made Simple, and Wellness Made Simple-for Residents. For more information please visit her website
www.YouBloomWellness.com .

Laura has a BSN (University of Michigan), Master in Adult Education (Penn State), training from HeartMath and the Mass General Benson Henry Mind Body Institute, and certifications in wellness coaching from both Wellcoaches and Center for Credentialing and Education.

Afternoon Session:  We Need to Talk:  A Step by Step Guide to Difficult Conversations

Session 3
Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am From Your Desktop

 
 
Management in Harmony
"Management in Harmony" is an enlightening and engaging webinar that delves into the art of cultivating a management team that operates in perfect harmony. In today's dynamic library landscape, the success of an organization often hinges on how effectively its management functions as a cohesive unit. This webinar aims to provide participants with invaluable insights and actionable strategies to foster a culture of collaboration, effective communication, and synergy within their management teams.
 
Attendees will learn the key principles and practices that enable managers from diverse backgrounds and departments to align their goals, work seamlessly together, and drive organizational success. Throughout "Management in Harmony," participants will discover 7 key strategies that focus on the importance of aligning departmental objectives, building strong inter-departmental relationships, and establishing clear communication channels. Whether you're an experienced manager looking to enhance your team's cohesion or a new or aspiring leader seeking to unlock the full potential of your management cadre, this webinar promises to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to create a management team that harmoniously navigates challenges, maximizes opportunities, and ultimately propels your organization toward its strategic objectives.
 
Join presenters from the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System, Kim Garrett, Deputy Director, and Sarah Everly, Mobile Library Services Manager, for an illuminating session where you'll learn how to orchestrate your management team to perform in perfect harmony, driving excellence and innovation across your organization.
 
  • H: Honor Diversity
  • A: Align Goals
  • R: Regular Communication
  • M: Mutual Trust & Mentorship
  • O: Operational Efficiency
  • N: Neutralize Conflict
  • Y: Yield to Feedback
Presenter:

Kim Garret, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System
With a passion for knowledge and a dedication to serving the community, Kim Garrett, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System, brings nearly 15 years of invaluable experience to the table. Having started her career as a youth services librarian, Kim has steadily climbed the ranks, exemplifying unwavering commitment to promoting literacy, fostering a love for learning, and expanding access to resources for all patrons. Her extensive expertise in library management, collection development, and innovative programming has been instrumental in transforming the libraries she has served into vibrant hubs for lifelong learning and cultural enrichment. As a leader in Ohio’s public libraries, Kim continues to champion the role of libraries as vital community assets, shaping the future of our industry and ensuring that libraries remains a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment for years to come.

Sarah Everly, Mobile Library Services Manager, Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System
Sarah's main focus is serving individuals who face barriers accessing traditional brick and mortar locations. She does so by providing bookmobile service and Library-by-Mail service as the Mobile Library Services manager at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library in northeast Ohio.
As a former Peace Corps Volunteer, providing access to information and working collaboratively with others give her immense gratification. Everly has established two successful bi-weekly book clubs for and with adults with developmental disabilities and she has initiated a wonderfully successful (and fun!) partnership with the local state park (Mosquito Lake) to provide nature-centered programming paired with live animal demonstrations and a story time at the bookmobile. Everly continually seeks ways to expand bookmobile service and effectively utilize our time on the road.

Session 4
Wednesday, January 22, 2025  from 10:00 am - 11:30 am  From Your Desktop

Strategic Leadership

In today's dynamic library environment, mastering the art of strategic leadership is more crucial than ever. As libraries evolve to meet the challenges of a digital era, leaders must adeptly navigate the intersection of strategy, leadership, operations, and management. This webinar offers participants a comprehensive understanding of how strategic vision and effective leadership can shape the future of library services

Learning objectives:
  • Participants will learn the difference between strategy and leadership skills vs operations and management skills, and will understand the importance of weaving these critical skills together.
  • Participants will learn several integral tools for infusing their management style with strategic thinking.
  • Participants will discuss trends emanating from the pandemic and discuss potential impacts on future library operations
Presenter:

Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.

Session 5
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 from 10 am - 11:15 am from YOUR Desktop

Leading from the Middle: Managing Up and Down Simultaneously

Do you have more than one boss at your library? Do you have lots of responsibility but little authority? Are you working between multiple departments? Are you looking to improve your communication skills with your managers and your direct reports? If you said yes to any of these questions then this webinar can help you communicate better and manage up, and down. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Communication techniques for communicating with upper management and employees
  • Prioritizing tasks and setting goals
  • Performance evaluation strategies: How to better give and receive feedback
  • Time management concerns: How to organize and prioritize your time to meet multiple (and sometimes competing) goals
  • Planning and organizing meetings from "the middle"
Presenter:

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie has published 5 books, with two coming out in 2022 including a new book co-authored with two school librarians with ABC-CLIO: Advocating Digital Citizenship: Resources for Library and Classroom. In 2021 she received an Outstanding Reference Title award from the Reference & User Services Association of ALA. Carrie is the founder of Digital Respons-Ability, a mission-based company that has educated tens of thousands of students, parents and educators in digital citizenship. Her company’s curriculum and work can be found in multiple states and countries. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others.

Session 6 -
Thursday, March 27, 2025 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 4:00 pm

Morning Session:  Leading Through Transitions

Change is never easy, but understanding the transition process that leads to adopting a change is a critical skill for library leaders.  This session will help you understand the stages of a transition process, where people get stuck (and how to help them if they do!), and how to develop strong team dynamics that support the change.  Drawing on the transition theory work of Bruce Feiler, William Bridges, and Susan Bridges, participants will deeply consider the elements of each stage of a transition and how to support themselves, their team, and their colleagues each step of the way, as well as how to head off tension and conflict along the way.  While change may never be easy, understanding the transition process that leads to change helps library leaders become more intentional and effective.

Learning Objectives:
  • Gain skills to better communicate about change
  • Navigate unintended consequences
  • Ensure that the change sticks

Afternoon Session:  Develop Your Teams by Building on Strengths
Teams are a critical unit at your library - it’s where people learn, share, and feel connected. How can we better develop our teams to ensure positive working relationships and job satisfaction? This session will go deep into team building (but not in a “let’s do a ropes course!” way!). We’ll share the theory behind how teams develop their dynamics and cultures and several proven approaches to using a strengths-based approach for intentionally cultivating a productive environment.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the vital role teams play in organizational development and job satisfaction
  • Understand the team development model and how to use it with teams
  • How to increase job engagement through team connection
  • Keys for developing team strengths
Presenter:

Amanda Standerfer’s passion is helping libraries and nonprofit organizations advance so they can create meaningful impact in their communities. Since 2002, Amanda's consulting practice Fast Forward Libraries has worked with libraries and nonprofits on strategic planning, fundraising, organizational development, and capacity building. Amanda has 15 years of experience at various positions in public libraries, most recently as the Director of Community Engagement for The Urbana (IL) Free Library.  She also has 7 years of experience working in the philanthropy sector.  She has a BA and MA in History from Eastern Illinois University and a MLIS from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.



Session 7
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 4:00 pm

Morning Session: Accountability at the Core:  Manager’s Response to Pride and Entitlement in the Workplace
In the complex landscape of the post pandemic, fostering a culture of accountability is not just a goal; it's a necessity!
A midst the comprehensive interplay of organizational dynamics, few threads are as complex and pervasive as pride and entitlement. These two formidable barriers have the potential to obstruct the path to accountability, stifling progress, and hindering growth.
Now, more than ever, leaders must confront these challenges head-on, charting a course towards a future defined by humility, integrity, and unwavering accountability. In this session tailored for HR professionals, we will embark on a journey to unravel the intricacies of pride and entitlement, exploring how they intersect with accountability and, more importantly, how we can overcome them to cultivate a culture of responsibility and excellence within our organizations.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the impact of pride and entitlement on organizational culture and accountability.
  • Recognize signs and symptoms of entitlement and pride in themselves and their employees.
  • Explore root causes that contribute to entitlement and pride, such as upbringing, societal influences, and organizational culture.
  • Learn practical strategies for addressing entitlement and pride.
  • Discover actionable steps and techniques for promoting a culture of humility, empathy, and accountability in the workplace.
Afternoon Session:  Create a Growth Mindset: Guiding your Employees to Resiliency, Grit, Optimism & Forgiveness
Create a Growth Mindset: Guiding your Employees to Resiliency, Grit, Optimism & Forgiveness (Morning Session)
Our mindset is the way we think, filter our thoughts and make meaning of a situation. Is mindset fixed, or can we change it – and help others change theirs?

Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck developed the term “growth mindset” after researching motivation, personality and development. Dweck suggests that a growth mindset evolves from an attitude of hard work, learning, training and perseverance. In comparison, individuals with a fixed mindset believe that success comes from innate ability, focus on the rewards of immediate success and dread failure.
 
Because mindsets are shaped by our environments, organizations can do quite a bit to foster a growth mindset within.  The growth mindset is all about learning, growing and continuing to work hard despite setbacks, while a person with a fixed mindset may be embarrassed by and not willing to admit their personal or professional failures.
 
Growing out of a fixed mindset does not happen overnight. It takes conscious effort to move to a different way of thinking. As Leaders, we can help ourselves, colleagues and ultimately the organization by promoting a growth mindset throughout. 
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the difference of a fixed mindset vs. growth mindset, take a self-assessment to determine your mindset
  • Realize the importance and define five characteristics of a growth mindset workplace and its’ impact on goal setting and feedback
  • Learn the two biggest obstacles to organizational growth mindset and how to overcome them
  • Recognize the three common misconceptions that contribute to a false growth mindset and spot your fixed-mindset triggers
  • Understand what Neuroplasticity is and how it relates to re-wiring the brain to grow in areas such as resilient, grit, optimism and forgiveness
  • Acquire strategies to foster a growth mindset and practice four habits to cultivate a growth mindset in yourself
Presenter:

Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients.  Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.


Session 8
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Morning Session:  Empathetic Leadership 
Leadership styles have shifted greatly over the last several decades, to allow for room to include Person-Centered Leadership models to support our workforce.  Please join this conversation to learn the tools and characteristics of Empathetic Leadership to support your response to the needs of your employees.  

Presenter:

  Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community-based crisis intervention.   Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing. 

Afternoon Session:  Guided Conversations
Here is your opportunity to ask questions of your peers and share your successes and challenges.

Location: Cuyahoga Falls Library
2015 3rd St.
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



A Day for Public Service: Psychological Safety and Building Connections in the Workplace
10/30/2024

Join us for our ever-popular Day for Public Service! This year we are focusing on psychological safety and building connections in the workplace.

Morning Session:  Psychological Safety
Evidence shows that when teams have psychological safety, they're more willing to acknowledge their own mistakes and figure out how to prevent them from moving forward. They're also more comfortable raising problems and exploring innovative solutions." During this session, we will focus on the "why," "what," and "impact" and create a call to action. 
 
Learning Objectives:
  • How the foundation of a learning culture is psychological safety
  • Being able to take risks without fear of reprisal
Presenters:

Krista L. Allison, J.D. 
Krista L. Allison currently serves as a Program Support Strategist for Stark Education Partnership, Inc., and an Educational Consultant/Coach for the Stark County Educational Service Center and the Ohio Department of Education State Support Team Region 9 in the areas of cradle to career, Ohio’s Whole Child Framework, family and community engagement, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. 

For over 20 years, Krista has served in leadership roles at the state, county, and school district levels. Mrs. Allison has advised public officials on education regulations, provided training and coaching to education leaders, and created and implemented strategic policies, programs, and systems to address the equitable academic and non-academic needs of all students in Ohio schools.   Mrs. Allison holds a Bachelor of Arts from Baldwin-Wallace University and a Juris Doctorate from Case Western Reserve University. She is an Institute for Educational Leadership Policy Fellow, Ohio Early Childhood Leadership Fellow, and a member of Leadership Stark County’s 35th Class Signature Program.
 
LaFlovia “Flo” Ginanni, M.Ed., LPC
LaFlovia “Flo” Ginanni has been at United Way of Greater Stark County since 2013.  She is currently the Vice President of Diversity, Culture, and Engagement. She launched United Way’s Project Blueprint in 2019, a board and committee preparedness program designed to recruit, train, and place ethnically diverse leaders into policy-making roles to enhance the effectiveness of nonprofit agencies.  Flo also represents United Way on the Dismantling Racism Coalition of Stark County, which introduced the 15-Day Unity Challenge to the community in August of 2020.  She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, as well as a certified Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant, and works as a PRN Counselor at CommQuest’s Detox Unit.  She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology, in addition to master’s degrees in both Leadership Studies and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has worked in the social service, mental health, and criminal justice fields for over 30 years.

 

Afternoon Session:  Building Connections in the Library with Effective Communication
Communication is the key to success in the workplace. We have the desire to communicate better but the missing piece is the “know-how.” In this presentation you will get the “know-how” to…. 
  • Express your ideas in a clear and concise format
  • Listen with intent rather than with an agenda
  • Manage communication breakdowns
  • Communicate effectively with difficult people
 When we get the “know-how” we build a connection with others which leads us to become effective and confident communicators!

 
Learning Objectives:

  • Acquire techniques through listening and verbal communication for building connections with co-workers and patrons in the Library
  • Implement strategies for managing communication breakdowns     
Presenter:

Marilee Fini, M.A. CCC/SLP is a certified and licensed Speech Pathologist in Cleveland, OH running her own private practice, MLF Speech Therapy where she sees children and adults. She is also a professional speaker and has been presenting for over 24 years. In addition, she is an adjunct professor at Lakeland Community College where she teaches Public Speaking. Currently, she speaks for corporations, in healthcare and for other organizations on effective communication, Public Speaking and motivational topics.  As a kid who stuttered, she couldn’t imagine being a speaker or a Speech Pathologist! In her presentations, she shares a message of discovering an “overcomer mindset” and being able to do things you never thought were possible! 
Location: Avon Lake Public Library
32649 Electric Blvd
Avon Lake, OH 44012


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.



A Day for Public Service: Psychological Safety and Building Connections in the Workplace
11/20/2024

Join us for our ever-popular Day for Public Service! This year we are focusing on psychological safety and building connections in the workplace.

Morning Session:  Psychological Safety
Evidence shows that when teams have psychological safety, they're more willing to acknowledge their own mistakes and figure out how to prevent them from moving forward. They're also more comfortable raising problems and exploring innovative solutions." During this session, we will focus on the "why," "what," and "impact" and create a call to action. 
 
Learning Objectives:
  • How the foundation of a learning culture is psychological safety
  • Being able to take risks without fear of reprisal
Presenters:

Krista L. Allison, J.D. 
Krista L. Allison currently serves as a Program Support Strategist for Stark Education Partnership, Inc., and an Educational Consultant/Coach for the Stark County Educational Service Center and the Ohio Department of Education State Support Team Region 9 in the areas of cradle to career, Ohio’s Whole Child Framework, family and community engagement, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. 

For over 20 years, Krista has served in leadership roles at the state, county, and school district levels. Mrs. Allison has advised public officials on education regulations, provided training and coaching to education leaders, and created and implemented strategic policies, programs, and systems to address the equitable academic and non-academic needs of all students in Ohio schools.   Mrs. Allison holds a Bachelor of Arts from Baldwin-Wallace University and a Juris Doctorate from Case Western Reserve University. She is an Institute for Educational Leadership Policy Fellow, Ohio Early Childhood Leadership Fellow, and a member of Leadership Stark County’s 35th Class Signature Program.
 
LaFlovia “Flo” Ginanni, M.Ed., LPC
LaFlovia “Flo” Ginanni has been at United Way of Greater Stark County since 2013.  She is currently the Vice President of Diversity, Culture, and Engagement. She launched United Way’s Project Blueprint in 2019, a board and committee preparedness program designed to recruit, train, and place ethnically diverse leaders into policy-making roles to enhance the effectiveness of nonprofit agencies.  Flo also represents United Way on the Dismantling Racism Coalition of Stark County, which introduced the 15-Day Unity Challenge to the community in August of 2020.  She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, as well as a certified Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant, and works as a PRN Counselor at CommQuest’s Detox Unit.  She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology, in addition to master’s degrees in both Leadership Studies and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has worked in the social service, mental health, and criminal justice fields for over 30 years.

 

Afternoon Session:  Building Connections in the Library with Effective Communication
Communication is the key to success in the workplace. We have the desire to communicate better but the missing piece is the “know-how.” In this presentation you will get the “know-how” to…. 
  • Express your ideas in a clear and concise format
  • Listen with intent rather than with an agenda
  • Manage communication breakdowns
  • Communicate effectively with difficult people
 When we get the “know-how” we build a connection with others which leads us to become effective and confident communicators!

 
Learning Objectives:

  • Acquire techniques through listening and verbal communication for building connections with co-workers and patrons in the Library
  • Implement strategies for managing communication breakdowns     
Presenter:

Marilee Fini, M.A. CCC/SLP is a certified and licensed Speech Pathologist in Cleveland, OH running her own private practice, MLF Speech Therapy where she sees children and adults. She is also a professional speaker and has been presenting for over 24 years. In addition, she is an adjunct professor at Lakeland Community College where she teaches Public Speaking. Currently, she speaks for corporations, in healthcare and for other organizations on effective communication, Public Speaking and motivational topics.  As a kid who stuttered, she couldn’t imagine being a speaker or a Speech Pathologist! In her presentations, she shares a message of discovering an “overcomer mindset” and being able to do things you never thought were possible! 
Location: Stark Library
Main Library
Canton, OH 44702






Management in Harmony
12/5/2024

"Management in Harmony" is an enlightening and engaging webinar that delves into the art of cultivating a management team that operates in perfect harmony. In today's dynamic library landscape, the success of an organization often hinges on how effectively its management functions as a cohesive unit. This webinar aims to provide participants with invaluable insights and actionable strategies to foster a culture of collaboration, effective communication, and synergy within their management teams.
 
Attendees will learn the key principles and practices that enable managers from diverse backgrounds and departments to align their goals, work seamlessly together, and drive organizational success. Throughout "Management in Harmony," participants will discover 7 key strategies that focus on the importance of aligning departmental objectives, building strong inter-departmental relationships, and establishing clear communication channels. Whether you're an experienced manager looking to enhance your team's cohesion or a new or aspiring leader seeking to unlock the full potential of your management cadre, this webinar promises to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to create a management team that harmoniously navigates challenges, maximizes opportunities, and ultimately propels your organization toward its strategic objectives.
 
Join presenters from the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System, Kim Garrett, Deputy Director, and Sarah Everly, Mobile Library Services Manager, for an illuminating session where you'll learn how to orchestrate your management team to perform in perfect harmony, driving excellence and innovation across your organization.
 
  • H: Honor Diversity
  • A: Align Goals
  • R: Regular Communication
  • M: Mutual Trust & Mentorship
  • O: Operational Efficiency
  • N: Neutralize Conflict
  • Y: Yield to Feedback
Presenters:

Kim Garret, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System
With a passion for knowledge and a dedication to serving the community, Kim Garrett, Deputy Director for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System, brings nearly 15 years of invaluable experience to the table. Having started her career as a youth services librarian, Kim has steadily climbed the ranks, exemplifying unwavering commitment to promoting literacy, fostering a love for learning, and expanding access to resources for all patrons. Her extensive expertise in library management, collection development, and innovative programming has been instrumental in transforming the libraries she has served into vibrant hubs for lifelong learning and cultural enrichment. As a leader in Ohio’s public libraries, Kim continues to champion the role of libraries as vital community assets, shaping the future of our industry and ensuring that libraries remains a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment for years to come.

Sarah Everly, Mobile Library Services Manager, Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System
Sarah's main focus is serving individuals who face barriers accessing traditional brick and mortar locations. She does so by providing bookmobile service and Library-by-Mail service as the Mobile Library Services manager at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library in northeast Ohio.
As a former Peace Corps Volunteer, providing access to information and working collaboratively with others give her immense gratification. Everly has established two successful bi-weekly book clubs for and with adults with developmental disabilities and she has initiated a wonderfully successful (and fun!) partnership with the local state park (Mosquito Lake) to provide nature-centered programming paired with live animal demonstrations and a story time at the bookmobile. Everly continually seeks ways to expand bookmobile service and effectively utilize our time on the road.
Location: Online via Zoom






Ableism and Access: How to Be an Accomplice to Change
12/12/2024

This interactive presentation is designed to be a starting point to understanding ableism and its impact on individuals and the workplace, with a focus on accessibility and inclusion. By highlighting the importance of universal design and its ability to increase access for all people, participants will learn about how to address ableism in their libraries and decrease its impact on both patrons and staff.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to define ableism.
  • Participants will learn about accessibility and accommodations.
  • Participants will be able to recognize ableist language and microaggressions.
  • Participants will become more comfortable addressing ableism in its many forms.
Presenters:
 
Teanna Weeks (she/her) has worked in libraries for most of her adult life. At the Shaker Heights City School District, she is central processing for library materials for all school buildings. Teanna has a passion for advocacy in all areas and consistently works for inclusivity in all spaces. Be careful if you chat her up; she can talk for hours about nail polish, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., BTS, and Star Wars.

 
Marisha Sullivan (she/they) is the Librarian at Holden Forests & Gardens, overseeing the Archives, Special Collections, and Circulating Collections at both Cleveland Botanical Garden and Holden Arboretum. Previously a public librarian, Marisha brings a passion for lifelong learning, accessibility, and equity to her work with plants, trees, and people. When not in the library or wandering the woods, Marisha enjoys fiber arts, video games, and exploring the Greater Cleveland area.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Foundations of Conflict Management
2/5/2025

Where do disagreements come from and how does it escalate? How can you stay prepared to address and de-escalate conflict? This opening session will dive into ways you can grow self-awareness and manage your own emotions as a first step to proactive conflict management and relationship building. You'll learn how communication and conflict styles, power dynamics, and cultural humility can impact difficult interactions. Leave this session with conflict resolution methods that will give you tips and tools to communicate with others directly, kindly, and confidently. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify common sources of conflict and recognize how power dynamics and personal communication styles can influence disagreements.
  • Learn techniques to manage your emotions and remain calm during conflict, improving your ability to respond thoughtfully rather than simply react.
  • Discover practical conflict resolution methods and tools to communicate directly, kindly, and confidently, helping to de-escalate tension and build stronger relationships.
Presenter:

Crystal TriceCSM, CSM@Scale, Library Consultant, Scissors & Glue, LLC
Crystal Trice, founder of Scissors & Glue, LLC, has over 20 years of experience in education and local government, with a focus on improving collaboration and handling challenging situations with patrons and coworkers. She is passionate about creating environments where people work together more effectively.

With certifications as a Scrum Master and in Scrum at Scale for Government, Crystal holds a Master’s in Library & Information Science and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Psychology. Her dedication to community enrichment fuels her work in supporting organizations to achieve their goals.

Crystal lives near Portland, Oregon, and enjoys organizing her thoughts (and tasks) with Sharpies, Flair pens, and sticky notes. She shares her home with her husband and a quirky mix of animals.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Building Joy-Centric Libraries: an Experiential Approach
2/20/2025

An interactive workshop for library staff seeking joyful practices to build connection and community engagement. Positive psychology is shown to improve staff and customer retention and improve morale. This workshop offers practical tools for work teams of all sizes and can be adapted for in-person or virtual environments.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to identify one potential issue that can be heightened in times of challenge and transition.
  • Participants will learn the positive psychology framework and tools to integrate into collaborations, meetings, and projects.
  • Participants will engage in 3 joy-centric exercises and ways to integrate these into their work with communities.
Presenter:

Rebecca Hass (she/her/hers) is the programming and outreach manager for Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) and author of 101 Seeds for Library Joy. Prior to AACPL, she served in librarianship and management with the Enoch Pratt Free Library and Ramsey County Public Library. Rebecca received her MLIS from Dominican University in 2008 and her Life and Engagement Coaching Certificate from Anne Arundel Community College in 2022. Rebecca integrates positive psychology practices with DEIB approaches in libraries, community engagement, coaching, and consulting in her business, Joy Work, LLC: https://joyworkllc.com/.
Location: Online via Zoom