Northeast Ohio Regional Library System

Event Registration - Northeast Ohio Regional Library System
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Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
6/3/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
6/4/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
6/5/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know
6/10/2020

Understanding The REAL WORLD Of Employment Law

What is EMPLOYMENT AT WILL … and how does it REALLY work?  What is TITLE VII … and how does it really work?   What TWO Employment Laws will EVERY EMPLOYER HAVE TO DEAL WITH IN 2020?  What does the ADA REALLY require … and why is it the MOST COMPLICATED EMPLOYMEN LAW?  When does the FMLA take effect … and what do I do when it does?  What are my BIGGEST CONCERNS When it comes to WAGE AND HOUR LAW?  What is the HONEST BELIEF RULE and why is it critical to employers?  What is the difference between LEGAL DISCRIMINATION and ILLEGAL DISCRIMINATION?  Why does “HEARSAY” not apply to the workplace?  Can you rely on the STATEMENTS given to you by employees?  How does “RETALIATION LAW” really work … and why is it now the #1 CHARGE FILED WITH THE EEOC?  What is DOCUMENTATION?   
…and MUCH, MUCH more…

Join Scott Warrickas he outlines for you the various aspects of Employment Law in his own unique, practical, entertaining and humorous style.  Scott will not only outline these processes for you, but he will review how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!

Presenter:


Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.”  Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.​

 
Location: Online via Zoom






COVID-19: Documenting the Pandemic in Your Community
6/11/2020

The webinar will focus on how to engage the communities you serve to record and collect local history as it happens. Learn the mechanics behind a project that gets everyone involved in documenting community history.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how to educate, engage, and empower your local community in recording history as it happens. 
  • Learn how to develop strategies and programming for collaboration with K-12 school classes and community groups.
  • Learn how to collect, document, and make available historical materials on the pandemic. 
Presenters:

Dawne Dewey has retired as Head of Special Collections and Archives for the Wright State University Libraries in Dayton, Ohio and has been with the university since 1989. She received her B.A. in History and Anthropology in 1980 and her M.A. in Public History in 1984, both from Wright State. Her duties include fundraising, grant writing, donor relations, community engagement and administration. She is also a graduate adjunct faculty member, teaching courses in public history, including Research in Local History.
 
 
Bill Stolz is the Archivist for Reference and Outreach and handles social media for Special Collections & Archives, Wright State University Libraries. Bill holds a B.A. in History from Ohio University, M.A. in Public History from Wright State University, M.A. in Library Science from the University of Missouri, and is a Certified Archivist.
 

 
Lisa Rickey is the Collections Manager at Special Collections & Archives, Wright State University Libraries, where she has worked since 2012. She has been an adjunct faculty member for the Wright State University Public History concentration since 2017. She has an M.A. in Public History from Wright State University, an MLIS from Wayne State University, and is a Certified Archivist.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






COVID-19: Documenting the Pandemic in Your Community
6/11/2020

The webinar will focus on how to engage the communities you serve to record and collect local history as it happens. Learn the mechanics behind a project that gets everyone involved in documenting community history.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn how to educate, engage, and empower your local community in recording history as it happens. 

  • Learn how to develop strategies and programming for collaboration with K-12 school classes and community groups.

  • Learn how to collect, document, and make available historical materials on the pandemic. 

Presenters:

Dawne Dewey has retired as Head of Special Collections and Archives for the Wright State University Libraries in Dayton, Ohio and has been with the university since 1989. She received her B.A. in History and Anthropology in 1980 and her M.A. in Public History in 1984, both from Wright State. Her duties include fundraising, grant writing, donor relations, community engagement and administration. She is also a graduate adjunct faculty member, teaching courses in public history, including Research in Local History.
 
 
Bill Stolz is the Archivist for Reference and Outreach and handles social media for Special Collections & Archives, Wright State University Libraries. Bill holds a B.A. in History from Ohio University, M.A. in Public History from Wright State University, M.A. in Library Science from the University of Missouri, and is a Certified Archivist.
 

 
Lisa Rickey is the Collections Manager at Special Collections & Archives, Wright State University Libraries, where she has worked since 2012. She has been an adjunct faculty member for the Wright State University Public History concentration since 2017. She has an M.A. in Public History from Wright State University, an MLIS from Wayne State University, and is a Certified Archivist.

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






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
6/17/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
6/18/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
6/19/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Facilities and Admin Networking Meeting
7/7/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Time Management: Yours and Theirs
7/8/2020

Almost everyone has more to do than they can get to in any one day.  When you become a manager/supervisor you generally inherit even more things to do in even less time.  Poor personal time management skills take a toll on us as individuals and on our co-workers.  Understanding how to effectively manage time will allow you to survive with less stress, accomplish your goals more easily, make quality and timely decisions and provide a work culture in which your co-workers can prosper as well.
 
Learning objectives:
  • Valuing your own time
  • Setting realistic priorities
  • Delegating tasks effectively
  • Recognizing and avoiding time wasters
  • Taking Action
  • Practical Tools
Presenter: 

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training seminars for libraries and library organizations for more than ten 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 founder of the People Connect Institute Webinars.

Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Navigating through Times of Transition
7/9/2020

Navigating through Times of Transition is about how to move forward during times of limbo and uncertainty and take up new behaviors or ways of thinking.  This session will teach how to handle transitional periods of change with less disruption and sustained productivity.  The program will focus on understanding and mastering the human side of change, which is more complex and harder to achieve.
 
Learning Objectives
  • Survive and thrive during times of limbo and ambiguity
  • Learn new ways of adapting to change so you can move your life forward
  • Gain helpful tips to reduce the stress caused by change and transition
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 408 spots remaining out of 450





Navigating through Times of Transition
7/9/2020

Navigating through Times of Transition is about how to move forward during times of limbo and uncertainty and take up new behaviors or ways of thinking.  This session will teach how to handle transitional periods of change with less disruption and sustained productivity.  The program will focus on understanding and mastering the human side of change, which is more complex and harder to achieve.
 
Learning Objectives
  • Survive and thrive during times of limbo and ambiguity
  • Learn new ways of adapting to change so you can move your life forward
  • Gain helpful tips to reduce the stress caused by change and transition
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 430 spots remaining out of 450





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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






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






Connecting with Community and Families in Support of Youth
7/22/2020

Ask yourself, how am I connecting with community partners and families while libraries are closed and social distancing is enforced?  Your answer might be, “I’m not” or “Our connections are very limited.”  In this webinar you’ll explore how to build and maintain relationships with community members, organizations, stakeholders, and families during COVID-19 and build ideas for keeping those relationships strong when library services are re-launched in your community.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify community members and organizations for youth-based service planning and implementation
  • Develop strategies for connecting with partners and families
  • Explain why it's valuable for library staff working with youth to build experiences that connect families and communities
Presenter:  

Linda W. Braun is LEO’s Project Management and Consulting Coordinator. Over the past two decades, Linda has provided project management, training, and consulting services to a variety of schools, libraries, and out-of-school-time learning institutions. Linda has a Masters of Science Degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons College and a Masters of Education with a specialization in Technology in Education from Lesley University.

Linda previously taught for Simmons College in their School of Library and Information Science, the University of Maryland Information School, and for the Lesley University, Graduate School of Education. She is a four-time recipient of the WISE Online Teaching Award, has won the Young Adult Library Services Association’s (YALSA) Writing Award, served as President of YALSA in 2009-2010. She co-authored The Future of Library Services for and with Teens: A Call to Action and Libraries Ready to Code: Promoting CS Opportunities for Youth Through Libraries.


Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 422 spots remaining out of 450





Connecting with Community and Families in Support of Youth
7/22/2020

Ask yourself, how am I connecting with community partners and families while libraries are closed and social distancing is enforced?  Your answer might be, “I’m not” or “Our connections are very limited.”  In this webinar you’ll explore how to build and maintain relationships with community members, organizations, stakeholders, and families during COVID-19 and build ideas for keeping those relationships strong when library services are re-launched in your community.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify community members and organizations for youth-based service planning and implementation

  • Develop strategies for connecting with partners and families

  • Explain why it's valuable for library staff working with youth to build experiences that connect families and communities

Presenter:  

Linda W. Braun is LEO’s Project Management and Consulting Coordinator. Over the past two decades, Linda has provided project management, training, and consulting services to a variety of schools, libraries, and out-of-school-time learning institutions. Linda has a Masters of Science Degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons College and a Masters of Education with a specialization in Technology in Education from Lesley University.

Linda previously taught for Simmons College in their School of Library and Information Science, the University of Maryland Information School, and for the Lesley University, Graduate School of Education. She is a four-time recipient of the WISE Online Teaching Award, has won the Young Adult Library Services Association’s (YALSA) Writing Award, served as President of YALSA in 2009-2010. She co-authored The Future of Library Services for and with Teens: A Call to Action and Libraries Ready to Code: Promoting CS Opportunities for Youth Through Libraries.

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






Academic Library Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
7/23/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. 
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






Course Correction: How to Guide Library Employees Back on Track
8/5/2020

Some managers think that the best way to correct poor library workplace behavior is to wait until someone does something wrong, and then tell the person in front of a crowd how they failed: in detail and going back several decades. A better approach is to create an assignment that deals with a single concrete behavior, which can be measured or observed. The assignment is discussed in private, has specific goals, and sets expectations for improved performance without the drama. It helps hold employees accountable while treating them with courtesy and respect.
 
Topics include the importance of ensuring employees have written guidelines, the value of weekly check-ins, and how to reinforce successful behavior change.

Learning Objectives:
  • Ensure employees have the information and tools to do their jobs well.
  • Create precise outcomes for an assignment to correct behavior.
  • Stop having “feel-good” conversations that do not set goals and consequences for behavior change.
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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Course Correction: How to Guide Library Employees Back on Track
8/5/2020

Some managers think that the best way to correct poor library workplace behavior is to wait until someone does something wrong, and then tell the person in front of a crowd how they failed: in detail and going back several decades. A better approach is to create an assignment that deals with a single concrete behavior, which can be measured or observed. The assignment is discussed in private, has specific goals, and sets expectations for improved performance without the drama. It helps hold employees accountable while treating them with courtesy and respect.
 
Topics include the importance of ensuring employees have written guidelines, the value of weekly check-ins, and how to reinforce successful behavior change.

Learning Objectives:
  • Ensure employees have the information and tools to do their jobs well.

  • Create precise outcomes for an assignment to correct behavior.

  • Stop having “feel-good” conversations that do not set goals and consequences for behavior change.

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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
8/5/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Instructional Design: Ideas and Techniques That You Can Begin Using Today
8/6/2020

In this webinar, take a walk with Kimberly Salcewicz through parts of the instructional design process while she shares tips and knowledge on how to design effective instructional material that encourages learner retention and knowledge transfer. 'She will provide examples and explanations of instructional design principles and how to keep your intended audience at the center of your design decisions.She will also discuss how to use Microsoft Word to make sure your future instructional material is considered accessible. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to approach your design with the reader/participant as the focus 
  • Learn about how to create accessible documents using Microsoft Word which will help ensure all patrons can benefit from your created instructional material
  • Learn about some principles of instructional design and how to apply them to the needs of your patrons or library teams


? Presenter:

Kimberly Salcewicz has a background in education and project management. Over the past 13 years, she has created and facilitated educational/instructional material for a variety of objectives and groups including, public school students, project teams, cross-functional client teams, and library patrons. She also has experience collaborating with companies and departments on how to improve or build their training/instructional materials. She is currently working at the Cuyahoga Falls Library in the circulation department while being enrolled as a full-time Kent State University graduate student. She will graduate in December with a Master’s in Educational Technology.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 419 spots remaining out of 450





Instructional Design: Ideas and Techniques That You Can Begin Using Today
8/6/2020

In this webinar, take a walk with Kimberly Salcewicz through parts of the instructional design process while she shares tips and knowledge on how to design effective instructional material that encourages learner retention and knowledge transfer. 'She will provide examples and explanations of instructional design principles and how to keep your intended audience at the center of your design decisions.She will also discuss how to use Microsoft Word to make sure your future instructional material is considered accessible. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to approach your design with the reader/participant as the focus 

  • Learn about how to create accessible documents using Microsoft Word which will help ensure all patrons can benefit from your created instructional material

  • Learn about some principles of instructional design and how to apply them to the needs of your patrons or library teams


Presenter:

Kimberly Salcewicz has a background in education and project management. Over the past 13 years, she has created and facilitated educational/instructional material for a variety of objectives and groups including, public school students, project teams, cross-functional client teams, and library patrons. She also has experience collaborating with companies and departments on how to improve or build their training/instructional materials. She is currently working at the Cuyahoga Falls Library in the circulation department while being enrolled as a full-time Kent State University graduate student. She will graduate in December with a Master’s in Educational Technology.

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






Brand Touchpoints: All the Staff & All the Stuff
8/18/2020

You probably have a pretty good understanding of what a "brand" is. But what about a "brand touchpoint"? Do you know what that is? And do you realize that you are a brand touchpoint?
 
A brand is much more than a logo; it's how people feel about your library. And a touchpoint is any point of contact or interaction, which of course affects how people feel about an organization. So every person, and every space, and every item that's related to your library is a brand touchpoint. Every interaction that people have, face-to-face or online, affects their opinions of you.
 
It's vital for all library employees to realize this and to understand how to be the best brand ambassadors they can be.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Define the business terms and relate them to libraries
  • Explain how every employee and every interaction matter
  • Discuss user experience (UX) and public perception
  • Share real examples of how laypeople see and discuss libraries
  • Offer guidelines on how to be a positive touchpoint
This session is meant to be eye-opening for employees who shy away from branding and marketing responsibility, and for those who don't believe their work matters to the public. And it's meant to be inspiring, to demonstrate how everyone matters, and to encourage listeners to strive toward their best work.

Presenter:
Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, 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 25 years, and was formerly Editor-in-Chief of Computers in Libraries magazine. She also blogs at The 'M' Word. She's a member of the New Jersey Library Association, and Founder of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference, which she chaired in 2015, 2016, and 2017.

This writer, editor, and marketing maven has been giving presentations across the U.S. and Canada for 20+ years, always sprinkling them with humor to make marketing concepts more interesting and accessible. She continues to fight the stereotypes that librarians are boring and that "marketing" is a dirty word.
Location: Online via Zoom






Brand Touchpoints: All the Staff & All the Stuff
8/18/2020

You probably have a pretty good understanding of what a "brand" is. But what about a "brand touchpoint"? Do you know what that is? And do you realize that you are a brand touchpoint?
 
A brand is much more than a logo; it's how people feel about your library. And a touchpoint is any point of contact or interaction, which of course affects how people feel about an organization. So every person, and every space, and every item that's related to your library is a brand touchpoint. Every interaction that people have, face-to-face or online, affects their opinions of you.
 
It's vital for all library employees to realize this and to understand how to be the best brand ambassadors they can be.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Define the business terms and relate them to libraries

  • Explain how every employee and every interaction matter

  • Discuss user experience (UX) and public perception

  • Share real examples of how laypeople see and discuss libraries

  • Offer guidelines on how to be a positive touchpoint

This session is meant to be eye-opening for employees who shy away from branding and marketing responsibility, and for those who don't believe their work matters to the public. And it's meant to be inspiring, to demonstrate how everyone matters, and to encourage listeners to strive toward their best work.

Presenter:
Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, 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 25 years, and was formerly Editor-in-Chief of Computers in Libraries magazine. She also blogs at The 'M' Word. She's a member of the New Jersey Library Association, and Founder of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference, which she chaired in 2015, 2016, and 2017.

This writer, editor, and marketing maven has been giving presentations across the U.S. and Canada for 20+ years, always sprinkling them with humor to make marketing concepts more interesting and accessible. She continues to fight the stereotypes that librarians are boring and that "marketing" is a dirty word.

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






It's Tea Time: Understanding Gen Z
8/19/2020

Learn to understand Gen Z; their words, humor, and way of life. This webinar will cover topics such as Gen Z language, social media, and Gen Z as a whole, taught by two teens.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about Gen Z language
  • Social Media
  • All things Gen Z

Presenters:
Kaitlyn James and Leah Lattanzi, High School Students


 
Location: Online via Zoom






It's Tea Time: Understanding Gen Z
8/19/2020

Learn to understand Gen Z; their words, humor, and way of life. This webinar will cover topics such as Gen Z language, social media, and Gen Z as a whole, taught by two teens.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about Gen Z language

  • Social Media

  • All things Gen Z


Presenters:
Kaitlyn James and Leah Lattanzi, High School Students

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





Magic, Mischief, or Malevolence? Online Privacy, Internet Security, and You
8/26/2020

In an age when we can easily access online information, share photos with family and friends, and live a large part of our lives via the Internet, we often don't give a second thought to "how" all that works. As Arthur C. Clarke said, "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic." But is there any dark magic at work to make our online lives possible? This presentation will explore how much control you give up - both willingly and unwittingly - over your data, your information, your research, and your privacy when you go online and how you can (possibly) mitigate those effects.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the difference between privacy and security
  • Learn a number of strategies for protecting one's information online
  • Gain confidence to explain these concerns to patrons
Presenter:

Don Boozer, Manager: Literature Department, Ohio Center for the Book, and Homebound Services at Cleveland Public Library.
Don is also an adjunct instructor at Kent State University School of Information teaching "Information Sources and Reference Services." Previously, Don was coordinator of Ohio's statewide online reference service, KnowItNow24x7; a subject librarian in Literature at Cleveland Public Library; and a reference librarian at Barberton Public Library
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Magic, Mischief, or Malevolence? Online Privacy, Internet Security, and You
8/26/2020

In an age when we can easily access online information, share photos with family and friends, and live a large part of our lives via the Internet, we often don't give a second thought to "how" all that works. As Arthur C. Clarke said, "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic." But is there any dark magic at work to make our online lives possible? This presentation will explore how much control you give up - both willingly and unwittingly - over your data, your information, your research, and your privacy when you go online and how you can (possibly) mitigate those effects.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the difference between privacy and security

  • Learn a number of strategies for protecting one's information online

  • Gain confidence to explain these concerns to patrons

Presenter:

Don Boozer, Manager: Literature Department, Ohio Center for the Book, and Homebound Services at Cleveland Public Library.
Don is also an adjunct instructor at Kent State University School of Information teaching "Information Sources and Reference Services." Previously, Don was coordinator of Ohio's statewide online reference service, KnowItNow24x7; a subject librarian in Literature at Cleveland Public Library; and a reference librarian at Barberton Public Library
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Recognizing and reacting to Mental Health Challenges in Adolescents and Young Adults
9/1/2020

How can we help our teens and tweens when they are struggling?  Come to this webinar to find out what we should be aware of and what we can do.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will become familiar with the signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders
  • Participants will learn an action plan to respond to mental health and suicidal crises
  • Participants will learn how intervene early during the development of a mental health problem to decrease the severity of the impact of the illness 
Presenter:

Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Recognizing and reacting to Mental Health Challenges in Adolescents and Young Adults
9/1/2020

How can we help our teens and tweens when they are struggling?  Come to this webinar to find out what we should be aware of and what we can do.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will become familiar with the signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders

  • Participants will learn an action plan to respond to mental health and suicidal crises

  • Participants will learn how intervene early during the development of a mental health problem to decrease the severity of the impact of the illness 

Presenter:

Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019. 

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






2020 Virtual Emerging Technology Symposium:
Keynote: Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it

9/3/2020

Keynote:  Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
Janet Hollingsworth, Adam Watts and Zack Weaver, 2019 Library Journal Movers & Shakers, from BLDG 61, Boulder Public Library, will kick off the symposium talking about their space and how they designed their environment, their programming, their partnerships and their staff training.  They will also talk about the inclusive opportunities they have created for a variety of communities that libraries haven’t always engaged. 

BLDG 61 is the Boulder Public Library’s all-ages free community workshop that provides maker education and technology to the public in a creative and inclusive environment.  Since it’s opening in February of 2016, BLDG 61 and a team of 5 “Creative Technologists” have engaged with over 250,000 people through their home space in Colorado, outreach to the surrounding region, national and international speaking engagements and hands on workshops.  They are champions of equitable access for learning everything from spinning and weaving fibers, to fine woodwork, to state-of-the-art electronics and digital fabrication. And they’ve done all of this at no cost to their patrons. How?!  Find out in this opening conversation with Adam Watts, Janet Hollingsworth and Zack Weaver, three of the people behind one of Boulder Public Library’s biggest success stories.  The three will discuss their experiences, failures and successes on topics such as, what it was like to create, open and program BLDG 61,  how programs can implement a community's diverse perspectives and foster accessibility, how to form mutually beneficial partnerships, how to foster a perspective of purposeful making, how to promote technological literacy and what does it take to be a Creative Technologist.  They will also address the library makerspace’s role as a critical resource for economic recovery and social equalizer in particularly challenging times. The presentation will include an open Q&A and the trio will close the day’s events with a virtual Happy Hour to connect more deeply with the audience.

Presenters:

Janet Hollingsworth is a structural engineer, woodworker, and maker educator. She and Adam Watts co-founded BLDG 61, the all-ages makerspace at the Boulder Public Library in 2016 and added Zack Weaver to the team shortly thereafter. As a creative technologist, she curated and facilitated a variety of maker programs at BLDG 61, serving over 25,000 patrons annually. She also developed special apprenticeship programs for underrepresented youth, the blind/VI community, and individuals experiencing homelessness. She helped establish the Colorado Sewing Rebellion, supporting community activism through fiber arts; co-developed Space Camp, a program for educators and students to build, launch, track and retrieve high-altitude balloon packages to the edge-of-space to collect environmental data; and initiated paid internships for teens through the Build a Better Book project, creating multi-modal picture books for blind children using maker technologies.
 
She recently transitioned to director of innovation and making at the Washington Leadership Academy, a public charter school in Washington DC with a focus on computer science, maker education, and social justice.

Adam Watts is a Creative Technologist and one of the grant writers responsible for the establishment of BLDG 61.  He is also a professional illustrator, heavy metal bassist, and award winning tabletop game designer. He has worked in libraries for the past sixteen years, beginning in shelving and then holding various roles in circulation, reference, childrens, web development, and IT management. Last year, his team was honored amongst Library Journal's 2019 Movers and Shakers. He is an unrepentant geek and creature of the night.    
Twitter & Instagram:  atomicwatts

Zack Weaver is a Maker Educator and Creative Technologist at BLDG 61 and an instructor at Colorado University’s ATLAS Institute.  His path to libraries was inspired by increasingly accessible tools, materials and processes for making and a passion for showing learners of all types and all ages their inherent creative potential.  This path included teaching hands-on project-based design classes publicly and privately at the STAMPS School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan and CODE Lab at Carnegie Mellon School of Architecture.  When joining the BLDG 61 team and Boulder Public Library in 2017, he knew he had finally found an equitable place to share the radical power of making with individuals and communities. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 64 spots remaining out of 100





2020 Virtual Emerging Technology Symposium: Keynote: Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
9/3/2020

Keynote:  Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
Janet Hollingsworth, Adam Watts and Zack Weaver, 2019 Library Journal Movers & Shakers, from BLDG 61, Boulder Public Library, will kick off the symposium talking about their space and how they designed their environment, their programming, their partnerships and their staff training.  They will also talk about the inclusive opportunities they have created for a variety of communities that libraries haven’t always engaged. 

BLDG 61 is the Boulder Public Library’s all-ages free community workshop that provides maker education and technology to the public in a creative and inclusive environment.  Since it’s opening in February of 2016, BLDG 61 and a team of 5 “Creative Technologists” have engaged with over 250,000 people through their home space in Colorado, outreach to the surrounding region, national and international speaking engagements and hands on workshops.  They are champions of equitable access for learning everything from spinning and weaving fibers, to fine woodwork, to state-of-the-art electronics and digital fabrication. And they’ve done all of this at no cost to their patrons. How?!  Find out in this opening conversation with Adam Watts, Janet Hollingsworth and Zack Weaver, three of the people behind one of Boulder Public Library’s biggest success stories.  The three will discuss their experiences, failures and successes on topics such as, what it was like to create, open and program BLDG 61,  how programs can implement a community's diverse perspectives and foster accessibility, how to form mutually beneficial partnerships, how to foster a perspective of purposeful making, how to promote technological literacy and what does it take to be a Creative Technologist.  They will also address the library makerspace’s role as a critical resource for economic recovery and social equalizer in particularly challenging times. The presentation will include an open Q&A and the trio will close the day’s events with a virtual Happy Hour to connect more deeply with the audience.

Presenters:

Janet Hollingsworth is a structural engineer, woodworker, and maker educator. She and Adam Watts co-founded BLDG 61, the all-ages makerspace at the Boulder Public Library in 2016 and added Zack Weaver to the team shortly thereafter. As a creative technologist, she curated and facilitated a variety of maker programs at BLDG 61, serving over 25,000 patrons annually. She also developed special apprenticeship programs for underrepresented youth, the blind/VI community, and individuals experiencing homelessness. She helped establish the Colorado Sewing Rebellion, supporting community activism through fiber arts; co-developed Space Camp, a program for educators and students to build, launch, track and retrieve high-altitude balloon packages to the edge-of-space to collect environmental data; and initiated paid internships for teens through the Build a Better Book project, creating multi-modal picture books for blind children using maker technologies.
 
She recently transitioned to director of innovation and making at the Washington Leadership Academy, a public charter school in Washington DC with a focus on computer science, maker education, and social justice.

Adam Watts is a Creative Technologist and one of the grant writers responsible for the establishment of BLDG 61.  He is also a professional illustrator, heavy metal bassist, and award winning tabletop game designer. He has worked in libraries for the past sixteen years, beginning in shelving and then holding various roles in circulation, reference, childrens, web development, and IT management. Last year, his team was honored amongst Library Journal's 2019 Movers and Shakers. He is an unrepentant geek and creature of the night.    
Twitter & Instagram:  atomicwatts

Zack Weaver is a Maker Educator and Creative Technologist at BLDG 61 and an instructor at Colorado University’s ATLAS Institute.  His path to libraries was inspired by increasingly accessible tools, materials and processes for making and a passion for showing learners of all types and all ages their inherent creative potential.  This path included teaching hands-on project-based design classes publicly and privately at the STAMPS School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan and CODE Lab at Carnegie Mellon School of Architecture.  When joining the BLDG 61 team and Boulder Public Library in 2017, he knew he had finally found an equitable place to share the radical power of making with individuals and communities. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 81 spots remaining out of 100





Virtual 2020 Emerging Technology Symposium: We Built It-Why Didn't They Come?
9/3/2020

This year’s Symposium will look at some of the barriers that prevent widespread and sustained use of the makerspace and offer some solutions.  Janet Hollingsworth, Adam Watts and Zack Weaver, 2019 Library Journal Movers & Shakers, from BLDG 61, Boulder Public Library, will kick off the symposium talking about their space and how they designed their environment, their programming, their partnerships and their staff training.  They will also talk about the inclusive opportunities they have created for a variety of communities that libraries haven’t always engaged. 

BLDG 61 is the Boulder Public Library’s all-ages free community workshop that provides maker education and technology to the public in a creative and inclusive environment.  Since it’s opening in February of 2016, BLDG 61 and a team of 5 “Creative Technologists” have engaged with over 250,000 people through their home space in Colorado, outreach to the surrounding region, national and international speaking engagements and hands on workshops.  They are champions of equitable access for learning everything from spinning and weaving fibers, to fine woodwork, to state-of-the-art electronics and digital fabrication. And they’ve done all of this at no cost to their patrons. How?!  Find out in this opening conversation with Adam Watts, Janet Hollingsworth and Zack Weaver, three of the people behind one of Boulder Public Library’s biggest success stories.  The three will discuss their experiences, failures and successes on topics such as, what it was like to create, open and program BLDG 61,  how programs can implement a community's diverse perspectives and foster accessibility, how to form mutually beneficial partnerships, how to foster a perspective of purposeful making, how to promote technological literacy and what does it take to be a Creative Technologist.

Presenters:

 
 Janet Hollingsworth is a structural engineer, woodworker, and maker educator. She and Adam Watts co-founded BLDG 61, the all-ages makerspace at the Boulder Public Library in 2016 and added Zack Weaver to the team shortly thereafter. As a creative technologist, she curated and facilitated a variety of maker programs at BLDG 61, serving over 25,000 patrons annually. She also developed special apprenticeship programs for underrepresented youth, the blind/VI community, and individuals experiencing homelessness. She helped establish the Colorado Sewing Rebellion, supporting community activism through fiber arts; co-developed Space Camp, a program for educators and students to build, launch, track and retrieve high-altitude balloon packages to the edge-of-space to collect environmental data; and initiated paid internships for teens through the Build a Better Book project, creating multi-modal picture books for blind children using maker technologies.
 
She recently transitioned to director of innovation and making at the Washington Leadership Academy, a public charter school in Washington DC with a focus on computer science, maker education, and social justice.

Adam Watts is a Creative Technologist and one of the grant writers responsible for the establishment of BLDG 61.  He is also a professional illustrator, heavy metal bassist, and award winning tabletop game designer. He has worked in libraries for the past sixteen years, beginning in shelving and then holding various roles in circulation, reference, childrens, web development, and IT management. Last year, his team was honored amongst Library Journal's 2019 Movers and Shakers. He is an unrepentant geek and creature of the night.    
Twitter & Instagram:  atomicwatts

Zack Weaver is a Maker Educator and Creative Technologist at BLDG 61 and an instructor at Colorado University’s ATLAS Institute.  His path to libraries was inspired by increasingly accessible tools, materials and processes for making and a passion for showing learners of all types and all ages their inherent creative potential.  This path included teaching hands-on project-based design classes publicly and privately at the STAMPS School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan and CODE Lab at Carnegie Mellon School of Architecture.  When joining the BLDG 61 team and Boulder Public Library in 2017, he knew he had finally found an equitable place to share the radical power of making with individuals and communities. 


The  Virtual 2020 Emerging Tech Symposium will include the following featured events throughout the month of September with dates and times to be announced soon. 

Your Makerspace Why 
Let’s examine how to design makerspace programming to engage your patrons. We’ll focus on purposeful making, community voice, and inclusive practices. The presenter will also discuss her MakerCare initiative, a maker program empowering patrons to make a difference through creating service based projects. Takeaways include how to build community partnerships and numerous project ideas from simple low cost items to 3-D technology.     

Presenter:  Gina Seymour, author and national speaker, is the library media specialist at Islip High School on Long Island (NY). Gina was named to Library Journal’s Movers & Shakers (2017) list as a “Change Agent,” named a 2019 AASL Social Media Superstar Finalist in the category of Social Justice Defender and was awarded the Suffolk School Library Media Association’s School Librarian of the Year in 2014. She is author of Makers with a Cause: Creative Service Projects for Library Youth (2018),  a chapter on inclusive makerspaces in School Library Makerspaces in Action and is currently working on a book on how to cultivate social action in the library.  Gina shares her work, musings and reflections on her blog GinaSeymour.com and on Twitter @ginaseymour.

Intentionally Making Space: Programming Towards Inclusion
In 2015, the NC State University Libraries cut a ribbon and threw open its doors to a new cool-looking, tool-filled Makerspace. It didn’t take long, however, for staff to notice that the space wasn’t being used by a diverse cross section of students. Framed by some techniques and concepts from feminist pedagogy and social emotional learning, Marian Fragola will discuss how the Libraries created the Making Space series to confront bias and systemic barriers to inclusion in its Makerspace and gaming offerings. Attendees of this session should come prepared to engage with each other and discuss (and even challenge!) the ideas and concepts presented.

Presenter:  Marian Fragola is the Director of Program Planning and Outreach at the NC State University Libraries, where she develops and manages a diverse suite of multidisciplinary programs and activities that benefit the campus and broader community. In 2018 she received a Movers and Shakers award from Library Journal. Fragola is immediate past board chair of the North Carolina Humanities Council and lives in Durham, NC.



Developing a Maker Mindset: No Makerspace Required
Is your makerspace garnering the interest you first thought it would? Are you struggling to create programming that stems beyond crafting? Let me guide you through techniques to empower your patrons by encouraging them to develop a Maker Mindset: a combination of processes that include the Maker Empowerment Theory and the Stanford Design process to retrain our thought processes to recognize that learning begins at failure (not ends there), that we live in a designed world, and that we are able to change it through making. We’ll discuss sample programming, techniques, and challenges. No funding in the budget for 3D printers? Not necessary! Come see how to help your patron hold what’s in their mind in the palm of their hand sans printer. A takeaway for every level of interest!

Presenter:  Amy Zell,  Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.

Amy is a self proclaimed Maker after learning that she, too, has the wherewithal and resources to change the world through making, Amy Zell is using her Final Project through Kent State University M.L.I.S. to take this opportunity to inspire and instill the same passion in librarians that the Pittsburgh Fab Institute instilled in her.



From Consumer to Creator: STEM and Makerspace Initiatives for Growth
So you have a makerspace - now what? Attendees will hear about some of the changes and challenges the Fayetteville Free Library Fab Lab (the first public library makerspace in the country) has experienced throughout the years. Additionally, we will discuss the ways the Fab Lab has worked to keep up with the evolving maker movement, while also staying relevant and reflective of its community’s needs and skill sets. We will also explore various opportunities for strengthening and growing your community member use and participation in your makerspace. Attendees will have the opportunity to brainstorm some locally relevant ideas and possible partnerships to help strengthen and grow your maker programs and makerspaces.  

Presenter:  Michael Cimino is the Director of STEAM and Making at the Fayetteville Free Library (FFL). He received his MSED in Literacy from SUNY Cortland in 2011 and worked as a secondary educator before joining the Fayetteville Free Library in the summer of 2013. Michael's primary responsibilities at the FFL are facilitating STEAM and Making program creation and execution. Michael also works to build relationships with members of the community who are interested in enhancing the use and accessibility of our makerspaces.
Location: Online via Zoom






Poster Session: Tech Together: Building Bug Robots
9/10/2020

Tech Together is a series of technology programs created for families and designed to engage both adults and children together. This session will focus on the successful creation and implementation of a bug robot building program, challenges we overcame, as well as some tips and tricks for you.  

Presenter:  Niccole Paytosh is a Library Associate at the South Lorain Branch of the Lorain Public Library System. She has spent the last five years working closely with families and youth of all ages. Her passion is creating family programming that enriches the lives of her patrons with creativity, innovation, and fun.  
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Poster Session: Tech Together: Building Bug Robots
9/10/2020

Tech Together is a series of technology programs created for families and designed to engage both adults and children together. This session will focus on the successful creation and implementation of a bug robot building program, challenges we overcame, as well as some tips and tricks for you.  

Presenter:  Niccole Paytosh is a Library Associate at the South Lorain Branch of the Lorain Public Library System. She has spent the last five years working closely with families and youth of all ages. Her passion is creating family programming that enriches the lives of her patrons with creativity, innovation, and fun.  
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Soft Skills for Strong Management: Cultivating Good Critical Thinking
9/16/2020

Soft Skills for Strong Management: Cultivating Good Critical Thinking

With the challenges and demands supervisors continually face each day, it is essential to possess great critical thinking skills. It is also important to instill such soft skills in your employees so that they can handle the daily demands of their jobs. But what exactly are these crucial abilities? And better yet, why are they important and how can they help us in this ever-changing library environment?

Critical thinking is an overarching skill that helps you succeed in many facets of your professional and personal life. Characteristics like open-mindedness, good decision-making, the ability to be self-aware, and the capacity to adapt in the workplace are all tools that are driven by good critical thinking.

Learning objectives:

  • Define the concept of critical thinking
  • Explore several of the associated tools mentioned above
  • Investigate soft skills and learn ways to immediately improve to become a more conscious and efficient critical thinker
 Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Intentionally Making Space: Programming Towards Inclusion
9/17/2020

In 2015, the North Carolina State University Libraries cut a ribbon and threw open its doors to a new cool-looking, tool-filled Makerspace. It didn’t take long, however, for staff to notice that the space wasn’t being used by a diverse cross section of students. Framed by some techniques and concepts from feminist pedagogy and social emotional learning, Marian Fragola will discuss how the Libraries created the Making Space series to confront bias and systemic barriers to inclusion in its Makerspace and gaming offerings. Attendees of this session should come prepared to engage with each other and discuss (and even challenge!) the ideas and concepts presented.

Presenter: Marian Fragola is the Director of Program Planning and Outreach at the NC State University Libraries, where she develops and manages a diverse suite of multidisciplinary programs and activities that benefit the campus and broader community. Fragola is on the board of Student Action with Farmworkers and has served as the board chair for the North Carolina Humanities Council. She lives in Durham, NC.



 

There are currently 58 spots remaining out of 100





Poster Session: Making Gone Virtual
9/18/2020

This poster session will show you how to execute the Maker Mindset Method in creating programs via Zoom for makers of all ages and how to keep everyone engaged. Kits or no kits, desktop access or phone, we will address it all. From successful Family Makerspace Storytimes to 3D design/print glider races gone wild, complete access to what worked and what didn't. 

Presenter:  Amy Zell,  Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
Amy is a self proclaimed Maker after learning that she, too, has the wherewithal and resources to change the world through making.  Amy Zell is using her Final Project through Kent State University 's M.L.I.S. program to take this opportunity to inspire and instill the same passion in librarians that the Pittsburgh Fab Institute instilled in her.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 65 spots remaining out of 100





Poster Session: Making Gone Virtual
9/18/2020

This poster session will show you how to execute the Maker Mindset Method in creating programs via Zoom for makers of all ages and how to keep everyone engaged. Kits or no kits, desktop access or phone, we will address it all. From successful Family Makerspace Storytimes to 3D design/print glider races gone wild, complete access to what worked and what didn't. 

Presenter:  Amy Zell,  Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
Amy is a self proclaimed Maker after learning that she, too, has the wherewithal and resources to change the world through making.  Amy Zell is using her Final Project through Kent State University 's M.L.I.S. program to take this opportunity to inspire and instill the same passion in librarians that the Pittsburgh Fab Institute instilled in her.

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 94 spots remaining out of 100





From Consumer to Creator: STEM and Makerspace Initiatives for Growth
9/22/2020

So you have a makerspace - now what? Attendees will hear about some of the changes and challenges the Fayetteville Free Library Fab Lab has experienced throughout the years. Additionally, we will discuss the ways the Fab Lab has worked to keep up with the evolving maker movement in our post COVID -19 environment, while also staying relevant and reflective of its community’s needs and skill sets. We will explore various opportunities for strengthening and growing your community member use and participation in your makerspace. Attendees will also have the opportunity to brainstorm some locally relevant ideas and possible partnerships to help strengthen and grow your maker programs and makerspaces.  



Presenter:  Michael Cimino is the Director of STEAM and Making at the Fayetteville Free Library (FFL). He received his MSED in Literacy from SUNY Cortland in 2011 and worked as a secondary educator before joining the Fayetteville Free Library in the summer of 2013. Michael's primary responsibilities at the FFL are facilitating STEAM and Making program creation and execution. Michael also works to build relationships with members of the community who are interested in enhancing the use and accessibility of our makerspaces.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






From Consumer to Creator: STEM and Makerspace Initiatives for Growth
9/22/2020

So you have a makerspace - now what? Attendees will hear about some of the changes and challenges the Fayetteville Free Library Fab Lab has experienced throughout the years. Additionally, we will discuss the ways the Fab Lab has worked to keep up with the evolving maker movement in our post COVID -19 environment, while also staying relevant and reflective of its community’s needs and skill sets. We will explore various opportunities for strengthening and growing your community member use and participation in your makerspace. Attendees will also have the opportunity to brainstorm some locally relevant ideas and possible partnerships to help strengthen and grow your maker programs and makerspaces.  



Presenter:  Michael Cimino is the Director of STEAM and Making at the Fayetteville Free Library (FFL). He received his MSED in Literacy from SUNY Cortland in 2011 and worked as a secondary educator before joining the Fayetteville Free Library in the summer of 2013. Michael's primary responsibilities at the FFL are facilitating STEAM and Making program creation and execution. Michael also works to build relationships with members of the community who are interested in enhancing the use and accessibility of our makerspaces.

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






Resilience in Challenging Times
9/23/2020

Do you know someone who keeps on keeping on, no matter what life throws at them?  How do they continue to thrive, flourish and grow even stronger as they overcome the obstacles they face?  The answer is resilience which is described as “the process of facing adversity and bouncing back from difficult experiences. “ This session will focus on key skills to not only survive and bounce back after a setback, but to come back stronger and wiser.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Take control of your choices and your life
  • Increase your sense of positivity and positive emotions
  • Develop the ability to respond to adversity with optimism and hope
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






Resilience in Challenging Times
9/23/2020

Do you know someone who keeps on keeping on, no matter what life throws at them?  How do they continue to thrive, flourish and grow even stronger as they overcome the obstacles they face?  The answer is resilience which is described as “the process of facing adversity and bouncing back from difficult experiences. “ This session will focus on key skills to not only survive and bounce back after a setback, but to come back stronger and wiser.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Take control of your choices and your life
  • Increase your sense of positivity and positive emotions
  • Develop the ability to respond to adversity with optimism and hope
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






Developing a Maker Mindset: No Makerspace Required
9/24/2020

Is your makerspace garnering the interest you first thought it would? Are you struggling to create programming that stems beyond crafting? Let me guide you through techniques to empower your patrons by encouraging them to develop a Maker Mindset: a combination of processes that include the Maker Empowerment Theory and the Stanford Design process to retrain our thought processes to recognize that learning begins at failure (not ends there), that we live in a designed world, and that we are able to change it through making. We’ll discuss sample programming, techniques, and challenges. No funding in the budget for 3D printers? Not necessary! Come see how to help your patron hold what’s in their mind in the palm of their hand sans printer. A takeaway for every level of interest!

Presenter:  Amy Zell,  Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
Amy is a self proclaimed Maker after learning that she, too, has the wherewithal and resources to change the world through making.  Amy Zell is using her Final Project through Kent State University's M.L.I.S. program to take this opportunity to inspire and instill the same passion in librarians that the Pittsburgh Fab Institute instilled in her.


Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 63 spots remaining out of 100





Developing a Maker Mindset: No Makerspace Required
9/24/2020

Content Warning:  This webinar contains opening remarks about suicide and depression.

Is your makerspace garnering the interest you first thought it would? Are you struggling to create programming that stems beyond crafting? Let me guide you through techniques to empower your patrons by encouraging them to develop a Maker Mindset: a combination of processes that include the Maker Empowerment Theory and the Stanford Design process to retrain our thought processes to recognize that learning begins at failure (not ends there), that we live in a designed world, and that we are able to change it through making. We’ll discuss sample programming, techniques, and challenges. No funding in the budget for 3D printers? Not necessary! Come see how to help your patron hold what’s in their mind in the palm of their hand sans printer. A takeaway for every level of interest!

Presenter:  Amy Zell,  Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
Amy is a self proclaimed Maker after learning that she, too, has the wherewithal and resources to change the world through making.  Amy Zell is using her Final Project through Kent State University's M.L.I.S. program to take this opportunity to inspire and instill the same passion in librarians that the Pittsburgh Fab Institute instilled in her.

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 53 spots remaining out of 100





Keeping Your MakerSpace Momentum
9/25/2020

What do you do with your MakerSpace when people can't go to it? Learn creative ideas for virtual programming, keeping the excitement going around your space, and the tools and resources to make it all happen.

Presenters:

Missy Littell, Customer Service Manager, Cuyahoga Falls Library



Carolanne Tkach, Technology Trainer, Cuyahoga Falls Library

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






Keeping Your MakerSpace Momentum
9/25/2020

What do you do with your MakerSpace when people can't go to it? Learn creative ideas for virtual programming, keeping the excitement going around your space, and the tools and resources to make it all happen.

Presenters:

Missy Littell, Customer Service Manager, Cuyahoga Falls Library



Carolanne Tkach, Technology Trainer, Cuyahoga Falls Library


Location: Online via Zoom






Your Makerspace Why
9/29/2020

Let’s examine how to design makerspace programming to engage your patrons. We’ll focus on purposeful making, community voice, and inclusive practices. The presenter will also discuss her MakerCare initiative, a maker program empowering patrons to make a difference through creating service based projects. Takeaways include how to build community partnerships and numerous project ideas from simple low cost items to 3-D technology.   

Presenter:  Gina Seymour, author and national speaker, is the library media specialist at Islip High School on Long Island (NY). Gina was named to Library Journal’s Movers & Shakers (2017) list as a “Change Agent,” named a 2019 AASL Social Media Superstar Finalist in the category of Social Justice Defender and was awarded the Suffolk School Library Media Association’s School Librarian of the Year in 2014. She is author of Makers with a Cause: Creative Service Projects for Library Youth (2018),  a chapter on inclusive makerspaces in School Library Makerspaces in Action and is currently working on a book on how to cultivate social action in the library.  Gina shares her work, musings and reflections on her blog GinaSeymour.com and on Twitter @ginaseymour.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 71 spots remaining out of 100





Your Makerspace Why
9/29/2020

Let’s examine how to design makerspace programming to engage your patrons. We’ll focus on purposeful making, community voice, and inclusive practices. The presenter will also discuss her MakerCare initiative, a maker program empowering patrons to make a difference through creating service based projects. Takeaways include how to build community partnerships and numerous project ideas from simple low cost items to 3-D technology.   

Presenter:  Gina Seymour, author and national speaker, is the library media specialist at Islip High School on Long Island (NY). Gina was named to Library Journal’s Movers & Shakers (2017) list as a “Change Agent,” named a 2019 AASL Social Media Superstar Finalist in the category of Social Justice Defender and was awarded the Suffolk School Library Media Association’s School Librarian of the Year in 2014. She is author of Makers with a Cause: Creative Service Projects for Library Youth (2018),  a chapter on inclusive makerspaces in School Library Makerspaces in Action and is currently working on a book on how to cultivate social action in the library.  Gina shares her work, musings and reflections on her blog GinaSeymour.com and on Twitter @ginaseymour.

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 90 spots remaining out of 100





Poster Session: Ana-Tour-Me: 3D Modeling's Use in Individualising Anatomy Education in the 21st Century
9/30/2020

In this session, Dr. Regula will do a walk through of a virtual anatomy program for instructional purposes that fit all learning levels, and follow up with a tutorial of an anatomical database to construct individualized study tools including 3D images and models. 

Presenter:

Dr. Regula is an instructor of Human Anatomy at the University of Dayton. He has taught upper level anatomy using novel technology and pedagogy for six years and recently published an anatomy lab manual specifically designed to be intersectional and inclusive to all students. He prides himself on bringing critical thinking, accuracy, and intersectionality into a discipline that has often been treated as rote memorization in the past. When not challenging students in the classroom, Dr. Regula enjoys 3D print designing, games, and being outdoors with his husband and son. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Poster Session: Ana-Tour-Me: 3D Modeling's Use in Individualising Anatomy Education in the 21st Century
9/30/2020

In this session, Dr. Regula will do a walk through of a virtual anatomy program for instructional purposes that fit all learning levels, and follow up with a tutorial of an anatomical database to construct individualized study tools including 3D images and models. 

Presenter:

Dr. Regula is an instructor of Human Anatomy at the University of Dayton. He has taught upper level anatomy using novel technology and pedagogy for six years and recently published an anatomy lab manual specifically designed to be intersectional and inclusive to all students. He prides himself on bringing critical thinking, accuracy, and intersectionality into a discipline that has often been treated as rote memorization in the past. When not challenging students in the classroom, Dr. Regula enjoys 3D print designing, games, and being outdoors with his husband and son. 

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






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





It's a Manager/Supervisor's Job to Motivate Staff
10/15/2020

Great things happen when people are motivated.  However,  we often think that everyone comes to the job already motivated or they should be as motivated as others around them. Either rarely happens and therefore, it is the Manager/Supervisor’s job to motivate staff.  This session will look at ways of discovering what motivates your staff, discuss setting stretch goals to promote growth and autonomy, and examine common behavioral barriers to motivating staff.
 
Presenter: 

Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






How to teach students and patrons to fact-check like a pro
10/21/2020

Dive deep into the tools and skills needed to verify the authenticity of information, and learn to create engaging fact-checking investigations that inspire students and patrons to investigate viral content. Access to News Literacy Project resources and classroom-ready examples are included.

Learning Objectives:

  • Building effective information habits and search strategies
  • Developing keen observation skills to detect false context
  • Using reverse image searches to determine authenticity
  • Using archives to explore deleted or changed content
  • Using Google Street View to confirm and explore locations.
Presenter:

Peter Adams is the News Literacy Project’s senior vice president of education and has been with the organization since 2009. He began his career in education as a classroom teacher in the New York City schools. He has also worked as a trainer with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program, a youth media after-school instructor in the Chicago public schools and an adjunct instructor at Roosevelt University and Chicago City Colleges.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






How to teach students and patrons to fact-check like a pro
10/21/2020

Dive deep into the tools and skills needed to verify the authenticity of information, and learn to create engaging fact-checking investigations that inspire students and patrons to investigate viral content. Access to News Literacy Project resources and classroom-ready examples are included.

Learning Objectives:

  • Building effective information habits and search strategies
  • Developing keen observation skills to detect false context
  • Using reverse image searches to determine authenticity
  • Using archives to explore deleted or changed content
  • Using Google Street View to confirm and explore locations.
Presenter:

Peter Adams is the News Literacy Project’s senior vice president of education and has been with the organization since 2009. He began his career in education as a classroom teacher in the New York City schools. He has also worked as a trainer with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program, a youth media after-school instructor in the Chicago public schools and an adjunct instructor at Roosevelt University and Chicago City Colleges.
 

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






Respecting Authority: An Intro to Subject Analysis for Copy Catalogers
10/22/2020

Subject cataloging gets a bad rap as fussy and hard to learn. While mastery takes time, there are smaller steps copy catalogers can take to expand their knowledge and improve the use of subject terms in their catalogs. This brief workshop will introduce you to some of the most common subject systems, rules, and principles with a focus on Library of Congress Subject Headings.
 
Learning objectives:

  • Attendees will gain an introductory understanding of subject heading systems and basic rules for their application
  • Attendees will acquire tools and workflows to assess the quality of subject headings in copy cataloging records
  • We will discuss the role of cataloger's judgment and bias in subject cataloging


Presenter:
Misty Alvaro is the Catalog Librarian for the Columbus Metropolitan Library. She received her MLIS after achieving a degree in Japanese and Italian at the Ohio State University. Misty has worked in public and technical services at a variety of library types including academic, public, and special libraries; she loves to talk about how all of them are awesome.


Location: Online via Zoom






Respecting Authority: An Intro to Subject Analysis for Copy Catalogers
10/22/2020

Subject cataloging gets a bad rap as fussy and hard to learn. While mastery takes time, there are smaller steps copy catalogers can take to expand their knowledge and improve the use of subject terms in their catalogs. This brief workshop will introduce you to some of the most common subject systems, rules, and principles with a focus on Library of Congress Subject Headings.
 
Learning objectives:

  • Attendees will gain an introductory understanding of subject heading systems and basic rules for their application
  • Attendees will acquire tools and workflows to assess the quality of subject headings in copy cataloging records
  • We will discuss the role of cataloger's judgment and bias in subject cataloging


Presenter:
Misty Alvaro is the Catalog Librarian for the Columbus Metropolitan Library. She received her MLIS after achieving a degree in Japanese and Italian at the Ohio State University. Misty has worked in public and technical services at a variety of library types including academic, public, and special libraries; she loves to talk about how all of them are awesome.

 

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






Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
11/5/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Marketing Automation in Public Libraries
11/10/2020

Join us to discover how marketing automation can streamline your customer engagement, help strengthen the library brand and build awareness of all the wonderful things your library offers the community.  Hear how libraries around the world are hooking Patron Point's marketing automation platform up to their ILS to leverage the wealth of data and transform library processes.

Learning Objectives:
  • How to harness data from a myriad of different library systems/platforms to fully understand each of your Patrons
  • Learn how marketing automation can help you strengthen your brand, engage your Patrons and drive usage of your services
  • How to delight your Patrons with personalized, relevant, fully automated communications
Presenter:

Brendan joined the Patron Point team in January 2020 after 10 highly enjoyable years working for collectionHQ, which is owned by Baker & Taylor. His current role with Patron Point is to work with public libraries across the U.S. to introduce and demonstrate the benefits of marketing automation. Outside of work, Brendan’s two children (Aiden 10, Eva 7) keep him very busy and on his toes – great training for his marathon running!
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Marketing Automation in Public Libraries
11/10/2020

Join us to discover how marketing automation can streamline your customer engagement, help strengthen the library brand and build awareness of all the wonderful things your library offers the community.  Hear how libraries around the world are hooking Patron Point's marketing automation platform up to their ILS to leverage the wealth of data and transform library processes.

Learning Objectives:
  • How to harness data from a myriad of different library systems/platforms to fully understand each of your Patrons
  • Learn how marketing automation can help you strengthen your brand, engage your Patrons and drive usage of your services
  • How to delight your Patrons with personalized, relevant, fully automated communications
Presenter:

Brendan joined the Patron Point team in January 2020 after 10 highly enjoyable years working for collectionHQ, which is owned by Baker & Taylor. His current role with Patron Point is to work with public libraries across the U.S. to introduce and demonstrate the benefits of marketing automation. Outside of work, Brendan’s two children (Aiden 10, Eva 7) keep him very busy and on his toes – great training for his marathon running!
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Organizing Chaos: Training for a Library Service Platform Migration
11/12/2020

When a library system moves to a new service platform, it can feel chaotic and disruptive. The whole staff needs to be trained at the same time, while the implementation team is still actively working on configuration and data migration. How do you give everyone what they need to start work on Day 1 when even staff who know the most are still learning and the system isn’t entirely ready? Just as importantly, how do you address the change management needed to prepare staff for a new technological system that may also change physical workflows and even job responsibilities?
 
Using examples from her experience coordinating training for Alma (Ex Libris), Koerber will examine a variety of approaches and tools that can spread the training net wide.
 
Learning Objectives:
 
During and after this webinar, participants will:
  • Learn a model for staff training for migrating to a new library service platform (LSP), using Ex Libris’s Alma as an example
  • Be able to incorporate change management discussions into their training programs for migrations
  • Have a list of resources for providing LSP training online and in person
 
Presenter: 

Jennifer Koerber is a consultant who advises and guides libraries on staff training programs, especially around technology change and skill-building. She has more than 20 years of experience in public-facing and behind-the-scenes roles, including children’s librarian, reference generalist, branch manager, and web services librarian. After 17 years at the Boston Public Library, she established her own business providing technology training and consulting services to libraries. In 2017, Jennifer became staff Training Manager for the Harvard Library ILS migration and pivoted her career to follow this new path. 
 
In addition to her library work, Jennifer has written extensively for Library Journal, and is the co-author (with Michael P. Sauers) of Emerging Technologies: a Primer for Librarians (Rowman & Littlefield, 2015). In May 2018, her book Library Services to Immigrants and New Americans: Celebration and Integration was published by Libraries Unlimited/ABC-CLIO.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Organizing Chaos: Training for a Library Service Platform Migration
11/12/2020

When a library system moves to a new service platform, it can feel chaotic and disruptive. The whole staff needs to be trained at the same time, while the implementation team is still actively working on configuration and data migration. How do you give everyone what they need to start work on Day 1 when even staff who know the most are still learning and the system isn’t entirely ready? Just as importantly, how do you address the change management needed to prepare staff for a new technological system that may also change physical workflows and even job responsibilities?
 
Using examples from her experience coordinating training for Alma (Ex Libris), Koerber will examine a variety of approaches and tools that can spread the training net wide.
 
Learning Objectives:
 
During and after this webinar, participants will:
  • Learn a model for staff training for migrating to a new library service platform (LSP), using Ex Libris’s Alma as an example
  • Be able to incorporate change management discussions into their training programs for migrations
  • Have a list of resources for providing LSP training online and in person
 
Presenter: 

Jennifer Koerber is a consultant who advises and guides libraries on staff training programs, especially around technology change and skill-building. She has more than 20 years of experience in public-facing and behind-the-scenes roles, including children’s librarian, reference generalist, branch manager, and web services librarian. After 17 years at the Boston Public Library, she established her own business providing technology training and consulting services to libraries. In 2017, Jennifer became staff Training Manager for the Harvard Library ILS migration and pivoted her career to follow this new path. 
 
In addition to her library work, Jennifer has written extensively for Library Journal, and is the co-author (with Michael P. Sauers) of Emerging Technologies: a Primer for Librarians (Rowman & Littlefield, 2015). In May 2018, her book Library Services to Immigrants and New Americans: Celebration and Integration was published by Libraries Unlimited/ABC-CLIO.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
11/12/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Academic Library Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
11/13/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Coping in a New World: How to continue to thrive and cope while providing public service
11/19/2020

Participants will engage in learning around ways to take care of ourselves and provide quality public service during COVID.
 
Objectives:
  • Consider change and how it impacts us
  • Learn ways to keep ourselves safe and well emotionally during times of change
  • Learn new techniques to support decreasing levels of worry and anxiety
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

There are currently 88 spots remaining out of 200





Coping in a New World: How to continue to thrive and cope while providing public service
11/19/2020

Participants will engage in learning around ways to take care of ourselves and provide quality public service during COVID.
 
Objectives:
  • Consider change and how it impacts us
  • Learn ways to keep ourselves safe and well emotionally during times of change
  • Learn new techniques to support decreasing levels of worry and anxiety
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

There are currently 164 spots remaining out of 200





2020 Hottest Tech Toys for the Holidays
11/20/2020

It’s that time of year again!  It's the time that everyone begins their search to find the best toys for their loved one, friends, or even themselves.  Learn about the new emerging tech products that your patrons may likely want, have questions about, or even bring into your library for assistance.  Indeed, there may even be some fun, new emerging tech tools that you might consider for your library!

Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






2020 Hottest Tech Toys for the Holidays
11/20/2020

It’s that time of year again!  It's the time that everyone begins their search to find the best toys for their loved one, friends, or even themselves.  Learn about the new emerging tech products that your patrons may likely want, have questions about, or even bring into your library for assistance.  Indeed, there may even be some fun, new emerging tech tools that you might consider for your library!

Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Outreach Virtual Networking Meeting
12/1/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Technical Services Virtual Networking Meeting
12/1/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
12/2/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
12/3/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  Please be prepared to discuss future marketing plans.

You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us to share your successes and find answers to your challenges.  Email topics a head of time to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online via Zoom






Teen Virtual Networking Meeting
12/7/2020

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Back Porch Tips: Encourage Literacy, Learning, and Laughter with Library Videos for Young Children
12/10/2020

Delivering programs remotely during the pandemic has presented unique challenges and opportunities. This webinar will offer some tips to maximize the video format. Learn about editing software, program extenders like downloadable PDFs, and how to expand your reach while keeping it personal. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn ways to increase the appeal of videos for young children 
  • Learn ways in which editing software can enhance the literacy impact of the videos 
  • Discover resources for finding songs and rhymes not restricted by copyright 

Presenter:

Nicki Petrone has over thirty years of experience with children and literacy. She specializes in programming for children under age two at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Creating videos has enabled her to tap into he​r diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Back Porch Tips: Encourage Literacy, Learning, and Laughter with Library Videos for Young Children
12/10/2020

Delivering programs remotely during the pandemic has presented unique challenges and opportunities. This webinar will offer some tips to maximize the video format. Learn about editing software, program extenders like downloadable PDFs, and how to expand your reach while keeping it personal. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn ways to increase the appeal of videos for young children 
  • Learn ways in which editing software can enhance the literacy impact of the videos 
  • Discover resources for finding songs and rhymes not restricted by copyright 

Presenter:

Nicki Petrone has over thirty years of experience with children and literacy. She specializes in programming for children under age two at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Creating videos has enabled her to tap into he​r diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Instructional Design: Ideas and Techniques you can begin using today - Part 2
1/7/2021

In part 2, we will continue the walk with Kimberly Salcewicz through parts of the instructional design process. She will focus on Task Analysis which is when an instructional designer takes a detailed look at the instructional project’s topic/procedure, before beginning to design. In addition to Task Analysis, she will share instructional design tips and strategies by walking through examples and addressing two instructional challenges.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about task analysis and how it can help build effective instructional material
  • Explore two instructional challenges and some of their instructional solutions
  • Learn about the functions of graphics and how to use them to enhance your instructional material
If you missed Part 1 click here to register for the archive.  The link to the archived webinar will appear in your confirmation email.

Presenter:

Kimberly Salcewicz has a background in education and project management. Over the past 13 years, she has created and facilitated instructional material for a variety of objectives and groups including, public school students, project teams, cross-functional client teams, and library patrons. She also has experience collaborating with companies and departments on how to improve or build their training and/or instructional materials. She is currently a full-time student at Kent State University earning a Master’s in Educational Technology. She will graduate in December.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Instructional Design: Ideas and Techniques you can begin using today - Part 2
1/7/2021

In part 2, we will continue the walk with Kimberly Salcewicz through parts of the instructional design process. She will focus on Task Analysis which is when an instructional designer takes a detailed look at the instructional project’s topic/procedure, before beginning to design. In addition to Task Analysis, she will share instructional design tips and strategies by walking through examples and addressing two instructional challenges.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about task analysis and how it can help build effective instructional material
  • Explore two instructional challenges and some of their instructional solutions
  • Learn about the functions of graphics and how to use them to enhance your instructional material
If you missed Part 1 click here to register for the archive.  The link to the archived webinar will appear in your confirmation email.

Presenter:

Kimberly Salcewicz has a background in education and project management. Over the past 13 years, she has created and facilitated instructional material for a variety of objectives and groups including, public school students, project teams, cross-functional client teams, and library patrons. She also has experience collaborating with companies and departments on how to improve or build their training and/or instructional materials. She is currently a full-time student at Kent State University earning a Master’s in Educational Technology. She will graduate in December.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Book Matchmaker: Personalized, Impersonal Service: Making RA Work In A Digital World
1/12/2021

In a world of personalized services delivered via impersonal applications, where can we find librarians? Join the panel as they discuss Book Matchmaker, an online readers' advisory (RA) tool that merges a Buzzfeed-style quiz with a Stitch Fix-esque business model. Book Matchmaker is a proven way to connect with patrons online and create strong relationships in real life. Learn how to bring Book Matchmaker to your library and get tips on making online RA work for all ages.

Learning Objectives:
  • Advocate for online-based readers’ advisory at your library
  • Create personalized, online RA forms using tools such as Jotform and Google suite
  • Build strong, RA-based relationships—even in the time of Covid—with a new audience and excite regular readers with a fresh way to discover books.
Presenters:

Stephanie Anderson is the Assistant Director, Selection, for BookOps, serving the branch collections of the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library. She was previously the Assistant Director of Public Services at the Darien Library (CT). She is a founding member of LibraryReads, the national public library staff picks list, and has written about readers' advisory for RUSQ and Library Journal. She reviews for Kirkus Reviews, Shelf Awareness, and People, and when she's not reading or chasing her toddler, can be found online at bookavore.net.
 
Virginia Grubbs is the Assistant Head of Reader Services, Darien Library (CT). Although, a relative newbie in the Library world, Virginia brings more than 15 years of experience in strategic communications and public relations.  In her most recent pre-librarian role, she served as vice president of a global PR firm. Virginia has worked with several significant organizations including American Airlines, the ExxonMobil Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, and Dallas Independent School District. Her area of specialty was educational programs and nonprofits. Since starting at Darien Library in the Reader Services Department in 2013, Virginia has used her talents and love of books to help enhance the patron experience.  She has developed innovative, eye-catching displays and she has managed both the Book Matchmaker and Adult Summer Reading programs. Outside the library you will find Virginia reading, snuggled up with her pets, enjoying time outside or golfing.
 
Elisabeth Marrocolla is the Associate Director of Public Services at Darien Library (CT). She has worked at Darien Library for nearly ten years, previously serving as Head of Children and Teen Services. Elisabeth graduated from Pratt Institute with her MLIS in 2011 and is a 2017 graduate of ALA’s Leadership Institute. She has written regularly for the ALSC Blog, Children in Libraries, and School Library Journal, and is a firm believer that the book is always better than the movie. 
 
Pat Tone has worked in a variety of library positions for 24 years. Currently she is the Head of Reader Services at Dairen Library (CT). Pat came to appreciate and enjoy library work because of her volunteer work at her children’s school libraries. Over the years, she has found working at the library to be a fulfilling and enriching profession because of her love of books, the connection and relationships developed with library patrons, and colleagues and the ability to learn something new every day! When she is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, gardening and walking with the company of four-legged furry friends.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 48 spots remaining out of 100





Book Matchmaker: Personalized, Impersonal Service: Making RA Work In A Digital World
1/12/2021

In a world of personalized services delivered via impersonal applications, where can we find librarians? Join the panel as they discuss Book Matchmaker, an online readers' advisory (RA) tool that merges a Buzzfeed-style quiz with a Stitch Fix-esque business model. Book Matchmaker is a proven way to connect with patrons online and create strong relationships in real life. Learn how to bring Book Matchmaker to your library and get tips on making online RA work for all ages.

Learning Objectives:
  • Advocate for online-based readers’ advisory at your library
  • Create personalized, online RA forms using tools such as Jotform and Google suite
  • Build strong, RA-based relationships—even in the time of Covid—with a new audience and excite regular readers with a fresh way to discover books.
Presenters:

Stephanie Anderson is the Assistant Director, Selection, for BookOps, serving the branch collections of the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library. She was previously the Assistant Director of Public Services at the Darien Library (CT). She is a founding member of LibraryReads, the national public library staff picks list, and has written about readers' advisory for RUSQ and Library Journal. She reviews for Kirkus Reviews, Shelf Awareness, and People, and when she's not reading or chasing her toddler, can be found online at bookavore.net.
 
Virginia Grubbs is the Assistant Head of Reader Services, Darien Library (CT). Although, a relative newbie in the Library world, Virginia brings more than 15 years of experience in strategic communications and public relations.  In her most recent pre-librarian role, she served as vice president of a global PR firm. Virginia has worked with several significant organizations including American Airlines, the ExxonMobil Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, and Dallas Independent School District. Her area of specialty was educational programs and nonprofits. Since starting at Darien Library in the Reader Services Department in 2013, Virginia has used her talents and love of books to help enhance the patron experience.  She has developed innovative, eye-catching displays and she has managed both the Book Matchmaker and Adult Summer Reading programs. Outside the library you will find Virginia reading, snuggled up with her pets, enjoying time outside or golfing.
 
Elisabeth Marrocolla is the Associate Director of Public Services at Darien Library (CT). She has worked at Darien Library for nearly ten years, previously serving as Head of Children and Teen Services. Elisabeth graduated from Pratt Institute with her MLIS in 2011 and is a 2017 graduate of ALA’s Leadership Institute. She has written regularly for the ALSC Blog, Children in Libraries, and School Library Journal, and is a firm believer that the book is always better than the movie. 
 
Pat Tone has worked in a variety of library positions for 24 years. Currently she is the Head of Reader Services at Dairen Library (CT). Pat came to appreciate and enjoy library work because of her volunteer work at her children’s school libraries. Over the years, she has found working at the library to be a fulfilling and enriching profession because of her love of books, the connection and relationships developed with library patrons, and colleagues and the ability to learn something new every day! When she is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, gardening and walking with the company of four-legged furry friends.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 73 spots remaining out of 100





2021 Children's Summer Reading Program
1/14/2021

The 2020 Summer Reading Program was like no other.  We don’t know exactly what 2021 will bring, however, we have some ideas to share to hopefully make it easier for you and your library.  Join us for a two-part summer reading, online workshop.  The first day will be information sessions and the second will be networking.  We will kick the program off with an overview of the theme, Tails & Tales, given by State Library Consultant, Janet Ingraham Dwyer.

The next presentation will be about adapting programs to fit any delivery style, whether it be face to face, virtual, make and take, outdoors or anything in between.  Laura Lehner and her team from the Hudson Library and Historical Center will present.

We will then have a break for lunch.

Critter Camp will follow lunch and we will hear about the camp planned for Lorain Public Library System with Niccole Paytosh.  We will end the day with crafts and snacks presented by Shelia Privett at Andover Public Library.

In addition to these sessions, we are encouraging you to share your program ideas by creating a Tapas Learning video.  The video can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 30 minutes. You can do this on your phone, no equipment needed.   Contact Melissa Lattanzi if you would like to contribute.

Lastly, be sure to register for the networking portion of this program which is scheduled for Thursday, January 21st at 1 pm.  Click HERE to register.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 183 spots remaining out of 200





Children's Summer Reading Program
1/14/2021

The 2020 Summer Reading Program was like no other.  We don’t know exactly what 2021 will bring, however, we have some ideas to share to hopefully make it easier for you and your library.  Join us for a two-part summer reading, online workshop.  The first day will be information sessions and the second will be networking.  We will kick the program off with an overview of the theme, Tails & Tales, given by State Library Consultant, Janet Ingraham Dwyer.

The next presentation will be about adapting programs to fit any delivery style, whether it be face to face, virtual, make and take, outdoors or anything in between.  Laura Lehner and her team from the Hudson Library and Historical Center will present.

We will then have a break for lunch.

Critter Camp will follow lunch and we will hear about the camp planned for Lorain Public Library System with Niccole Paytosh.  We will end the day with crafts and snacks presented by Shelia Privett at Andover Public Library.

In addition to these sessions, we are encouraging you to share your program ideas by creating a Tapas Learning video.  The video can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 30 minutes. You can do this on your phone, no equipment needed.   Contact Melissa Lattanzi if you would like to contribute.

Lastly, be sure to register for the networking portion of this program which is scheduled for Thursday, January 21st at 1 pm.  Click HERE to register.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 98 spots remaining out of 200





Book Discussion Networking Meeting
1/20/2021

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Getting the Word In: Advocating for Technical Services in a Public Service Profession
1/20/2021

Technical Services (TS) can seem mysterious and esoteric from the outside, and this becomes a real liability when we need the outsiders to understand why our work is vital – especially in these times when funding is tighter and everything is “on the table.” In this webinar we’ll look at ways you as a TS librarian can help your colleagues, administrators, board, and patrons understand the importance of your work.

In this webinar, we’ll look at how TS supports the public services. We’ll trouble shoot some common scenarios to help participants advocate for TS by explaining how their work supports the mission of the library. Then, we’ll craft some “elevator speeches” – short explanations that will communicate the value of our work.

Learning Objectives:
            Participants will be able to:
  • Explain their work to non-TS and non-librarians
  • Explain the connection between TS (acquisitions, cataloging, processing, and collection management) and public services
  • Craft an “elevator speech” to communicate how their work supports their library’s mission
 
Presenter:

Mike Monaco has been a cataloger for nineteen years with experience working in public and academic libraries in both public and technical services. He has served in professional organizations from the local to national level, including NOTSL, OLC, OVGTSL, and ALCTS, and presented at numerous state, regional, and national conferences. He is now Coordinator, Cataloging Services at the University of Akron.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 41 spots remaining out of 100





Getting the Word In: Advocating for Technical Services in a Public Service Profession
1/20/2021

Technical Services (TS) can seem mysterious and esoteric from the outside, and this becomes a real liability when we need the outsiders to understand why our work is vital – especially in these times when funding is tighter and everything is “on the table.” In this webinar we’ll look at ways you as a TS librarian can help your colleagues, administrators, board, and patrons understand the importance of your work.

In this webinar, we’ll look at how TS supports the public services. We’ll trouble shoot some common scenarios to help participants advocate for TS by explaining how their work supports the mission of the library. Then, we’ll craft some “elevator speeches” – short explanations that will communicate the value of our work.

Learning Objectives:
            Participants will be able to:
  • Explain their work to non-TS and non-librarians
  • Explain the connection between TS (acquisitions, cataloging, processing, and collection management) and public services
  • Craft an “elevator speech” to communicate how their work supports their library’s mission
 
Presenter:

Mike Monaco has been a cataloger for nineteen years with experience working in public and academic libraries in both public and technical services. He has served in professional organizations from the local to national level, including NOTSL, OLC, OVGTSL, and ALCTS, and presented at numerous state, regional, and national conferences. He is now Coordinator, Cataloging Services at the University of Akron.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 87 spots remaining out of 100





Children's Summer Reading Part II: Networking
1/21/2021

This is Part II of the Summer Reading Program.  This two-hours will be dedicated to networking and brain storming around Summer Reading.  We hope you will join us.  We will be utilizing a new meeting portal called Remo.  Come prepared to share your ideas and challenges for 2021 Summer Reading.
Location: Online via Remo






Let's Get Digital: E-Health Devices and How They Can Help Track and Motivate
1/21/2021

E-Health devices and services have become more important than ever in tracking and taking charge of our health and wellness in 2020 and 2021. Even before the pandemic, e-Health devices were one of the most popular technology trends that library communities requested to learn about. Now, COVID-19 has particularly impacted our community’s and our own health recently in a variety of ways, and learning about these devices and how they can help us find ways to track valuable health information, stay safe and further our fitness levels when we can’t get out is vital. Advances in technology have allowed these devices to become extremely robust to where they can monitor our health better and more effectively than we could have dreamed just a few short years ago, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.
 
Learn about some of the newest emerging tech devices and services available to you, your staff and your patrons right now and how they can be used to understand their wellness, take charge of their health, and motivate to get e-healthy!
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Use part or all of the material in this presentation to put on your own patron programming (PowerPoint will be provided) 
  • Discover the type of health information these devices can now track and how they can be vital to understanding and improving aspects of your health and wellness 
  • Learn ways these devices and services can work together to analyze your overall health and create goals and challenges to motivate you and take charge of your health
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 182 spots remaining out of 200





Let's Get Digital: E-Health Devices and How They Can Help Track and Motivate
1/21/2021

E-Health devices and services have become more important than ever in tracking and taking charge of our health and wellness in 2020 and 2021. Even before the pandemic, e-Health devices were one of the most popular technology trends that library communities requested to learn about. Now, COVID-19 has particularly impacted our community’s and our own health recently in a variety of ways, and learning about these devices and how they can help us find ways to track valuable health information, stay safe and further our fitness levels when we can’t get out is vital. Advances in technology have allowed these devices to become extremely robust to where they can monitor our health better and more effectively than we could have dreamed just a few short years ago, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.
 
Learn about some of the newest emerging tech devices and services available to you, your staff and your patrons right now and how they can be used to understand their wellness, take charge of their health, and motivate to get e-healthy!
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Use part or all of the material in this presentation to put on your own patron programming (PowerPoint will be provided) 
  • Discover the type of health information these devices can now track and how they can be vital to understanding and improving aspects of your health and wellness 
  • Learn ways these devices and services can work together to analyze your overall health and create goals and challenges to motivate you and take charge of your health
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 191 spots remaining out of 200






2021 Breath by Breath: Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga- 30 minutes
1/25/2021 - 1/29/2021

Approximately 40 million Americans deal with anxiety disorders.  Anxiety is a common mental health concern that we are seeing more often.  Our brain function remains the same but our lifestyles keep taking on more and more stress, just like what is happening during the current COVID-19 crisis.   Yoga helps to reduce anxiety by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system or the “rest and digest” system. 

Learning Objectives

  • How Yoga/Meditation help to reduce anxiety 
  • Breath Control for anxiety
  • The Basics of Mindfulness
Presenter:

Vanessa Blair Farris, currently residing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is no stranger to Northeast Ohio.  Born and raised near Youngstown, Vanessa has a passion for both her Indiana and Ohio communities.  She uses yoga to soothe the mind and the body.  Vanessa has a passion for helping people with anxiety, depression, and PTSD.  She has spent countless hours educating herself on trauma-sensitive yoga methods, attending online summits for trauma sensitivity, as well as learning the fundamentals of yoga and meditation to help those that are struggling. 


 







Creating & Maintaining Good Habits
1/25/2021 - 1/29/2021

During the pandemic lock-down (followed by the NE Ohio winter) many people noticed a shift in their personal and professional habits: some for the better, some for the worse. Harnessing the better habits and nixing the unwelcome habits requires an understanding of the science of habits, awareness of the foundational habits, and the tools to evaluate your habits. Join Dr. Tamsin Astor, Chief Habit Scientist, International Speaker & Author for a deep dive into habits, so you can create and maintain the right habits for your life!

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the science of habit formation
  • Learn about the 5 foundational habits for success
  • Learn how to evaluate your habits
Presenter:

Tamsin Astor, PhD is the founder and Chief Habit Scientist of Yoga Brained Coaching. She is known for giving her clients the tools to shift their mindset, organize their vision, and improve their habits to create an efficient, productive business. We make 35,000 decisions every day, which leads to decision fatigue. Dr. Astor helps her clients reduce the amount of overwhelming decision-making they do by harnessing their goal-achieving machine – AKA – their brains. This also increases their time and energy for fun!

Tamsin Astor holds a PhD in neuroscience and psychology and a post-doctorate in education. She also has certifications in yoga (RYT500, Yoga Ed.), mindset & Ayurveda (Living Ayurveda, Yoga Health Coach). She is an executive coach and author of the book Force of Habit: Unleash Your Power by Developing Great Habits

 







How to Become a Positive Thinker
1/25/2021 - 1/29/2021

This online workshop is for people who prefer to look on the upside instead of the downside and who recognize that we can all use some support in doing so from time to time.  Join Cheryl as she talks about our natural instincts to be problem solvers and how we can re-frame stressful situations.  By stressing the value of play and fun (which we’ll be having in this session), you’ll get some new solutions for dealing with negativity and learn how to move forward to a positive new future.

Presenter:  
Cheryl Gould is a learning facilitator and training consultant who believes in the transformative role libraries can play in their communities.  Cheryl’s professional role is to help libraries with the culture shift required to move from an institution that provides access to resources to one that promotes conversation, learning and engagement at all levels.  Cheryl’s ability to connect people and ideas, to facilitate conversation and to enhance learning has been demonstrated through 17 years of working with libraries in thousands of hours of consulting,mentoring and training.  Her passion for learning, crossed with current developments in neuroscience and her involvement with Applied Improvisation to create library cultures of “Yes, And…” define her work.



 







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.

 

 









How to Move on Emotionally After a Big Workplace Loss
1/25/2021 - 1/29/2021

When bad things happen, most people need time to mourn and make sense of the experience. Budget cuts, furloughs and layoffs, the loss of familiar routines and connections with people, working remotely, the worries that accompany the pandemic, and the impact on-coworkers and library customers.  Workplace grief can be debilitating. Discover new and practical ways to cope and learn how to focus on tomorrow.

Learning Objectives:
  • Feel more confident and competent about meeting daily challenges
  • Lower the impact of past and current losses
  • Apply advice from experts on grief and loss to workplace issues

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.






 






Staff Development Week
1/25/2021 - 1/29/2021

Registration is now open for individuals for staff development week.  If your library has not already registered to attend feel free to attend as an individual.  The following libraries have already signed up for staff development week:  Burton Public Library, Cuyahoga Falls Library, Fairport Harbor Public Library, Hubbard Public Library, Ingalls Library, Kirtland Public Library, Lakeland Community College Library, Marvin Memorial Library, McKinley Memorial Library, Morley Library, Perry Public Library, Shaker Heights Public Library, Wayne County Public Library, Westlake Porter Public Library and Warren Trumbull County Public Library.

We are excited to bring you a week-long staff development opportunity.  The week-long event, "Positive, Proactive and Prepared," will feature an opening Keynote speaker, a closing Keynote speaker and 7 breakout sessions.  Network Group Meetings will also be held daily.  Breakout sessions will cover a wide variety of topics aimed at all staff.  

HOW MUCH:  Cost for the day is FREE for Gold Members; $10.00 per person for Silver Members;  $25.00 per person for Bronze Members; and $50.00 per person for Geographic Members  
HOW MANY:  We will take a maximum of 990 participants
HOW TO SIGN UP:  Directors should contact Melissa Lattanzi to sign up your entire staff, part of your staff or individual staff.  We will give first priority to NEO-RLS members in our region and then to all others including individual registrations.
DEADLINE TO SIGN UP:  October 31, 2020

Descriptions, Dates and Times:

Monday, January 25, 2020

How to Become a Positive Thinker
10:00 am - 11:30 am

This online workshop is for people who prefer to look on the upside instead of the downside and who recognize that we can all use some support in doing so from time to time.  Join Cheryl as she talks about our natural instincts to be problem solvers and how we can re-frame stressful situations.  By stressing the value of play and fun (which we’ll be having in this session), you’ll get some new solutions for dealing with negativity and learn how to move forward to a positive new future.

Presenter:  
Cheryl Gould is a learning facilitator and training consultant who believes in the transformative role libraries can play in their communities.  Cheryl’s professional role is to help libraries with the culture shift required to move from an institution that provides access to resources to one that promotes conversation, learning and engagement at all levels.  Cheryl’s ability to connect people and ideas, to facilitate conversation and to enhance learning has been demonstrated through 17 years of working with libraries in thousands of hours of consulting,mentoring and training.  Her passion for learning, crossed with current developments in neuroscience and her involvement with Applied Improvisation to create library cultures of “Yes, And…” define her work.

Patience! Patience!
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

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.





Tuesday, January 26, 2021

Privilege & Systemic Inequities-Part 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm

This program builds upon our Unconscious Bias and Micro Messages program by digging deeper into the identities and power we hold. We will examine how these identities and the systems in which we live lead to power differentials and inequity.  Racism, sexism, and other social ills are often understood in the context of their interpersonal impacts, but we rarely examine the ways that our laws, neighborhoods, schools, and organizations can reinforce these dynamics. In addition to building knowledge of privilege and oppression as they relate to identity, we will apply this understand to systemic barriers. Participants will engage in activities to examine their own identities and learn about systemic inequities in the U.S. with interactive simulations and activities. Finally, participants will develop strategies for disrupting the effects of bias and oppression in organizations and systems and working towards equity and inclusion. 


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.



How to Move on Emotionally After a Big Workplace Loss
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

When bad things happen, most people need time to mourn and make sense of the experience. Budget cuts, furloughs and layoffs, the loss of familiar routines and connections with people, working remotely, the worries that accompany the pandemic, and the impact on-coworkers and library customers.  Workplace grief can be debilitating. Discover new and practical ways to cope and learn how to focus on tomorrow.

Learning Objectives:
  • Feel more confident and competent about meeting daily challenges
  • Lower the impact of past and current losses
  • Apply advice from experts on grief and loss to workplace issues

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.


Wednesday, January 27, 2021

Privilege & Systemic Inequities-Part 2
10:00 am - 12:00 pm

See description above under Tuesday morning.

Presenter:  The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

Tools for Tense Situations with Angry Customers
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Description coming soon.

Presenter:

Dr. Steve Albrecht manages a training, coaching, and management consulting firm, using a dedicated and experienced team of subcontractor specialists. As a trainer, speaker, author, and consultant, Steve is internationally recognized for his expertise in high-risk HR issues.

He provides HR consulting, site security assessments, coaching, and training workshops in supervisory improvement, workplace violence prevention, harassment prevention, drug and alcohol awareness, team building and team conflict resolution, negotiation, and stress management.

Thursday, January 28, 2021

We Need to Talk:  A Step by Step Guide to Difficult Conversations
10:00 am - 12:15pm
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.


How to Improve Your Workplace When You are Not the Boss
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

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.

 

Friday, January 29, 2021

Creating & Maintaining Good Habits
10:00 am - 11:30 am
During the pandemic lock-down (followed by the NE Ohio winter) many people noticed a shift in their personal and professional habits: some for the better, some for the worse. Harnessing the better habits and nixing the unwelcome habits requires an understanding of the science of habits, awareness of the foundational habits, and the tools to evaluate your habits. Join Dr. Tamsin Astor, Chief Habit Scientist, International Speaker & Author for a deep dive into habits, so you can create and maintain the right habits for your life!

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the science of habit formation
  • Learn about the 5 foundational habits for success
  • Learn how to evaluate your habits
Presenter:

Tamsin Astor, PhD is the founder and Chief Habit Scientist of Yoga Brained Coaching. She is known for giving her clients the tools to shift their mindset, organize their vision, and improve their habits to create an efficient, productive business. We make 35,000 decisions every day, which leads to decision fatigue. Dr. Astor helps her clients reduce the amount of overwhelming decision-making they do by harnessing their goal-achieving machine – AKA – their brains. This also increases their time and energy for fun!

Tamsin Astor holds a PhD in neuroscience and psychology and a post-doctorate in education. She also has certifications in yoga (RYT500, Yoga Ed.), mindset & Ayurveda (Living Ayurveda, Yoga Health Coach). She is an executive coach and author of the book Force of Habit: Unleash Your Power by Developing Great Habits

2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Breath by Breath:  Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga

Approximately 40 million Americans deal with anxiety disorders.  Anxiety is a common mental health concern that we are seeing more often.  Our brain function remains the same but our lifestyles keep taking on more and more stress, just like what is happening during the current COVID-19 crisis.   Yoga helps to reduce anxiety by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system or the “rest and digest” system. 

Learning Objectives

  • How Yoga/Meditation help to reduce anxiety 
  • Breath Control for anxiety
  • The Basics of Mindfulness
Presenter:

Vanessa Blair Farris, currently residing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is no stranger to Northeast Ohio.  Born and raised near Youngstown, Vanessa has a passion for both her Indiana and Ohio communities.  She uses yoga to soothe the mind and the body.  Vanessa has a passion for helping people with anxiety, depression, and PTSD.  She has spent countless hours educating herself on trauma-sensitive yoga methods, attending online summits for trauma sensitivity, as well as learning the fundamentals of yoga and meditation to help those that are struggling. 


 

There are currently 30 spots remaining out of 100






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.


 






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
1/25/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
1/26/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






IT Network Meeting
1/27/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online via Zoom






Management Networking Meeting
1/27/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Facilities and Admin Networking Meeting
1/28/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Technical Services Virtual Networking Meeting
1/28/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Preparing for the Next Wave of Pandemic - Fatigued Customers
2/3/2021

New research suggests that pandemic fatigue - the mental exhaustion caused by being in a state of heightened awareness and alertness due to COVID-19 coupled with uncertainty about how the pandemic will develop - is real, and it is already causing an increase in difficult customer behaviors such as resistance to wearing masks and ignoring social distancing guidelines.
 
Is your organization ready and are your employees prepared to safely handle the next wave of customer behaviors?
 
This interactive and informative program will help organizations and their employees create and maintain safe workplace practices, and prepare them to better handle customer conflicts including people who are non-compliant with your rules and policies.

Learning Objectives:

• Their role in customer conflicts: Are their actions and decisions making things better or worse?
• How to be more environmentally aware of customer situations before they turn difficult or potentially dangerous
• The OODA Loop decision making cycle: Learn to quickly react to difficult customer situations to maintain control and order
• Specific phrases to use with customers to set expectations and boundaries with them and to guide their behaviors
• 7 Things to never say to a customer...ever again

Presenter:

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for organizations for more than 15 years. He has presented web-based, online, and face-to-face sessions on customer service, managing customer behaviors and communication skills in the U.S. and numerous other countries around the world.
 
With more than 20 years of customer service in corporate, retail and hospitality customer service, Andrew’s programs are filled with proven techniques that attendees can immediately apply.
 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Preparing for the Next Wave of Pandemic - Fatigued Customers
2/3/2021







New research suggests that pandemic fatigue - the mental exhaustion caused by being in a state of heightened awareness and alertness due to COVID-19 coupled with uncertainty about how the pandemic will develop - is real, and it is already causing an increase in difficult customer behaviors such as resistance to wearing masks and ignoring social distancing guidelines.
 
Is your organization ready and are your employees prepared to safely handle the next wave of customer behaviors?
 
This interactive and informative program will help organizations and their employees create and maintain safe workplace practices, and prepare them to better handle customer conflicts including people who are non-compliant with your rules and policies.

Learning Objectives:

• Their role in customer conflicts: Are their actions and decisions making things better or worse?
• How to be more environmentally aware of customer situations before they turn difficult or potentially dangerous
• The OODA Loop decision making cycle: Learn to quickly react to difficult customer situations to maintain control and order
• Specific phrases to use with customers to set expectations and boundaries with them and to guide their behaviors
• 7 Things to never say to a customer...ever again

Presenter:

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for organizations for more than 15 years. He has presented web-based, online, and face-to-face sessions on customer service, managing customer behaviors and communication skills in the U.S. and numerous other countries around the world.
 
With more than 20 years of customer service in corporate, retail and hospitality customer service, Andrew’s programs are filled with proven techniques that attendees can immediately apply.
 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
2/5/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.


 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






How to Help Employees Manage Stress During COVID-19
2/9/2021

To say that Covid-19 has rocked the U.S. economy is an understatement. Every day, we read headlines about how quickly the coronavirus is spreading, the rising death toll, and how more and more employees are losing their jobs.  For businesses still operating and those who just opened, there’s plenty of workplace stress due to COVID-19, from adapting to new working arrangements, having the kids home, employees getting sick, and much more. It can be difficult for employees to manage their stress and anxiety amid COVID-19. Managers and HR professionals can play an important role in helping employees cope with the added stress and uncertainties of the pandemic.
In this presentation, we’ll help you to understand the stress that employees may be experiencing and provide stress and anxiety management strategies and tools that can help all of us to get through this challenging time.

Learning Objectives
  • Recognize the difference between good vs. bad stress
  • Learn remote and onsite common stressors and recommend coping strategies
  • Identify signs to recognize an employee who is struggling with stress and anxiety
  • Understand a formula on how to approach a struggling employee
  • Recognize three tips on how you can use your emotional intelligence to help
  • Describe specific ways and ideas on how Managers and HR Professionals can help the 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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 123 spots remaining out of 200





How to Help Employees Manage Stress During COVID-19
2/9/2021

To say that Covid-19 has rocked the U.S. economy is an understatement. Every day, we read headlines about how quickly the coronavirus is spreading, the rising death toll, and how more and more employees are losing their jobs.  For businesses still operating and those who just opened, there’s plenty of workplace stress due to COVID-19, from adapting to new working arrangements, having the kids home, employees getting sick, and much more. It can be difficult for employees to manage their stress and anxiety amid COVID-19. Managers and HR professionals can play an important role in helping employees cope with the added stress and uncertainties of the pandemic.
In this presentation, we’ll help you to understand the stress that employees may be experiencing and provide stress and anxiety management strategies and tools that can help all of us to get through this challenging time.

Learning Objectives
  • Recognize the difference between good vs. bad stress
  • Learn remote and onsite common stressors and recommend coping strategies
  • Identify signs to recognize an employee who is struggling with stress and anxiety
  • Understand a formula on how to approach a struggling employee
  • Recognize three tips on how you can use your emotional intelligence to help
  • Describe specific ways and ideas on how Managers and HR Professionals can help the 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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 191 spots remaining out of 200





What the Heck Happened? 2020 Employment Law Update: Part II
2/10/2021

Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates.  Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!  
  • Topics TBA

Presenter

Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.”  Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect

There are currently 168 spots remaining out of 200





What the Heck Happened? 2020 Employment Law Update: Part II
2/10/2021

Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates.  Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!  
  • Topics TBA

Presenter

Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.”  Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect

There are currently 198 spots remaining out of 200





Teen Summer Reading Program
2/11/2021

The 2020 Summer Reading Program was like no other.  We don’t know exactly what 2021 will bring, however, we have some ideas to share to hopefully make it easier for you and your library.  This online workshop will start with four presentations to spark ideas. 

We will start with Megan Alabaugh from Rocky River Public Library and she will share new ways to create socially distanced programs.  Next Marisha Sullivan, Stark County District Library, will share ideas for make and take programming.  Melanie Lyttle, Madison Public Library, will follow and will give instructions on building your library’s Youtube page.  Finally, our last presenter will be Shelia Privett, Andover Public Library, who will create some crafts and snacks to go along with the theme, Tails & Tales.

We will end the morning by entering into breakout rooms to brainstorm ideas and then return and report back.  Come prepared to share your ideas and glean from others.

In addition to these sessions we are encouraging you to share your program ideas by creating a Tapas Learning video. The video can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 30 minutes.  Contact Melissa Lattanzi if you would like to contribute.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 145 spots remaining out of 200





Teen Summer Reading Program
2/11/2021

The 2020 Summer Reading Program was like no other.  We don’t know exactly what 2021 will bring, however, we have some ideas to share to hopefully make it easier for you and your library.  This online workshop will start with four presentations to spark ideas. 

We will start with Megan Alabaugh from Rocky River Public Library and she will share new ways to create socially distanced programs.  Next Marisha Sullivan, Stark County District Library, will share ideas for make and take programming.  Melanie Lyttle, Madison Public Library, will follow and will give instructions on building your library’s Youtube page.  Finally, our last presenter will be Shelia Privett, Andover Public Library, who will create some crafts and snacks to go along with the theme, Tails & Tales.

We will end the morning by entering into breakout rooms to brainstorm ideas and then return and report back.  Come prepared to share your ideas and glean from others.

In addition to these sessions we are encouraging you to share your program ideas by creating a Tapas Learning video. The video can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 30 minutes.  Contact Melissa Lattanzi if you would like to contribute.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 198 spots remaining out of 200





Gadgets and Gizmos: Exploring Technology for Youth
2/17/2021

Want to engage children with the latest technology but don’t know where to begin? Interested in using technology in your programming but you’re on a tight budget?   Join us for the sixth annual Gadgets and Gizmos webinar. This popular, detailed webinar presentation will showcase some cool new tech gadgets, websites and resources you can incorporate into your youth services programs! You will also have an opportunity to share your technology successes and challenges with other attendees.

Learning Objectives:
  • Discover the newest emerging technologies that are both affordable and useful for your library department or program
  • Learn about ways to implement these technologies through available lesson plans and STEAM programs and ideas

Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 148 spots remaining out of 200





Gadgets and Gizmos: Exploring Technology for Youth
2/17/2021

Want to engage children with the latest technology but don’t know where to begin? Interested in using technology in your programming but you’re on a tight budget?   Join us for the sixth annual Gadgets and Gizmos webinar. This popular, detailed webinar presentation will showcase some cool new tech gadgets, websites and resources you can incorporate into your youth services programs! You will also have an opportunity to share your technology successes and challenges with other attendees.

Learning Objectives:
  • Discover the newest emerging technologies that are both affordable and useful for your library department or program
  • Learn about ways to implement these technologies through available lesson plans and STEAM programs and ideas

Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 186 spots remaining out of 200





Sort It Out! : Using In-House Classification Systems to Maximize Comics and Graphic Novels
2/23/2021

Do you struggle to keep your comics collection organized? Comics, graphic novels, and manga that are organized by traditional library classification systems, like Dewey, can become unwieldly and difficult for patrons to find specific items or even browse. Learn how creating an in-house classification system can provide a perfect solution to raise your comics circulations, as well as some cataloging and merchandising tips.

Learning Objectives:
  • A brief overview of comics, graphic novels, and what makes them so unique and challenging to organize
  • Learn examples of in-house classification systems for comics from other libraries across the country and how to adapt those ideas for your library
  • Learn about best practices for cataloging and access to comics
Presenter:

Jack Phoenix is a librarian in the Greater Cleveland area. He is the author of the SLJ starred review book, Maximizing the Impact of Comics in Your Library: Graphic Novels, Manga, and More, and a member of the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table of the American Library Association.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 59 spots remaining out of 100





Sort It Out! : Using In-House Classification Systems to Maximize Comics and Graphic Novels
2/23/2021

Do you struggle to keep your comics collection organized? Comics, graphic novels, and manga that are organized by traditional library classification systems, like Dewey, can become unwieldly and difficult for patrons to find specific items or even browse. Learn how creating an in-house classification system can provide a perfect solution to raise your comics circulations, as well as some cataloging and merchandising tips.

Learning Objectives:
  • A brief overview of comics, graphic novels, and what makes them so unique and challenging to organize
  • Learn examples of in-house classification systems for comics from other libraries across the country and how to adapt those ideas for your library
  • Learn about best practices for cataloging and access to comics
Presenter:

Jack Phoenix is a librarian in the Greater Cleveland area. He is the author of the SLJ starred review book, Maximizing the Impact of Comics in Your Library: Graphic Novels, Manga, and More, and a member of the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table of the American Library Association.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 80 spots remaining out of 100





Arresting the Time Robbers in Your Life
2/24/2021

It’s official – there is simply too much to do to ever get it all done! Funding cuts, fewer staff, higher expectations for programming and services…it all adds up to “not enough time in the day.”
 
Our first priority is to take care of our patrons, of course. But that’s just the beginning of what’s on our to-do list every day.
 
And as much as we’d like it to be, surrender is NOT an option. Instead, it’s time we “arrest the time robbers” that steal that precious commodity when we aren’t paying attention!
 
Whether it’s those inconvenient interruptions, marathon meetings, or your own propensity to procrastinate, we’ll discover specific ways to deal with each of these time robbers – but first you have to recognize them.
 
Don’t miss this opportunity to step back and see where your time really goes – and discover how you can gain control of your time to serve your patrons even better than before!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize time robbers
  • Discover specific ways to deal with each time robber
  • Discover how you can gain control of your time and serve patrons even better
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

There are currently 149 spots remaining out of 200





Arresting the Time Robbers in Your Life
2/24/2021

It’s official – there is simply too much to do to ever get it all done! Funding cuts, fewer staff, higher expectations for programming and services…it all adds up to “not enough time in the day.”
 
Our first priority is to take care of our patrons, of course. But that’s just the beginning of what’s on our to-do list every day.
 
And as much as we’d like it to be, surrender is NOT an option. Instead, it’s time we “arrest the time robbers” that steal that precious commodity when we aren’t paying attention!
 
Whether it’s those inconvenient interruptions, marathon meetings, or your own propensity to procrastinate, we’ll discover specific ways to deal with each of these time robbers – but first you have to recognize them.
 
Don’t miss this opportunity to step back and see where your time really goes – and discover how you can gain control of your time to serve your patrons even better than before!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize time robbers
  • Discover specific ways to deal with each time robber
  • Discover how you can gain control of your time and serve patrons even better
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

There are currently 157 spots remaining out of 200





Addressing the Challenges of Retaining Institutional Knowledge
2/25/2021

Institutional knowledge and library leadership skills are quickly exiting libraries through retirement, job mobility, and routine turnover. How can we best deal with this knowledge loss? Through succession planning, building bench strength, and focusing on the strengths and knowledge of exiting employees, organizations can create a dynamic process for providing employees with the resources and support they need to grow into new roles. 
 
Learning Objectives:
In this workshop, participants will: 
  • Understand and appreciate the need for succession planning at all levels 
  • Learn what it means to build your “bench strength” and how to get started 
  • Discover ways to encourage tenured staff to share their institutional knowledge and help with the development of emerging leaders within the organization 
Presenter:

Kimberly Bishop, MA, MLS, currently serves as the Staff Development Manager for Dayton Metro Library (Ohio).  She has held a variety of public service and management positions in libraries and non-profit organizations across the United States. Kim is devoted to creating passionate and purposeful teams by empowering library workers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities they need to succeed. You can find her online @Love4Libraries on both Twitter and Instagram where she shares food for thought as well as occasional foodie musings.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 162 spots remaining out of 200





Addressing the Challenges of Retaining Institutional Knowledge
2/25/2021

Institutional knowledge and library leadership skills are quickly exiting libraries through retirement, job mobility, and routine turnover. How can we best deal with this knowledge loss? Through succession planning, building bench strength, and focusing on the strengths and knowledge of exiting employees, organizations can create a dynamic process for providing employees with the resources and support they need to grow into new roles. 
 
Learning Objectives:
In this workshop, participants will: 
  • Understand and appreciate the need for succession planning at all levels 
  • Learn what it means to build your “bench strength” and how to get started 
  • Discover ways to encourage tenured staff to share their institutional knowledge and help with the development of emerging leaders within the organization 
Presenter:

Kimberly Bishop, MA, MLS, currently serves as the Staff Development Manager for Dayton Metro Library (Ohio).  She has held a variety of public service and management positions in libraries and non-profit organizations across the United States. Kim is devoted to creating passionate and purposeful teams by empowering library workers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities they need to succeed. You can find her online @Love4Libraries on both Twitter and Instagram where she shares food for thought as well as occasional foodie musings.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 189 spots remaining out of 200





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






Welcoming Transgender Customers
3/10/2021

As rights for transgender people continue to be challenged and threatened, Denver Public Library strives to be a welcoming place. Join us to learn how to provide excellent internal and external customer service to individuals at your library. This session will help participants reframe ideas around gender, give them best practices for serving trans customers and colleagues, and end with developing strategies to make their libraries gender inclusive.

Learning Objectives:
  • Give empathetic and equitable service to all customers
  • Have knowledge of social and legal issues impacting transgender customers
  • Challenge assumptions and discuss ways to encourage inclusivity in language and action
Presenters:
 

Bec Czarnecki is the assistant to the City Librarian at Denver Public Library. When they’re not herding cats or arranging calendars, they work on special projects on a variety of topics. They are passionate about the library's role in engaging the community and committed to helping it be a welcoming and inclusive space for all.

Adrian Johnson works as a Library Program Associate at the Denver Public Library where he provides access to tech services in the Denver community, shows folks new creative opportunities in the Central library’s makerspace, and helps digitize materials in the Western History and Genealogy department.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Welcoming Transgender Customers
3/10/2021







As rights for transgender people continue to be challenged and threatened, Denver Public Library strives to be a welcoming place. Join us to learn how to provide excellent internal and external customer service to individuals at your library. This session will help participants reframe ideas around gender, give them best practices for serving trans customers and colleagues, and end with developing strategies to make their libraries gender inclusive.

Learning Objectives:
  • Give empathetic and equitable service to all customers
  • Have knowledge of social and legal issues impacting transgender customers
  • Challenge assumptions and discuss ways to encourage inclusivity in language and action
Presenters:
 

Bec Czarnecki is the assistant to the City Librarian at Denver Public Library. When they’re not herding cats or arranging calendars, they work on special projects on a variety of topics. They are passionate about the library's role in engaging the community and committed to helping it be a welcoming and inclusive space for all.

Adrian Johnson works as a Library Program Associate at the Denver Public Library where he provides access to tech services in the Denver community, shows folks new creative opportunities in the Central library’s makerspace, and helps digitize materials in the Western History and Genealogy department.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part I
3/11/2021

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Once you registered for Part I be sure to sign up for Part II which is on Thursday, March 18, 2021  at 2:00 PM
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
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.



Virtual Outreach: Social Services and Public Health at the Boston Public Library during the COVID-19 Pandemic
3/17/2021

Public libraries often are safe spaces for patrons seeking shelter, warmth, information, quiet, and a sense of community. But what happens when a public health pandemic impedes our abilities as librarians to provide outreach and supportive resources to patrons living on the fringes of our neighborhoods, cities and towns when our doors closed and traditional librarianship went virtual? Ally Dowds will discuss outreach efforts developed during the beginning months of the COVID-19 shutdown and how the Boston Public Library continued to reach patrons where they are while preserving existing partnerships with local organizations and forging new ones to maintain access and dissemination of supportive public health services to its community members. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how Boston Public Library continued to reach patrons where they are while preserving existing partnerships with local organizations
  • Learn how Boston Public Library created new partnerships to maintain access and dissemination of supportive public health services to its community members
  • Find out how you can adapt this model for your library
Presenter:

 
 Ally Dowds is the Health & Human Services Librarian for the Boston Public Library. In this role, Ally fosters strategic partnerships with local public health organizations, emergency shelters, and human service agencies to provide supportive services to patrons experiencing homelessness, substance use and mental health. She also performs weekly outreach to local shelters to eliminate barriers to library access, programming and resources. Prior to this position, Ally worked in the BPL’s Teen Central and served as a consultant for ALA's Great Stories Club, where she facilitated a library-led book discussion group at a local middle school focused on the emotional, behavioral, and learning needs of its students. Discussions were designed around the theme of Empathy: The Cost of Switching Sides, allowing students to read, reflect, and share ideas on topics that resonate with them. 
Ally holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Loyola University of Chicago, a MLIS from Simmons College, and a Consumer Health Information Specialization through the Medical Library Association. Outside of work, she is happiest spending simple moments with her husband, 19-month old, and 8-year old rescue pup.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Virtual Outreach: Social Services and Public Health at the Boston Public Library during the COVID-19 Pandemic
3/17/2021

Public libraries often are safe spaces for patrons seeking shelter, warmth, information, quiet, and a sense of community. But what happens when a public health pandemic impedes our abilities as librarians to provide outreach and supportive resources to patrons living on the fringes of our neighborhoods, cities and towns when our doors closed and traditional librarianship went virtual? Ally Dowds will discuss outreach efforts developed during the beginning months of the COVID-19 shutdown and how the Boston Public Library continued to reach patrons where they are while preserving existing partnerships with local organizations and forging new ones to maintain access and dissemination of supportive public health services to its community members. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how Boston Public Library continued to reach patrons where they are while preserving existing partnerships with local organizations
  • Learn how Boston Public Library created new partnerships to maintain access and dissemination of supportive public health services to its community members
  • Find out how you can adapt this model for your library
Presenter:

 
 Ally Dowds is the Health & Human Services Librarian for the Boston Public Library. In this role, Ally fosters strategic partnerships with local public health organizations, emergency shelters, and human service agencies to provide supportive services to patrons experiencing homelessness, substance use and mental health. She also performs weekly outreach to local shelters to eliminate barriers to library access, programming and resources. Prior to this position, Ally worked in the BPL’s Teen Central and served as a consultant for ALA's Great Stories Club, where she facilitated a library-led book discussion group at a local middle school focused on the emotional, behavioral, and learning needs of its students. Discussions were designed around the theme of Empathy: The Cost of Switching Sides, allowing students to read, reflect, and share ideas on topics that resonate with them. 
Ally holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Loyola University of Chicago, a MLIS from Simmons College, and a Consumer Health Information Specialization through the Medical Library Association. Outside of work, she is happiest spending simple moments with her husband, 19-month old, and 8-year old rescue pup.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part II
3/18/2021

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
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.



Introducing LinkedIn Learning for Ohio Libraries
3/18/2021

"Starting May 3, Ohio libraries will migrate from Lynda.com to LinkedIn Learning. OPLIN director Don Yarman and LinkedIn's Julie Palmer will demo the new interface and answer questions about the switchover. Cuyahoga County Public Library has had preview access to the new interface, and Kaitlin Booth will discuss their early impressions."

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Introducing LinkedIn Learning for Ohio Libraries
3/18/2021

"Starting May 3, Ohio libraries will migrate from Lynda.com to LinkedIn Learning. OPLIN director Don Yarman and LinkedIn's Julie Palmer will demo the new interface and answer questions about the switchover. Cuyahoga County Public Library has had preview access to the new interface, and Kaitlin Booth will discuss their early impressions."

 
Location: Online via Zoom






The Role of Administration in Succession Planning
3/25/2021

This engaging session is designed for Human Resources Executives as well as other senior leaders.  All participants will be provided tips and trained on tools that can be taken back to their library that will immediately address succession challenges they are currently facing.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Administration's Contribution to Succession
  • 70/20/10 Model of Talent Development
  • Succession Planning Continuum – what can we do today?
Presenters:

Elizabeth Cipolla, SHPR, SHRM-SCP
Elizabeth is an Executive consultant, HR & Business Consultant for Decision Associates.  She has 20+ years experience in human resources.  She holds a Ph.D in Organizational Learning and Leadership from Gannon University.





Aaron Phillips is the Owner, HR & Business Consultant of Decision Associates.  He also has 20+ years in human resources.  He holds an MBA from Gannon University.
Location: Online via Zoom






The Role of Administration in Succession Planning
3/25/2021

This engaging session is designed for Human Resources Executives as well as other senior leaders.  All participants will be provided tips and trained on tools that can be taken back to their library that will immediately address succession challenges they are currently facing.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Administration's Contribution to Succession
  • 70/20/10 Model of Talent Development
  • Succession Planning Continuum – what can we do today?
Presenters:

Elizabeth Cipolla, SHPR, SHRM-SCP
Elizabeth is an Executive consultant, HR & Business Consultant for Decision Associates.  She has 20+ years experience in human resources.  She holds a Ph.D in Organizational Learning and Leadership from Gannon University.





Aaron Phillips is the Owner, HR & Business Consultant of Decision Associates.  He also has 20+ years in human resources.  He holds an MBA from Gannon University.
Location: Online via Zoom






Gaming & Esports in Libraries
4/14/2021

Welcome to "Gaming & Esports in Libraries," a webinar where you'll learn what esports are, ways that games-related programming can strengthen your library, and how to establish them. Even with the challenges we currently face, there are still many ways to provide these events to patrons! 
 
Tristan Wheeler initiated and runs the fast-growing and popular series of gaming events at the Cleveland Public Library, now called CPL Play. Patrons of all ages, genders, and backgrounds experience a wide variety of ways to play, from video games to board games, all while creating and developing new relationships. Gaming and esports events provide an environment of both cooperative and competitive gaming, exposing patrons to the many different facets of gaming and videogame culture. 
  
Attendees are given the opportunity to learn about the business of video games, including professional gaming, the latest trends in technology, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the many jobs that exist within this field. With access to the hardware, software, community, educational opportunities, and many resources available at the library, patrons are given the tools and materials they need to pursue different pathways to success. 
 
In 2020, the CPL Play events moved even more into the online space with the new series, CPL Play Online—so patrons can enjoy elements of the Library’s gaming and esports at home! This live-streamed event series features new and different ways for patrons to learn and interact with online tournaments, group gaming sessions, guest speakers, workshops and presentations, unboxing videos and more. 
  
Join us for this introduction to esports in libraries and learn why a program like this is important to our library… and could be for yours! 
 
Learning Objectives: 
 
  • Learn what esports are
  • Learn ways that games-related programming can strengthen your library
  • Learn how to establish them 
 
Presenter:  
 
Tristan Wheeler is an Audiovisual & Event Planning Specialist at the Cleveland Public Library. Since 2003, Tristan has worked with other library staff to bring a wide variety of video games-related programming and events to Clevelanders at Main Library and branch locations. For the past five years, Tristan has led the team which plans and delivers esports and gaming at Cleveland Public Library, bringing national and international recognition for the program and for Cleveland Public Library. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Gaming & Esports in Libraries
4/14/2021

Welcome to "Gaming & Esports in Libraries," a webinar where you'll learn what esports are, ways that games-related programming can strengthen your library, and how to establish them. Even with the challenges we currently face, there are still many ways to provide these events to patrons! 
 
Tristan Wheeler initiated and runs the fast-growing and popular series of gaming events at the Cleveland Public Library, now called CPL Play. Patrons of all ages, genders, and backgrounds experience a wide variety of ways to play, from video games to board games, all while creating and developing new relationships. Gaming and esports events provide an environment of both cooperative and competitive gaming, exposing patrons to the many different facets of gaming and videogame culture. 
  
Attendees are given the opportunity to learn about the business of video games, including professional gaming, the latest trends in technology, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the many jobs that exist within this field. With access to the hardware, software, community, educational opportunities, and many resources available at the library, patrons are given the tools and materials they need to pursue different pathways to success. 
 
In 2020, the CPL Play events moved even more into the online space with the new series, CPL Play Online—so patrons can enjoy elements of the Library’s gaming and esports at home! This live-streamed event series features new and different ways for patrons to learn and interact with online tournaments, group gaming sessions, guest speakers, workshops and presentations, unboxing videos and more. 
  
Join us for this introduction to esports in libraries and learn why a program like this is important to our library… and could be for yours! 
 
Learning Objectives: 
 
  • Learn what esports are
  • Learn ways that games-related programming can strengthen your library
  • Learn how to establish them 
 
Presenter:  
 
Tristan Wheeler is an Audiovisual & Event Planning Specialist at the Cleveland Public Library. Since 2003, Tristan has worked with other library staff to bring a wide variety of video games-related programming and events to Clevelanders at Main Library and branch locations. For the past five years, Tristan has led the team which plans and delivers esports and gaming at Cleveland Public Library, bringing national and international recognition for the program and for Cleveland Public Library. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






An Empathic Approach to Customer Service Training
4/15/2021

This presentation addresses customer service training by growing and nurturing empathy and empowering staff to navigate the gray areas in our policies. Using storytelling and group interaction, we will look at special and challenging situations such as code of conduct violations and difficult patrons. Discover how understanding our own implicit biases and not assuming the worst of our patrons can help you offer consistent customer service to everyone we serve.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how your emotional responses influence patron interactions and several tools you can use to create more positive results
  • Identify at least one of your own implicit biases and understand how it can affect the customer service you offer
  • Tell at least one personal story about customer service that can be used to improve customer service in your own library
Presenter:

Molly Meyers LaBadie has been in Libraries since 2001.  She was lucky to have four of those as a Library Trainer allowing her to train staff in customer service. Currently, as a Deputy Director, she finds that empathy for both staff and patrons is a powerful tool in offering exceptional customer service.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






An Empathic Approach to Customer Service Training
4/15/2021







This presentation addresses customer service training by growing and nurturing empathy and empowering staff to navigate the gray areas in our policies. Using storytelling and group interaction, we will look at special and challenging situations such as code of conduct violations and difficult patrons. Discover how understanding our own implicit biases and not assuming the worst of our patrons can help you offer consistent customer service to everyone we serve.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how your emotional responses influence patron interactions and several tools you can use to create more positive results
  • Identify at least one of your own implicit biases and understand how it can affect the customer service you offer
  • Tell at least one personal story about customer service that can be used to improve customer service in your own library
Presenter:

Molly Meyers LaBadie has been in Libraries since 2001.  She was lucky to have four of those as a Library Trainer allowing her to train staff in customer service. Currently, as a Deputy Director, she finds that empathy for both staff and patrons is a powerful tool in offering exceptional customer service.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Facilities and Admin Networking Meeting
4/15/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.

Featured topic and speaker:  We have had a request to have someone come and speak about parking lots.  Buckeye Surface and Maintenance will give a presentation and time for Q & A. 

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Facilities and Construction Networking Meeting-Focused on Parking Lots
4/15/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.

Featured topic and speaker:  We have had a request to have someone come and speak about parking lots.  Buckeye Surface and Maintenance will give a presentation and time for Q & A. 

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Empathetic Marketing: Connecting with Users through Marketing
4/21/2021

Empathetic marketing is the latest marketing trend—showing users how you can meet their core emotional needs. When libraries use empathetic marketing to show users how library services and staff can meet their emotional needs, it helps users feel more connected, shows them that people know and care about what they are experiencing, and lets them know that we can help them in a variety of ways. Once users realize that the library staff know and care about their needs, they often feel more comfortable seeking assistance from us when they need it—whether related to the library and research or not.

Learning Objectives:
  • Define empathetic marketing
  • Show examples of empathetic marketing
  • Demonstrate ways that libraries can incorporate empathetic marketing in their outreach endeavors
Presenter: 

 Carrie Girton is the Public Services Librarian at Rentschler Library at Miami University Hamilton in Hamilton, Ohio. She earned her MLIS from the University of Kentucky. Carrie recently served as the Interest Group Coordinator for the Academic Library Association of Ohio (ALAO) and as Co-Chair for the Association of College & Research Library’s (ACRL) Distance Learning Section (DLS) Bibliography Committee. She volunteers for a local community center’s afterschool program, coaching K-5 students on reading and literacy skills.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Empathetic Marketing: Connecting with Users through Marketing
4/21/2021

Empathetic marketing is the latest marketing trend—showing users how you can meet their core emotional needs. When libraries use empathetic marketing to show users how library services and staff can meet their emotional needs, it helps users feel more connected, shows them that people know and care about what they are experiencing, and lets them know that we can help them in a variety of ways. Once users realize that the library staff know and care about their needs, they often feel more comfortable seeking assistance from us when they need it—whether related to the library and research or not.

Learning Objectives:
  • Define empathetic marketing
  • Show examples of empathetic marketing
  • Demonstrate ways that libraries can incorporate empathetic marketing in their outreach endeavors
Presenter: 

 Carrie Girton is the Public Services Librarian at Rentschler Library at Miami University Hamilton in Hamilton, Ohio. She earned her MLIS from the University of Kentucky. Carrie recently served as the Interest Group Coordinator for the Academic Library Association of Ohio (ALAO) and as Co-Chair for the Association of College & Research Library’s (ACRL) Distance Learning Section (DLS) Bibliography Committee. She volunteers for a local community center’s afterschool program, coaching K-5 students on reading and literacy skills.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Building Empathetic Collections: Fostering Empathy and Kindness in your Community
4/28/2021

Literature creates a gateway to help library patrons understand concepts of empathy, compassion and kindness. Creating a curated collection of library resources inspires and fosters understanding of others and different perspectives and is the foundation of building a climate of empathy in the library. Empathy is transformative and can bring about positive change in the community.

Presenter:

Meghan Harper, Ph.D, Professor,  Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.
Dr. Harper is Interim Director of the School of Information as of July 1. Harper previously served as the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program coordinator as well as the school library media concentration coordinator. Dr. Harper is co-director of the Virginia Hamilton Multicultural Literature Conference, the longest running national conference of its kind. www.kent.edu/virginiahamiltonconference
Location: Online via Zoom






Building Empathetic Collections: Fostering Empathy and Kindness in your Community
4/28/2021

Literature creates a gateway to help library patrons understand concepts of empathy, compassion and kindness. Creating a curated collection of library resources inspires and fosters understanding of others and different perspectives and is the foundation of building a climate of empathy in the library. Empathy is transformative and can bring about positive change in the community.

Presenter:

Meghan Harper, Ph.D, Professor,  Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.
Dr. Harper is Interim Director of the School of Information as of July 1. Harper previously served as the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program coordinator as well as the school library media concentration coordinator. Dr. Harper is co-director of the Virginia Hamilton Multicultural Literature Conference, the longest running national conference of its kind. www.kent.edu/virginiahamiltonconference
Location: Online via Zoom






Dealing with Hostile and Potentially Dangerous Library Users' Behaviors
4/29/2021

Good manners and a friendly demeanor can handle most library customer issues. But what if being courteous is not enough? Do you, your staff, and your co-workers know what to do if someone is emotionally bullying or physically threatening to staff or library visitors? Belligerent? Acting out because of drugs, alcohol, or other cognitive issues? Refusing to leave? Caught stealing or damaging property?
The awareness, attitude, and actions of library employees are the first defenses against customers who are AOA (Angry on Arrival).
 
Make safe practices a priority for front line staff. Planning, consistent enforcement of policies, training, support from supervisors and managers, and applied technology can work together to protect library employees, customers, vendors, and visitors as well as your workplace’s property.
 
Learning Objectives
  • Ensure everyone on the staff knows what to do in emergencies
  • Lower the drama of difficult encounters with library customers
  • Develop consistent responses to challenging customer behavior
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.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Dealing with Hostile and Potentially Dangerous Library Users' Behaviors
4/29/2021







Good manners and a friendly demeanor can handle most library customer issues. But what if being courteous is not enough? Do you, your staff, and your co-workers know what to do if someone is emotionally bullying or physically threatening to staff or library visitors? Belligerent? Acting out because of drugs, alcohol, or other cognitive issues? Refusing to leave? Caught stealing or damaging property?
The awareness, attitude, and actions of library employees are the first defenses against customers who are AOA (Angry on Arrival).
 
Make safe practices a priority for front line staff. Planning, consistent enforcement of policies, training, support from supervisors and managers, and applied technology can work together to protect library employees, customers, vendors, and visitors as well as your workplace’s property.
 
Learning Objectives
  • Ensure everyone on the staff knows what to do in emergencies
  • Lower the drama of difficult encounters with library customers
  • Develop consistent responses to challenging customer behavior
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.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Escape Rooms at Your Library
5/4/2021

Escape rooms are relentlessly fun and deceptively educational - a perfect library program for all ages! This webinar will cover everything you need to know in order to host an escape room at your library.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand what an escape room is and how to adapt the concept to your library's programming
  • Learn the logistics, from materials to puzzle types, behind planning an escape room program
  • Experience a virtual (and quick) escape room scenario
Presenter:

Chris Labib is an Adult Services Librarian at Kent Free Library. She loves to learn and have fun, and her programs for the adults in her community reflect those passions.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Escape Rooms at Your Library
5/4/2021

Escape rooms are relentlessly fun and deceptively educational - a perfect library program for all ages! This webinar will cover everything you need to know in order to host an escape room at your library.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand what an escape room is and how to adapt the concept to your library's programming
  • Learn the logistics, from materials to puzzle types, behind planning an escape room program
  • Experience a virtual (and quick) escape room scenario
Presenter:

Chris Labib is an Adult Services Librarian at Kent Free Library. She loves to learn and have fun, and her programs for the adults in her community reflect those passions.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
5/5/2021

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Three Things to Consider When Presenting Online
5/12/2021

Discover three steps to help you excel in delivering great online presentations.  Online presentations follow many of the same ideas as presenting in person; however, the difference in presentation vehicle and environment can prove to make presentations challenging in new ways.  Whether you are just beginning to present online or if you have been presenting for a while, this program will be filled with many tips to make your presentations excel.

Learning Objectives:

⦁ Prepare:  Learn how you should prepare for your presentation including setting up your environment, creating your presentation, scheduling, and dressing for the event
⦁ Presentation:  Discover tips for the online presentation to add professionalism, enthusiasm, and engagement
⦁ After the Presentation:  Explore ways to guide question-and-answer sessions and follow up with attendees

Presenter: 

Angela Paterek is the Training Manager at the Rocky River Public Library.  She has been creating online content for library patrons for more than 5 years.   Along with her over 19 years of being a library trainer and 11 years of training in the corporate environment, Angela has also taught in public schools and business colleges.  She has a degree in Business Education from the University of Akron.


Location: Online via Zoom






Three Things to Consider When Presenting Online
5/12/2021

Discover three steps to help you excel in delivering great online presentations.  Online presentations follow many of the same ideas as presenting in person; however, the difference in presentation vehicle and environment can prove to make presentations challenging in new ways.  Whether you are just beginning to present online or if you have been presenting for a while, this program will be filled with many tips to make your presentations excel.

Learning Objectives:

⦁ Prepare:  Learn how you should prepare for your presentation including setting up your environment, creating your presentation, scheduling, and dressing for the event
⦁ Presentation:  Discover tips for the online presentation to add professionalism, enthusiasm, and engagement
⦁ After the Presentation:  Explore ways to guide question-and-answer sessions and follow up with attendees

Presenter: 

Angela Paterek is the Training Manager at the Rocky River Public Library.  She has been creating online content for library patrons for more than 5 years.   Along with her over 19 years of being a library trainer and 11 years of training in the corporate environment, Angela has also taught in public schools and business colleges.  She has a degree in Business Education from the University of Akron.


Location: Online via Zoom






Academic Library Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
5/13/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Diversity Works: Understanding Discrimination and Harassment in the Workplace
5/13/2021

This highly interactive session will explore the meaning of diversity and the benefits of an inclusive workplace.  The session will cover discrimination and harassment laws and participants will discuss various workplace scenarios to explore discrimination vs. inappropriate behavior. Training will include tips for creating an inclusive workplace and having difficult conversations about diversity and discrimination.

Learning Objectives:
  • Discussion of discrimination and harassment laws
  • Tips for creating inclusive workplace
  • Ways to have difficult conversations about diversity and discrimination
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.


Vanessa Bullock was appointed Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in May 1997. She is employed as a mediator in the Philadelphia office located in the Northeast region. As a Commissioner, Ms. Bullock has mediated both Labor and Employment disputes in the private and public sectors. In addition to her primary duties of dispute mediation, she is responsible for curriculum development and training in a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for the  FMCS Institute; Federal Executive Board; and the Cornell University ILR Scrimmage program.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 50





Diversity Works: Understanding Discrimination and Harassment in the Workplace
5/13/2021

This highly interactive session will explore the meaning of diversity and the benefits of an inclusive workplace.  The session will cover discrimination and harassment laws and participants will discuss various workplace scenarios to explore discrimination vs. inappropriate behavior. Training will include tips for creating an inclusive workplace and having difficult conversations about diversity and discrimination.

Learning Objectives:
  • Discussion of discrimination and harassment laws
  • Tips for creating inclusive workplace
  • Ways to have difficult conversations about diversity and discrimination
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.


Vanessa Bullock was appointed Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in May 1997. She is employed as a mediator in the Philadelphia office located in the Northeast region. As a Commissioner, Ms. Bullock has mediated both Labor and Employment disputes in the private and public sectors. In addition to her primary duties of dispute mediation, she is responsible for curriculum development and training in a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for the  FMCS Institute; Federal Executive Board; and the Cornell University ILR Scrimmage program.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 27 spots remaining out of 50





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






Directors Networking Meeting
5/25/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing the upcoming changes and the lifting of health orders in Ohio.  We are hearing a lot of buzz around to wear or not to wear masks. Find out how other libraries are handling this.
 

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Zoom Out: Other Innovative Online Platforms and Tools to Connect with your Audience
5/26/2021

Many of us have become very familiar with Zoom over the last year. While it is an excellent platform that has met the needs for many libraries during this pandemic and beyond, there may be some other platforms and tools available that can help you to better connect with your audience.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about alternative online services and their features that might better meet your needs 
  • Discover innovative new platforms that can boost virtual interaction and learning
  • Explore tools that can be used to enhance or augment your current virtual presence
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Zoom Out: Other Innovative Online Platforms and Tools to Connect with your Audience
5/26/2021

Many of us have become very familiar with Zoom over the last year. While it is an excellent platform that has met the needs for many libraries during this pandemic and beyond, there may be some other platforms and tools available that can help you to better connect with your audience.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about alternative online services and their features that might better meet your needs 
  • Discover innovative new platforms that can boost virtual interaction and learning
  • Explore tools that can be used to enhance or augment your current virtual presence
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Voices of the Community: Asking and Listening at the Library
6/2/2021

In polarizing times, building community and trust through communication is vitally important. This session will discuss how public libraries can help break down barriers and further understanding among people through programming and powerful partnerships. Ramsey County Library’s Ask series, presented in partnership with local grass roots organization Do Good Roseville, was a bi-monthly facilitated discussion designed to give a voice to the underrepresented in the community. Our new endeavor, Sidewalk Talks, focuses on providing a one-to-one empathetic listening experience in public spaces. We’ll discuss the unexpected challenges and the continuing rewards of building programming in response to racism and inequity, as well as the importance of keeping the voices of the community front and center.

Presenter:  Carol Jackson, MLIS, has held various management positions at Ramsey County Library (MN). She is currently Branch Manager of the Shoreview branch and Adult Programming Coordinator for the library system. An enthusiastic community partner and advocate, she was named a Library Journal Movers & Shakers in 2019, primarily due to the Ask series and other community well-being programming.
Location: Online via Zoom






Voices of the Community: Asking and Listening at the Library
6/2/2021

In polarizing times, building community and trust through communication is vitally important. This session will discuss how public libraries can help break down barriers and further understanding among people through programming and powerful partnerships. Ramsey County Library’s Ask series, presented in partnership with local grass roots organization Do Good Roseville, was a bi-monthly facilitated discussion designed to give a voice to the underrepresented in the community. Our new endeavor, Sidewalk Talks, focuses on providing a one-to-one empathetic listening experience in public spaces. We’ll discuss the unexpected challenges and the continuing rewards of building programming in response to racism and inequity, as well as the importance of keeping the voices of the community front and center.

Presenter:  Carol Jackson, MLIS, has held various management positions at Ramsey County Library (MN). She is currently Branch Manager of the Shoreview branch and Adult Programming Coordinator for the library system. An enthusiastic community partner and advocate, she was named a Library Journal Movers & Shakers in 2019, primarily due to the Ask series and other community well-being programming.
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






Plan a Campaign to Draw People Back Into Your Libraries
6/10/2021

Even if your library never completely closed to the public, you’ll still want to alert everyone when your building is fully open again. To draw people back to your spaces and services, your outreach will need to be creative and attention-getting, as well as thoughtful and reassuring. It will also need to be well-planned.
 
To help you reach everyone in your community effectively—even people without internet access—this training session will offer guidance, ideas, and a marketing plan template that’s ready to fill in and roll out.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • How to word messaging to address patrons’ potential trepidation about re-entering busy buildings
  • How and where to place your messages to reach everyone
  • Which offerings to prioritize in your messages
  • How to construct a simple marketing plan just for this reopening campaign
 
While marketing communications maven Kathy Dempsey will lead this webinar and cover all the topics above, she’ll also allow ample time for attendees to share ideas and strategies with their colleagues. This way, everyone will leave with a well-rounded batch of recommendations and ideas.

Presenter:

Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, 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 25 years, and was formerly Editor-in-Chief of Computers in Libraries magazine. She also blogs at The 'M' Word. She's a member of the New Jersey Library Association, and Founder of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference, which she chaired in 2015, 2016, and 2017.

This writer, editor, and marketing maven has been giving presentations across the U.S. and Canada for 20+ years, always sprinkling them with humor to make marketing concepts more interesting and accessible. She continues to fight the stereotypes that librarians are boring and that "marketing" is a dirty word.

The last 30 minutes of this webinar will be a roundtable discussion for the Public Relations and Marketing Network.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Plan a Campaign to Draw People Back Into Your Libraries
6/10/2021

Even if your library never completely closed to the public, you’ll still want to alert everyone when your building is fully open again. To draw people back to your spaces and services, your outreach will need to be creative and attention-getting, as well as thoughtful and reassuring. It will also need to be well-planned.
 
To help you reach everyone in your community effectively—even people without internet access—this training session will offer guidance, ideas, and a marketing plan template that’s ready to fill in and roll out.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • How to word messaging to address patrons’ potential trepidation about re-entering busy buildings
  • How and where to place your messages to reach everyone
  • Which offerings to prioritize in your messages
  • How to construct a simple marketing plan just for this reopening campaign
 
While marketing communications maven Kathy Dempsey will lead this webinar and cover all the topics above, she’ll also allow ample time for attendees to share ideas and strategies with their colleagues. This way, everyone will leave with a well-rounded batch of recommendations and ideas.

Presenter:

Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, 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 25 years, and was formerly Editor-in-Chief of Computers in Libraries magazine. She also blogs at The 'M' Word. She's a member of the New Jersey Library Association, and Founder of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference, which she chaired in 2015, 2016, and 2017.

This writer, editor, and marketing maven has been giving presentations across the U.S. and Canada for 20+ years, always sprinkling them with humor to make marketing concepts more interesting and accessible. She continues to fight the stereotypes that librarians are boring and that "marketing" is a dirty word.

The last 30 minutes of this webinar will be a roundtable discussion for the Public Relations and Marketing Network.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
6/10/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  

You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us to share your successes and find answers to your challenges.  Email topics a head of time to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online via Zoom






How To Launch a Podcast At Your Library
6/16/2021

Podcasting is an excellent way for libraries to connect to their communities, especially as it becomes increasingly important to reach patrons beyond the library's physical space. Jeff Laser, Adult Services Librarian at Bexley Public Library and host of The BPL Podcast, will cover the ins and outs of starting a podcast at your library. Learn what equipment and software you'll need, how to find guests, and how to market your podcast on a reasonable budget. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to start a podcast
  • Learn what equipment is needed
  • Learn how to find guests
  • Learn how to cost effectively market your podcast 
Presenter:

Jeff Laser is an Adult Services Librarian at Bexley Public Library, where he has worked since 2012. He graduated with an MLIS from Kent State University in 2015 and a BM in Music Composition from Capital University in 2012.
Location: Online via Zoom






How To Launch a Podcast At Your Library
6/16/2021

Podcasting is an excellent way for libraries to connect to their communities, especially as it becomes increasingly important to reach patrons beyond the library's physical space. Jeff Laser, Adult Services Librarian at Bexley Public Library and host of The BPL Podcast, will cover the ins and outs of starting a podcast at your library. Learn what equipment and software you'll need, how to find guests, and how to market your podcast on a reasonable budget. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to start a podcast
  • Learn what equipment is needed
  • Learn how to find guests
  • Learn how to cost effectively market your podcast 
Presenter:

Jeff Laser is an Adult Services Librarian at Bexley Public Library, where he has worked since 2012. He graduated with an MLIS from Kent State University in 2015 and a BM in Music Composition from Capital University in 2012.
Location: Online via Zoom






Working with Zoom
6/17/2021

Over the past year we have all become familiar with Zoom.  However, do you know all the ins and outs, and the capabilities of this platform?

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to set up a meeting including advanced settings
  • Learn what needs to happen before a meeting
  • Learn how to run a successful Zoom meeting to include polls, breakout rooms, and more
  • Learn about utilizing the social media options within Zoom
Presenters:

Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS






Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Online via Zoom






Working with Zoom
6/17/2021

Over the past year we have all become familiar with Zoom.  However, do you know all the ins and outs, and the capabilities of this platform?

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to set up a meeting including advanced settings
  • Learn what needs to happen before a meeting
  • Learn how to run a successful Zoom meeting to include polls, breakout rooms, and more
  • Learn about utilizing the social media options within Zoom
Presenters:

Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS






Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Online via Zoom






Diversity Works: Building an Inclusive Workplace
6/22/2021

This highly interactive session will take an in depth look at the diversity in the workplace.  The group will explore topics including the meaning of diversity and the benefits of a diverse workplace, inclusion, unconscious bias, and cultural competency and civility. Participants will discuss various workplace scenarios to explore these concepts. Training will include tips for creating an inclusive workplace and having difficult conversations about diversity and inclusion.

Learning Objectives:
  • Benefits of diverse workplace, inclusion, unconscious bias, and cultural competency and civility
  • Ways to have difficult conversations about diversity and discrimination
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.


Vanessa Bullock was appointed Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in May 1997. She is employed as a mediator in the Philadelphia office located in the Northeast region. As a Commissioner, Ms. Bullock has mediated both Labor and Employment disputes in the private and public sectors. In addition to her primary duties of dispute mediation, she is responsible for curriculum development and training in a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for the  FMCS Institute; Federal Executive Board; and the Cornell University ILR Scrimmage program.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 70





Diversity Works: Building an Inclusive Workplace
6/22/2021

This highly interactive session will take an in depth look at the diversity in the workplace.  The group will explore topics including the meaning of diversity and the benefits of a diverse workplace, inclusion, unconscious bias, and cultural competency and civility. Participants will discuss various workplace scenarios to explore these concepts. Training will include tips for creating an inclusive workplace and having difficult conversations about diversity and inclusion.

Learning Objectives:
  • Benefits of diverse workplace, inclusion, unconscious bias, and cultural competency and civility
  • Ways to have difficult conversations about diversity and discrimination
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.


Vanessa Bullock was appointed Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in May 1997. She is employed as a mediator in the Philadelphia office located in the Northeast region. As a Commissioner, Ms. Bullock has mediated both Labor and Employment disputes in the private and public sectors. In addition to her primary duties of dispute mediation, she is responsible for curriculum development and training in a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for the  FMCS Institute; Federal Executive Board; and the Cornell University ILR Scrimmage program.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 47 spots remaining out of 70





Collaborative Partnerships Sponsored by Multi-Type Libraries Network
6/23/2021

The newly established Multi-type Libraries Committee of the NEO-RLS Board welcomes you to join them for a Network meeting focused on issues of interest and concern to archives, academic, school, and special libraries.  Join your colleagues to talk about staff and professional development opportunities needed to address the challenges in your environment.  This on-going group will be an opportunity opportunity to talk with your peers, learn from each other, engage speakers and collaborate.  The inaugural meeting will be held via Zoom which is user-friendly for all devices.  Register today!  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Outreach and Reference in the Land of Wikimedia
6/23/2021

Wikipedia continues to be one of the world’s most popular websites, sharing information on seemingly endless topics. We know that it’s much easier to reach patrons where they and that this virtual outreach has recently become even more important, but knowing how to integrate our work into Wikimedia projects can feel like a whole new endeavor.

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore how to use what we already know about our collections and our communities to map new paths in outreach, with just a small investment of time and effort
  • Learn how to create editor accounts and utilize community support tools, edit Wikipedia articles with text, citations, and images
  • Learn how to add to the data that can appear in popular search engine results, and how this can easily be done from anywhere by library staff, student interns, and even volunteers.
Presenter:

Jen Johnson is the State Library of Ohio’s digitization consultant and project coordinator for Ohio Digital Network, Ohio’s DPLA hub.
She’s worked in academic, special, and public libraries, and when she's not working, she's most likely renovating her house or dreaming of traveling.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Disability 101
7/13/2021

This session will be a broad introduction to what disability is, what the Americans with Disabilities Act says, and how we in libraries can assist patrons with disabilities who use our services and spaces.  We will cover a variety of topics including some disability statistics, examples of good and poor accessibility as well as where to get more information.



Learning Objectives:
  • What is a disability?
  • Americans with Disabilities Act
  • How libraries assist patrons with disabilities
Presenter:

JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees.  His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Disability 101
7/13/2021



This session will be a broad introduction to what disability is, what the Americans with Disabilities Act says, and how we in libraries can assist patrons with disabilities who use our services and spaces.  We will cover a variety of topics including some disability statistics, examples of good and poor accessibility, as well as where to get more information.



Learning Objectives:
  • What is a disability?
  • Americans with Disabilities Act
  • How libraries assist patrons with disabilities
Presenter:

JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees.  His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Empathy in Enforcement: 10 Rules for Handling Difficult Situations
7/14/2021

Security Specialist and Library Trainer, Eddie Kristan, will present 10 concrete and actionable solutions to difficult patron interactions with the goal of providing empathetic service, keeping staff safe, and upholding the principles of librarianship.
 

Learning Outcomes:​
  • Attendees will learn actionable recommendations for approaching, deescalating, and navigating difficult patron interactions
  • Attendees will explore the difference between noncompliant and unsafe behavior for confident and informed responses
  • Attendees will learn how to respond to aggressive or noncompliant behavior with calm confidence and accommodation without compromise ​
Presenter:

Eddie Kristan ran the Safety & Security Team at Warren-Newport Library in Gurnee, IL for 6 years before finishing graduate school and becoming a reference librarian and staff trainer 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 close help of Ryan Dowd (author of "A Librarian's Guide to Homelessness") and Warren Graham (author of "The Blackbelt 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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Empathy in Enforcement: 10 Rules for Handling Difficult Situations
7/14/2021







Content Warning:  This webinar contains opening remarks about child abuse.


Security Specialist and Library Trainer, Eddie Kristan, will present 10 concrete and actionable solutions to difficult patron interactions with the goal of providing empathetic service, keeping staff safe, and upholding the principles of librarianship.
 

Learning Outcomes:​
  • Attendees will learn actionable recommendations for approaching, deescalating, and navigating difficult patron interactions
  • Attendees will explore the difference between noncompliant and unsafe behavior for confident and informed responses
  • Attendees will learn how to respond to aggressive or noncompliant behavior with calm confidence and accommodation without compromise ​
Presenter:

Eddie Kristan ran the Safety & Security Team at Warren-Newport Library in Gurnee, IL for 6 years before finishing graduate school and becoming a reference librarian and staff trainer 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 close help of Ryan Dowd (author of "A Librarian's Guide to Homelessness") and Warren Graham (author of "The Blackbelt 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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
7/16/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.


 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Understanding Bias: A nuanced approach to a vital news literacy topic
7/21/2021

Bias is one of the most controversial and important subjects in news literacy. People frequently perceive and allege bias in news coverage, but what does this really mean? What makes a piece of news biased, and who decides? What role do our own biases play in our perceptions of bias? In this session, we’ll help you teach this vital, complex topic in ways that empower students and customers to meaningfully evaluate the fairness and impartiality of news coverage.

Learning Objectives:
  • Review common misperceptions about news media bias and develop a nuanced understanding of the topic
  • Reflect on the role our own biases play in perceptions of news coverage
  • Understand five types of news media bias and five possible forms it can take in news coverage
Presenter:

Peter Adams is the News Literacy Project’s senior vice president of education and has been with the organization since 2009. He began his career in education as a classroom teacher in the New York City schools. He has also worked as a trainer with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program, a youth media after-school instructor in the Chicago public schools and an adjunct instructor at Roosevelt University and Chicago City Colleges.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Understanding Bias: A nuanced approach to a vital news literacy topic
7/21/2021

Bias is one of the most controversial and important subjects in news literacy. People frequently perceive and allege bias in news coverage, but what does this really mean? What makes a piece of news biased, and who decides? What role do our own biases play in our perceptions of bias? In this session, we’ll help you teach this vital, complex topic in ways that empower students and customers to meaningfully evaluate the fairness and impartiality of news coverage.

Learning Objectives:
  • Review common misperceptions about news media bias and develop a nuanced understanding of the topic
  • Reflect on the role our own biases play in perceptions of news coverage
  • Understand five types of news media bias and five possible forms it can take in news coverage
Presenter:

Peter Adams is the News Literacy Project’s senior vice president of education and has been with the organization since 2009. He began his career in education as a classroom teacher in the New York City schools. He has also worked as a trainer with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program, a youth media after-school instructor in the Chicago public schools and an adjunct instructor at Roosevelt University and Chicago City Colleges.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Social Media in the Library: Think Before You Post?
7/28/2021

  • What rights do employers and employees have when it comes to social media both on and off the job? 
  • When are employee’s Facebook postings PROTECTED and when are THEY NOT?  
  • When do employees represent the library?
  • Do library employees have a Right of Free Speech?
  • What does it really mean to have a Right of Free Speech?
  • What did the EEOC say about SOCIAL MEDIA and your harassment training?
  • Can employees use social media to complain about the library?
  • How has the U.S. Supreme court defined “offensive”?
…and MUCH, MUCH more…

Join Scott Warrick, one of Ohio’s most popular speakers, as he reviews with you what the EEOC and the courts say about FREEDOM OF SPEECH and SOCIAL MEDIA … both on and off the job.  Scott will not only inform you of what the law requires, but he will use his 40 years of Human Resource and Employment Law experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!

Presenter:

Scott Warrick, JD, MLHR, CEQC, SHRM-SCP (www.scottwarrick.com) is both a practicing Employment Law Attorney and Human Resource Professional with almost 40 years of hands-on experience.  Scott uses his unique background to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical, entertaining and humorous style.   


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Social Media in the Library: Think Before You Post?
7/28/2021

  • What rights do employers and employees have when it comes to social media both on and off the job? 
  • When are employee’s Facebook postings PROTECTED and when are THEY NOT?  
  • When do employees represent the library?
  • Do library employees have a Right of Free Speech?
  • What does it really mean to have a Right of Free Speech?
  • What did the EEOC say about SOCIAL MEDIA and your harassment training?
  • Can employees use social media to complain about the library?
  • How has the U.S. Supreme court defined “offensive”?
…and MUCH, MUCH more…

Join Scott Warrick, one of Ohio’s most popular speakers, as he reviews with you what the EEOC and the courts say about FREEDOM OF SPEECH and SOCIAL MEDIA … both on and off the job.  Scott will not only inform you of what the law requires, but he will use his 40 years of Human Resource and Employment Law experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!

Presenter:

Scott Warrick, JD, MLHR, CEQC, SHRM-SCP (www.scottwarrick.com) is both a practicing Employment Law Attorney and Human Resource Professional with almost 40 years of hands-on experience.  Scott uses his unique background to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical, entertaining and humorous style.   


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Anti-Racist Policies and Procedures – How to Build and Maintain an Anti-Racist Organizational Culture
7/29/2021

Education and training around anti-racism helps individuals to see inequity and injustice as they persist in our history, interactions, and workplaces. Once we recognize these realities on a structural level, what can we do organizationally to actively engage in anti-racism? Analyzing the internal policies and procedures of your organization is a significant action step towards creating a more just and equitable workplace.

Participants will engage in conversations around the historical legacies of racist workplace policies and their impact on the organizational environment. They will then explore anti-racist policy and procedure analysis through lecture, activities, and discussions. Upon completing this workshop participants will have an increased understanding of how racist policies operate on an institutional level and will have learned skills to analyze their own organization through an anti-racist lens. Participants will also receive best practices and strategies to assist with their engagement of anti-racist policy and procedure analysis.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Explore components of an Anti-Racist workplace/organization
  • Examine resources for conducting an Anti-Racist organizational audit
  • Engage with some key strategies and best practices for defining an Anti-Racist culture
Presenters:

Vania Sherepita is a JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. As a believer in social justice and equity for all, she has committed herself to maintaining a lens of empathy while seeking out the common ground where diverse communities can meet and mutually understand each other through passionate storytelling and compassionate listening. While working with organizations such as Human Rights Campaign, American Civil Liberties Union, and Equality Ohio, she has utilized emotional intelligence, social perceptiveness, and a stance of sincere vulnerability to negotiate, work with, and act as liaison between people of diverse backgrounds and differing opinions. As a JEDI Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, she combines her passionate commitment to this work with her professional background in Consulting and Learning & Development (and just a pinch of on-stage experience) to facilitate workshops on creating and maintaining diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace climates.

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






Beyond The Stamp - Your Role, Responsibilities, and Risks as an Ohio Notary Public
8/4/2021

This online workshop provides an overview of Ohio Notary Laws, including the 2019 changes, and their practical applications for common everyday notarizations. Various signing situations, unusual documents, and best practice situations will be presented. 
 
The class is 3 hours and fulfills the Ohio training requirements for both new notaries, and those renewing within one year of the class date
 
Attendees in either category are advised to complete their respective applications to the Secretary of State, and complete (or at least begin) their background checks prior to the class. Note that NEW applicants will still have to take the required exam from one of the Authorized Providers shown on the Secretary of State's website.

Presenter:  

Roger Rill is the President of the Ohio Society of Notaries, and  2019 National Notary Of The Year Special Honoree.   The Ohio Society of Notaries is a  non-profit, professional association dedicated to providing education, awareness, training, and advocacy for Ohio’s notaries.
Location: Online via Zoom






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
8/4/2021

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors.    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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Academic Library Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
8/5/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Creating Standards for Successful Customer Service (For Frontline Staff)
8/10/2021

One of the most difficult issues for frontline library staff to navigate is the balance between personalized service, which can devolve into special favors for well-liked customers, and even-handed consistency, which can become volumes of rigid rules. The key is to establish guidelines for how you treat all library users, regardless of who they are. The welcome for everyone, services that anyone can use, and common courtesy are standards that you can apply to every library visitor, including strangers, difficult customers, and people who are different from you.
Topics include examples of written standards, the importance of strategic planning and job descriptions that support customer services, and why consistency and civility can solve many customer behavioral issues.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Improve customer service with consistency, fair treatment, and access for all
  • Determine if staff are making exceptions for friends, family, and otherwise favored customers
  • Create a draft of a written set of standards for your library, to test and review
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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Creating Standards for Successful Customer Service (For Frontline Staff)
8/10/2021

One of the most difficult issues for frontline library staff to navigate is the balance between personalized service, which can devolve into special favors for well-liked customers, and even-handed consistency, which can become volumes of rigid rules. The key is to establish guidelines for how you treat all library users, regardless of who they are. The welcome for everyone, services that anyone can use, and common courtesy are standards that you can apply to every library visitor, including strangers, difficult customers, and people who are different from you.
Topics include examples of written standards, the importance of strategic planning and job descriptions that support customer services, and why consistency and civility can solve many customer behavioral issues.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Improve customer service with consistency, fair treatment, and access for all
  • Determine if staff are making exceptions for friends, family, and otherwise favored customers
  • Create a draft of a written set of standards for your library, to test and review
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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Outreach Virtual Networking Meeting
8/11/2021

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Facilities and Admin Networking Meeting
8/12/2021

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with others involved in construction and facilities within the region.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.

Featured topic and speaker:  John from Warren Roofing
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Disability 201: Disability in the Workplace: Let's talk about accommodations and boundaries
8/18/2021

This session will briefly talk about the Americans with Disabilities Act and what the law says about accommodations.   Then we will segue into a discussion of what the accommodation process can look like and what to prepare for.  Finally, we will discuss boundary setting and tips and tricks to navigating library workplaces with disabilities, especially chronic ones. This session will involve lecture, with a QA to follow, however questions are encouraged throughout the session.

Learning Objectives:
  • Overview of Americans with Disabilities Act 
  • Accommodations
  • Navigating library workplace with disabilities
Presenter:

JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees.  His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
Location: Online via Zoom






Disability 201: Disability in the Workplace: Let's talk about accommodations and boundaries
8/18/2021

This session will briefly talk about the Americans with Disabilities Act and what the law says about accommodations.   Then we will segue into a discussion of what the accommodation process can look like and what to prepare for.  Finally, we will discuss boundary setting and tips and tricks to navigating library workplaces with disabilities, especially chronic ones. This session will involve lecture, with a QA to follow, however questions are encouraged throughout the session.

Learning Objectives:
  • Overview of Americans with Disabilities Act 
  • Accommodations
  • Navigating library workplace with disabilities
Presenter:

JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees.  His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
Location: Online via Zoom






What do we do with this? Managing artifacts in your Collection
8/19/2021

Often libraries become the stewards of historic and cultural artifacts from their communities. These non-circulating collections can present unique challenges to public, special  and academic libraries alike. In this webinar you will discover strategies for managing your institution's special collection and issues to consider as you balance access and preservation. You will be presented with resources for improving archival storage as well as options for giving your collection a virtual presence. At the end participants will have a chance to share experiences and best practices.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • What to consider when selecting a classification system
  • Available archival and preservation resources
  • Ways to expand access and outreach
Presenter:

Greg Hatch has served as Rocky River Public Library's Cowan Pottery Museum Curator since 2018. During his first two years he has launched a new all- ages art activity program, brought in ceramic artists for live demonstrations, and began digitizing the museum's records and archives. He began his curating career at Kent State University where he earned his BA in Art History and his Masters in Library Science. He then went on to earn his MFA in Sculpture from Ohio University where he gained experience as a museum educator.


Location: Online via Zoom






What do we do with this? Managing artifacts in your Collection
8/19/2021

Often libraries become the stewards of historic and cultural artifacts from their communities. These non-circulating collections can present unique challenges to public, special  and academic libraries alike. In this webinar you will discover strategies for managing your institution's special collection and issues to consider as you balance access and preservation. You will be presented with resources for improving archival storage as well as options for giving your collection a virtual presence. At the end participants will have a chance to share experiences and best practices.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • What to consider when selecting a classification system
  • Available archival and preservation resources
  • Ways to expand access and outreach
Presenter:

Greg Hatch has served as Rocky River Public Library's Cowan Pottery Museum Curator since 2018. During his first two years he has launched a new all- ages art activity program, brought in ceramic artists for live demonstrations, and began digitizing the museum's records and archives. He began his curating career at Kent State University where he earned his BA in Art History and his Masters in Library Science. He then went on to earn his MFA in Sculpture from Ohio University where he gained experience as a museum educator.


Location: Online via Zoom






Rebuilding Our Why - For Managers
8/25/2021

There was a day in the not-so-distant past when folks who needed access to reading materials, computer information, and other life pursuits, naturally sought out their local library.

In today’s world, though, our patrons have options – those options are also known as “our competition.” So that we may stay competitive (and continue to exist!), we’ll need to offer not only our level of service pre-COVID, but also new services and programs as we move into the future. And, we’ll need to do all of that in a timely, friendly, and welcoming manner. That will require teamwork and the best efforts of everyone on our staff.

Learning Objectives:
  • Discuss ways to help staff deal with the lingering fear of COVID in our environment
  • How we can return to the same level of service as before the pandemic – and work as a team
  • How to help staff understand the importance of them bringing their best selves to work each day since some staff members may have fallen into a comfort zone that is not as busy as they once were
The last 30 minutes of this session will be a networking meeting for customer service managers.  Please join for a discussion with your peers.

 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






Rebuilding Our Why - For Managers
8/25/2021

There was a day in the not-so-distant past when folks who needed access to reading materials, computer information, and other life pursuits, naturally sought out their local library.

In today’s world, though, our patrons have options – those options are also known as “our competition.” So that we may stay competitive (and continue to exist!), we’ll need to offer not only our level of service pre-COVID, but also new services and programs as we move into the future. And, we’ll need to do all of that in a timely, friendly, and welcoming manner. That will require teamwork and the best efforts of everyone on our staff.

Learning Objectives:
  • Discuss ways to help staff deal with the lingering fear of COVID in our environment
  • How we can return to the same level of service as before the pandemic – and work as a team
  • How to help staff understand the importance of them bringing their best selves to work each day since some staff members may have fallen into a comfort zone that is not as busy as they once were
The last 30 minutes of this session will be a networking meeting for customer service managers.  Please join for a discussion with your peers.

 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






Rebuilding Our Why - For Library Staff
8/26/2021

Have you given much thought to why patrons come to your library? “They have to,” you say? Not so fast. In today’s world, they have a wealth of options to choose from when they need to access resource material, conduct research on a computer, or any other type of service or programming your library currently provides.
 
And, although there are many loyal, dedicated fans of your library, they won’t stay fans for long if your service levels have deteriorated.
 
In this nearly post-COVID environment, it’s natural to still be cautious. But when caution leads us to giving less than our best selves, we are letting down our libraries, our co-workers, our supervisors, AND our fans!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Discuss why it’s so important to have excellent service as our goal
  • Dig deep to see what might be stopping us from giving our best effort to serve our patrons
  • Look at ways to encourage teamwork among our coworkers
  • Determine what it takes to provide excellent service in our organization’s environment – and what part we should play in doing so
  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






Rebuilding Our Why - For Library Staff
8/26/2021







Have you given much thought to why patrons come to your library? “They have to,” you say? Not so fast. In today’s world, they have a wealth of options to choose from when they need to access resource material, conduct research on a computer, or any other type of service or programming your library currently provides.
 
And, although there are many loyal, dedicated fans of your library, they won’t stay fans for long if your service levels have deteriorated.
 
In this nearly post-COVID environment, it’s natural to still be cautious. But when caution leads us to giving less than our best selves, we are letting down our libraries, our co-workers, our supervisors, AND our fans!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Discuss why it’s so important to have excellent service as our goal
  • Dig deep to see what might be stopping us from giving our best effort to serve our patrons
  • Look at ways to encourage teamwork among our coworkers
  • Determine what it takes to provide excellent service in our organization’s environment – and what part we should play in doing so
  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






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting-Focused on Summer Reading Wrap-up
8/26/2021

This meeting will be focused on a summer reading wrap-up.

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Indoors, and Outdoors, and Zoom! Oh My! – Flexible Storytelling for the 21st Century
9/14/2021

Storytelling in the 21st century (and during a pandemic!) poses new challenges. But these challenges are also opportunities to grow our skills and expand our audience! In this workshop, we’ll explore how to adapt our storytelling to different settings – from in-person indoor and outdoor programs to Zoom and even hybrid events. Tackling such topics as story selection, involving the audience, technological considerations and safety protocols, we’ll share ideas for how to make the most out of any program, no matter the method of delivery.

Learning Objectives:
  • Adapt storytelling to different settings
  • Story selection
  • Audience involvement
  • Technology concerns
Presenter:

Lindsay Bonilla is a professional storyteller and children’s book author from North Canton, Ohio. While earning her Bachelor’s degree in theatre and religion at Northwestern University, she fell in love with folktales and world travel and has been performing interactive theatre, sharing stories and teaching workshops all over the world ever since. Lindsay is the award-winning author of POLAR BEAR ISLAND, a picture book which celebrates inclusivity and diversity. Her forthcoming books include: I LOVE YOU WITH ALL OF MY HEARTS (Creative Editions, August 2021), THE STORYTELLER (Nancy Paulsen/Penguin, 2022), and THE NOTE WHO FACED THE MUSIC (Page Street, 2023), as well as two soon-to-be-announced titles from Holiday House and Penguin. Lindsay loves to travel and has visited 28 countries on 5 different continents. Learn more at http://www.lindsaybonilla.com
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Good Hiring Practices: Learn how to ask great questions & read basic body language signals
9/16/2021

Successful companies are made up of great employees, so why not hire great employees? Hiring and training employees is an expensive venture. Be sure to hire the right person for the right position. Hiring the right person is about more than skills and abilities; it is about finding the right combination of skills, attitude, and fit for your organization's culture.

Participants will learn the how to select the most qualified job candidate by applying the ever-popular behavioral approach to interviewing.  This method, developed by industrial psychologist Dr. Paul Green, directs you to probe the job applicant for specific examples of their past.  The reason is simple: The best predictor of a job applicant's future work behavior is their past work behavior.
 
In addition to interviewing techniques, interviewers think candidates who slouch are bored or arrogant and decide to turn them down. But, how much should we trust our impressions of candidates’ body language during interviews?  We’re all naturally able to pick up on nonverbal cues. Though often useful, non-verbal cues can be misleading. Understanding body language isn’t an exact science. In this program, we will learn some of the basic clues to positive interest and attitude.
 
Good hiring practices will save your company time and money as you will be recruiting and hiring the right candidates. Your hiring managers will benefit from this program as it prepares them to seek out that great candidate and make sure they are a fit for your company.

Learning Objectives:
  • Practice steps and techniques to use in a behavioral based interview
  • Utilize questions to uncover past behaviors to predict future performance
  • Recognize basic understanding of how to read positive and negative body language candidates will demonstrate in an interview
  • Learn body language signals that communicate their communication style which will assist you in assessing their potential success in a position
 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.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Good Hiring Practices: Learn how to ask great questions & read basic body language signals
9/16/2021

Successful companies are made up of great employees, so why not hire great employees? Hiring and training employees is an expensive venture. Be sure to hire the right person for the right position. Hiring the right person is about more than skills and abilities; it is about finding the right combination of skills, attitude, and fit for your organization's culture.

Participants will learn the how to select the most qualified job candidate by applying the ever-popular behavioral approach to interviewing.  This method, developed by industrial psychologist Dr. Paul Green, directs you to probe the job applicant for specific examples of their past.  The reason is simple: The best predictor of a job applicant's future work behavior is their past work behavior.
 
In addition to interviewing techniques, interviewers think candidates who slouch are bored or arrogant and decide to turn them down. But, how much should we trust our impressions of candidates’ body language during interviews?  We’re all naturally able to pick up on nonverbal cues. Though often useful, non-verbal cues can be misleading. Understanding body language isn’t an exact science. In this program, we will learn some of the basic clues to positive interest and attitude.
 
Good hiring practices will save your company time and money as you will be recruiting and hiring the right candidates. Your hiring managers will benefit from this program as it prepares them to seek out that great candidate and make sure they are a fit for your company.

Learning Objectives:
  • Practice steps and techniques to use in a behavioral based interview
  • Utilize questions to uncover past behaviors to predict future performance
  • Recognize basic understanding of how to read positive and negative body language candidates will demonstrate in an interview
  • Learn body language signals that communicate their communication style which will assist you in assessing their potential success in a position
 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.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Disability 301: Recruiting a Person with a Disability: Do’s and Don’t’s
10/19/2021

In this session, the presenter will talk about accessibility for people with disabilities during the accommodation process as well as increasing recruitment of people with disabilities. The presenter, a person with disabilities himself, will use personal experience to discuss these issues and will encourage questions throughout his session to elicit a robust discussion rather than a lecture.

Learning Objectives:
  • Accessibility for people with disabilities
  • Accommodations process
  • Recruiting people with disabilities
Presenter:

JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees.  His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
Location: Online via Zoom






Disability 301: Recruiting a Person with a Disability: Do’s and Don’t’s
10/19/2021

In this session, the presenter will talk about accessibility for people with disabilities during the accommodation process as well as increasing recruitment of people with disabilities. The presenter, a person with disabilities himself, will use personal experience to discuss these issues and will encourage questions throughout his session to elicit a robust discussion rather than a lecture.

Learning Objectives:
  • Accessibility for people with disabilities
  • Accommodations process
  • Recruiting people with disabilities
Presenter:

JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees.  His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
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






Policing In Libraries and the Fog of Implicit Bias
10/21/2021

Presenters Jarrett Dapier and Dr. Emily Knox will present information regarding how/why to reduce police presence in libraries, how to change white supremacist library policies, and how "the fog of implicit bias" influences who is considered a threat and who is not in our spaces.

Learning Objectives:
At the end of the session, attendees will be able to:
  • Identify how police presence in the library can threaten patron safety, harm patrons, and cause lasting, unintended and traumatizing consequences for patrons
  • See how anticipatory action, preventive practices and expanded resources are needed to avoid future situations that commonly lead to police calls
  • To understand how the "fog of implicit bias" clouds judgment with regards to determining who is and who is not a threat worthy of police presence in your library and how to work to unlearn that bias
Presenters:

Jarrett Dapier has worked as a young adult librarian for over 10 years at Evanston Public Library and, most recently, at Skokie Public Library, both just outside Chicago, IL. He has written about policing and libraries for American Libraries and Library Journal and in 2019 was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker for his years of work producing teen theater in libraries. Also a children’s book author, his debut picture book, JAZZ FOR LUNCH!, was released by Simon & Schuster on September 7, 2021 and was followed by another, MR. WATSON'S CHICKENS, which was released by Chronicle Books on October 5, 2021. Both are available for purchase wherever you buy books.
 
Emily Knox is Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and an associate professor in the School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. Her book, Book Banning in 21st Century America (Rowman & Littlefield) is the first monograph in the Beta Phi Mu Scholars’ Series. Emily's articles have been published in the Library QuarterlyLibrary and Information Science Research, and the Journal of Intellectual Freedom and Privacy. She is president of the Board of Trustees of the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) and serves on the boards of Beta Phi Mu and the National Coalition Against Censorship.
Location: Online via Zoom






Policing In Libraries and the Fog of Implicit Bias
10/21/2021

Presenters Jarrett Dapier and Dr. Emily Knox will present information regarding how/why to reduce police presence in libraries, how to change white supremacist library policies, and how "the fog of implicit bias" influences who is considered a threat and who is not in our spaces.

Learning Objectives:
At the end of the session, attendees will be able to:
  • Identify how police presence in the library can threaten patron safety, harm patrons, and cause lasting, unintended and traumatizing consequences for patrons
  • See how anticipatory action, preventive practices and expanded resources are needed to avoid future situations that commonly lead to police calls
  • To understand how the "fog of implicit bias" clouds judgment with regards to determining who is and who is not a threat worthy of police presence in your library and how to work to unlearn that bias
Presenters:

Jarrett Dapier has worked as a young adult librarian for over 10 years at Evanston Public Library and, most recently, at Skokie Public Library, both just outside Chicago, IL. He has written about policing and libraries for American Libraries and Library Journal and in 2019 was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker for his years of work producing teen theater in libraries. Also a children’s book author, his debut picture book, JAZZ FOR LUNCH!, was released by Simon & Schuster on September 7, 2021 and was followed by another, MR. WATSON'S CHICKENS, which was released by Chronicle Books on October 5, 2021. Both are available for purchase wherever you buy books.
 
Emily Knox is Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and an associate professor in the School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. Her book, Book Banning in 21st Century America (Rowman & Littlefield) is the first monograph in the Beta Phi Mu Scholars’ Series. Emily's articles have been published in the Library QuarterlyLibrary and Information Science Research, and the Journal of Intellectual Freedom and Privacy. She is president of the Board of Trustees of the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) and serves on the boards of Beta Phi Mu and the National Coalition Against Censorship.
Location: Online via Zoom






Fundraising 101: Attracting, Engaging and Retaining Donors
10/26/2021

Fundraising is as much an art as it is a science. In this introductory session, participants will learn what it takes to attract, engage and retain donors for fundraising success. We will review general fundraising concepts and discuss donor behavior and general donor approaches.

Learning Objectives: - Participants will:
  • Gain relevant knowledge of fundraising terms and concepts
  • Understand the lifecycle of a donor
  • Understand the importance of planning according to lifecycle stages 
Presenter:

Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Fundraising 101: Attracting, Engaging and Retaining Donors
10/26/2021

Fundraising is as much an art as it is a science. In this introductory session, participants will learn what it takes to attract, engage and retain donors for fundraising success. We will review general fundraising concepts and discuss donor behavior and general donor approaches.

Learning Objectives: - Participants will:
  • Gain relevant knowledge of fundraising terms and concepts
  • Understand the lifecycle of a donor
  • Understand the importance of planning according to lifecycle stages 
Presenter:

Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
10/27/2021

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors.    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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
10/28/2021

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Put on the Polish: Use Editing Software to Level-Up Your Videos
10/28/2021

Videos can be a great way to offer programming and instruction that patrons can access at their convenience. Learn how to add titles, move and split clips, add text, transitions, sound effects, music and more to make your videos more interesting, professional, and effective.  Get basic instruction in editing using iMovie on a desktop computer or an iPad. Hear about other editing software options. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Add items into your video
  • Learn how to edit using IMovie
  • Learn about other editing software
Presenter:

Nicki Petrone has over thirty years of experience with children and literacy. She specializes in programming for children under age two at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Creating videos has enabled her to tap into he​r diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Put on the Polish: Use Editing Software to Level-Up Your Videos
10/28/2021

Videos can be a great way to offer programming and instruction that patrons can access at their convenience. Learn how to add titles, move and split clips, add text, transitions, sound effects, music and more to make your videos more interesting, professional, and effective.  Get basic instruction in editing using iMovie on a desktop computer or an iPad. Hear about other editing software options. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Add items into your video
  • Learn how to edit using IMovie
  • Learn about other editing software
Presenter:

Nicki Petrone has over thirty years of experience with children and literacy. She specializes in programming for children under age two at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Creating videos has enabled her to tap into he​r diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
10/29/2021

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 email when you register and 1 hour before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.


 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Diversity and Inclusion as an Essential Ingredient of Collection Building
11/4/2021

Many colleges and universities are (re)affirming their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. To highlight and demonstrate that commitment, all units from across the institution are being asked how they are advancing this work. The development of collections, both print and electronic, is essential in academic libraries. They are also an obvious way for libraries to support these initiatives. Courtney L. Young, University Librarian at Colgate University and a Past President of the American Library Association, will discuss the importance of developing a diverse academic library collection.

Learning Objectives:
  • The role of an intentionally diverse collection on a college/university campus
  • The importance of diversity collection development statements
  • Strategies for building a diverse collection
  • The importance of assessing collections for diversity and inclusion
Presenter:

Courtney L. Young is University Librarian at Colgate University. She graduated with a BA from The College of Wooster and earned a MS in Library Science from Simmons College (now University). Before coming to Colgate, she held library positions at Penn State University, Michigan State University, and The Ohio State University. Courtney has served in a variety of leadership roles in the American Library Association (ALA), including being elected the 2014-2015 ALA President. She is a recipient of the Simmons Alumni Achievement Award for Outstanding Achievement and Excellence in Library and Information Professional Endeavors. Courtney frequently presents and publishes on issues related to advocacy, academic librarianship, diversity, leadership, and professional development.  

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Diversity and Inclusion as an Essential Ingredient of Collection Building
11/4/2021

Many colleges and universities are (re)affirming their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. To highlight and demonstrate that commitment, all units from across the institution are being asked how they are advancing this work. The development of collections, both print and electronic, is essential in academic libraries. They are also an obvious way for libraries to support these initiatives. Courtney L. Young, University Librarian at Colgate University and a Past President of the American Library Association, will discuss the importance of developing a diverse academic library collection.

Learning Objectives:
  • The role of an intentionally diverse collection on a college/university campus
  • The importance of diversity collection development statements
  • Strategies for building a diverse collection
  • The importance of assessing collections for diversity and inclusion
Presenter:

Courtney L. Young is University Librarian at Colgate University. She graduated with a BA from The College of Wooster and earned a MS in Library Science from Simmons College (now University). Before coming to Colgate, she held library positions at Penn State University, Michigan State University, and The Ohio State University. Courtney has served in a variety of leadership roles in the American Library Association (ALA), including being elected the 2014-2015 ALA President. She is a recipient of the Simmons Alumni Achievement Award for Outstanding Achievement and Excellence in Library and Information Professional Endeavors. Courtney frequently presents and publishes on issues related to advocacy, academic librarianship, diversity, leadership, and professional development.  

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Technical Services/Collection Development Networking Meeting
11/4/2021

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors.    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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jane Kirkland.
Location: Online via Zoom






Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
11/9/2021

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Youth Literature
11/9/2021

All children need to see themselves and people in our world in books. Building an inclusive collection is challenging. It's more than a diversity list. It requires reflection, investigation, exploration, and analysis. Tiffeni Fontno, Head Librarian, Educational Resource Center, Boston College, will talk about diverse collection building, evaluating, and resources to acquire diverse children's literature.

Learning Objectives:
  • Evaluating how cultural competency influences book selection and services
  • Defining criteria to evaluate diverse children's literature
  • Assemble resources to develop a profile for selecting diverse materials
Presenter:

Tiffeni Fontno is the Head Librarian of the Educational Resource Center at Boston College. A former classroom teacher and school librarian, Tiffeni's areas of educational interest are in Curriculum & Instruction, Children & Young Adult Literature, and Educational Technology.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Youth Literature
11/9/2021

All children need to see themselves and people in our world in books. Building an inclusive collection is challenging. It's more than a diversity list. It requires reflection, investigation, exploration, and analysis. Tiffeni Fontno, Head Librarian, Educational Resource Center, Boston College, will talk about diverse collection building, evaluating, and resources to acquire diverse children's literature.

Learning Objectives:
  • Evaluating how cultural competency influences book selection and services
  • Defining criteria to evaluate diverse children's literature
  • Assemble resources to develop a profile for selecting diverse materials
Presenter:

Tiffeni Fontno is the Head Librarian of the Educational Resource Center at Boston College. A former classroom teacher and school librarian, Tiffeni's areas of educational interest are in Curriculum & Instruction, Children & Young Adult Literature, and Educational Technology.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Digital Marketing Tips, Tricks & Trends
11/10/2021

In this 2-hour session, we will explore how to leverage Canva to create content for social media, email marketing, and more. This course will cover the basics of graphic design and general rules to keep in mind when designing your next Instagram post or email header. Then, we will walk through the process of using Canva and some helpful features that can help your work look more professional! In the second half of the series, we will discuss social media trends and brainstorm ideas to take your digital marketing efforts to the next level. Time will be provided for discussion and questions. 
 
Learning Objectives
  • Learn the basics of graphic design and why it matters for your library. 
  • How to apply for a Canva nonprofit account and navigate tools for content creation.
  • Understand trends and upcoming changes on various social media platforms. 
 
Presenter :

Alexandria Yurosko is the Marketing Content Manager for the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes. With a decade of experience in marketing, Alexandria has developed a passion for helping nonprofit organizations reach their target audiences through relevant and strategic marketing.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Digital Marketing Tips, Tricks & Trends
11/10/2021

In this 2-hour session, we will explore how to leverage Canva to create content for social media, email marketing, and more. This course will cover the basics of graphic design and general rules to keep in mind when designing your next Instagram post or email header. Then, we will walk through the process of using Canva and some helpful features that can help your work look more professional! In the second half of the series, we will discuss social media trends and brainstorm ideas to take your digital marketing efforts to the next level. Time will be provided for discussion and questions. 
 
Learning Objectives
  • Learn the basics of graphic design and why it matters for your library. 
  • How to apply for a Canva nonprofit account and navigate tools for content creation.
  • Understand trends and upcoming changes on various social media platforms. 
 
Presenter :

Alexandria Yurosko is the Marketing Content Manager for the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes. With a decade of experience in marketing, Alexandria has developed a passion for helping nonprofit organizations reach their target audiences through relevant and strategic marketing.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Altered Patron Expectations After a Year of Upheaval
11/16/2021

Mark your calendars to attend the NEO-RLS 2021 Annual Membership and Appreciation Meeting on Tuesday, November 16, 2021.
 
  • 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 2020 Rising Star and Shooting Star recipients and honorees
  • Hear from Wendy Knapp, State Librarian of Ohio
Featured Program:  Altered Patron Expectations After A Year of Upheaval 
To say the past year was one of disruption would be an understatement! The COVID-19 pandemic has caused pervasive alterations in people’s daily lives, impacting everything from schooling to how we buy groceries. In the face of this upheaval, libraries face altered patron expectations. With this in mind, what are the implications for libraries as we seek to thrive in a changing environment? 
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Attendees will understand recent changes to patron behavior and service expectations. 
  • Attendees will identify new program and service opportunities in our present environment. 
  • Attendees will discover what service trends to expect in the coming years. 
 Presenter:

Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






NEO-RLS Annual Membership and Appreciation Meeting
11/16/2021

Mark your calendars to attend the NEO-RLS 2021 Annual Membership and Appreciation Meeting on Tuesday, November 16, 2021.
 
  • 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 2020 Rising Star and Shooting Star recipients and honorees
  • Hear from Wendy Knapp, State Librarian of Ohio
Featured Program:  Altered Patron Expectations After A Year of Upheaval 
To say the past year was one of disruption would be an understatement! The COVID-19 pandemic has caused pervasive alterations in people’s daily lives, impacting everything from schooling to how we buy groceries. In the face of this upheaval, libraries face altered patron expectations. With this in mind, what are the implications for libraries as we seek to thrive in a changing environment? 
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Attendees will understand recent changes to patron behavior and service expectations. 
  • Attendees will identify new program and service opportunities in our present environment. 
  • Attendees will discover what service trends to expect in the coming years. 
 Presenter:

Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Academic Library Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
11/18/2021

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Caring for Yourself First - A Conversation about Self Care
11/18/2021

Providing care and customer service in a public setting is purposeful and wonderful work.  However, without our ability to take care of ourselves outside of the work, we can become unwell and at risk of burnout.  Our communities need you now more than ever!  Let's come together to discuss how and why this work can be depleting and ways to seek and sustain balance so that we can keep doing it!  


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






Caring for Yourself First - A Conversation about Self Care
11/18/2021

Providing care and customer service in a public setting is purposeful and wonderful work.  However, without our ability to take care of ourselves outside of the work, we can become unwell and at risk of burnout.  Our communities need you now more than ever!  Let's come together to discuss how and why this work can be depleting and ways to seek and sustain balance so that we can keep doing it!  


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






2021 Hottest Tech Toys for the Holidays
11/19/2021

It’s that time of year again!  It's the time that everyone begins their search to find the best toys for their loved one, friends, or even themselves.  Learn about the new emerging tech products that your patrons may likely want, have questions about, or even bring into your library for assistance.  Indeed, there may even be some fun, new emerging tech tools that you might consider for your library!

Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part I
11/30/2021

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Once you registered for Part I be sure to sign up for Part II which is on Tuesday, December 7, 2021  at 2:00 PM
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening the public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
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.



Fundraising 201: Setting Your Fundraising Systems Up for Success
11/30/2021

Fundraising involves more than just asking for gifts and hosting special events. There is also a significant amount of work to be done to manage the fundraising operation itself. A strong infrastructure helps your organization remain compliant, consistent and accurate. Plus, it helps you secure more gifts. This session will focus on the importance of strong systems, plans, policies and procedures for your development office. 
 
Learning Objectives – Participants will:
  • Learn why tracking, capturing and understanding your donor data is critical to your fundraising success
  • Understand the importance of having solid policies and procedures in the development and business offices
  • Understand why yearly planning is essential to attracting, engaging and retaining donors 
Presenter:

Sara Lundenberger, director, nonprofit consulting, Dot Org Solutions
Although Sara never meant to be a fundraiser, her first post-college job was as a development assistant and she never looked back. She loves working with our nonprofit clients because they know what they want to achieve, but they may not always know how to get there. She integrates fundraising best practices with an organization’s capacity to create processes and plans that are usable. Sara truly believes nonprofits make the world a better place. From her previous positions to the fantastic clients she works with now, she learns a little more about the world we live in every day. We are all touched by a nonprofit organization every day, whether we know it or not.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Fundraising 201: Setting Your Fundraising Systems Up for Success
11/30/2021

Fundraising involves more than just asking for gifts and hosting special events. There is also a significant amount of work to be done to manage the fundraising operation itself. A strong infrastructure helps your organization remain compliant, consistent and accurate. Plus, it helps you secure more gifts. This session will focus on the importance of strong systems, plans, policies and procedures for your development office. 
 
Learning Objectives – Participants will:
  • Learn why tracking, capturing and understanding your donor data is critical to your fundraising success
  • Understand the importance of having solid policies and procedures in the development and business offices
  • Understand why yearly planning is essential to attracting, engaging and retaining donors 
Presenter:

Sara Lundenberger, director, nonprofit consulting, Dot Org Solutions
Although Sara never meant to be a fundraiser, her first post-college job was as a development assistant and she never looked back. She loves working with our nonprofit clients because they know what they want to achieve, but they may not always know how to get there. She integrates fundraising best practices with an organization’s capacity to create processes and plans that are usable. Sara truly believes nonprofits make the world a better place. From her previous positions to the fantastic clients she works with now, she learns a little more about the world we live in every day. We are all touched by a nonprofit organization every day, whether we know it or not.
 
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






Special Libraries Network Meeting
12/1/2021

The December 1st Special Libraries Network Group meeting will focus on the work  and future of hospital libraries.  Michelle Kraft, Director, Cleveland Clinic Libraries, will present.  Join your special library colleagues to share your successes and challenges.

 
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






Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part II
12/7/2021

Part II of this hands-on workshop will help you continue building a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn more about how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening the public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
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.



MARCs of Quality: vetting bibliographic records
12/8/2021

What is a MARC record, and more importantly, what is a good MARC record? Whether you’re vetting vendor-supplied records, copy cataloging, or creating original records, you will get something out of this webinar. We’ll take a quick tour of the MARC bibliographic format, explaining some of the fields that are important for a functional catalog. Then we’ll tackle some of the most frequent asked questions about cataloging: How many subject headings should a record have? Do we need contents and summary notes? What about series?

Learning Objectives:
Participants will
  • Be able to tell if a MARC record is complete enough to be ingested by their catalog and provide meaningful access
  • Be able to identify the most common subject heading systems and whether a record has sufficient headings
  • Understand how series statements are used, and where to find series information
Presenter:

Mike Monaco is Coordinator, Cataloging Services at The University of Akron University Libraries. He has worked as a cataloger in public and academic libraries for twenty years. He has served as chair of the ALCTS Catalog Form and Function Interest Group, Coordinator of the Ohio Library Council Technical Services Division, and Chair of the Northern Ohio Technical Services Librarians Board, and presented at the ALA Annual Conference in 2019 and the Library Collective’s 2020 conference.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting-Focused on the Salary Survey
12/8/2021

Here is an opportunity to talk with other directors about your experience with the NEO-RLS Statewide Salary Survey.  Penny Neubauer, Director of Ashtabula County District Library, will share how she has effectively used the survey data.  She will discuss the following:
  • How the library is making changes based on the survey data
  • How changes and the data were presented to the board

Location: Online
Via Zoom






MARCs of Quality: vetting bibliographic records
12/8/2021

What is a MARC record, and more importantly, what is a good MARC record? Whether you’re vetting vendor-supplied records, copy cataloging, or creating original records, you will get something out of this webinar. We’ll take a quick tour of the MARC bibliographic format, explaining some of the fields that are important for a functional catalog. Then we’ll tackle some of the most frequent asked questions about cataloging: How many subject headings should a record have? Do we need contents and summary notes? What about series?

Learning Objectives:
Participants will
  • Be able to tell if a MARC record is complete enough to be ingested by their catalog and provide meaningful access
  • Be able to identify the most common subject heading systems and whether a record has sufficient headings
  • Understand how series statements are used, and where to find series information
Presenter:

Mike Monaco is Coordinator, Cataloging Services at The University of Akron University Libraries. He has worked as a cataloger in public and academic libraries for twenty years. He has served as chair of the ALCTS Catalog Form and Function Interest Group, Coordinator of the Ohio Library Council Technical Services Division, and Chair of the Northern Ohio Technical Services Librarians Board, and presented at the ALA Annual Conference in 2019 and the Library Collective’s 2020 conference.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Accessible: Putting DEIA into Practice in Your Library
12/9/2021

Learn about the foundational principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility and how they affect libraries.  How is cultural competence and cultural humility applied in your library practice?  How can your library work towards becoming more equitable and inclusive of both internal and external customers?  What are the roles of managers and staff in working towards positive change across the organization?  The presenter will share tips, resources, and sample programs that can be applied in a variety of library settings.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about cultural competence and cultural humility 
  • Hear about ways to make your library more equitable and inclusive
  • Learn how managers and staff can work towards positive change
Presenter:

Caroline Smith is the Inclusive Services Consultant at the South Carolina State Library. She focuses on issues of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within libraries and provides support to library staff across the state of South Carolina. Her goal is to advocate for libraries that are truly inclusive of the diverse communities they serve. Caroline received her Master's in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina in 2011 and was recognized by Library Journal as a 2020 Mover & Shaker. Prior to her current position, she worked for the Charleston County Public Library in a variety of roles for nine years.
Location: Online via Zoom






Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Accessible: Putting DEIA into Practice in Your Library
12/9/2021

Learn about the foundational principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility and how they affect libraries.  How is cultural competence and cultural humility applied in your library practice?  How can your library work towards becoming more equitable and inclusive of both internal and external customers?  What are the roles of managers and staff in working towards positive change across the organization?  The presenter will share tips, resources, and sample programs that can be applied in a variety of library settings.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about cultural competence and cultural humility 
  • Hear about ways to make your library more equitable and inclusive
  • Learn how managers and staff can work towards positive change
Presenter:

Caroline Smith is the Inclusive Services Consultant at the South Carolina State Library. She focuses on issues of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within libraries and provides support to library staff across the state of South Carolina. Her goal is to advocate for libraries that are truly inclusive of the diverse communities they serve. Caroline received her Master's in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina in 2011 and was recognized by Library Journal as a 2020 Mover & Shaker. Prior to her current position, she worked for the Charleston County Public Library in a variety of roles for nine years.
Location: Online via Zoom






Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
12/9/2021

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. 

You will receive a link in your email when you register and then again, two hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us to share your successes and find answers to your challenges.  Email topics ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online via Zoom






Creating Your Own JEDI Council
1/11/2022

JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Councils are an emerging best practice in workplaces. They are comprised of a group of employees with a shared goal: to drive the development and implementation of JEDI into all aspects of work. These are not event-planning committees; they support a core organizational function of ensuring policies, procedures, and practices of the library are equitable and inclusive to create a workplace where everyone feels connected, respected, and valued.

Learning Objectives:
  • You will review fundamentals of JEDI and identity
  • You will earn about how to develop your own JEDI Councils
  • You will learn what a JEDI Council is, what it does, and how it functions, as well as considering their organizational “why”
  • You will increase your knowledge about how to structure and begin a JEDI Council
  • You will increase  your skills to manage group dynamics and change resistance
Presenters:

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.


Vania Sherepita is a JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. As a believer in social justice and equity for all, she has committed herself to maintaining a lens of empathy while seeking out the common ground where diverse communities can meet and mutually understand each other through passionate storytelling and compassionate listening. While working with organizations such as Human Rights Campaign, American Civil Liberties Union, and Equality Ohio, she has utilized emotional intelligence, social perceptiveness, and a stance of sincere vulnerability to negotiate, work with, and act as liaison between people of diverse backgrounds and differing opinions. As a JEDI Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, she combines her passionate commitment to this work with her professional background in Consulting and Learning & Development (and just a pinch of on-stage experience) to facilitate workshops on creating and maintaining diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace climates.
Location: Online via Zoom






2022 Children's Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
1/12/2022

There is an ocean of possibilities for this year's virtual children’s summer reading program.  Marilyn Weiss, Mentor Public Library, will share her oceans of possibilities with some indoor and outdoor programs.  Next, we will help you put some STEAM into your summer reading program with Jennifer Norton from Westlake Porter Public Library.    Join your peers for a lively breakout room discussion of more ideas for programs. 

Lunch Break:  12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

The afternoon will start with a rapid-fire session of craft ideas and a 7 week preschool storytime.  We will  also be sharing passive program ideas.  Please send a one-page sheet to Melissa Lattanzi by January 10th.  We will end the day with a general roundtable discussion which will be kicked off with a talk about the Cleveland Public Library Partnership.  Come prepared to discuss partnership opportunities, prizes, registration, and other topics of interest.  We look forward to seeing everyone.

Lost at Sea - Launch Points for Your Summer Programming
Feeling lost in the ocean of possibilities for programming this summer? We can help with some jumping off points. Marilyn will present a few programming ideas that can fit into this year's summer reading theme, or be run completely separately, including some passive programming in VR.

Presenter:

Marilyn Weiss has been working in libraries for the past 15 years, specifically working as a Library Associate at Mentor Public Library for the past 8 years. She's always looking for an opportunity to create something new in her work, be it a covered wagon or cardboard tractor. She strives to make her story times and programming exciting, educational, and entertaining

Preschool Storytimes with Oceans of Possibilities
A handout will be shared with preschool storytimes all laid out with poetry, fingerplays, songs, rhymes, and musical selections on a variety of topics related to this year's theme.  There will also be a brief discussion about the importance of rhyme and movement with the littles!

Presenter:

Barbara Scott has been the Children's Librarian at the Bucyrus Public  Library for the past 36 years.  She has also been a member of numerous OLC committees/divisions, and has presented on the library's popular Music and Movement program at ALSC symposiums.  She also heads up Crawford Reads 20, a grass-roots literacy organization in Crawford County to get books into the hands of children and is also the Executive Director of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library/Governor's Imagination Library's Crawford County affiliate.  


 
Location: Online via Zoom





 



Children's Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
1/12/2022

There is an ocean of possibilities for this year's virtual children’s summer reading program.  Marilyn Weiss, Mentor Public Library, will share her oceans of possibilities with some indoor and outdoor programs.  Next, we will help you put some STEAM into your summer reading program with Jennifer Norton from Westlake Porter Public Library.    Join your peers for a lively breakout room discussion of more ideas for programs. 

Lunch Break:  12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

The afternoon will start with a rapid-fire session of craft ideas and a 7 week preschool storytime.  We will  also be sharing passive program ideas.  Please send a one-page sheet to Melissa Lattanzi by January 10th.  We will end the day with a general roundtable discussion which will be kicked off with a talk about the Cleveland Public Library Partnership.  Come prepared to discuss partnership opportunities, prizes, registration, and other topics of interest.  We look forward to seeing everyone.

Lost at Sea - Launch Points for Your Summer Programming
Feeling lost in the ocean of possibilities for programming this summer? We can help with some jumping off points. Marilyn will present a few programming ideas that can fit into this year's summer reading theme, or be run completely separately, including some passive programming in VR.

Presenter:

Marilyn Weiss has been working in libraries for the past 15 years, specifically working as a Library Associate at Mentor Public Library for the past 8 years. She's always looking for an opportunity to create something new in her work, be it a covered wagon or cardboard tractor. She strives to make her story times and programming exciting, educational, and entertaining

Preschool Storytimes with Oceans of Possibilities
A handout will be shared with preschool storytimes all laid out with poetry, fingerplays, songs, rhymes, and musical selections on a variety of topics related to this year's theme.  There will also be a brief discussion about the importance of rhyme and movement with the littles!

Presenter:

Barbara Scott has been the Children's Librarian at the Bucyrus Public  Library for the past 36 years.  She has also been a member of numerous OLC committees/divisions, and has presented on the library's popular Music and Movement program at ALSC symposiums.  She also heads up Crawford Reads 20, a grass-roots literacy organization in Crawford County to get books into the hands of children and is also the Executive Director of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library/Governor's Imagination Library's Crawford County affiliate.  


 
Location: Online via Zoom





 



Construction and Facilities Networking Meeting: Focus on Creating a Master Facilities Replacement Plan
1/13/2022

Join Peter Miller of Millerdodson Capital Reserve Consultants as he shares his expertise in creating a master facilities replacement plan.  A roundtable discussion will follow the webinar.
Location: Online via Zoom






Fundraising 301: Making the Ask: How to approach, communicate with and ask donors for gifts
1/19/2022

There is no single way to approach a donor and ask for a gift. But there are strategies to help organizations communicate with and make solicitations at all stages of the donor lifecycle. In this session, participants will learn strategies to approach donors at all levels, run an annual campaign and understand the nuances of major gift fundraising.
 
Learning Objectives – Participants will:
  • Learn the importance of having different strategies to approach donors at different giving levels
  • Gain knowledge to run and effective annual giving campaign
  • Understand what is needed to have an effective major gift program
Presenter:

Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Fundraising 301: Making the Ask: How to approach, communicate with and ask donors for gifts
1/19/2022

There is no single way to approach a donor and ask for a gift. But there are strategies to help organizations communicate with and make solicitations at all stages of the donor lifecycle. In this session, participants will learn strategies to approach donors at all levels, run an annual campaign and understand the nuances of major gift fundraising.
 
Learning Objectives – Participants will:
  • Learn the importance of having different strategies to approach donors at different giving levels
  • Gain knowledge to run and effective annual giving campaign
  • Understand what is needed to have an effective major gift program
Presenter:

Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






What the Heck Happened? 2021 Employment Law Update: Part I
1/20/2022

Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates.  Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!  
  • Topics TBA

Presenter

Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.”  Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Location: Online via Zoom






What the Heck Happened? 2021 Employment Law Update: Part I
1/20/2022

Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates.  Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!  
  • How has Ohio drastically changed its law surrounding its civil rights law?
  • How has personal liability changed under Ohio law?
  • How have the statutes of limitations changed under Ohio law?
  • How should you handle masks and vaccination records in your organization?
  • How should employers handle the DISABILITY/MEDICAL and RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION options for employees who do not want the vaccination?
  • What did the Sixth Circuit say about requiring employees to use someone’s preferred pronouns, such as he/him, she/her or they/them?
  • What did the Sixth Circuit say about conducting internal investigations … and what does it mean for you?
  • What did the Sixth Circuit say about OFFENSIVE SPEECH and FREE SPEECH?
  • Why did the Sixth Circuit find that “AMBIGUOUS” responses to employees regarding the FLMA can end in liability?

Presenter

Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.”  Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
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





Teen Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
2/1/2022

Get ready to experience the Oceans of Possibilities.  This year’s teen summer reading program will begin with a conversation about getting to know your teens presented by Mark Tidrick of Cleveland Public Library.  Next we will go into breakout rooms and hear about escape rooms, treasure hunts in your community and a mystery box.  We will end the morning with a lively discussion of partnerships that will be kicked off by Debra Quarles of Shaker City Schools talking about their partnership with the Shaker Heights Public Library.

Mystery Boxes in your Library
Mystery boxes are perfect for your true crime, detective loving teens. Fun, innovative, and adaptable, mystery boxes give your teens the opportunity to solve crimes and mysteries all while in the safety of their local library branch. Together they'll join their brain power and connect to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and narrow down the suspects one by one until they catch that culprit.

Learning Objectives
  • Understand the basis of teen-centered mystery boxes
  • Learn how to curate your own mystery boxes and adapt mystery boxes from others 
  • Explore the contents of a mystery box
Presenter:
Taylor Swan is a generalist librarian by day and a historical crafter and film lover by night. She loves anything historical, creepy, or mysterious. She received her MLIS from Kent State University in May of 2021, her BS in Education from Youngstown State University in 2017, and has worked for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County since 2018.


Escape Rooms 101

An introduction to how escape rooms work and can be utilized in the library, with some examples of how this could pertain to the summer reading theme: underwater.

Presenter:
Libby McCuan is a children's librarian with the Cleveland Public Library. She loves to read and come up with fun programs for the kids at her branch. She has a Bachelor's degree from Penn State and a Masters degree from Kent State University School of Library and Information Science.


Lunch Break:  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

After lunch we will learn all about RPG’s and D&D.

So You Want To Be a GM/DM?
Learn what it takes to run your own Dungeons and Dragons campaign. We’ll discuss D&D Beyond, roll20, and other virtual tools. We’ll also learn a little about D&D and discuss how to DM your own D&D teen program series. Of course, D&D isn’t the only role-playing game. Learn more about tabletop RPGs for teen programming and how you can start a gaming series at your own location.
 
Presenter:
 Kelly Chaplin is a Teen Librarian from Akron-Summit County Public Library in Akron, OH. Kelly has helped organize large scale programs such as Geekfest and implemented youth-requested programs such as After Hours events and Teen Advisory Boards. She has led programming, from Murder Mystery Dinners to STEM Space Challenges, that help deliver educational and social lessons that are of interest to teens. She enjoys when teens teach her new things and encourages youth to participate at their library and in the community. Above all, she is committed to helping teens succeed.
 
The last segment of the day will be a rapid-fire brainstorm of programming ideas presented by Taylor Swan of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.  We will end the day with a roundtable discussion.  Be sure to bring your ideas for summer reading and don’t miss out on this interactive program.

Rapid-Fire Summer Teen Programs
From weird, wild, and wondrous to interesting, interactive, and intellectual, this session will be a quick brainstorm for programs which can be used in conjunction with the ALA Summer Reading theme of Oceanography.

Learning Objective
  •  Brainstorm and inspire thematic programming ideas for teens


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Teen Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
2/1/2022

Get ready to experience the Oceans of Possibilities.  This year’s teen summer reading program will begin with a conversation about getting to know your teens presented by Mark Tidrick of Cleveland Public Library.  Next we will go into breakout rooms and hear about escape rooms, treasure hunts in your community and a mystery box.  We will end the morning with a lively discussion of partnerships that will be kicked off by Debra Quarles of Shaker City Schools talking about their partnership with the Shaker Heights Public Library.

Mystery Boxes in your Library
Mystery boxes are perfect for your true crime, detective loving teens. Fun, innovative, and adaptable, mystery boxes give your teens the opportunity to solve crimes and mysteries all while in the safety of their local library branch. Together they'll join their brain power and connect to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and narrow down the suspects one by one until they catch that culprit.

Learning Objectives
  • Understand the basis of teen-centered mystery boxes
  • Learn how to curate your own mystery boxes and adapt mystery boxes from others 
  • Explore the contents of a mystery box
Presenter:
Taylor Swan is a generalist librarian by day and a historical crafter and film lover by night. She loves anything historical, creepy, or mysterious. She received her MLIS from Kent State University in May of 2021, her BS in Education from Youngstown State University in 2017, and has worked for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County since 2018.


Escape Rooms 101

An introduction to how escape rooms work and can be utilized in the library, with some examples of how this could pertain to the summer reading theme: underwater.

Presenter:
Libby McCuan is a children's librarian with the Cleveland Public Library. She loves to read and come up with fun programs for the kids at her branch. She has a Bachelor's degree from Penn State and a Masters degree from Kent State University School of Library and Information Science.


Lunch Break:  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

After lunch we will learn all about RPG’s and D&D.

So You Want To Be a GM/DM?
Learn what it takes to run your own Dungeons and Dragons campaign. We’ll discuss D&D Beyond, roll20, and other virtual tools. We’ll also learn a little about D&D and discuss how to DM your own D&D teen program series. Of course, D&D isn’t the only role-playing game. Learn more about tabletop RPGs for teen programming and how you can start a gaming series at your own location.
 
Presenter:
 Kelly Chaplin is a Teen Librarian from Akron-Summit County Public Library in Akron, OH. Kelly has helped organize large scale programs such as Geekfest and implemented youth-requested programs such as After Hours events and Teen Advisory Boards. She has led programming, from Murder Mystery Dinners to STEM Space Challenges, that help deliver educational and social lessons that are of interest to teens. She enjoys when teens teach her new things and encourages youth to participate at their library and in the community. Above all, she is committed to helping teens succeed.
 
The last segment of the day will be a rapid-fire brainstorm of programming ideas presented by Taylor Swan of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.  We will end the day with a roundtable discussion.  Be sure to bring your ideas for summer reading and don’t miss out on this interactive program.

Rapid-Fire Summer Teen Programs
From weird, wild, and wondrous to interesting, interactive, and intellectual, this session will be a quick brainstorm for programs which can be used in conjunction with the ALA Summer Reading theme of Oceanography.

Learning Objective
  •  Brainstorm and inspire thematic programming ideas for teens


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Cyber Security for ALL Staff
2/2/2022

This informational online workshop will focus on security threats stemming from user activities.  Topics of concern will be emails, password protection, and Internet safety.  For example, identifying suspicious or fraudulent emails, knowing how to respond to information requests within emails, and eliminating spam messages. 
 
Password protection topics include the creation and storage of passwords as well as utilization of advanced security features such as biometrics, pin numbers, and two-step-authentication.  The need and usage of password managers will also be discussed.  Finally, a review of Internet safety will be discussed as it pertains to keeping sensitive information safe from hackers.  Other topics may be introduced as time permits. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn more about security threats and your role in protecting the library
  • Importance of Passwords
  • Internet Safety
Presenter:

John Paul, Business owner and operator of Winsoft Computer Education. 
 
John is a business owner and private consultant.  His company: Winsoft Computer Education, has provided corporate training and consulting to business organizations for over twenty years.  During this time, he has been a frequent trainer to libraries throughout Ohio.  John specializes in Microsoft applications but has trained on many platforms.  His courses include Office applications, Adobe, Project Management, database management, report writing, and more.  In addition to training, John provides consulting services, focusing particularly on database creation for managing projects, departments, or company-wide functions. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom






What the Heck Happened? 2021 Employment Law Update: Part II
2/3/2022

Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates.  Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!  

Presenter

Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.”  Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect






What the Heck Happened? 2021 Employment Law Update: Part II
2/3/2022

Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates.  Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!  

Presenter

Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.”  Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect






Interest Based Bargaining
2/8/2022

Interest-Based Bargaining (IBB) is an alternative to traditional collective bargaining and focuses on collaboration and exploring party interests. This highly interactive webinar will cover the principles of IBB, and participants will have a hands-on opportunity to apply IBB to a workplace scenario. This training is for both experienced and novice negotiators. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the principles of IBB
  • Participants will have an opportunity to work through a workplace scenario
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






Interest Based Bargaining
2/8/2022

Interest-Based Bargaining (IBB) is an alternative to traditional collective bargaining and focuses on collaboration and exploring party interests. This highly interactive webinar will cover the principles of IBB, and participants will have a hands-on opportunity to apply IBB to a workplace scenario. This training is for both experienced and novice negotiators. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the principles of IBB
  • Participants will have an opportunity to work through a workplace scenario
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






Transforming your Library and Community Through Relationship-Focused Service
2/10/2022

Authentically connecting with people through kindness and compassion is more important than ever. Libraries are perfectly positioned to enhance social connections and positively impact lives through thoughtful and dependable patron service. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Why relationship-focused service is important not only to your library but to your whole community
  • What relationship-focused service looks like in a library setting
  • How to begin building a relationship-focused service model that is right for your library
Presenter:

Lindsey Dorfman is a dynamic leader dedicated to strengthening libraries through curiosity, compassion, and connection. While serving the Kent District Library (MI) as their Director of Branch Services and Operations, she received a Library Journal Mover and Shaker Award for her work spearheading the KDL Way, a customer service model based on kindness, empathy, and love. Ms. Dorfman currently serves as Director of the Glenview Public Library,  located just north of the city of Chicago.


Location: Online via Zoom






Transforming your Library and Community Through Relationship-Focused Service
2/10/2022

Authentically connecting with people through kindness and compassion is more important than ever. Libraries are perfectly positioned to enhance social connections and positively impact lives through thoughtful and dependable patron service. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Why relationship-focused service is important not only to your library but to your whole community
  • What relationship-focused service looks like in a library setting
  • How to begin building a relationship-focused service model that is right for your library
Presenter:

Lindsey Dorfman is a dynamic leader dedicated to strengthening libraries through curiosity, compassion, and connection. While serving the Kent District Library (MI) as their Director of Branch Services and Operations, she received a Library Journal Mover and Shaker Award for her work spearheading the KDL Way, a customer service model based on kindness, empathy, and love. Ms. Dorfman currently serves as Director of the Glenview Public Library,  located just north of the city of Chicago.


Location: Online via Zoom






Adult Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
2/15/2022

Oceans of Possibilities is the theme for the adult summer reading program.  This year we will be hosting a virtual adult programming palooza during which everyone will have the opportunity to hear about treasure hunts involving the community, subscription boxes, and other program ideas.  Following the palooza breakout sessions we will continue the conversation with more idea sharing.  Bring your ideas to the workshop.

Lunch Break:  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm 

After lunch we will hold a roundtable discussion focused on he following topics: 
  • Potential Speakers
  • Partnerships
  • Prizes
  • Modality – indoor, outdoor, and hybrid
 
We value input from everyone.  Do not miss this opportunity to learn about great programs and to network with your peers for the upcoming 2022 summer reading season.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Adult Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
2/15/2022

Oceans of Possibilities is the theme for the adult summer reading program.  This year we will be hosting a virtual adult programming palooza during which everyone will have the opportunity to hear about treasure hunts involving the community, subscription boxes, and other program ideas.  Following the palooza breakout sessions we will continue the conversation with more idea sharing.  Bring your ideas to the workshop.

Lunch Break:  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm 

After lunch we will hold a roundtable discussion focused on he following topics: 
  • Potential Speakers
  • Partnerships
  • Prizes
  • Modality – indoor, outdoor, and hybrid
 
We value input from everyone.  Do not miss this opportunity to learn about great programs and to network with your peers for the upcoming 2022 summer reading season.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Fundraising 401: Planned Giving Basics: What Is Planned Giving and Why it Should Be a Part of Every Fundraising Program
2/16/2022

Small organizations often avoid promoting planned giving opportunities to donors. Many don’t know where to start and others are nervous because planned giving seems too complex to manage. This session will focus on the basics of planned giving and how even the smallest of organizations can promote planned giving as part of their fundraising programs.
 
Learning Objectives – Participants will:
  • Understand basic planned giving terms and uses
  • Be able to identify planned giving donors within their organizations
  • Learn how to include planned giving as a part of your fundraising program
Presenter:

Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families.As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Fundraising 401: Planned Giving Basics: What Is Planned Giving and Why it Should Be a Part of Every Fundraising Program
2/16/2022

Small organizations often avoid promoting planned giving opportunities to donors. Many don’t know where to start and others are nervous because planned giving seems too complex to manage. This session will focus on the basics of planned giving and how even the smallest of organizations can promote planned giving as part of their fundraising programs.
 
Learning Objectives – Participants will:
  • Understand basic planned giving terms and uses
  • Be able to identify planned giving donors within their organizations
  • Learn how to include planned giving as a part of your fundraising program
Presenter:

Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families.As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Re-Training the Library: How Cross-Training Saved Our Library
2/17/2022

Libraries have faced insurmountable changes in the past year. How can libraries carefully adapt to this new normal and keep their team spirit?  Our panelists will discuss how they were successful in getting their teams on board with cross-training. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Encourage teamwork and communication
  • Change your team's expectations
  • Cross-train your different levels of staff
Presenters:

Brittany Burchett has been working in various libraries for the past ten years in Cincinnati, Midpointe, and Greene County Public Library. Brittany has been with GCPL for five years and is the Head Librarian at the Beavercreek Community Library. 

Sue Jeffery has nearly fifteen years of academic, school and public library experience in Massachusetts, Hawaii, and in Ohio with Greene County Public Library.  Sue has served the last seven years as Head Librarian in two GCPL locations and currently manages the Winters Bellbrook Community Library.

Melissa Fasanella has more than 24 years of working academic/public library experience.  Melissa’s has worked in libraries at The Ohio State University, various public library locations in Cincinnati, and Greene County Public Library.  Melissa has served as the Head Librarian at the Xenia Community Library for the past five years.

Keesha Chambers Summers is in her thirteenth year as the Head of Youth Services at the Xenia Community Library.  Keesha previously worked in a variety of public and academic library positions in Georgia that included bibliographic instruction, interlibrary loan, and management.


Location: Online via Zoom






Re-Training the Library: How Cross-Training Saved Our Library
2/17/2022

Libraries have faced insurmountable changes in the past year. How can libraries carefully adapt to this new normal and keep their team spirit?  Our panelists will discuss how they were successful in getting their teams on board with cross-training. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Encourage teamwork and communication
  • Change your team's expectations
  • Cross-train your different levels of staff
Presenters:

Brittany Burchett has been working in various libraries for the past ten years in Cincinnati, Midpointe, and Greene County Public Library. Brittany has been with GCPL for five years and is the Head Librarian at the Beavercreek Community Library. 

Sue Jeffery has nearly fifteen years of academic, school and public library experience in Massachusetts, Hawaii, and in Ohio with Greene County Public Library.  Sue has served the last seven years as Head Librarian in two GCPL locations and currently manages the Winters Bellbrook Community Library.

Melissa Fasanella has more than 24 years of working academic/public library experience.  Melissa’s has worked in libraries at The Ohio State University, various public library locations in Cincinnati, and Greene County Public Library.  Melissa has served as the Head Librarian at the Xenia Community Library for the past five years.

Keesha Chambers Summers is in her thirteenth year as the Head of Youth Services at the Xenia Community Library.  Keesha previously worked in a variety of public and academic library positions in Georgia that included bibliographic instruction, interlibrary loan, and management.


Location: Online via Zoom






Hybrid Programming: A Conversation about Equipment to Engagement
2/24/2022

No one has completely conquered hybrid programming.  However, this webinar will provide some input from the libraries that have implemented it.  CJ Lynce, Assistant Director of Westlake Porter Public Library will share information about the equipment that the library purchased and how it is being best utilized along with other equipment that is available on the market.

Avon Lake Public Library made plans for full-on hybrid programming this fall, but some procedures and expectations had to be adjusted. Gerry Vogel , Assistant Director, will offer some lessons learned during the process, and a frank discussion of human factors in successful hybrid programming: what went right, what went wrong, what worked at ALPL, and what may work better elsewhere. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about different equipment needed for hybrid programming
  • Learn about programs offered
  • What lessons were learned along the way
Presenters:

CJ Lynce, Assistant Director, Westlake Porter Public Library

Gerry Vogel has been assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library since May 2006
Location: Online via Zoom






Hybrid Programming: A Conversation about Equipment to Engagement
2/24/2022

No one has completely conquered hybrid programming.  However, this webinar will provide some input from the libraries that have implemented it.  CJ Lynce, Assistant Director of Westlake Porter Public Library will share information about the equipment that the library purchased and how it is being best utilized along with other equipment that is available on the market.

Avon Lake Public Library made plans for full-on hybrid programming this fall, but some procedures and expectations had to be adjusted. Gerry Vogel , Assistant Director, will offer some lessons learned during the process, and a frank discussion of human factors in successful hybrid programming: what went right, what went wrong, what worked at ALPL, and what may work better elsewhere. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about different equipment needed for hybrid programming
  • Learn about programs offered
  • What lessons were learned along the way
Presenters:

CJ Lynce, Assistant Director, Westlake Porter Public Library

Gerry Vogel has been assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library since May 2006
Location: Online via Zoom






Popular Library Book Repair (or How to Keep Captain Underpants on the Shelf for One More Year)
3/1/2022

Want to get a little more life from your paperbacks? Need a few more circs on your best sellers before they fall apart? If so, then this program is for you! Loaded with useful information on how to get the most from your collection, this program covers a wide range of book repair techniques. While some techniques may be applicable, this program is not recommended for those interested in archival repair.

You will be sent a supply list that you will need for the workshop

Presenter:

Bobbie Patridge is the supervisor of the Conservation and Processing departments at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. Bobbie has been mentoring new conservationists and has been teaching interested groups on materials repair for over thirty years.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Popular Library Book Repair (or How to Keep Captain Underpants on the Shelf for One More Year)
3/1/2022

Want to get a little more life from your paperbacks? Need a few more circs on your best sellers before they fall apart? If so, then this program is for you! Loaded with useful information on how to get the most from your collection, this program covers a wide range of book repair techniques. While some techniques may be applicable, this program is not recommended for those interested in archival repair.

You will be sent a supply list that you will need for the workshop

Presenter:

Bobbie Patridge is the supervisor of the Conservation and Processing departments at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. Bobbie has been mentoring new conservationists and has been teaching interested groups on materials repair for over thirty years.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
3/2/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors.    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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Microsoft Account (with OneDrive and Office 365)
3/2/2022

Microsoft has designed online accounts to utilize a wide array of services.  The apps and services are made available using personal, business, or school accounts.  This course will focus on standard features available to all accounts including OneDrive and Office 365.  You will learn to navigate through your account, access apps, and manage files. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Creating and removing online folders
  • Synchronizing OneDrive to Windows Explorer and managing file versions 
  • An explanation will be given describing what Office 365 “actually” is and how it differs from Office
  • Other topics may include collaboration, file sharing, ransomware recovery, and recovering damaged and deleted files 
*Topics may vary depending on the availability of time in the course.

Presenter:

John Paul, Business owner and operator of Winsoft Computer Education. 
 
John is a business owner and private consultant.  His company, Winsoft Computer Education, has provided corporate training and consulting to business organizations for over twenty years.  During this time, he has been a frequent trainer to libraries throughout Ohio.  John specializes in Microsoft applications but has trained on many platforms.  His courses include Office applications, Adobe, Project Management, database management, report writing, and more.  In addition to training, John provides consulting services, focusing particularly on database creation for managing projects, departments, or company-wide functions. 
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.



Recruitment Strategies for Hiring Non-Librarian Professional Positions
3/3/2022

Knowing which recruitment strategies to use for hiring non-librarian professional positions has always been a challenge in our libraries, and has been especially difficult during the Pandemic.    In this course, you will learn creative websites to use for recruitment and creative ways to use existing websites.   You will also learn how to utilize partners and vendors to assist you in sorting through the deluge of resumes that you will receive.

Learning Objectives
  • Review of current recruitment sites and their features
  • Temp to hire – the pros and cons
  • Partnering with vendors for specialized positions
  • See it from candidate's perspective
Presenter:

Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC.  She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant.  She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations.   Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations.  Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.  


Location: Online via Zoom






Recruitment Strategies for Hiring Non-Librarian Professional Positions
3/3/2022

Knowing which recruitment strategies to use for hiring non-librarian professional positions has always been a challenge in our libraries, and has been especially difficult during the Pandemic.    In this course, you will learn creative websites to use for recruitment and creative ways to use existing websites.   You will also learn how to utilize partners and vendors to assist you in sorting through the deluge of resumes that you will receive.

Learning Objectives
  • Review of current recruitment sites and their features
  • Temp to hire – the pros and cons
  • Partnering with vendors for specialized positions
  • See it from candidate's perspective
Presenter:

Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC.  She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant.  She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations.   Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations.  Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.  


Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
3/4/2022

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 email when you register and 1 hour before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.


 
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






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







Library Summer Program Marketing Crash Course
3/9/2022

Cari Hillman, Community Engagement Director of the MidPointe Library System shares marketing tips and tricks to help make your summer a success. Scalable to libraries of all sizes, this session will outline the power of a comprehensive marketing plan and (if applicable) ways to use CSLP resources for your marketing mix.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the value of going “all in” on summer library programs
  • Reframe your summer marketing mindset
  • Tips to engage your staff
Presenter:

Cari Hillman has nearly 20 years of marketing experience, though she uses assorted social media filters to make it look more like 5. She serves as the community engagement director for the MidPointe Library System in southwest Ohio, overseeing library marketing, system-wide programming and community partnership development. She assists on multiple local boards and committees, including Downtown Middletown Inc. and Women Enriching Lives. Additionally, she is the chair of the CSLP Social Media Committee. She hates Twitter, loves Instagram and dreams of enlisting TikTok celebrities in her library marketing campaigns.
 
Location: Online via Zoom







Library Summer Program Marketing Crash Course
3/9/2022

Cari Hillman, Community Engagement Director of the MidPointe Library System shares marketing tips and tricks to help make your summer a success. Scalable to libraries of all sizes, this session will outline the power of a comprehensive marketing plan and (if applicable) ways to use CSLP resources for your marketing mix.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the value of going “all in” on summer library programs
  • Reframe your summer marketing mindset
  • Tips to engage your staff
Presenter:

Cari Hillman has nearly 20 years of marketing experience, though she uses assorted social media filters to make it look more like 5. She serves as the community engagement director for the MidPointe Library System in southwest Ohio, overseeing library marketing, system-wide programming and community partnership development. She assists on multiple local boards and committees, including Downtown Middletown Inc. and Women Enriching Lives. Additionally, she is the chair of the CSLP Social Media Committee. She hates Twitter, loves Instagram and dreams of enlisting TikTok celebrities in her library marketing campaigns.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






IT Network Meeting
3/10/2022

Join your fellow IT peers to share your successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Discord which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Ragan Snead.
Location: Online via Zoom






Mental Health First Aid: A Virtual Training and Certification Course
3/10/2022

Mental Health First Aid is a training course designed to give members of the public key skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Just as CPR training helps a layperson without medical training assist an individual following a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid training helps a layperson assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis.  This course will run 9:00 am - 3:30 pm.  There will be two hours worth of pre-work before the online workshop.  This course is limited to 30.  We will take a waitlist.  Register for this class only if you are able to attend. This class will not be archived.


The evidence behind Mental Health First Aid demonstrates that it makes people feel more comfortable managing a crisis situation and builds mental health literacy — helping the public identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness. Specifically, studies found that those who trained in Mental Health First Aid have greater confidence in providing help to others, greater likelihood of advising people to seek professional help, improved concordance with health professionals about treatments, and decreased stigmatizing attitudes.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize the potential risk factors and warning signs for a range of mental health problems, including: depression, anxiety/trauma, psychosis and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and self-injury
  • Use a 5-step action plan to help an individual in crisis connect with appropriate professional help
  • Interpret the prevalence of various mental health disorders in the U.S. and the need for reduced negative attitudes in their communities
  • Apply knowledge of the appropriate professional, peer, social, and self-help resources available to help someone


    Presenter:
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019. 
 
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.



Fundraising 501: Developing effective marketing strategies and compelling messages to attract, engage and retain donors
3/16/2022

Your donors and prospective donors are bombarded with information – just like the rest of us. In fact, the average person encounters an estimated 6,000-10,000 marketing messages/ads per day both online and in person. Participants in this session will learn ways their organization can reach donors through the everyday noise and distractions. 
 
Learning Objectives – Participants will:
  • Learn the importance of developing constituent personas
  • Understand how developing donor-centered language is essential to attracting new and ongoing gifts
  • Learn best practices in aligning messaging with where donors are in the giving process
 Presenter:

Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Fundraising 501: Developing effective marketing strategies and compelling messages to attract, engage and retain donors
3/16/2022

Your donors and prospective donors are bombarded with information – just like the rest of us. In fact, the average person encounters an estimated 6,000-10,000 marketing messages/ads per day both online and in person. Participants in this session will learn ways their organization can reach donors through the everyday noise and distractions. 
 
Learning Objectives – Participants will:
  • Learn the importance of developing constituent personas
  • Understand how developing donor-centered language is essential to attracting new and ongoing gifts
  • Learn best practices in aligning messaging with where donors are in the giving process
 Presenter:

Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Change Course without Rocking the Boat
3/17/2022

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
3/17/2022

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






Putting It Out There: Diversity and Dewey in Adult Nonfiction
3/23/2022

This is for new adult paraprofessionals/librarians or staff who may be new to collecting, providing reader's advisory or creating displays for the diverse non-fiction found throughout library collections.

Learning Objectives:
  • Define and explore the various types of diversity
  • Find diversity throughout the Dewey centuries of adult nonfiction collections
  • Incorporate diversity into displays, discussions, and programming to promote empathy, equity, and inclusion
Presenter:

Ericableu Bartik has enjoyed a varied library career.  She has worked as a both a reference and music librarian in academic and public libraries. In 2009, she joined Cuyahoga County Public Library’s collection development department where she selects adult nonfiction, music, and magazines and newspapers.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Putting It Out There: Diversity and Dewey in Adult Nonfiction
3/23/2022

This is for new adult paraprofessionals/librarians or staff who may be new to collecting, providing reader's advisory or creating displays for the diverse non-fiction found throughout library collections.

Learning Objectives:
  • Define and explore the various types of diversity
  • Find diversity throughout the Dewey centuries of adult nonfiction collections
  • Incorporate diversity into displays, discussions, and programming to promote empathy, equity, and inclusion
Presenter:

Ericableu Bartik has enjoyed a varied library career.  She has worked as a both a reference and music librarian in academic and public libraries. In 2009, she joined Cuyahoga County Public Library’s collection development department where she selects adult nonfiction, music, and magazines and newspapers.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Outreach Virtual Networking Meeting
3/29/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
3/30/2022

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Academic Library Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
3/31/2022

We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone.  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to learn how they are managing this crisis.  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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Technical Services/Collection Development Networking Meeting
3/31/2022

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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jane Kirkland.
Location: Online via Zoom






Consistent Programming and Unrelenting Empathy: Building a Teen Audience
4/5/2022

Reaching the teens in your community can be tough even in the best of times, but the COVID-19 pandemic has left many of us wondering: where did all the teens go?  Join Steve Moser and Sarah Amazing, long-time teen librarians, as we share our tried-and-true strategies and brainstorm some new ideas. While there's no guarantee that if you do this they will come, it has worked for countless libraries.  Through a multi-step process, learn how to help set yourself up for success.

 

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn the importance of creating a safe, welcoming space for ALL teens
  • Develop strategies for determining teens’ needs & interests and connecting them to programs
  • Refresh their planning & marketing knowledge

 

Sarah Amazing is the Teen Services Supervisor at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library. Having worked with teens since 2007, she has worked with YALSA and the Ohio Library Council as a committee member, speaker, and writer. She writes at zen-teen.com.

Steve Moser is the Teen Services Librarian at the Trotwood Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. Having worked with teens in libraries since 2004, he has worked with the Ohio Library Council on multiple committees, chairing several. Steve is currently a part of Ohio's Transforming Teen Services Team through YALSA.


Location: Online via Zoom






Consistent Programming and Unrelenting Empathy: Building a Teen Audience
4/5/2022

Reaching the teens in your community can be tough even in the best of times, but the COVID-19 pandemic has left many of us wondering: where did all the teens go?  Join Steve Moser and Sarah Amazing, long-time teen librarians, as we share our tried-and-true strategies and brainstorm some new ideas. While there's no guarantee that if you do this they will come, it has worked for countless libraries.  Through a multi-step process, learn how to help set yourself up for success.

 

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn the importance of creating a safe, welcoming space for ALL teens
  • Develop strategies for determining teens’ needs & interests and connecting them to programs
  • Refresh their planning & marketing knowledge

 

Sarah Amazing is the Teen Services Supervisor at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library. Having worked with teens since 2007, she has worked with YALSA and the Ohio Library Council as a committee member, speaker, and writer. She writes at zen-teen.com.

Steve Moser is the Teen Services Librarian at the Trotwood Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. Having worked with teens in libraries since 2004, he has worked with the Ohio Library Council on multiple committees, chairing several. Steve is currently a part of Ohio's Transforming Teen Services Team through YALSA.


Location: Online via Zoom






Building Projects 101 : Overview Session
4/7/2022

Interested in learning more about library building projects? In this session, we will cover an overview of common terms, provide sample design and construction timelines, share examples for communicating with patrons, as well as, review land selection criteria, and considerations for when to renovate or build new.  At the end of the session, we will provide an overview of the upcoming sessions.  There will be ample time for questions.  The session will be facilitated by Wendy Tressler, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library.  Wendy has worked on library building projects of all shapes and sizes for over a decade. She also is active with ALA Core Building & Operations Section serving on the Building & Operations Leadership Committee.

Learning Objectives:
  • Overview and terms 
  • ​Design Phases, sample timelines
  • Communicating with patrons
  • Land selection
  • To build new or renovate?
Presenter:

Wendy Tressler Jasper, M.Ed, MLIS, is a part time Library Consultant and works full time as the Manager of Capital Planning & Construction, Columbus Metropolitan Library. Over the past 18 years, Wendy Tressler Jasper has worked in a variety of management roles at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) beginning her career in the HR department as the Organizational Development Manager. After 7 years working on a variety of HR projects (such as, training on Customer Service, Diversity, Management, and Reference Skills, revision of Policies & Procedures, Job Descriptions, creation of a Wellness Program, Unobtrusive Survey, and Staff Development Day), she transitioned to the Project Management & Quality Department to serve as manager. Ms. Jasper and her team worked on a variety of projects including process improvements in support and public services, the creation of the Outdoor Reading Room at Columbus Commons Park (which gained national press), and the creation and implementation of project management methodology across the system. Her knowledge of project management lead Wendy to be assigned as a member of the 2020 Vision Plan (CML’s aspirational building program) core team in 2012. In 2013, she joined the 2020 Vision Plan department full time and to date has lead the completion of ten building projects including the renovation of Main Library. In addition to her work at CML, she is involved in external leadership roles with OLC and ALA-LLAMA, including serving as Chair of the Executive Committee of LLAMA’s Building and Equipment Committee and is a member of LLAMA’s Project Management Committee.
Location: Online via Zoom






Building Projects 101 : Overview Session
4/7/2022

Interested in learning more about library building projects? In this session, we will cover an overview of common terms, provide sample design and construction timelines, share examples for communicating with patrons, as well as, review land selection criteria, and considerations for when to renovate or build new.  At the end of the session, we will provide an overview of the upcoming sessions.  There will be ample time for questions.  The session will be facilitated by Wendy Tressler, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library.  Wendy has worked on library building projects of all shapes and sizes for over a decade. She also is active with ALA Core Building & Operations Section serving on the Building & Operations Leadership Committee.

Learning Objectives:
  • Overview and terms 
  • ​Design Phases, sample timelines
  • Communicating with patrons
  • Land selection
  • To build new or renovate?
Presenter:

Wendy Tressler Jasper, M.Ed, MLIS, is a part time Library Consultant and works full time as the Manager of Capital Planning & Construction, Columbus Metropolitan Library. Over the past 18 years, Wendy Tressler Jasper has worked in a variety of management roles at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) beginning her career in the HR department as the Organizational Development Manager. After 7 years working on a variety of HR projects (such as, training on Customer Service, Diversity, Management, and Reference Skills, revision of Policies & Procedures, Job Descriptions, creation of a Wellness Program, Unobtrusive Survey, and Staff Development Day), she transitioned to the Project Management & Quality Department to serve as manager. Ms. Jasper and her team worked on a variety of projects including process improvements in support and public services, the creation of the Outdoor Reading Room at Columbus Commons Park (which gained national press), and the creation and implementation of project management methodology across the system. Her knowledge of project management lead Wendy to be assigned as a member of the 2020 Vision Plan (CML’s aspirational building program) core team in 2012. In 2013, she joined the 2020 Vision Plan department full time and to date has lead the completion of ten building projects including the renovation of Main Library. In addition to her work at CML, she is involved in external leadership roles with OLC and ALA-LLAMA, including serving as Chair of the Executive Committee of LLAMA’s Building and Equipment Committee and is a member of LLAMA’s Project Management Committee.
Location: Online via Zoom






Safety and Security Networking Meeting
4/7/2022

Join us for our first Security and Safety Networking Meeting.  Here is an opportunity to connect with security staff from other libraries around the region; to share ideas, experiences, etc..  We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
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.






Authentic Voices in Children's and Teen Literature: What's Socioeconomics Got to Do with It?
4/19/2022

A superb high school librarian, in a discussion of making a place for all stories, explained the groups she was expanding her collection to more accurately and completely represent.  When I asked about voices of those living in generational poverty, she paused and very honestly replied, “I never thought about representation and socioeconomics.”  And proceeded to ask me about titles.  So in this webinar, we will do just that: think about our children and teens navigating the world today living in poverty – both their joys and challenges.  And how to develop our collections to represent their voices.  There will be time for questions and answers, and sharing our stories.  Please visit Christina's website to get a taste of who she is and what she does: www.opendorrs2books.com

Learning Objectives:

  • Think about our children and teens navigating the world today living in poverty
  • How to develop our collections to represent their voices
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.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Authentic Voices in Children’s and Teen Literature: What’s Socioeconomics Got to Do with It?
4/19/2022

A superb high school librarian, in a discussion of making a place for all stories, explained the groups she was expanding her collection to more accurately and completely represent.  When I asked about voices of those living in generational poverty, she paused and very honestly replied, “I never thought about representation and socioeconomics.”  And proceeded to ask me about titles.  So in this webinar, we will do just that: think about our children and teens navigating the world today living in poverty – both their joys and challenges.  And how to develop our collections to represent their voices.  There will be time for questions and answers, and sharing our stories.  Please visit Christina's website to get a taste of who she is and what she does: www.opendorrs2books.com

Learning Objectives:

  • Think about our children and teens navigating the world today living in poverty
  • How to develop our collections to represent their voices
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.


 
Location: Online via Zoom







What's Truth Got to Do with It? Information's value in an unstable environment
4/26/2022

There are so many ways to get information these days. Tweets, texts, news feeds, search engines, and social media bring it to us with a touch at all hours. When any newsclip or meme you want can be retweeted, pushed, or streamed with little effort and (sometimes) even less thought, how can library users determine the credibility and authority of what they’ve discovered? With information in different formats on disparate platforms, how can librarians help their community members make sophisticated decisions instead of uninformed leaps? How has the value of information changed for library users, who’ve become skeptical of experts and challenged the value of public discourse?

Learning Objectives:
  • Examine elements of misinformation and disinformation while exploring methods to help library users make informed information choices
  • Group discussions will highlight current user engagement with information quality and unique opportunities for library staff to participate in information literacy
  • Through timely examples and patron-based scenario exercises, participants will analyze the value of information and learn how to identify potential avenues for user communication and education
Participants will be going into breakout rooms

Presenters:

Megan Mamolen is a Librarian and Assistant Professor at Lakeland Community College. During her time at Lakeland, Megan has provided information literacy education and reference services, and has served as e-resources manager. Megan is interested in creating unique library programming that highlights the Association of College and Research Libraries’ information literacy framework as well as mental health resources that are available in the library and throughout the college. 

Thomas Hyland is the Library Program Chair and a Professor at Lakeland Community College. Thomas focuses on information literacy instruction, specializing in active learning in the classroom and the assessment of student learning outcomes.
 
Location: Online via Zoom







What’s truth got to do with it? Information’s value in an unstable environment
4/26/2022

There are so many ways to get information these days. Tweets, texts, news feeds, search engines, and social media bring it to us with a touch at all hours. When any newsclip or meme you want can be retweeted, pushed, or streamed with little effort and (sometimes) even less thought, how can library users determine the credibility and authority of what they’ve discovered? With information in different formats on disparate platforms, how can librarians help their community members make sophisticated decisions instead of uninformed leaps? How has the value of information changed for library users, who’ve become skeptical of experts and challenged the value of public discourse?

Learning Objectives:
  • Examine elements of misinformation and disinformation while exploring methods to help library users make informed information choices
  • Group discussions will highlight current user engagement with information quality and unique opportunities for library staff to participate in information literacy
  • Through timely examples and patron-based scenario exercises, participants will analyze the value of information and learn how to identify potential avenues for user communication and education
Participants will be going into breakout rooms

Presenters:

Megan Mamolen is a Librarian and Assistant Professor at Lakeland Community College. During her time at Lakeland, Megan has provided information literacy education and reference services, and has served as e-resources manager. Megan is interested in creating unique library programming that highlights the Association of College and Research Libraries’ information literacy framework as well as mental health resources that are available in the library and throughout the college. 

Thomas Hyland is the Library Program Chair and a Professor at Lakeland Community College. Thomas focuses on information literacy instruction, specializing in active learning in the classroom and the assessment of student learning outcomes.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Trends in Library Design
4/27/2022

Curious about what's new in library design? In this session, we will cover an overview of current trends in library design with a panel of experts in library design. Case studies of 5 new buildings will be reviewed to highlight examples in action. There will be ample time for questions.  The session will be moderated by Wendy Tressler, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library.  The panel of experts include:  
  • Marc Bittinger, Design Principal CBLH Design
  • Peter Bolek, President and Director of Design HBM Architects
  • Jonathan Moody, CEO Moody Nolan
  • Richard Ortmeyer, Partner Bostwick Design Partnership
  • Margaret Sullivan, Principal Margaret Sullivan Studio

Learning Objectives:
  • Understanding the Design Process
  •  DEI and ADA considerations
  • Hearing about current trends
Presenters:  

Rick Ortmeyer has 30 years of experience serving the public sector and institutional clients, providing him with a deep understanding of the responsibilities inherent to institutions supported through public and philanthropic funding. His career experience includes over 80 library planning and design projects, 45 with Bostwick Design Partnership since he joined the firm in 2003.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Trends in Library Design
4/27/2022

Curious about what's new in library design? In this session, we will cover an overview of current trends in library design with a panel of experts in library design. Case studies of 5 new buildings will be reviewed to highlight examples in action. There will be ample time for questions.  The session will be moderated by Wendy Tressler, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library.  The panel of experts include:  
  • Marc Bittinger, Design Principal CBLH Design
  • Peter Bolek, President and Director of Design HBM Architects
  • Jonathan Moody, CEO Moody Nolan
  • Richard Ortmeyer, Partner Bostwick Design Partnership
  • Margaret Sullivan, Principal Margaret Sullivan Studio

Learning Objectives:
  • Understanding the Design Process
  •  DEI and ADA considerations
  • Hearing about current trends
Presenters:  

Rick Ortmeyer has 30 years of experience serving the public sector and institutional clients, providing him with a deep understanding of the responsibilities inherent to institutions supported through public and philanthropic funding. His career experience includes over 80 library planning and design projects, 45 with Bostwick Design Partnership since he joined the firm in 2003.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Embracing Equity in Cataloging: Critical cataloging steps you can take
4/28/2022

Critical cataloging as a subset of Critical Librarianship has been around for decades but has been getting more well-known and gaining support recently. In this presentation we will review what critical cataloging is, the changes that the Library of Congress has been making recently, and what libraries can do locally to support a more ethical catalog.

Learning objectives:
  • Attendees will review principles of critical/ethical cataloging
  • Attendees will learn about changes the Library of Congress is actively making and how to stay updated
  • Attendees will identify ways to implement ethical cataloging choices locally
Presenter:

Chloe Bragg is the Cataloging Librarian at the Ingalls Library at the Cleveland Museum of Art. She received her MLIS after achieving a degree in Anthropology at Kent State University. Chloe has worked in technical services in academic and special libraries. She is passionate about DEI issues in librarianship, especially in critical librarianship and critical cataloging.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Embracing Equity in Cataloging: Critical cataloging steps you can take
4/28/2022

Critical cataloging as a subset of Critical Librarianship has been around for decades but has been getting more well-known and gaining support recently. In this presentation we will review what critical cataloging is, the changes that the Library of Congress has been making recently, and what libraries can do locally to support a more ethical catalog.

Learning objectives:
  • Attendees will review principles of critical/ethical cataloging
  • Attendees will learn about changes the Library of Congress is actively making and how to stay updated
  • Attendees will identify ways to implement ethical cataloging choices locally
Presenter:

Chloe Bragg is the Cataloging Librarian at the Ingalls Library at the Cleveland Museum of Art. She received her MLIS after achieving a degree in Anthropology at Kent State University. Chloe has worked in technical services in academic and special libraries. She is passionate about DEI issues in librarianship, especially in critical librarianship and critical cataloging.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
5/3/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Ohio Sunshine Laws
5/10/2022

A one-hour virtual presentation given by the Ohio Auditor of State’s Chief Legal Counsel, Mary DeGenaro, on the Ohio Public Records Act and Open Meeting Act, as well as the importance of proper record retention.

Learning Objectives;
  • Provide understanding of Ohio’s Public Records Act
  • Provide understanding of Ohio’s Open Meetings Act
  • Provide understanding of Ohio’s Record Retention Laws
Presenter:

Mary DeGenaro is the Chief Legal Counsel for Auditor of State Keith Faber, the third branch of government in which she has served Ohio.  For 18 years she served in the judiciary as the 159th justice of the Ohio Supreme Court and as a judge on the Seventh District Court of Appeals, comprised of Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Harrison, Jefferson, Mahoning, Monroe and Noble Counties.  Prior to that she was a member of Poland Village Council. 
Admitted to the Ohio bar in 1986, Mary is also admitted to practice in the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court and the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1983 from Youngstown State University and her law degree in 1986 from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law at Cleveland State University, where she interned with U.S. District Judge George White.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Ohio Sunshine Laws
5/10/2022

Recorded 5/10/2022

A one-hour virtual presentation given by the Ohio Auditor of State’s Chief Legal Counsel, Mary DeGenaro, on the Ohio Public Records Act and Open Meeting Act, as well as the importance of proper record retention.

Learning Objectives;
  • Provide understanding of Ohio’s Public Records Act
  • Provide understanding of Ohio’s Open Meetings Act
  • Provide understanding of Ohio’s Record Retention Laws
Presenter:

Mary DeGenaro is the Chief Legal Counsel for Auditor of State Keith Faber, the third branch of government in which she has served Ohio.  For 18 years she served in the judiciary as the 159th justice of the Ohio Supreme Court and as a judge on the Seventh District Court of Appeals, comprised of Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Harrison, Jefferson, Mahoning, Monroe and Noble Counties.  Prior to that she was a member of Poland Village Council. 
Admitted to the Ohio bar in 1986, Mary is also admitted to practice in the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court and the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1983 from Youngstown State University and her law degree in 1986 from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law at Cleveland State University, where she interned with U.S. District Judge George White.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Youth Mental Health First Aid
5/11/2022

Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This 6-hour training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to children and adolescents (ages 6-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care.

This course will run 9:00 am - 3:30 pm.  There will be two hours worth of pre-work before the online workshop.  This course is limited to 30.  We will take a waitlist. This class will not be archived.


Presenter:
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019. 
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.



Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
5/12/2022

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 Ragan Snead.
Location: Online via Zoom






Windows 11 Upgrade
5/12/2022

Microsoft provides Windows with a fresh new look with updates and enhancements to its apps, settings, and basic features.  Participants will be exposed to the new changes to the basic interface as well as functional enhancements to improve the overall efficiency of everyday tasks.  Topics will include modifications to the Start menu, Taskbar, a new Widgets app, and an updated Action Center.  Discussions on applications will include a redesigned Windows store, support of non-Microsoft applications, and updated stock apps.  Other topics of interest will include support for Virtual Desktops, installation changes, and improved themes for accessibility.  *Additional topics may be included depending on the time allowed.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about new changes to the basic interface
  • Learn about functional enhancements to improve the overall efficiency of everyday tasks
  • Learn about virtual Desktop
Presenter:

John Paul, Business owner and operator of Winsoft Computer Education. 
 
John is a business owner and private consultant.  His company, Winsoft Computer Education, has provided corporate training and consulting to business organizations for over twenty years.  During this time, he has been a frequent trainer to libraries throughout Ohio.  John specializes in Microsoft applications but has trained on many platforms.  His courses include Office applications, Adobe, Project Management, database management, report writing, and more.  In addition to training, John provides consulting services, focusing particularly on database creation for managing projects, departments, or company-wide functions. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 50





Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
5/17/2022

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Handling Patron Content Concerns in Challenging Times
5/18/2022

Designed primarily for front-line library staff, Handling Patron Content Concerns in Challenging Times will provide tips and advice for dealing with informal challenges to library materials that are occurring across the United States. During this webinar, Dr. Dawkins will equip participants with a step-by-step process to de-escalate potentially hostile encounters. In addition, participants will review talking points to help patrons understand why library workers are advocates for patron access.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand and be able to articulate the legal and ethical foundation for the Freedom to Read
  • Develop a step-by-step process for handling oral complaints/concerns with a variety of types of complainants

Presenter:

Dr. April Dawkins is an assistant professor in the Library and Information Science department at UNC Greensboro. She teaches Materials for Adolescents, Legal & Ethical Issues in School Libraries, and Reading, Literacy, and the Library. Dr. Dawkins is a member of the School Library Research editorial board. She is also the editor of Intellectual Freedom Issues in School Libraries (Libraries Unlimited, 2017). Her research interests include intellectual freedom, self-censorship, and access and equity issues in school libraries and diversity in young adult literature.
Location: Online via Zoom






Handling Patron Content Concerns in Challenging Times
5/18/2022

Recorded 5/18/2022

Designed primarily for front-line library staff, Handling Patron Content Concerns in Challenging Times will provide tips and advice for dealing with informal challenges to library materials that are occurring across the United States. During this webinar, Dr. Dawkins will equip participants with a step-by-step process to de-escalate potentially hostile encounters. In addition, participants will review talking points to help patrons understand why library workers are advocates for patron access.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand and be able to articulate the legal and ethical foundation for the Freedom to Read
  • Develop a step-by-step process for handling oral complaints/concerns with a variety of types of complainants

Presenter:

Dr. April Dawkins is an assistant professor in the Library and Information Science department at UNC Greensboro. She teaches Materials for Adolescents, Legal & Ethical Issues in School Libraries, and Reading, Literacy, and the Library. Dr. Dawkins is a member of the School Library Research editorial board. She is also the editor of Intellectual Freedom Issues in School Libraries (Libraries Unlimited, 2017). Her research interests include intellectual freedom, self-censorship, and access and equity issues in school libraries and diversity in young adult literature.
Location: Online via Zoom






Needs, Wants and Reality: Navigating Project Financing
5/19/2022

Financing projects big and small is interdisciplinary — legal and financial. This session will review voted and unvoted legal options for financing projects and the related cost of funds for each option. Fitting financing into an overall financial and facilities plan will also be discussed as well as managing expectations about what is possible given practical constraints.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn options for financing library building projects including utilizing PLF notes.
  • Identify legal elements of financing library projects.

  • Utilizing facilities plans in the budget process


Presenters:

Rebecca Princehorn, Partner, Bricker & Eckler LLP
Rebecca Princehorn is a partner in Bricker & Eckler's Public Finance group. Her practice emphasizes school and local government law. She served as bond counsel for the first Ohio publicly offered Public Library Fund-backed library notes.  She has also structured collaborations between local governments, particularly those involving libraries and school districts, and gifts to local governments. Becky is a frequent lecturer on public finance for several organizations, including the Ohio Library Council, Buckeye Association of School Administrators, Ohio School Boards Association, Ohio Association of School Business Officials, Ohio Township Association, Ohio Association of Public Treasurers, Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association and the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities. She serves as Editor of Baldwin's Ohio Practice, Local Government Law-Township, published by Thomson/Reuters Publishing.

Patrick King, Senior Vice President of Public Finance, Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Inc.

Lauren Hagan, Chief Financial Officer/Fiscal Officer, Columbus Metropolitan Library
Lauren joined CML in January 2018. As the library’s Chief Financial Officer, Lauren leads the Finance, Property Management, Procurement, Capital Planning & Project Management and Data Analytics & Insights departments. Prior to joining CML, Lauren served as Senior Associate Vice President of Finance and Controller at Loyola University Chicago and was responsible for the financial operations of several significant units within the finance division including general accounting, financial systems, payroll, the student business office and accounts payable. Lauren had the pleasure of working at Loyola University Chicago for nearly eight years where she held various roles in finance and administration. Lauren’s career began in public accounting gaining experience in both audit and tax at two large public accounting firms. Lauren is passionate about issues affecting women and families and is on the finance committee of South Side Early Learning (SSEL) an early childhood nonprofit. Lauren is a member of Columbus Business First’s 40 Under 40 class of 2020. Lauren earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in accounting from Loyola University Chicago; she is also a CPA. Lauren and her husband Jim Venetucci live in Hilliard and have two young children, Joe (6) and Theo (3).
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Needs, Wants and Reality: Navigating Project Financing
5/19/2022

Recorded 5/19/2022

Financing projects big and small is interdisciplinary — legal and financial. This session will review voted and unvoted legal options for financing projects and the related cost of funds for each option. Fitting financing into an overall financial and facilities plan will also be discussed as well as managing expectations about what is possible given practical constraints.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn options for financing library building projects including utilizing PLF notes.
  • Identify legal elements of financing library projects.

  • Utilizing facilities plans in the budget process


Presenters:

Rebecca Princehorn, Partner, Bricker & Eckler LLP
Rebecca Princehorn is a partner in Bricker & Eckler's Public Finance group. Her practice emphasizes school and local government law. She served as bond counsel for the first Ohio publicly offered Public Library Fund-backed library notes.  She has also structured collaborations between local governments, particularly those involving libraries and school districts, and gifts to local governments. Becky is a frequent lecturer on public finance for several organizations, including the Ohio Library Council, Buckeye Association of School Administrators, Ohio School Boards Association, Ohio Association of School Business Officials, Ohio Township Association, Ohio Association of Public Treasurers, Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association and the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities. She serves as Editor of Baldwin's Ohio Practice, Local Government Law-Township, published by Thomson/Reuters Publishing.

Patrick King, Senior Vice President of Public Finance, Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Inc.

Lauren Hagan, Chief Financial Officer/Fiscal Officer, Columbus Metropolitan Library
Lauren joined CML in January 2018. As the library’s Chief Financial Officer, Lauren leads the Finance, Property Management, Procurement, Capital Planning & Project Management and Data Analytics & Insights departments. Prior to joining CML, Lauren served as Senior Associate Vice President of Finance and Controller at Loyola University Chicago and was responsible for the financial operations of several significant units within the finance division including general accounting, financial systems, payroll, the student business office and accounts payable. Lauren had the pleasure of working at Loyola University Chicago for nearly eight years where she held various roles in finance and administration. Lauren’s career began in public accounting gaining experience in both audit and tax at two large public accounting firms. Lauren is passionate about issues affecting women and families and is on the finance committee of South Side Early Learning (SSEL) an early childhood nonprofit. Lauren is a member of Columbus Business First’s 40 Under 40 class of 2020. Lauren earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in accounting from Loyola University Chicago; she is also a CPA. Lauren and her husband Jim Venetucci live in Hilliard and have two young children, Joe (6) and Theo (3).
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Challenged, banned but in high demand: Why all children need LGBTQA+ books more than ever
5/24/2022

Making certain LGBTQIA+ books are accessible for all children is more important than ever, but would-be censors are making it much more difficult. We will talk about why these books are a critical part of your collection and how to deal with would-be censors and other stakeholders. We will suggest ways to make sure your teens continue to view your library as a safe space with the books they need. And finally, we will share some of the newest books published in the past year.

There will be time for questions.

Learning Objectives:

  • You will learn why LGBTQIA+ books are critical to your collection
  • You will learn how to deal with would-be-censors
  • You will learn ways to make sure teens feel they have a safe space at the library

Presenters:
Please visit our websites to get a taste of who we are and what we do.

Dr. Christina Dorr. https://www.opendorrs2books.com/
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.
 

Liz Deskins. http://www.lizdeskins.com
Lizabeth (Liz) Deskins began teaching as an adjunct instructor for Kent State’s School Library Media K-12 Program in 2017. Prior to teaching at Kent State, Liz taught graduate courses in education and library science at Ohio Dominican University for eight years. In addition, Liz has taught multiple online courses and webinars for the American Library Association's AASL and ALSC divisions, as well as for INFOhio.  Liz has worked 30+ years as a school librarian. Liz’s master’s degree focused on literature for children and young adults. She has co-authored two books with Dr. Christina Dorr: Linking Picture Book Biographies to National Content Standards: 200+ Lives to Explore (ABC-Clio, 2015) and LGBTQAI+ Books for Children and Teens: Providing a Window for All (ALA Editions, 2018). Her latest book is Content Area Collaborations for Secondary Grades, published by ALA Editions in 2019.


Location: Online via Zoom






Challenged, banned but in high demand: Why all children need LGBTQA+ books more than ever
5/24/2022

Recorded 5/24/2022

Making certain LGBTQIA+ books are accessible for all children is more important than ever, but would-be censors are making it much more difficult. We will talk about why these books are a critical part of your collection and how to deal with would-be censors and other stakeholders. We will suggest ways to make sure your teens continue to view your library as a safe space with the books they need. And finally, we will share some of the newest books published in the past year.

There will be time for questions.

Learning Objectives:

  • You will learn why LGBTQIA+ books are critical to your collection
  • You will learn how to deal with would-be-censors
  • You will learn ways to make sure teens feel they have a safe space at the library

Presenters:
Please visit our websites to get a taste of who we are and what we do.

Dr. Christina Dorr. https://www.opendorrs2books.com/
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.
 

Liz Deskins. http://www.lizdeskins.com
Lizabeth (Liz) Deskins began teaching as an adjunct instructor for Kent State’s School Library Media K-12 Program in 2017. Prior to teaching at Kent State, Liz taught graduate courses in education and library science at Ohio Dominican University for eight years. In addition, Liz has taught multiple online courses and webinars for the American Library Association's AASL and ALSC divisions, as well as for INFOhio.  Liz has worked 30+ years as a school librarian. Liz’s master’s degree focused on literature for children and young adults. She has co-authored two books with Dr. Christina Dorr: Linking Picture Book Biographies to National Content Standards: 200+ Lives to Explore (ABC-Clio, 2015) and LGBTQAI+ Books for Children and Teens: Providing a Window for All (ALA Editions, 2018). Her latest book is Content Area Collaborations for Secondary Grades, published by ALA Editions in 2019.


Location: Online via Zoom






HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know: Part I
6/1/2022

 Join Pam Linger, retired human resources manager, to learn what you should know as a supervisor when it comes to human resources.

Learning Objectives:
  • The big compliance issues (FLSA, EEOC, ADA and FMLA)
  • What a supervisor can ask/say to employees
  • Harassment and discrimination
Presenter:

Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC.  She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant.  She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations.   Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations.  Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.  
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know: Part I
6/1/2022

Recorded 6/1/2022

 Join Pam Linger, retired human resources manager, to learn what you should know as a supervisor when it comes to human resources.

Learning Objectives:
  • The big compliance issues (FLSA, EEOC, ADA and FMLA)
  • What a supervisor can ask/say to employees
  • Harassment and discrimination
Presenter:

Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC.  She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant.  She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations.   Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations.  Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.  
Location: Online via Zoom







Enhancing Collaboration with Microsoft Teams
6/2/2022

Microsoft Teams gained considerable traction during the pandemic and has been increasingly popular as a “full service” business communications platform. Teams offers video conferencing, file storage, and application integrations. It can be a very useful and effective tool for both remote and in-person collaboration when utilized effectively.  

Learning objectives: 
  • Learn the layout and basic functions of Microsoft Teams 
  • Learn about SharePoint and OneDrive and understand how they interact with Teams 
  • Explore applications that may be useful to you and your library 
Presenter:

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 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 also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom







Enhancing Collaboration with Microsoft Teams
6/2/2022

Recorded 6/2/2022

Microsoft Teams gained considerable traction during the pandemic and has been increasingly popular as a “full service” business communications platform. Teams offers video conferencing, file storage, and application integrations. It can be a very useful and effective tool for both remote and in-person collaboration when utilized effectively.  

Learning objectives: 
  • Learn the layout and basic functions of Microsoft Teams 
  • Learn about SharePoint and OneDrive and understand how they interact with Teams 
  • Explore applications that may be useful to you and your library 
Presenter:

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 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 also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom







Google Products: An Overview
6/14/2022

Countless people have Gmail accounts but many of the other applications in the Google suite go unused. Although applications like Google Drive and Google Docs have a reputation for being less intuitive than other popular platforms, they can still be useful and it’s all free!  

Learning Objectives: 
  • Learn what applications are offered free with your Gmail account 
  • Explore the functionality of Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides.  
Presenter:

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 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 also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom







Google Products: An Overview
6/14/2022

Recorded 6/14/2022

Countless people have Gmail accounts but many of the other applications in the Google suite go unused. Although applications like Google Drive and Google Docs have a reputation for being less intuitive than other popular platforms, they can still be useful and it’s all free!  

Learning Objectives: 
  • Learn what applications are offered free with your Gmail account 
  • Explore the functionality of Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides.  
Presenter:

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 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 also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know: Part II
6/22/2022

 Join Pam Linger, retired human resources manager, to learn what you should know as a supervisor when it comes to human resources.

Learning Objectives:
  • Hiring – the process from beginning to end
  • Job descriptions
  • Performance Management
Presenter:

Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC.  She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant.  She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations.   Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations.  Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.  
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know: Part II
6/22/2022

Recorded 6/22/2022

 Join Pam Linger, retired human resources manager, to learn what you should know as a supervisor when it comes to human resources.

Learning Objectives:
  • Hiring – the process from beginning to end
  • Job descriptions
  • Performance Management
Presenter:

Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC.  She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant.  She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations.   Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations.  Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.  
Location: Online via Zoom






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






Time Management Yours and Theirs
7/13/2022

Wednesday, July 13, 2022
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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Time Management Yours and Theirs
7/13/2022

Recorded 7/13/2022

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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Renovations: Considerations and Case Studies
7/14/2022

You’ve decided to renovate your library either in its entirety or just a section.  This session will cover case studies of recent library renovations in the state of Ohio. The presenters will share what decisions they had to make during the design and construction process, as well as lessons learned. There will be ample time for questions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn what design considerations to contemplate when renovating a library.

  • Hear lessons learned from recent renovation projects in Ohio libraries.

  • Understand considerations for historical renovations.
Presenters:

Peter Bolek, President and Director of design for HBM Architects, is the heart of the firm’s collaborative working model, taking an active role in both strategic and detailed design solutions in the studio.  His passion lies in the belief that in addition to solving complex and pragmatic needs of a client’s program, design has the transformative power to enhance our everyday life experiences.  Peter provides design leadership and insight into all the firm’s projects, as well as acting as the project designer on the firm’s most significant projects. 
Peter has more than 20 years of experience with public sector clients and has participated in and orchestrated all facets of feasibility studies, programming, planning, design and construction of library projects across the country.


Wendy Tressler, M.Ed, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library
Throughout the past two decades, Wendy Tressler, M.Ed., MLIS has worked in a variety of leadership roles at Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML). Currently serving as the Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, she leads construction, facilities, technology, and lean/operational excellence projects for the library’s 24-building system. In her role, Tressler leads the library’s nearly $275M aspirational building program that includes the replacement or significant renovation of 18 buildings to date. 

Ms. Tressler is one of only a few women in Ohio leading construction management, and is recognized as an expert in library facilities building planning and project management. Her expertise and consultation has been shared widely; presenting and serving on numerous local, state, regional and national panels for the library, architecture and construction industries. Tressler’s leadership experience includes the Ohio Library Council and American Library Association (ALA). She has also guest lectured at Kent State University- Columbus Campus Master of Library Information Sciences (MLIS) program and Syracuse University Online MLIS program on project management in libraries. Tressler has been a member of ALA’s Core Library Interiors & Furnishings and Equipment committee since 2014 and was appointed Chair of the Building and Operations Section Leadership Team.


Location: Online via Zoom






Library Renovations: Considerations and Case Studies
7/14/2022

Recorded 7/14/2022

You’ve decided to renovate your library either in its entirety or just a section.  This session will cover case studies of recent library renovations in the state of Ohio. The presenters will share what decisions they had to make during the design and construction process, as well as lessons learned. There will be ample time for questions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn what design considerations to contemplate when renovating a library.

  • Hear lessons learned from recent renovation projects in Ohio libraries.

  • Understand considerations for historical renovations.
Presenters:

Peter Bolek, President and Director of design for HBM Architects, is the heart of the firm’s collaborative working model, taking an active role in both strategic and detailed design solutions in the studio.  His passion lies in the belief that in addition to solving complex and pragmatic needs of a client’s program, design has the transformative power to enhance our everyday life experiences.  Peter provides design leadership and insight into all the firm’s projects, as well as acting as the project designer on the firm’s most significant projects. 
Peter has more than 20 years of experience with public sector clients and has participated in and orchestrated all facets of feasibility studies, programming, planning, design and construction of library projects across the country.


Wendy Tressler, M.Ed, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library
Throughout the past two decades, Wendy Tressler, M.Ed., MLIS has worked in a variety of leadership roles at Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML). Currently serving as the Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, she leads construction, facilities, technology, and lean/operational excellence projects for the library’s 24-building system. In her role, Tressler leads the library’s nearly $275M aspirational building program that includes the replacement or significant renovation of 18 buildings to date. 

Ms. Tressler is one of only a few women in Ohio leading construction management, and is recognized as an expert in library facilities building planning and project management. Her expertise and consultation has been shared widely; presenting and serving on numerous local, state, regional and national panels for the library, architecture and construction industries. Tressler’s leadership experience includes the Ohio Library Council and American Library Association (ALA). She has also guest lectured at Kent State University- Columbus Campus Master of Library Information Sciences (MLIS) program and Syracuse University Online MLIS program on project management in libraries. Tressler has been a member of ALA’s Core Library Interiors & Furnishings and Equipment committee since 2014 and was appointed Chair of the Building and Operations Section Leadership Team.


Location: Online via Zoom






Cataloging Unusual Items
7/21/2022

Has anyone ever asked you to catalog a bicycle? Libraries have been adding more and more non-book materials to our catalogs: models, tools, toys… even ukuleles. This session will discuss content versus carrier for non-books, then walk through the most important descriptive data for any format. Build the confidence to catalog all your weirdest stuff!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify content versus carrier fields in RDA MARC21 bib records
  • Include crucial descriptions to maximize searchability
  • Use a “weird stuff” template as a starting point in future cataloging
Presenter:
Misty Alvaro is the Materials Manager for Columbus Metropolitan Library, in charge of all cataloging and processing operations. They have worked in public, academic, and special libraries; in all functional areas from circulation and public services librarianship to special collections cataloging and management.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Cataloging Unusual Items
7/21/2022

Recorded 7/21/2022

Has anyone ever asked you to catalog a bicycle? Libraries have been adding more and more non-book materials to our catalogs: models, tools, toys… even ukuleles. This session will discuss content versus carrier for non-books, then walk through the most important descriptive data for any format. Build the confidence to catalog all your weirdest stuff!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify content versus carrier fields in RDA MARC21 bib records
  • Include crucial descriptions to maximize searchability
  • Use a “weird stuff” template as a starting point in future cataloging
Presenter:
Misty Alvaro is the Materials Manager for Columbus Metropolitan Library, in charge of all cataloging and processing operations. They have worked in public, academic, and special libraries; in all functional areas from circulation and public services librarianship to special collections cataloging and management.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Furniture Evaluation and Selection in Public Libraries
7/26/2022

Columbus Metropolitan Library staff will share their expertise in the evaluation and selection of furnishings for public library settings. Case study examples will be shown including what products and materials have worked well and what have not. Magee and Jones both hold degrees in Interior Design and have experience working in the industry.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn tips and tricks for selecting furniture.

  • Identify considerations in selecting fabric/material options.

  • See what’s new in furniture options.

Presenters: 

Steve Magee, Senior Project Manager
Deanna Jones, Senior Project Manager, Columbus Metropolitan Library
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Furniture Evaluation and Selection in Public Libraries
7/26/2022

Recorded 7/26/2022

Columbus Metropolitan Library staff will share their expertise in the evaluation and selection of furnishings for public library settings. Case study examples will be shown including what products and materials have worked well and what have not. Magee and Jones both hold degrees in Interior Design and have experience working in the industry.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn tips and tricks for selecting furniture.

  • Identify considerations in selecting fabric/material options.

  • See what’s new in furniture options.

Presenters: 

Steve Magee, Senior Project Manager
Deanna Jones, Senior Project Manager, Columbus Metropolitan Library
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Introduction to Web Accessibility
8/3/2022

In this 90-minute webinar you'll gain an understanding of which guidelines are used to measure website accessibility in the United States and how to begin to evaluate your own library's site for potential issues. We'll also discuss some common pitfalls and things to avoid.
 

Topics for this webinar include:

  • What accessibility means in a web context, and how it differs from web usability
  • Legal issues surrounding web accessibility and how these can affect libraries
  • National and international standards commonly used for accessibility evaluations, and which to use, when
  • An introduction to automated validators and what they can and cannot do
  • Actual code examples for both good and bad implementations of some common HTML elements
Learning Objectives:
  • Know what website accessibility is and why it matters, including from a legal standpoint
  • Learn of the two main standards used for website accessibility and when to apply them
  • Understand how automated validators work and what they can and cannot do
  • Learn several code examples, both good and bad, for increasing accessibility
Presenter:

Laura Solomon, MCIW, MLS, is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network and a W3C-certified front-end web developer.  She has been doing web development and design for more than twenty years in both public libraries and as an independent consultant. She specializes in developing with Drupal. She is a 2010 Library Journal Mover & Shaker. She’s written three books about social media and content marketing, specifically for libraries, and speaks nationally on both these and technology-related topics.  As a former children’s librarian, she enjoys bringing the “fun of technology” to audiences and in giving libraries the tools they need to better serve the virtual customer.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Introduction to Web Accessibility
8/3/2022

Recorded 8/3/2022

In this 90-minute webinar you'll gain an understanding of which guidelines are used to measure website accessibility in the United States and how to begin to evaluate your own library's site for potential issues. We'll also discuss some common pitfalls and things to avoid.
 

Topics for this webinar include:

  • What accessibility means in a web context, and how it differs from web usability
  • Legal issues surrounding web accessibility and how these can affect libraries
  • National and international standards commonly used for accessibility evaluations, and which to use, when
  • An introduction to automated validators and what they can and cannot do
  • Actual code examples for both good and bad implementations of some common HTML elements
Learning Objectives:
  • Know what website accessibility is and why it matters, including from a legal standpoint
  • Learn of the two main standards used for website accessibility and when to apply them
  • Understand how automated validators work and what they can and cannot do
  • Learn several code examples, both good and bad, for increasing accessibility
Presenter:

Laura Solomon, MCIW, MLS, is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network and a W3C-certified front-end web developer.  She has been doing web development and design for more than twenty years in both public libraries and as an independent consultant. She specializes in developing with Drupal. She is a 2010 Library Journal Mover & Shaker. She’s written three books about social media and content marketing, specifically for libraries, and speaks nationally on both these and technology-related topics.  As a former children’s librarian, she enjoys bringing the “fun of technology” to audiences and in giving libraries the tools they need to better serve the virtual customer.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Outreach Virtual Networking Meeting
8/9/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Subject Librarians: A Model for Public Libraries
8/10/2022

Omaha Public Library implemented a subject librarian model as a way to reimagine adult services. From idea, beta team, to embedding subject librarians in OPL’s library system and the greater community, you will learn how it all started and how the subject librarian team operates today. Highlights will include examples of successful projects, programs, and ways to implement this model if it is the right fit for your library.

Learning Objectives:
  • Introduction to the subject librarian model
  • Determine if the subject librarian model is a fit for your library
  • Be provided with a framework to get started
Presenter:

Amy Mather is an Adult Services Manager at Omaha Public Library. Amy believes in connecting the community through information, storytelling and relationships. She established and manages a team of subject librarians who develop programming, outreach and engagement strategies, and curated collections around community-based interests. She is also responsible for the planning and production of several popular events at Omaha Public Library. Amy won the Library Journal’s Movers & Shakers award in 2010 for her outreach efforts to young professionals, hosted her own podcast for four years (before everybody had a podcast), and has also worked as an adjunct instructor teaching human relation skills at Omaha’s community college. Amy completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New Mexico, and completed her master’s degree in library and information science from Louisiana State University. Though she grew up in West Virginia and has lived in New Mexico, Louisiana, and Washington D.C., she considers Omaha home. In her free time, Amy enjoys reading, yoga, making jewelry, and has recently started bird-watching with her new binoculars.


Location: Online via Zoom






Subject Librarians: A Model for Public Libraries
8/10/2022

Recorded 8/10/2022

Omaha Public Library implemented a subject librarian model as a way to reimagine adult services. From idea, beta team, to embedding subject librarians in OPL’s library system and the greater community, you will learn how it all started and how the subject librarian team operates today. Highlights will include examples of successful projects, programs, and ways to implement this model if it is the right fit for your library.

Learning Objectives:
  • Introduction to the subject librarian model
  • Determine if the subject librarian model is a fit for your library
  • Be provided with a framework to get started
Presenter:

Amy Mather is an Adult Services Manager at Omaha Public Library. Amy believes in connecting the community through information, storytelling and relationships. She established and manages a team of subject librarians who develop programming, outreach and engagement strategies, and curated collections around community-based interests. She is also responsible for the planning and production of several popular events at Omaha Public Library. Amy won the Library Journal’s Movers & Shakers award in 2010 for her outreach efforts to young professionals, hosted her own podcast for four years (before everybody had a podcast), and has also worked as an adjunct instructor teaching human relation skills at Omaha’s community college. Amy completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New Mexico, and completed her master’s degree in library and information science from Louisiana State University. Though she grew up in West Virginia and has lived in New Mexico, Louisiana, and Washington D.C., she considers Omaha home. In her free time, Amy enjoys reading, yoga, making jewelry, and has recently started bird-watching with her new binoculars.


Location: Online via Zoom






Discovering DEI
8/11/2022

Wondering where to start your diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) learning journey? This introductory session will allow participants to learn basic language, concepts, and explore why DEI work is important.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand basic terminology regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Recognize the benefits of diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments 
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
8/11/2022

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 Ragan Snead.
Location: Online via Zoom






Boosting Your Leadership Self Confidence
8/16/2022

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. 
 
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






Boosting Your Leadership Self Confidence
8/16/2022

Recorded 8/16/2022

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. 
 
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






Patron Response Framework: Responding with Empathy, Kindness, and Love to difficult situations
8/17/2022

Five years ago, Kent District Library (MI) created a response framework for their employees to use to respond to difficult situations that occur in the library. Responding to concerns and complaints in a kind and empathetic way ensures people feel listened to and cared for. This prevents escalation and helps maintain a safe environment.  Last year, Kent District Library revisited the Frameworks through the lens of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.  The new Frameworks focuses on learning and growing together, and de-escalating situations for the safety of all, while addressing unconscious bias.  
 
In this session, we will introduce four frameworks which each have an acronym to help staff remember the steps.  
 
Code Green, LEARN 
Code Yellow, CARDS 
Code Red, EBBS 
Code Follow-Up, FLOWS
 
The Code Green Framework is for daily complaints and interactions, such as book challenges.  Code Yellow is for slightly more escalated situations, and Code Red is for situations where the safety of patrons and staff may be at risk.  Finally, Code follow-Up focuses on self-care and reflection after a difficult situation.

Learning Objectives:
  • Upon Completion, participant will be able to plan for the development of a response framework for their communities. 
  • Participants will be able to create an evaluation plan for existing patron behavior responses to ensure the diverse experiences and backgrounds of the community are respected and policies are equitable. 
  • At the end of the session, participants will be able to employ responses for immediate use with their patrons. 
Presenters:

Liz Knapp is a Regional Manager I at Kent District Library in Kent County, Michigan.  Liz's region includes three libraries, two in rural areas, and two in suburban areas.  Liz has worked in libraries for over 20 years in Michigan, Florida and Indiana. She has been part of the Response Framework project for 6 years and is the current leader.  Liz has presented on a regional, state, and national level on kind, empathetic and compassionate communication in difficult situations.   

Shelley Roossien has been the Accessibility & Inclusion Specialist for KDL for the past 17 years. She heads up the Talking Book & Braille Center program, as well as other library services and programs for people with disabilities. She is also the co-leader for the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion workgroup.  

Leigh Verburg is a Branch Librarian at Kent District Library and is engaged with the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion workgroup within the library system. She is passionate about social justice and acknowledging race, power and privilege to help deconstruct systemic racism. 
 


Location: Online via Zoom






Patron Response Framework: Responding with Empathy, Kindness, and Love to difficult situations
8/17/2022

Recorded 8/17/2022

Five years ago, Kent District Library (MI) created a response framework for their employees to use to respond to difficult situations that occur in the library. Responding to concerns and complaints in a kind and empathetic way ensures people feel listened to and cared for. This prevents escalation and helps maintain a safe environment.  Last year, Kent District Library revisited the Frameworks through the lens of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.  The new Frameworks focuses on learning and growing together, and de-escalating situations for the safety of all, while addressing unconscious bias.  
 
In this session, we will introduce four frameworks which each have an acronym to help staff remember the steps.  
 
Code Green, LEARN 
Code Yellow, CARDS 
Code Red, EBBS 
Code Follow-Up, FLOWS
 
The Code Green Framework is for daily complaints and interactions, such as book challenges.  Code Yellow is for slightly more escalated situations, and Code Red is for situations where the safety of patrons and staff may be at risk.  Finally, Code follow-Up focuses on self-care and reflection after a difficult situation.

Learning Objectives:
  • Upon Completion, participant will be able to plan for the development of a response framework for their communities. 
  • Participants will be able to create an evaluation plan for existing patron behavior responses to ensure the diverse experiences and backgrounds of the community are respected and policies are equitable. 
  • At the end of the session, participants will be able to employ responses for immediate use with their patrons. 
Presenters:

Liz Knapp is a Regional Manager I at Kent District Library in Kent County, Michigan.  Liz's region includes three libraries, two in rural areas, and two in suburban areas.  Liz has worked in libraries for over 20 years in Michigan, Florida and Indiana. She has been part of the Response Framework project for 6 years and is the current leader.  Liz has presented on a regional, state, and national level on kind, empathetic and compassionate communication in difficult situations.   

Shelley Roossien has been the Accessibility & Inclusion Specialist for KDL for the past 17 years. She heads up the Talking Book & Braille Center program, as well as other library services and programs for people with disabilities. She is also the co-leader for the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion workgroup.  

Leigh Verburg is a Branch Librarian at Kent District Library and is engaged with the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion workgroup within the library system. She is passionate about social justice and acknowledging race, power and privilege to help deconstruct systemic racism. 
 


Location: Online via Zoom






Collaboration, Evaluation, and Iteration: The Agile Approach to Project Management in Libraries
8/18/2022

We have all heard the saying, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” This is the essence of Agile Project Management. In contrast to more traditional project management methodologies, Agile puts the emphasis on consistent collaboration, evaluation, and iteration throughout the project lifecycle to increase the possibility of a successful deliverable. Much of the work done in libraries is in the form of projects (e.g., a new program, the redesign of a space, or a library-wide collection audit). In this webinar, we will discuss Agile Project Management and the benefits of utilizing and adapting this methodology when embarking on a new library project, big or small.  

 

Learning Objectives: 

  • Understand the principles of Agile Project Management and how they compare to other methods of project management.  
  • Examine the benefits of utilizing Agile when managing library projects.  
  • Explore possible adaptations of the Agile method and discuss the process of implementation. 
  • Discuss specific examples of library projects and how Agile could be applied.  
Presenter:  

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 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 also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Collaboration, Evaluation, and Iteration: The Agile Approach to Project Management in Libraries
8/18/2022

Recorded 8/18/2022

We have all heard the saying, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” This is the essence of Agile Project Management. In contrast to more traditional project management methodologies, Agile puts the emphasis on consistent collaboration, evaluation, and iteration throughout the project lifecycle to increase the possibility of a successful deliverable. Much of the work done in libraries is in the form of projects (e.g., a new program, the redesign of a space, or a library-wide collection audit). In this webinar, we will discuss Agile Project Management and the benefits of utilizing and adapting this methodology when embarking on a new library project, big or small.  

 

Learning Objectives: 

  • Understand the principles of Agile Project Management and how they compare to other methods of project management.  
  • Examine the benefits of utilizing Agile when managing library projects.  
  • Explore possible adaptations of the Agile method and discuss the process of implementation. 
  • Discuss specific examples of library projects and how Agile could be applied.  
Presenter:  

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 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 also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
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






IT Network Meeting
8/24/2022

Join your fellow IT peers to share your successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Discord which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Ragan Snead.
Location: Online via Zoom






Facilities and Admin Networking Meeting
8/25/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with others involved in construction and facilities within the region.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.


 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






Practical Strategies for Time Management
8/31/2022

Being short on resources seems to be "the new normal" for libraries— and having too little money and too few staff members always leads to the same predicament: not enough time. While it is not possible to create more time, making use of time management tools can help you to make improvements in your productivity—while also decreasing stress and frustration and increasing satisfaction and well-being.

Learning Objectives:
  • Assess your personal opportunities and focus areas for time management changes
  • Identify 5-7 specific time management tools and techniques that can be adapted to a variety of tasks and roles
  •  Make plans to immediately improve your time management (and how you feel at work)
Presenter:
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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Practical Strategies for Time Management
8/31/2022

Recorded 8/31/2022

Being short on resources seems to be "the new normal" for libraries— and having too little money and too few staff members always leads to the same predicament: not enough time. While it is not possible to create more time, making use of time management tools can help you to make improvements in your productivity—while also decreasing stress and frustration and increasing satisfaction and well-being.

Learning Objectives:
  • Assess your personal opportunities and focus areas for time management changes
  • Identify 5-7 specific time management tools and techniques that can be adapted to a variety of tasks and roles
  •  Make plans to immediately improve your time management (and how you feel at work)
Presenter:
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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Understanding Our Limits: How to Set Boundaries with Library Patrons
9/7/2022

Boundaries and limit settings for patrons at public libraries can prevent library workers from feeling drained at the end of a work day. When healthy boundaries are set, it helps us manage our own frustration or anger instead of feeling as if there is a loss of control. This session will teach participants not only how to identify when patrons blur the lines of professional and personal boundaries in the library, but how to work through the common boundaries issues that are faced when dealing with the public.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Session will provide applicable concepts on how to identify and understand most common situations when patrons blur professional and personal boundaries.
  • Session will provide practical tools to library staff on how to set limits and deal with patrons who cross the boundary lines when visiting libraries.
  • Participants will learn de-escalation techniques when dealing with difficult patrons.
  • Participants will learn the importance of self -care by learning new techniques on how to take care of themselves during and after these uncomfortable encounters.

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 assesses 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






Understanding Our Limits: How to Set Boundaries with Library Patrons
9/7/2022

Recorded 9/7/2022

Boundaries and limit settings for patrons at public libraries can prevent library workers from feeling drained at the end of a work day. When healthy boundaries are set, it helps us manage our own frustration or anger instead of feeling as if there is a loss of control. This session will teach participants not only how to identify when patrons blur the lines of professional and personal boundaries in the library, but how to work through the common boundaries issues that are faced when dealing with the public.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Session will provide applicable concepts on how to identify and understand most common situations when patrons blur professional and personal boundaries.
  • Session will provide practical tools to library staff on how to set limits and deal with patrons who cross the boundary lines when visiting libraries.
  • Participants will learn de-escalation techniques when dealing with difficult patrons.
  • Participants will learn the importance of self -care by learning new techniques on how to take care of themselves during and after these uncomfortable encounters.

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 assesses 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






Safe Space - LGBTQ+ Cultural Competence Training
9/13/2022

Safe Space: LGBTQ+ Cultural Competence Training is the first training in the Kent State University Safe Space Training Series. This series is an on-going training effort through Kent State University and the LGBTQ+ Center to make our communities safer places for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Training participants will learn about bias, stereotypes, current vocabulary, and best practices for handling gender and sexuality topics with sensitivity. After the training, individuals are offered a Safe Space Ally sign for their office, indicating their support of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer plus (LGBTQ+) community.
 
Regardless of where you work or live, if you interact with people and the public, you will meet individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Having a basic understanding of correct terminology and an understanding of what it means to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community are essential skills in supporting all people.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Participants will develop a deeper awareness of personal ideas, stereotypes, and assumptions related to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ+) individuals.
  • Participants will develop an increased comfort level in addressing concepts and language regarding LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Participants will develop an increased awareness of services that supports LGBTQ+ and allied individuals.
  • Participants will have the option of developing a network of community support people for all people regardless of sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.
Presenter:

Ken Ditlevson, serves as Kent State University’s first director for the LGBTQ+ Center, where he started in 2014.  Ditlevson is a two-time graduate of Kent State University, having received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Masters of Education degree in Community Counseling.  
Prior to accepting this position, Ken worked for nearly 20 years in mental health and social services, and most recently was the Assistant Vice President for Child Guidance & Family Solutions in Akron, Ohio.  Ken has been awarded numerous awards for his work in LGBTQ+ advocacy, as well as for creating innovative programming and initiatives.Ken and his husband of 22 years, reside in Highland Square/West Akron, along with their two dogs, Luna and Layla.
 

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

There are currently 6 spots remaining out of 50





Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
9/16/2022

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 email when you register and 1 hour before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.


 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
9/21/2022

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Critical Library Instruction: Challenging the Ways Things Work
9/27/2022

What is critical library instruction? How do librarians use it to address injustices in libraries and information systems, and how do our current situations complicate and create new possibilities for its practice? By striving to recognize education's potential for social change and emboldening the learner's agency, critical library instruction has much to offer librarians interested in reevaluating their teaching practices. This session will illustrate some of the many ways that librarians incorporate this vital approach to teaching the complexities of information. Attendees will learn what critical approaches to instruction can look like, and consider issues involved in this demanding but important approach to teaching in libraries. This presentation will introduce the essentials of critical librarianship, consider how librarians have applied this theory and practice to instruction, and reflect on what critical library instruction means in our times of hybrid learning and intensified inequalities.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify foundational principles of critical librarianship 
  • Describe ways that academic librarians can practice critical library instruction 
  • Articulate challenges and possibilities in making your own library instruction sessions more critical and meaningful to learners
 Presenter:

Eamon Tewell (he/him/his) is Head of Research Support and Outreach for Columbia University’s Science, Engineering, & Social Science Libraries, where he supervises a team of subject librarians and identifies ways to support the research and learning needs of students and faculty through reference and instruction. Eamon has published and presented on the topics of critical information literacy, library instruction, critical reference practice, and questioning narratives of grit and resilience in libraries, and is a recipient of the Jesse H. Shera Award for Distinguished Research. He received his MS in Library & Information Science from Drexel University and his MA in Media Studies from Long Island University.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Critical Library Instruction: Challenging the Ways Things Work
9/27/2022

Recorded 9/27/2022

What is critical library instruction? How do librarians use it to address injustices in libraries and information systems, and how do our current situations complicate and create new possibilities for its practice? By striving to recognize education's potential for social change and emboldening the learner's agency, critical library instruction has much to offer librarians interested in reevaluating their teaching practices. This session will illustrate some of the many ways that librarians incorporate this vital approach to teaching the complexities of information. Attendees will learn what critical approaches to instruction can look like, and consider issues involved in this demanding but important approach to teaching in libraries. This presentation will introduce the essentials of critical librarianship, consider how librarians have applied this theory and practice to instruction, and reflect on what critical library instruction means in our times of hybrid learning and intensified inequalities.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify foundational principles of critical librarianship 
  • Describe ways that academic librarians can practice critical library instruction 
  • Articulate challenges and possibilities in making your own library instruction sessions more critical and meaningful to learners
 Presenter:

Eamon Tewell (he/him/his) is Head of Research Support and Outreach for Columbia University’s Science, Engineering, & Social Science Libraries, where he supervises a team of subject librarians and identifies ways to support the research and learning needs of students and faculty through reference and instruction. Eamon has published and presented on the topics of critical information literacy, library instruction, critical reference practice, and questioning narratives of grit and resilience in libraries, and is a recipient of the Jesse H. Shera Award for Distinguished Research. He received his MS in Library & Information Science from Drexel University and his MA in Media Studies from Long Island University.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Carving a Path from the Public Library to the College Classroom
10/5/2022

In this class, library staff will learn how to play an active, positive role in helping teen and young adult patrons navigate the process of applying to college. From learning the basics about the college application process today to programs they can run themselves and with partners, library staff will leave class not only more informed about the on-going changes and evolutions of the college application process, but also excited about using library resources to create a more equitable experience for young adults.

Learning Objectives:

  • Participants will build a baseline understanding of the contemporary college application process, including vocabulary and general components.
  • Participants will learn about and explore various databases and library resources that will be relevant in serving college curious teens and young adults.
  • Participants will formulate new and explore existing program ideas that can be implemented at libraries to help serve teens interested in learning more about applying to college and completing the process.
Presenter:

Aryssa Damron is a children’s librarian with the District of Columbia Public Library system. She serves on the YALSA Alex Awards for 2023, the ALSC Membership Committee, and is involved with the Jane Austen Society of North America. She holds a BA in English from Yale University and a MSLS from the University of Kentucky. She is the author of "The Path to the Ivy League Leads Straight Through the Public Library," a chapter in the book Hope and a Future: Perspectives on the Impact that Librarians and Libraries Have on Our World.
Location: Online via Zoom






Carving a Path from the Public Library to the College Classroom
10/5/2022

Recorded 10/5/2022

In this class, library staff will learn how to play an active, positive role in helping teen and young adult patrons navigate the process of applying to college. From learning the basics about the college application process today to programs they can run themselves and with partners, library staff will leave class not only more informed about the on-going changes and evolutions of the college application process, but also excited about using library resources to create a more equitable experience for young adults.

Learning Objectives:

  • Participants will build a baseline understanding of the contemporary college application process, including vocabulary and general components.
  • Participants will learn about and explore various databases and library resources that will be relevant in serving college curious teens and young adults.
  • Participants will formulate new and explore existing program ideas that can be implemented at libraries to help serve teens interested in learning more about applying to college and completing the process.
Presenter:

Aryssa Damron is a children’s librarian with the District of Columbia Public Library system. She serves on the YALSA Alex Awards for 2023, the ALSC Membership Committee, and is involved with the Jane Austen Society of North America. She holds a BA in English from Yale University and a MSLS from the University of Kentucky. She is the author of "The Path to the Ivy League Leads Straight Through the Public Library," a chapter in the book Hope and a Future: Perspectives on the Impact that Librarians and Libraries Have on Our World.
Location: Online via Zoom






Mastering the Search for Open Educational Resources
10/11/2022

Open educational resources, which are free and openly licensed learning materials, are becoming increasingly in-demand among patrons, especially faculty at academic institutions. This session will provide guidance in how to find openly licensed and other free educational materials, as well as ideas for how to communicate with faculty, students, and other patrons about these materials. Whether you regularly look for OERs or are completely new to the open education movement, this session will provide helpful tips for you!

Learning Objectives:
  • Articulate the value of open education for learning, accessibility, and equity in education
  • Find OERs and affordable learning content to meet specific disciplinary needs
  • Communicate to faculty or other patrons effectively and efficiently about the affordable learning materials that were found
Presenter:

Mandi Goodsett (she/her) is the Performing Arts & Humanities Librarian, as well as the Open Educational Resource & Copyright Advisor, at Cleveland State University. She serves as an OhioLINK Affordable Learning Ambassador and an instructor for the Open Textbook Network OER Librarianship Certification. Her research interests include open education, critical thinking in library instruction, mentoring new professionals, and sustainability in libraries. In her free time Mandi loves cooking, playing board games with friends, and enjoying the outdoors of Northeast Ohio.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Mastering the Search for Open Educational Resources
10/11/2022

Recorded 10/11/2022

Open educational resources, which are free and openly licensed learning materials, are becoming increasingly in-demand among patrons, especially faculty at academic institutions. This session will provide guidance in how to find openly licensed and other free educational materials, as well as ideas for how to communicate with faculty, students, and other patrons about these materials. Whether you regularly look for OERs or are completely new to the open education movement, this session will provide helpful tips for you!

Learning Objectives:
  • Articulate the value of open education for learning, accessibility, and equity in education
  • Find OERs and affordable learning content to meet specific disciplinary needs
  • Communicate to faculty or other patrons effectively and efficiently about the affordable learning materials that were found
Presenter:

Mandi Goodsett (she/her) is the Performing Arts & Humanities Librarian, as well as the Open Educational Resource & Copyright Advisor, at Cleveland State University. She serves as an OhioLINK Affordable Learning Ambassador and an instructor for the Open Textbook Network OER Librarianship Certification. Her research interests include open education, critical thinking in library instruction, mentoring new professionals, and sustainability in libraries. In her free time Mandi loves cooking, playing board games with friends, and enjoying the outdoors of Northeast Ohio.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Getting the Most Out of Your Budget
10/12/2022

Explore methods to manage a busy library or department on a lean budget.  Learn about priority and project planning and preparing for surprises.  This session will also explore how outside funding like grants can provide a valuable boost of financing.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to prioritize your budget.
  • Identify grants funds that meet your objectives.
  • Gain strategies for assessing the value and cost of outside funding.
Presenters:
Julia Boxler is the Youth Programming Manager at Cuyahoga County Public Library. In her role, she has led programming from birth to age 18 and has been an integral lead in a number of youth initiatives at CCPL. Julia’s work includes the expansion and re-imagination of homework services, the creation of a new avenue of programming to assist youth who struggle to meet the third-grade reading guarantee, the coordination of Parent Engagement programming, including a kindergarten readiness initiative, and the ongoing creation of partnerships with local organizations to support youth with special needs and their families.  Julia's ability to get the most our of her budget has provided the resources necessary to implement her various programs.
 
Rebecca Ranallo, Director of the Literacy & Learning
Rebecca leads the development, implementation, oversight, and evaluation of library programming and literacy services for people of all ages.  Community needs are ever-changing, and Rebecca works to ensure that CCPL embraces the challenges in our community and recognizes the value of life-long learning. With more than fifteen years in public libraries, Rebecca has a strong history of implementing library initiatives that build confidence and access across the community and is expert at getting the most from her budget in order to do so.

Location: Online via Zoom






Getting the Most Out of Your Budget
10/12/2022

Recorded 10/12/2022

Explore methods to manage a busy library or department on a lean budget.  Learn about priority and project planning and preparing for surprises.  This session will also explore how outside funding like grants can provide a valuable boost of financing.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to prioritize your budget.
  • Identify grants funds that meet your objectives.
  • Gain strategies for assessing the value and cost of outside funding.
Presenters:
Julia Boxler is the Youth Programming Manager at Cuyahoga County Public Library. In her role, she has led programming from birth to age 18 and has been an integral lead in a number of youth initiatives at CCPL. Julia’s work includes the expansion and re-imagination of homework services, the creation of a new avenue of programming to assist youth who struggle to meet the third-grade reading guarantee, the coordination of Parent Engagement programming, including a kindergarten readiness initiative, and the ongoing creation of partnerships with local organizations to support youth with special needs and their families.  Julia's ability to get the most our of her budget has provided the resources necessary to implement her various programs.
 
Rebecca Ranallo, Director of the Literacy & Learning
Rebecca leads the development, implementation, oversight, and evaluation of library programming and literacy services for people of all ages.  Community needs are ever-changing, and Rebecca works to ensure that CCPL embraces the challenges in our community and recognizes the value of life-long learning. With more than fifteen years in public libraries, Rebecca has a strong history of implementing library initiatives that build confidence and access across the community and is expert at getting the most from her budget in order to do so.

Location: Online via Zoom






Identifying the Most Common E-resource Access Issues: Why they happen and how to fix them
10/13/2022

Troubleshooting is one of the most frustrating aspects of e-resource librarian work. This webinar hopes to bring some levity and originality to the topic. In the vein of David Letterman’s Top Ten List, join us as we count down libraries’ most commonly encountered e-resource access issues. We cover everything from user error to vendor mischief, broken links to incorrect metadata. Participants will be introduced to multiple examples in order to gain a better understanding of why these issues occur and how they are resolved.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the most common e-resource access issues encountered by troubleshooters
  • Understand why these e-resource access issues occur 
  • Evaluate options for resolution of access issues
Presenters:

Holly Talbott has more than seven years of experience with electronic resources and is coauthor of The Electronic Resources Troubleshooting Guide (ALA, 2020) and The Electronic Resources Librarianship: A Practical Guide for Librarians (Rowman & Littlefield, 2018). She is currently the electronic resources librarian at Kent State University and was previously the electronic resources and licensing librarian at the University of Arizona Libraries.

Ashley Zmau has more than ten years of academic library experience and is coauthor of Electronic Resources Librarianship: A Practical Guide for Librarians (Rowman & Littlefield, 2018) and The Electronic Resources Troubleshooting Guide (ALA, 2020). She is currently the technical services librarian at Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine and was previously the electronic resources librarian at the University of Texas at Arlington and the electronic resources management librarian at Southern Methodist University.
Location: Online via Zoom






Identifying the Most Common E-resource Access Issues: Why they happen and how to fix them
10/13/2022

Recorded 10/13/2022

Troubleshooting is one of the most frustrating aspects of e-resource librarian work. This webinar hopes to bring some levity and originality to the topic. In the vein of David Letterman’s Top Ten List, join us as we count down libraries’ most commonly encountered e-resource access issues. We cover everything from user error to vendor mischief, broken links to incorrect metadata. Participants will be introduced to multiple examples in order to gain a better understanding of why these issues occur and how they are resolved.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the most common e-resource access issues encountered by troubleshooters
  • Understand why these e-resource access issues occur 
  • Evaluate options for resolution of access issues
Presenters:

Holly Talbott has more than seven years of experience with electronic resources and is coauthor of The Electronic Resources Troubleshooting Guide (ALA, 2020) and The Electronic Resources Librarianship: A Practical Guide for Librarians (Rowman & Littlefield, 2018). She is currently the electronic resources librarian at Kent State University and was previously the electronic resources and licensing librarian at the University of Arizona Libraries.

Ashley Zmau has more than ten years of academic library experience and is coauthor of Electronic Resources Librarianship: A Practical Guide for Librarians (Rowman & Littlefield, 2018) and The Electronic Resources Troubleshooting Guide (ALA, 2020). She is currently the technical services librarian at Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine and was previously the electronic resources librarian at the University of Texas at Arlington and the electronic resources management librarian at Southern Methodist University.
Location: Online via Zoom






Technical Services/Collection Development Networking Meeting
10/13/2022

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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jane Kirkland.
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






Safety and Security Networking Meeting
11/1/2022

Join us for our first Security and Safety Networking Meeting.  Here is an opportunity to connect with security staff from other libraries around the region; to share ideas, experiences, etc..  We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
11/2/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors.    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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Intersectionality 101
11/2/2022

Intersectionality is a concept that allows us to examine multiple areas of our lives and social identities. During this session, participants will examine what it actually is, discuss the history of the theory and begin to apply an intersectional lens.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify intersectionality as a lens 
  • Identify how intersectionality can be utilized in their respective spaces 
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Circulation Networking Meeting
11/3/2022

Join us for our first Circulation Staff Networking Meeting.  Here is an opportunity to connect with circulation staff from other libraries around the region; to share ideas, experiences, etc..  We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting - Virtual Option
11/4/2022

This will be the first hybrid meeting that NEO-RLS will be hosting.  If you are unable to travel or don’t have time to travel, join us online. This is registration for the virtual option.  

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with your peers.   We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.

For this meeting we will have two speakers, Tracy Snider who will discuss helping staff with job burnout and Kile Byington who will share some tricks with Microsoft Excel.
Presenter:  Tracy Snider is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Licensed Social Worker, and Certified Employee Assistance Professional and has been employed by COMPASS Family and Community Services in Warren, Ohio since 1993. In 2001, she was named Coordinator of the Comprehensive Assistance Program for Employees, the agency’s external EAP. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Youngstown State University, where she also completed her Master’s degree in Education in the Community Counseling program. She received the CEAP credential in July, 2008.
 
In addition to serving businesses and employees, Tracy also provides individual mental health and substance use disorder counseling to agency clients. She is a member of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association.
 
Presenter:  Kile Byington, Fiscal Officer, Twinsburg Public Library

Location: Online via Zoom






Service Anchors: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Youth Library Services and Programming
11/9/2022

It’s crucial for youth services library paraprofessionals and Librarians to support lifelong learning by constantly developing cultural awareness, acceptance, and understanding of how diverse and rich our young library patrons and families are. During this speaking engagement, attendees will be introduced to basic diverse, equitable, and inclusive concepts, theories, and terminology key for youth library services and programming.  They will learn key knowledge regarding children and race research and identify how it’s helpful in planning EDI youth programming. Similarly, library team members will explore ways to equitably introduce diverse and inclusive collections and technology to youth, caregivers, and educators, and analyze the book banning movement.  

Learning Objectives: 

  • Utilize take-a-aways to thoroughly analyze communities, services, and programs and develop an awareness and understanding of how important genuine representation is to young library patrons and their caregivers.
  • Commence their journey in designing and facilitating diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible library services and enriching programs without incorporating or displaying common misconceptions.
  • Spark the desire to continuously self-reflect on diverse, equitable, and inclusive concepts, theories, and terminology that will foster lifelong learning
Presenters:

Maria F. Estrella (She/Her/Hers/Ella) earned a Master of Communication and Information in Library and Information Science from Kent State University, two Bachelors of Arts and Sciences in Social Work, and Spanish from Cleveland State University, and received Diversity and Inclusion certification from Cornell University.  Her career history includes approximately two decades of library experience working in a five-star rated urban-research library system.  She served on national committees, juries, and task forces, whose primary goal is to provide diverse literacy and technological resources/services to enhance the lives of young readers and encourage them to become lifelong scholars.   She was similarly honored with the 2021 recipient of the Dr. Arnulfo D. Trejo Librarian of The Year Award and is currently an American Library Association Councilor-at-Large as well as a Board Member of the Association of Library Services for Children. Maria is also the founder of Young Diverse Readers Consulting.

Erica Marks is a public librarian and owner of Book Marks Live Consulting. Within her twenty years of public library service, Erica has created unique and unconventional programming for youth. Through collaborative partnerships, programs such as Books-n-Beats, Girl Power!, and Man Up, CLE (Cleveland) became successful empowerment events, promoting literacy, leadership, and self-respect. Erica is a member of the American Library Association. She served on the 2020 Randolph Caldecott Committee and previously served on the 2017-2018 Coretta Scott King Book Awards Jury. Erica graduated from Kent State University with a Masters of Information and Library Science and Ashford University, receiving a Masters of Public Administration and a Bachelor in Social and Criminal Justice.

Annisha Jeffries is a public librarian and Founder of Born Readers, LLC Consulting.  Within her 25 years of public library service, Annisha has established herself as an advocate for children's services through collaborative partnerships, with community organizations locally and nationally. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Annisha is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a Master of Information and Library Science and Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Cleveland State University. She is a 2000 American Library Association Spectrum Scholarship recipient and has served on various selection committees, including the 2018 Caldecott Committee, and was the Chair of the 2021 Caldecott Committee. Currently, she is the Chair of the Norman A Sugarman Children’s Biography Award.


Location: Online via Zoom






Inoculating Patrons Against Misinformation: Media Literacy Strategies Based in Science
11/15/2022

Researchers in the fields of psychology and education have published dozens of studies exploring methods of combating misinformation, and some have had some success. One strategy with a lot of potential is the idea of "inoculating" people against misinformation by exposing them to misinformation strategies and raising their skepticism. This workshop will explore why the spread of misinformation is so difficult to prevent, how inoculation techniques work, and how to apply misinformation inoculation strategies to library instruction and programming.

Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the current challenges of misinformation in today's information environment, including several common misinformation dissemination techniques
  • Design and implement pre- and debunking strategies for misinformation in library instruction and/or outreach
  • Develop activities and approaches that discourage cynicism among students/patrons regarding information sources such as news media 
Presenter:

Mandi Goodsett (she/her) is the Performing Arts & Humanities Librarian, as well as the Open Educational Resource & Copyright Advisor, at Cleveland State University. Her research interests include open education, critical thinking in library instruction, mentoring new professionals, and sustainability in libraries. In her free time Mandi loves cooking, playing board games with friends, and enjoying the outdoors of Northeast Ohio.
Location: Online via Zoom






Inoculating Patrons Against Misinformation: Media Literacy Strategies Based in Science
11/15/2022

Recorded 11/15/2022

Researchers in the fields of psychology and education have published dozens of studies exploring methods of combating misinformation, and some have had some success. One strategy with a lot of potential is the idea of "inoculating" people against misinformation by exposing them to misinformation strategies and raising their skepticism. This workshop will explore why the spread of misinformation is so difficult to prevent, how inoculation techniques work, and how to apply misinformation inoculation strategies to library instruction and programming.

Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the current challenges of misinformation in today's information environment, including several common misinformation dissemination techniques
  • Design and implement pre- and debunking strategies for misinformation in library instruction and/or outreach
  • Develop activities and approaches that discourage cynicism among students/patrons regarding information sources such as news media 
Presenter:

Mandi Goodsett (she/her) is the Performing Arts & Humanities Librarian, as well as the Open Educational Resource & Copyright Advisor, at Cleveland State University. Her research interests include open education, critical thinking in library instruction, mentoring new professionals, and sustainability in libraries. In her free time Mandi loves cooking, playing board games with friends, and enjoying the outdoors of Northeast Ohio.
Location: Online via Zoom






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






Evaluating Managers: The key to success!
11/30/2022

Consistent and effective evaluation of your managers is key to the success of your organization. Even the most motivated, highest performing employee will struggle and become disengaged if they are being managed poorly and bad managers open you up to a host of negative consequences: poor customer service, high turnover rates, lawsuits, and more. Evaluating managers can be a challenge; it is quite different than evaluating other types of employees. There are many attributes and skills that a manager must have and in order to accurately judge that manager's performance, the evaluation must take these things into consideration. And, making the evaluation meaningful and effective requires you to do more than simply fill out a form each year. If you have a manager evaluation process but want to improve it, or if you do not have such a process, this workshop will provide you with some great tools to use when improving (or creating) your own manager evaluation process. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn some of the commonly used evaluation tools and learn about the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library's tool and process. 
  • Learn the key areas to explore as you begin crafting your own manager evaluation tool and process. 
  • Understand the three components that must be included in the manager evaluation process.

Mary Frankenfield is the Deputy Director of the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library. She has worked at MRCPL for the past 20 years and has been in management  positions for the last 8 years. In her current role she has focused much of her time and attention on staff training and development, crafting policy and procedure, writing job descriptions, and refining the library's hiring and onboarding process. In her spare time she lavishes affection on her two kitties, Sasha and Bitty, and she enjoys directing and performing in local, community theater. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Evaluating Managers: The key to success!
11/30/2022

Recorded 11/30/2022

Consistent and effective evaluation of your managers is key to the success of your organization. Even the most motivated, highest performing employee will struggle and become disengaged if they are being managed poorly and bad managers open you up to a host of negative consequences: poor customer service, high turnover rates, lawsuits, and more. Evaluating managers can be a challenge; it is quite different than evaluating other types of employees. There are many attributes and skills that a manager must have and in order to accurately judge that manager's performance, the evaluation must take these things into consideration. And, making the evaluation meaningful and effective requires you to do more than simply fill out a form each year. If you have a manager evaluation process but want to improve it, or if you do not have such a process, this workshop will provide you with some great tools to use when improving (or creating) your own manager evaluation process. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn some of the commonly used evaluation tools and learn about the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library's tool and process. 
  • Learn the key areas to explore as you begin crafting your own manager evaluation tool and process. 
  • Understand the three components that must be included in the manager evaluation process.

Mary Frankenfield is the Deputy Director of the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library. She has worked at MRCPL for the past 20 years and has been in management  positions for the last 8 years. In her current role she has focused much of her time and attention on staff training and development, crafting policy and procedure, writing job descriptions, and refining the library's hiring and onboarding process. In her spare time she lavishes affection on her two kitties, Sasha and Bitty, and she enjoys directing and performing in local, community theater. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Recognizing Bias
12/1/2022

Various people, institutions and organizations help shape the way we view the world, sometimes in inaccurate ways. Participants will learn to identify implicit and explicit biases and explore strategies for challenging them in ourselves and others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand various concepts around bias
  • Develop strategies for counteracting biases you may have
  • Identify resources for continued learning and support
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
12/6/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
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






Your Library's Digital Branch Today and Into the Future
12/8/2022

More than ever, patrons are engaging with their library online. With that being said, in what ways is a library digital branch more than just a website? More importantly, how can we build our digital branches to best serve current and future users?
 
Learning outcomes: 
  • Participants will understand the evolution of library digital presences, from early websites to current offerings.
  • Participants will discover the key components of a library digital branch. 
  • Participants will learn how to improve the accessibility of a digital branch. 
  • Participants will understand future trends likely to impact their library's digital branch. 
 Presenter:

Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Your Library's Digital Branch Today and Into the Future
12/8/2022

Recorded 12/8/2022

More than ever, patrons are engaging with their library online. With that being said, in what ways is a library digital branch more than just a website? More importantly, how can we build our digital branches to best serve current and future users?
 
Learning outcomes: 
  • Participants will understand the evolution of library digital presences, from early websites to current offerings.
  • Participants will discover the key components of a library digital branch. 
  • Participants will learn how to improve the accessibility of a digital branch. 
  • Participants will understand future trends likely to impact their library's digital branch. 
 Presenter:

Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
12/13/2022

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Addressing Microaggressions
12/14/2022

Discover how everyday comments and actions can unintentionally hurt or harm someone. Participants will build skills and practice strategies to recognize and interrupt microaggressions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize microaggressions and explain what they are
  • Develop strategies for interrupting microaggressions in both others and ourselves
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


Location: Online via Zoom






New Developments and Trends in Employment Laws
1/10/2023

Keeping abreast of changes in employment laws is an on-going challenge for employers generally and for HR Professionals in particular.  In this webinar, we will examine recent developments in the law that significantly impact the ability of public libraries to manage the workforce in a challenging environment.

Learning Objectives:  Attendees will come away with a stronger understanding of recent changes and developments in the law, including:

  • The impact of the Ohio Employment Law Uniformity Act, including recent changes in how the Ohio Civil Rights Commission’s processes charges of discrimination
  • Recent developments that impact employers’ ability to manage employees’ medical and mental health issues (i.e. FMLA/ADA developments)
  • Senate Bill 47 changes in Ohio’s wage-hour law
Presenters:

Jim P. Wilkins,  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.


Amanda S Smith, Associate , OSBA-Certified Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, DE&I Officer , National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

Amanda’s unusual path to becoming a labor and employment attorney began with earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in neuroscience at Allegheny College and Kent State University, respectively. After determining that a career in science ultimately was not for her, she took a job as a legal assistant following her graduate studies, and immediately fell in love with law.

That first position at a plaintiff’s side labor and employment firm quickly evolved into enrolling in classes at the University of Akron School of Law, where she eventually earned her juris doctor degree, summa cum laude. Her experience to-date as a management-side labor and employment attorney has led to some lively discussions at the dinner table back home with her father (a police chief) and mother (a former union president).

Amanda has found the work to be both fascinating and fulfilling. She represents employers in many types of labor and employment matters, including charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission and other state fair employment practice agencies. She also counsels employers on litigation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution matters, as well as wage/hour compliance, performance and leave management, discipline, and workplace policies.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






New Developments and Trends in Employment Laws
1/10/2023

Recorded 1/10/2023

Keeping abreast of changes in employment laws is an on-going challenge for employers generally and for HR Professionals in particular.  In this webinar, we will examine recent developments in the law that significantly impact the ability of public libraries to manage the workforce in a challenging environment.

Learning Objectives:  Attendees will come away with a stronger understanding of recent changes and developments in the law, including:

  • The impact of the Ohio Employment Law Uniformity Act, including recent changes in how the Ohio Civil Rights Commission’s processes charges of discrimination
  • Recent developments that impact employers’ ability to manage employees’ medical and mental health issues (i.e. FMLA/ADA developments)
  • Senate Bill 47 changes in Ohio’s wage-hour law
Presenters:

Jim P. Wilkins,  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.


Amanda S Smith, Associate , OSBA-Certified Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, DE&I Officer , National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

Amanda’s unusual path to becoming a labor and employment attorney began with earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in neuroscience at Allegheny College and Kent State University, respectively. After determining that a career in science ultimately was not for her, she took a job as a legal assistant following her graduate studies, and immediately fell in love with law.

That first position at a plaintiff’s side labor and employment firm quickly evolved into enrolling in classes at the University of Akron School of Law, where she eventually earned her juris doctor degree, summa cum laude. Her experience to-date as a management-side labor and employment attorney has led to some lively discussions at the dinner table back home with her father (a police chief) and mother (a former union president).

Amanda has found the work to be both fascinating and fulfilling. She represents employers in many types of labor and employment matters, including charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission and other state fair employment practice agencies. She also counsels employers on litigation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution matters, as well as wage/hour compliance, performance and leave management, discipline, and workplace policies.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Setting Up for Success! Tips to Help Your Library Clear the Top Five Marketing Hurdles
1/11/2023

Library promotion is difficult, especially when many staff are trying to market their library in addition to all their other duties. Factor in the challenges of a lack of budget and a lack of time, and it can seem impossible to have library marketing success. But it can be done! In this keynote, attendees will learn how to target messages to specific audiences including community members who don’t have (or don’t want) internet access. Attendees will leave with a plan to work smarter by putting their time and available resources to the best use. This speech is packed with inspiration and practical tips to promote a library’s collection, services, and programs in a smart and successful way.  

Learning Objectives:
  • How to set measurable goals and target specific audiences.
  • How to promote your library when you have no time or money.
  • How to reach non-digital community members.
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: Online via Zoom






Setting Up for Success! Tips to Help Your Library Clear the Top Five Marketing Hurdles
1/11/2023

Recorded 1/11/2023

Library promotion is difficult, especially when many staff are trying to market their library in addition to all their other duties. Factor in the challenges of a lack of budget and a lack of time, and it can seem impossible to have library marketing success. But it can be done! In this keynote, attendees will learn how to target messages to specific audiences including community members who don’t have (or don’t want) internet access. Attendees will leave with a plan to work smarter by putting their time and available resources to the best use. This speech is packed with inspiration and practical tips to promote a library’s collection, services, and programs in a smart and successful way.  

Learning Objectives:
  • How to set measurable goals and target specific audiences.
  • How to promote your library when you have no time or money.
  • How to reach non-digital community members.
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: Online via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
1/18/2023

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Delegating Made Easy
1/18/2023

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

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.


Location: Online via Zoom






Delegating Made Easy
1/18/2023

Recorded 1/18/2023

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.


Location: Online via Zoom






Becoming Good Library Ambassadors
1/19/2023

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:

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Becoming Good Library Ambassadors
1/19/2023

Recorded 1/19/2023

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:

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






A Long-Term Approach to Hybrid Programming
1/25/2023

The pandemic forced libraries to have virtual programming to meet their patron's needs. Although it can be difficult to iron out all the problems, hybrid programming has continued to expand the library's reach, allowing patrons who cannot attend library events in person to reap the full benefits of the library's services, and creating an archive of programming for patrons to experience well after the program is finished.

In this webinar Zach and Josh plan to show the positives of hybrid programming as a more permanent fixture at Bexley Public Library and how other libraries can plan for the future of hybrid programming.

Learning Objectives:
  • What makes a good hybrid program
  • Scalable hybrid set up for your needs
  • Planning for the future of hybrid programming

Presenters:  

Zach Parish has worked in public libraries for 10 years and currently serves as the Programming Librarian at the Bexley Public Library where he oversees the coordination of Adult Services programming.

Joshua Bryant has 11 years of library experience and is currently the Technology Librarian at Bexley Public Library.


Location: Online via Zoom






A Long-Term Approach to Hybrid Programming
1/25/2023

Recorded 1/25/2023

The pandemic forced libraries to have virtual programming to meet their patron's needs. Although it can be difficult to iron out all the problems, hybrid programming has continued to expand the library's reach, allowing patrons who cannot attend library events in person to reap the full benefits of the library's services, and creating an archive of programming for patrons to experience well after the program is finished.

In this webinar Zach and Josh plan to show the positives of hybrid programming as a more permanent fixture at Bexley Public Library and how other libraries can plan for the future of hybrid programming.

Learning Objectives:
  • What makes a good hybrid program
  • Scalable hybrid set up for your needs
  • Planning for the future of hybrid programming

Presenters:  

Zach Parish has worked in public libraries for 10 years and currently serves as the Programming Librarian at the Bexley Public Library where he oversees the coordination of Adult Services programming.

Joshua Bryant has 11 years of library experience and is currently the Technology Librarian at Bexley Public Library.


Location: Online via Zoom






Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
1/25/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors.    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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Attentional Fitness: Sneaking Mindful Habits into Real Life
2/1/2023

Instead of trying to add one more self-care challenge to your list, why not use mindfulness to help you address what's already on your list: healthier eating, moving your body a little more, and getting more rest?

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn a practical approach to practicing mindfulness — with or without meditation
  • Expand your understanding of mindfulness beyond breath awareness and relaxation.
  • Explore how to apply mindfulness insights to common self-care challenges

Presenter:
Daron Larson is a Mindfulness Coach who discovered from personal experience that consistent mindful habits really can make ordinary moments better — including the uncomfortable ones. As a parent, social worker, and librarian, he has always found purpose in identifying resources to help people respond more effectively to the challenges of ordinary life. Daron says mindfulness is about much more than temporary relaxation. It offers a variety of flexible ways to experience your life with greater vitality despite its inevitable discomforts and uncertainties. His TEDx talk — Don't Try to Be Mindful — has been viewed over half a million times.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Attentional Fitness: Sneaking Mindful Habits into Real Life
2/1/2023

Recorded 2/1/2023

Instead of trying to add one more self-care challenge to your list, why not use mindfulness to help you address what's already on your list: healthier eating, moving your body a little more, and getting more rest?

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn a practical approach to practicing mindfulness — with or without meditation
  • Expand your understanding of mindfulness beyond breath awareness and relaxation.
  • Explore how to apply mindfulness insights to common self-care challenges

Presenter:
Daron Larson is a Mindfulness Coach who discovered from personal experience that consistent mindful habits really can make ordinary moments better — including the uncomfortable ones. As a parent, social worker, and librarian, he has always found purpose in identifying resources to help people respond more effectively to the challenges of ordinary life. Daron says mindfulness is about much more than temporary relaxation. It offers a variety of flexible ways to experience your life with greater vitality despite its inevitable discomforts and uncertainties. His TEDx talk — Don't Try to Be Mindful — has been viewed over half a million times.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Challenges and Opportunities in 2023
2/7/2023

It doesn’t necessary take a crystal ball to see what’s coming down the pike for employers, including public libraries.  This webinar will examine impending changes in the law and in the world of work.  It will give attendees the opportunity to discuss how to cope with the challenges of the post-COVID world.
 
Learning Objectives:  Drawing upon the collective experience and wisdom of our presenters and attendees, this webinar will:
  • Discuss recruitment and retention strategies to cope with the Great Resignation;
  • Discuss best practices and challenges with remote and hybrid work arrangements; and
  • Anticipate upcoming changes in the law as well as the impact of the recent jump in Ohio’s minimum wage.
Presenters:

Jim P. Wilkins,  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.


Amanda S Smith, Associate , OSBA-Certified Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, DE&I Officer , National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

Amanda’s unusual path to becoming a labor and employment attorney began with earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in neuroscience at Allegheny College and Kent State University, respectively. After determining that a career in science ultimately was not for her, she took a job as a legal assistant following her graduate studies, and immediately fell in love with law.

That first position at a plaintiff’s side labor and employment firm quickly evolved into enrolling in classes at the University of Akron School of Law, where she eventually earned her juris doctor degree, summa cum laude. Her experience to-date as a management-side labor and employment attorney has led to some lively discussions at the dinner table back home with her father (a police chief) and mother (a former union president).

Amanda has found the work to be both fascinating and fulfilling. She represents employers in many types of labor and employment matters, including charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission and other state fair employment practice agencies. She also counsels employers on litigation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution matters, as well as wage/hour compliance, performance and leave management, discipline, and workplace policies.
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Challenges and Opportunities in 2023
2/7/2023

Recorded 2/7/2023

It doesn’t necessary take a crystal ball to see what’s coming down the pike for employers, including public libraries.  This webinar will examine impending changes in the law and in the world of work.  It will give attendees the opportunity to discuss how to cope with the challenges of the post-COVID world.
 
Learning Objectives:  Drawing upon the collective experience and wisdom of our presenters and attendees, this webinar will:
  • Discuss recruitment and retention strategies to cope with the Great Resignation;
  • Discuss best practices and challenges with remote and hybrid work arrangements; and
  • Anticipate upcoming changes in the law as well as the impact of the recent jump in Ohio’s minimum wage.
Presenters:

Jim P. Wilkins,  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.


Amanda S Smith, Associate , OSBA-Certified Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, DE&I Officer , National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

Amanda’s unusual path to becoming a labor and employment attorney began with earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in neuroscience at Allegheny College and Kent State University, respectively. After determining that a career in science ultimately was not for her, she took a job as a legal assistant following her graduate studies, and immediately fell in love with law.

That first position at a plaintiff’s side labor and employment firm quickly evolved into enrolling in classes at the University of Akron School of Law, where she eventually earned her juris doctor degree, summa cum laude. Her experience to-date as a management-side labor and employment attorney has led to some lively discussions at the dinner table back home with her father (a police chief) and mother (a former union president).

Amanda has found the work to be both fascinating and fulfilling. She represents employers in many types of labor and employment matters, including charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission and other state fair employment practice agencies. She also counsels employers on litigation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution matters, as well as wage/hour compliance, performance and leave management, discipline, and workplace policies.
Location: Online via Zoom






Strategic Leadership
2/8/2023

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

This Webinar will provide a brief overview of strategic leadership, provide you with tools to infuse strategic thinking into your library operations, and will discuss strategic leadership  in an ever changing world.
 
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 and 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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Strategic Leadership
2/8/2023

Recorded 2/8/2023

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

This Webinar will provide a brief overview of strategic leadership, provide you with tools to infuse strategic thinking into your library operations, and will discuss strategic leadership  in an ever changing world.
 
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 and 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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Intersectionality 101
2/14/2023

Intersectionality is a concept that allows us to examine multiple areas of our lives and social identities. During this session, participants will examine what it actually is, discuss the history of the theory and begin to apply an intersectional lens.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify intersectionality as a lens 
  • Identify how intersectionality can be utilized in their respective spaces 
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom






The Science of Library Marketing: Why Now is the Perfect Time to Experiment with Your Library Promotions (And How to Do It)
2/15/2023

It goes without saying that libraries navigated a lifetime worth of challenges in the pandemic. Those challenges taught us an important lesson: we can do important things! As we emerge from the pandemic, now is the best time to ask exciting questions about your library promotions. What worked? What didn’t? What might work now that didn’t work in the past? In this session, you’ll have a chance to think like a library marketing scientist. Learn how to form a hypothesis, set up your experiments, record and analyze your results, and tie all of this to your marketing goals. Leave with the knowledge and inspiration to find new ways to get people to use your library.  

Learning Objectives:
  • How to use your library's current promotional metrics to spot trends and create experiments that can further your library's overall strategic goals.  
  •  A list of marketing factors to test.  
  •  A list of metrics every library marketer needs to track and analyze.  
  • How to make marketing experimentation a consistent (and fun!) part of your job. 
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.
 






The Science of Library Marketing: Why Now is the Perfect Time to Experiment with Your Library Promotions (And How to Do It)
2/15/2023

Recorded 2/15/2023

It goes without saying that libraries navigated a lifetime worth of challenges in the pandemic. Those challenges taught us an important lesson: we can do important things! As we emerge from the pandemic, now is the best time to ask exciting questions about your library promotions. What worked? What didn’t? What might work now that didn’t work in the past? In this session, you’ll have a chance to think like a library marketing scientist. Learn how to form a hypothesis, set up your experiments, record and analyze your results, and tie all of this to your marketing goals. Leave with the knowledge and inspiration to find new ways to get people to use your library.  

Learning Objectives:
  • How to use your library's current promotional metrics to spot trends and create experiments that can further your library's overall strategic goals.  
  •  A list of marketing factors to test.  
  •  A list of metrics every library marketer needs to track and analyze.  
  • How to make marketing experimentation a consistent (and fun!) part of your job. 
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.
 






Warming Up to Summer
2/16/2023

It’s February! Time for summer! Whether you’re planning your first summer library program or just want a refresher, this session will get you in the summer mood. We'll reflect on 2022 and look forward to 2023; chat about some summer “basics” like registration and completion, tracking, and prizes; explore resources to support your summer planning, and look at CSLP’s “All Together Now” and other theme options. There will be time for questions and idea sharing, so bring your questions and ideas! This webinar will cover planning for all ages.

Presenter:

Janet Ingraham Dwyer is the youth services library consultant at the State Library of Ohio. Her job is to support, advise, and empower children’s and teen services specialists in public and school libraries around the state. She manages Ohio’s participation in the nationwide Collaborative Summer Library Program and collaborates with the Ohio Library Council on Ohio Ready to Read, a statewide resource network to facilitate early literacy activities in libraries.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Warming Up to Summer
2/16/2023

Recorded 2/16/2023

It’s February! Time for summer! Whether you’re planning your first summer library program or just want a refresher, this session will get you in the summer mood. We'll reflect on 2022 and look forward to 2023; chat about some summer “basics” like registration and completion, tracking, and prizes; explore resources to support your summer planning, and look at CSLP’s “All Together Now” and other theme options. There will be time for questions and idea sharing, so bring your questions and ideas! This webinar will cover planning for all ages.

Presenter:

Janet Ingraham Dwyer is the youth services library consultant at the State Library of Ohio. Her job is to support, advise, and empower children’s and teen services specialists in public and school libraries around the state. She manages Ohio’s participation in the nationwide Collaborative Summer Library Program and collaborates with the Ohio Library Council on Ohio Ready to Read, a statewide resource network to facilitate early literacy activities in libraries.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






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






Nervous, scared and unsure: How access to librarians in high school can impact first-year students’ research readiness and library anxiety
3/2/2023

How does access to a school librarian help students prepare for their first year of college? Do students feel more prepared for college-level research? Does it have any effect on feelings of library anxiety? Did remote learning have an impact? In fall 2021, we conducted a survey of first-year students from Ohio at Miami University and The Ohio State University at Newark to help answer these questions. We analyzed student responses based on the different types of high schools and districts they attended throughout Ohio. In this session, we will discuss the results of our findings that when students receive librarian help in high school, they feel measurably more confident about doing college-level research. But what happens when students don't receive this help? We will discuss these findings as well. In addition, we will share our students' understanding of how college librarians can help them in their own words and discuss how we have changed our own approaches to our work with first-year students in instruction, reference, and web services.

Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the differences in exposure to library instruction reported by students in Ohio high schools.
  • Understand first-year students’ self-described knowledge of college librarians
  • Implement at least one new strategy to overcome first-year students’ library anxiety

Presenters:

Abigail Morgan is a Social Sciences Librarian at Miami University, with liaison responsibilities to the business school as well as the departments of Anthropology and Teaching, Curriculum, & Educational Inquiry. She works with first-year students as an instructor in a first-year research experience credit-bearing class and in the business school’s first-year integrated core curriculum. She worked previously as a middle school teacher and school librarian.





Jerry Yarnetsky is a web services librarian at Miami University where he focuses on user experience and accessibility. He also teaches a course on interaction design and development at Miami. He previously worked extensively with incoming students at Montgomery County Community College in metro Philadelphia.







Janell Verdream is an Instruction Librarian at The Ohio State University- Newark and Central Ohio Technical College. She works primarily with first- and second-year students in a credit-bearing research class, as well as in one-shot library sessions.
Location: Online via Zoom






Nervous, scared and unsure: How access to librarians in high school can impact first-year students’ research readiness and library anxiety
3/2/2023

Recorded 3/2/2023

How does access to a school librarian help students prepare for their first year of college? Do students feel more prepared for college-level research? Does it have any effect on feelings of library anxiety? Did remote learning have an impact? In fall 2021, we conducted a survey of first-year students from Ohio at Miami University and The Ohio State University at Newark to help answer these questions. We analyzed student responses based on the different types of high schools and districts they attended throughout Ohio. In this session, we will discuss the results of our findings that when students receive librarian help in high school, they feel measurably more confident about doing college-level research. But what happens when students don't receive this help? We will discuss these findings as well. In addition, we will share our students' understanding of how college librarians can help them in their own words and discuss how we have changed our own approaches to our work with first-year students in instruction, reference, and web services.

Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the differences in exposure to library instruction reported by students in Ohio high schools.
  • Understand first-year students’ self-described knowledge of college librarians
  • Implement at least one new strategy to overcome first-year students’ library anxiety

Presenters:

Abigail Morgan is a Social Sciences Librarian at Miami University, with liaison responsibilities to the business school as well as the departments of Anthropology and Teaching, Curriculum, & Educational Inquiry. She works with first-year students as an instructor in a first-year research experience credit-bearing class and in the business school’s first-year integrated core curriculum. She worked previously as a middle school teacher and school librarian.





Jerry Yarnetsky is a web services librarian at Miami University where he focuses on user experience and accessibility. He also teaches a course on interaction design and development at Miami. He previously worked extensively with incoming students at Montgomery County Community College in metro Philadelphia.







Janell Verdream is an Instruction Librarian at The Ohio State University- Newark and Central Ohio Technical College. She works primarily with first- and second-year students in a credit-bearing research class, as well as in one-shot library sessions.
Location: Online via Zoom






Social Media Success is Possible! How to Transcend Tricky Algorithms and Handle Trolls
3/8/2023

Social media algorithms make success seem impossible for small and rural libraries, especially when the rules keep changing! But you can rise above algorithm changes by centering your social media promotions on strategy and implementing best practices that will hold no matter what changes are made by the platforms. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to match your promotional goals with the available audience on each of the social media platforms and how to determine which kind of content works best on the platforms. Plus, you’ll get the secrets for handling negative comments and learn how to turn your trolls into supporters. 

Learning Objectives

  • How to align what the library does on social media with their organization's overall goals, as well as how to focus the content they post to social media on the wants and needs of their available audience. 
  • How to use evergreen posting practices to keep audiences engaged, even when the algorithm changes. 
  • How to create a process to surprise and delight negative commenters on social media. 
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: Online via Zoom






Social Media Success is Possible! How to Transcend Tricky Algorithms and Handle Trolls
3/8/2023

Recorded 3/8/2023

Social media algorithms make success seem impossible for small and rural libraries, especially when the rules keep changing! But you can rise above algorithm changes by centering your social media promotions on strategy and implementing best practices that will hold no matter what changes are made by the platforms. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to match your promotional goals with the available audience on each of the social media platforms and how to determine which kind of content works best on the platforms. Plus, you’ll get the secrets for handling negative comments and learn how to turn your trolls into supporters. 

Learning Objectives

  • How to align what the library does on social media with their organization's overall goals, as well as how to focus the content they post to social media on the wants and needs of their available audience. 
  • How to use evergreen posting practices to keep audiences engaged, even when the algorithm changes. 
  • How to create a process to surprise and delight negative commenters on social media. 
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: Online via Zoom






Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part I
3/15/2023

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Once you registered for Part I be sure to sign up for Part II which is on Wednesday, March 22, 2023  at 2:00 PM
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
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.



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






Technical Services/Collection Development Networking Meeting
3/16/2023

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. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
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






Leveraging the Power of TikTok
4/4/2023

Learn about many of the different ways libraries & librarians can leverage the power of TikTok. Using examples from her own TikTok, Kelsey will demonstrate how TikTok videos can be used by libraries for things like advocacy, collection development, outreach, readers advisory, tutorial-creation, and community building. We’ll also talk about the safety of using TikTok, it’s powerful impact on the publishing industry, and more. You’ll leave this session inspired to give TikTok a try!

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify various goals that TikTok can help libraries and librarians achieve.
  • Describe the ways TikTok is impacting the publishing industry and the reading trends and habits, particularly among young adults.
  • List various strategies a librarian can use to leverage TikTok for collection development, particularly diverse collection development.
Presenter:

Kelsey Bogan is a high school Librarian, adjunct MSLIS Professor, and a professional Speaker/Presenter who enjoys helping librarians learn to leverage the power of social media for their library’s advocacy, collection development, outreach, and community-building efforts. Kelsey is an outspoken advocate for reform in the library profession, especially as relates to outdated collection organization and development traditions. She is particularly proud to have created the viral library organization concept “Dynamic Shelving,” and of her ongoing work to redevelop her library towards greater inclusivity, accessibility, and equity. Connect with Kelsey on Twitter & TikTok @KelseyBogan, or on her blog www.dontyoushushme.com!
Location: Online via Zoom






Leveraging the Power of TikTok
4/4/2023

Recorded 4/4/2023

Learn about many of the different ways libraries & librarians can leverage the power of TikTok. Using examples from her own TikTok, Kelsey will demonstrate how TikTok videos can be used by libraries for things like advocacy, collection development, outreach, readers advisory, tutorial-creation, and community building. We’ll also talk about the safety of using TikTok, it’s powerful impact on the publishing industry, and more. You’ll leave this session inspired to give TikTok a try!

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify various goals that TikTok can help libraries and librarians achieve.
  • Describe the ways TikTok is impacting the publishing industry and the reading trends and habits, particularly among young adults.
  • List various strategies a librarian can use to leverage TikTok for collection development, particularly diverse collection development.
Presenter:

Kelsey Bogan is a high school Librarian, adjunct MSLIS Professor, and a professional Speaker/Presenter who enjoys helping librarians learn to leverage the power of social media for their library’s advocacy, collection development, outreach, and community-building efforts. Kelsey is an outspoken advocate for reform in the library profession, especially as relates to outdated collection organization and development traditions. She is particularly proud to have created the viral library organization concept “Dynamic Shelving,” and of her ongoing work to redevelop her library towards greater inclusivity, accessibility, and equity. Connect with Kelsey on Twitter & TikTok @KelseyBogan, or on her blog www.dontyoushushme.com!
Location: Online via Zoom






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






NEO-RLS Membership Discussion: How to Get Involved
4/18/2023

Have you ever wondered how program ideas are chosen? Are you looking for leadership opportunities that won't put more on your plate at work, but still offer a challenge and a chance to liaise with library peers from the NEO-RLS membership?  NEO-RLS depends on the participation of our membership for governance, input on continuing education and services, and continuous feedback through our Board of Trustees, Board Committees, and Advisory Groups. Did you know that anyone working in a member library of NEO-RLS is eligible to participate? These volunteer positions provide the opportunity to have a voice in your regional library system and boost your resume. Join us virtually to learn more about these groups and how you can get involved. We will also have an open discussion where  participants can ask questions and provide 
 
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






IT Networking Meeting - Virtual Meeting
4/27/2023

We will start the morning with Jessica Dooley, Technology Project Manager at OPLIN, presenting on Building an Effective Backup Strategy.  

Creating an effective backup strategy is critical to protecting your organization from errors, disasters, and attacks. But how can you verify you've covered all the bases? Ensuring your backup solution includes the prerequisites for successful recovery starts with strategy. Determine how to create a strategy that fits your organization's needs and enables you to build the most effective solution.

After lunch you will have an opportunity to network with your peers and discuss your challenges and successes.  Please send topics of discussion to Jeff Laser.

Presenter:

Jessica Dooley is Technology Project Manager at OPLIN, and started working in Ohio public libraries in 2003. She enjoys systems administration, solving problems with Linux tools, following information security research, gardening and pie.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Outreach Networking Meeting
5/2/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Understanding the Power of ChatGPT: Potential Implications for Library Services Across the State
5/2/2023

Recorded 5/2/2023

ChatGPT
and other generative AI platforms have thrust us into a new world of technologies that are amazing, but also slightly alarming. Dr. Christopher Harris, School Library System Director for Genesee Valley (NY) BOCES and Senior Fellow with the American Library Association, will introduce and explain the technology that drives ChatGPT and explore potential uses in different types of libraries.

Due to a statewide collaboration among all four Ohio Regional Library Systems--SWON Libraries Consortium, Northeast Ohio Library System (NEO), Northwest Library System (NORWELD), and the Southeast Regional Library System (SERLS)--this webinar is being offered for FREE to all regional library members. 
 

Presenter:

Dr. Christopher Harris is the Director of the School Library System for the Genesee Valley BOCES, an educational services agency supporting the libraries of 22 small, rural districts in Western NY. He was a participant in the first American Library Association Emerging Leaders program in 2007 and was honored as a Library Journal Mover and Shaker in 2008. In 2022, Dr. Harris was named a Senior Fellow for the American Library Association for school libraries and youth policy issues. Dr. Harris received his Ed.D. from St. John Fisher College in 2018 for dissertation research on helping teachers become more confident teaching computer science.

Returning to his earlier work as a member of the ALA/Verizon gaming initiative panel of experts on games in libraries, Christopher started Play Play Learn in 2014. The site provides educational resources and consulting services to connect games and learning in libraries, schools, and homes for students of all ages. In 2015, the first titles in Christopher's Teaching Through Games series were released by Rosen Publishing as professional books with lesson plans for using tabletop games in classroom and library instruction. The Playful Classroom, a series of books with artwork tied to games from HABA were released from Rosen Classroom in 2018. The Unplugged Activities for Future Coders series with play-based approaches for computational thinking was published by Enslow in 2019.

An avid gamer and reader, Christopher lives with his wife, a K-12 school librarian, their daughter, and cats outside of Rochester, NY.


Location: Online via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
5/3/2023

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Jane Carle any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Understanding Race and Racism
5/3/2023

Race and racism are significant parts of our society and shape the way it works. Participants will explore their own understandings, discuss how racism is upheld through policy and practice, and develop strategies to disrupt it

Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.


Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Construction and Facilities Networking Meeting
5/11/2023

Catch up with your peers in this networking opportunity about construction and facilities.  Send topics you would like to discuss to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online via Zoom






Supervising Specialty Staff: How to Work With Employees’ Different Skill Sets
5/11/2023

Every employee brings a different point of view to the library workplace, and managers cannot learn everything about staff members’ unique knowledge and training. Specifically, supervising employees in IT, building and grounds, and PR or marketing can be a challenge. Librarians and library workers also bring specialty knowledge of genealogy, archives, fluency in other languages, and more. In this webinar, we will discuss how to measure, evaluate, and provide direction to your team members with these important abilities.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn to develop tools and templates for hiring.
  • Discuss the ongoing process of coaching, training, and management.
  • Find resources to keep informed without learning an entirely new discipline.
 
Presenter:

Cari Dubiel brings 25+ years of experience to the library field, working in many different capacities. She is currently Assistant Director at Twinsburg Public Library. Cari is also a writer and a former board member for Sisters in Crime, a national group for mystery authors.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Supervising Specialty Staff: How to Work With Employees’ Different Skill Sets
5/11/2023

Recorded 5/11/23

Every employee brings a different point of view to the library workplace, and managers cannot learn everything about staff members’ unique knowledge and training. Specifically, supervising employees in IT, building and grounds, and PR or marketing can be a challenge. Librarians and library workers also bring specialty knowledge of genealogy, archives, fluency in other languages, and more. In this webinar, we will discuss how to measure, evaluate, and provide direction to your team members with these important abilities.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn to develop tools and templates for hiring.
  • Discuss the ongoing process of coaching, training, and management.
  • Find resources to keep informed without learning an entirely new discipline.
 
Presenter:

Cari Dubiel brings 25+ years of experience to the library field, working in many different capacities. She is currently Assistant Director at Twinsburg Public Library. Cari is also a writer and a former board member for Sisters in Crime, a national group for mystery authors.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
5/12/2023

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 email when you register and 1 hour before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.


 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
5/17/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Special Libraries Network Meeting
5/18/2023

Join us for networking meeting of special libraries.  Come share your successes and challenges with your fellow special libraries colleagues.  This wiil be virtual via Zoom you will receive the link to the meeting 2 hours prior to the meeting.  Please send topics of interest to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Stuff every New Supervisor Should Know: Having a Solid Legal Foundation
5/31/2023

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,  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.
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Stuff every New Supervisor Should Know: Having a Solid Legal Foundation
5/31/2023

Recorded 5/31/23

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,  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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
6/1/2023

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Training Staff for In Charge duties
6/6/2023

Designed for administrators and managers, this webinar will share how the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library developed an annual training for any staff member who is eligible to be an In Charge person. Deputy Director Kim DeNero-Ackroyd will explain how their annual three hour training is arranged and also under constant revision, in order to stay relevant with current library needs, and share examples of their agendas. She will also explain the contents of what goes into their In Charge notebooks and explain how this resource has been compiled.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Training staff to become more confident in taking on more responsibility.
  • Discuss the important of sharing policies and procedures with staff, as well as developing them with staff input.
  • 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






Training Staff for In Charge duties
6/6/2023

Recorded 6/6/23

Designed for administrators and managers, this webinar will share how the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library developed an annual training for any staff member who is eligible to be an In Charge person. Deputy Director Kim DeNero-Ackroyd will explain how their annual three hour training is arranged and also under constant revision, in order to stay relevant with current library needs, and share examples of their agendas. She will also explain the contents of what goes into their In Charge notebooks and explain how this resource has been compiled.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Training staff to become more confident in taking on more responsibility.
  • Discuss the important of sharing policies and procedures with staff, as well as developing them with staff input.
  • 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






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






Safety and Security Networking Meeting
6/13/2023

Join us for the Security and Safety Networking Meeting.  Here is an opportunity to connect with security staff from other libraries around the region; to share ideas, experiences, etc..  We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Stuff every New Supervisor Should Know: Skills Needed to Effectively Manage People
6/14/2023

Learning Objectives:
  • 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,  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.
Location: Online via Zoom






HR Stuff every New Supervisor Should Know: Skills Needed to Effectively Manage People
6/14/2023

Learning Objectives:
  • 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,  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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Circulation Networking Meeting In-person
6/15/2023

Is your library interested in adding non-traditional circulating items to your collection, but not sure how to go about it? Stephanie Joliff, Culture & AV Division Manager at Akron-Summit County Public Library, will discuss ASCPL's successful Library of Things collection with a focus on the circulation department's duties. Participants will also be able to tour the collection, which includes memory kits, an art library, cake pans, and more.
 
In the afternoon, attendees will have an opportunity to share their successes and challenges via a roundtable discussion.
 
Location: Akron-Summit County Public Library
60 South High Street
Akron, Oh 44326


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.



Circulation Networking Meeting Online via Zoom
6/15/2023

Is your library interested in adding non-traditional circulating items to your collection, but not sure how to go about it? Stephanie Joliff, Culture & AV Division Manager at Akron-Summit County Public Library, will discuss ASCPL's successful Library of Things collection with a focus on the circulation department's duties. Participants will also be able to tour the collection, which includes memory kits, an art library, cake pans, and more.
 
In the afternoon, attendees will have an opportunity to share their successes and challenges via a roundtable discussion.
 
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






Time Management Yours and Theirs
7/12/2023

This webinar is also part of the 2022 New Supervisors' Academy.

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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Time Management Yours and Theirs
7/12/2023

Recorded 7/12/23

This webinar is also part of the 2022 New Supervisors' Academy.

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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Accessibility Initiatives at NC State Libraries
7/13/2023

Accessibility is having a moment. More than ever, libraries are embracing the reality that if you have users, you have users with disabilities. Making our services, resources, and spaces accessible is everyone’s responsibility, and we all have unique skills to contribute to solving our library’s accessibility challenges. We’ll share what we’ve been doing at NC State University Libraries, from ebooks assessments to sensory friendly maps to squashing 300,000+ web accessibility errors. We hope this presentation will meet you wherever you are on your accessibility journey and give you some ideas about things you and your colleagues might do to make your libraries more accessible for everyone in your community.
Learning Objectives
  • Understand why accessibility matters to libraries. 
  • Identify resources available to begin making your library more accessible. 
  • Connect efforts at NC State with efforts you could implement at your library
Presenters:

​Robin Camille Davis is the Associate Head of User Experience at NC State University Libraries, where she coordinates content strategy, advocates for accessible practices, and conducts user research. She is the chair of the Libraries Accessibility Committee. In 2022, she was honored with a Movers & Shakers Award from Library Journal.

Beth Ashmore is the Associate Head of Acquisitions & Discovery (Serials) at NC State University Libraries. She has worked on accessibility in libraries through a collaboration with Lyrasis to present the findings of their 2019 Accessibility Survey white paper and by representing ASERL to the Library Accessibility Alliance where she has served on the e-resource testing and training committees. She is also the co-author of The Librarian’s Guide to Negotiation.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Accessibility Initiatives at NC State Libraries
7/13/2023

Recorded 7/13/23

Accessibility is having a moment. More than ever, libraries are embracing the reality that if you have users, you have users with disabilities. Making our services, resources, and spaces accessible is everyone’s responsibility, and we all have unique skills to contribute to solving our library’s accessibility challenges. We’ll share what we’ve been doing at NC State University Libraries, from ebooks assessments to sensory friendly maps to squashing 300,000+ web accessibility errors. We hope this presentation will meet you wherever you are on your accessibility journey and give you some ideas about things you and your colleagues might do to make your libraries more accessible for everyone in your community.
Learning Objectives
  • Understand why accessibility matters to libraries. 
  • Identify resources available to begin making your library more accessible. 
  • Connect efforts at NC State with efforts you could implement at your library
Presenters:

​Robin Camille Davis is the Associate Head of User Experience at NC State University Libraries, where she coordinates content strategy, advocates for accessible practices, and conducts user research. She is the chair of the Libraries Accessibility Committee. In 2022, she was honored with a Movers & Shakers Award from Library Journal.

Beth Ashmore is the Associate Head of Acquisitions & Discovery (Serials) at NC State University Libraries. She has worked on accessibility in libraries through a collaboration with Lyrasis to present the findings of their 2019 Accessibility Survey white paper and by representing ASERL to the Library Accessibility Alliance where she has served on the e-resource testing and training committees. She is also the co-author of The Librarian’s Guide to Negotiation.


 
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






Working with Data in Excel
7/25/2023

We all collect data, but what are we doing with it? What can we do with it? This workshop will walk through a real library dataset to look for insights and create a visual representation that tells a story. We will also walk through setting up an Excel workbook to efficiently capture data.

Learning Objectives:
  • Navigation of large datasets and mining for useful insights using basic tools such as filtering and formulas such as “average” and “percent change”.
  • Data visualization based on data mined from a large dataset
  • Creation of a data tracking workbook that utilizes cell referencing across worksheets
Presenter:

Kile Byington
Having taken her first library job in 2006 as a Children’s Library Assistant, Kile Byington has spent the last fifteen-plus years building a skill set via various roles in several library systems, from programming to collection development to finance. She is currently the Fiscal Officer for the Twinsburg Public Library and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Akron with a minor in Spanish.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Working with Data in Excel
7/25/2023

Recorded 7/25/23

We all collect data, but what are we doing with it? What can we do with it? This workshop will walk through a real library dataset to look for insights and create a visual representation that tells a story. We will also walk through setting up an Excel workbook to efficiently capture data.

Learning Objectives:
  • Navigation of large datasets and mining for useful insights using basic tools such as filtering and formulas such as “average” and “percent change”.
  • Data visualization based on data mined from a large dataset
  • Creation of a data tracking workbook that utilizes cell referencing across worksheets
Presenter:

Kile Byington
Having taken her first library job in 2006 as a Children’s Library Assistant, Kile Byington has spent the last fifteen-plus years building a skill set via various roles in several library systems, from programming to collection development to finance. She is currently the Fiscal Officer for the Twinsburg Public Library and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Akron with a minor in Spanish.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Unlocking Digital Inclusion: Exploring Accessibility and Inclusion on Library Websites
7/26/2023

Join us for an informative webinar as we dig into the world of online accessibility and inclusion. Learn about key concepts of digital accessibility and address important questions.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insight and practical strategies to create inclusive and accessible library websites. Let's bridge the gap and empower everyone to access the digital world seamlessly.

Learning Objectives:

  • What is Accessibility?
  • Why is Accessibility Important?
  • Who needs support online?
  • Accessibility + Usability = Inclusion
  • Website Accessibility Statements
  • Recite Me - Accessibility on Demand
Presenter:

Aaron Van Auken is a Business Development Executive at Recite Me. Coming originally from a background in sports television, Aaron entered the world of tech sales and established himself as a career sales professional. His track record of relational selling and development has come from a love for working with people and understanding their “why”. Outside of work he enjoys staying active, playing golf, home projects, and spending time with his kids.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Unlocking Digital Inclusion: Exploring Accessibility and Inclusion on Library Websites
7/26/2023

Recorded 7/26/23

Join us for an informative webinar as we dig into the world of online accessibility and inclusion. Learn about key concepts of digital accessibility and address important questions.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insight and practical strategies to create inclusive and accessible library websites. Let's bridge the gap and empower everyone to access the digital world seamlessly.

Learning Objectives:

  • What is Accessibility?
  • Why is Accessibility Important?
  • Who needs support online?
  • Accessibility + Usability = Inclusion
  • Website Accessibility Statements
  • Recite Me - Accessibility on Demand
Presenter:

Aaron Van Auken is a Business Development Executive at Recite Me. Coming originally from a background in sports television, Aaron entered the world of tech sales and established himself as a career sales professional. His track record of relational selling and development has come from a love for working with people and understanding their “why”. Outside of work he enjoys staying active, playing golf, home projects, and spending time with his kids.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Empowering Communities: Social Workers in Libraries
8/1/2023

In an era where public libraries are evolving into vibrant community centers, the need for comprehensive and inclusive support services has become increasingly apparent. This webinar is designed to explore the integration of social work professionals into library settings to enhance the overall well-being of library patrons and strengthen community connections.  You will hear from both administration and the social workers on staff.

Learning Objectives:

  • Insights into why the library decided to hire a social worker
  • Process to hire a social worker
  • Building community partnerships and outreach
  • Supporting patrons and staff with restorative solutions
  • Linking customers to area resources
     

Presenters:

Enda Bracken is the Branch Services Director for the east side of Cuyahoga County Public Library. He works closely with the 7 branch managers who oversee 9 branches. Enda has previously worked for Dublin Public Libraries in Ireland, The Free Library of Philadelphia, Mentor Public Library and Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library.



​Byanta Spencer, LISW-S, CCTP, Social Work Manager, Cuyahoga County Public Library
Bryanta L. Spencer is a licensed independent Social Worker and founder of Fortitude Wellness and Consultations LLC where she provides psychotherapy and professional development training.  She holds certifications as a Clinical Trauma Professional and Mental Health First Aider.  To compliment her passion for helping others and rooting for the underdog, she completed her undergraduate studies at The Ohio State University earning dual degrees in Social Work and Communications with a minor in Criminology.  She also holds a Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University.  Currently, she is serving as the Social Work Manager of Cuyahoga County Public library.  Social services being provided in libraries is a growing trend and she is the first Social Worker in Cuyahoga County to be employed by a library system. 


Deborah McCullough , Chief of Operations, Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County
As part of the Administrative Leadership Team, the COO has oversight of public services operations and buildings—staffing, hours of operation, management of a group of administrative team members that include the Director of Facilities and Maintenance, the Technical Services Manager ( including all materials acquisitions and processing), the public services managers and coordinators responsible for Main Library and all branch supervisors, and most recently the social worker who is a valued member of our team. She is  also the staff representative for the Building and Sites committee of the Board of Trustees.  She s in all building and renovation projects for PLYMC.


Jim Young is the Social Work Specialist for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County which consists of 14 active branches. Jim has 18 years of experience and has worked in various community mental health settings providing therapy and intervention techniques to children, adolescents, and adults. He is active in helping the library’s patrons in finding assistance for their various needs like shelter, benefits, and community agency access. In addition, Jim has experience working as a social worker for home health agencies and hospice providers. Jim has been vocal in helping to provide library staff with De-Escalation techniques for dealing with difficult situations and patrons. Prior to obtaining his Masters of Social Work degree from Youngstown State University, Jim worked for the state of Ohio aiding veterans with barriers to employment. Jim is licensed by the Counselor and Social Work Board in Ohio to practice as a LISW with Supervisor designation. He resides in Rogers Ohio with his therapy dogs Kirby, Katie, Loki, and Tonks that accompany him to work and help provide therapeutic benefits to those who need it.    


Location: Online via Zoom






Empowering Communities: Social Workers in Libraries
8/1/2023

Recorded 8/2/23

In an era where public libraries are evolving into vibrant community centers, the need for comprehensive and inclusive support services has become increasingly apparent. This webinar is designed to explore the integration of social work professionals into library settings to enhance the overall well-being of library patrons and strengthen community connections.  You will hear from both administration and the social workers on staff.

Learning Objectives:

  • Insights into why the library decided to hire a social worker
  • Process to hire a social worker
  • Building community partnerships and outreach
  • Supporting patrons and staff with restorative solutions
  • Linking customers to area resources
     

Presenters:

Enda Bracken is the Branch Services Director for the east side of Cuyahoga County Public Library. He works closely with the 7 branch managers who oversee 9 branches. Enda has previously worked for Dublin Public Libraries in Ireland, The Free Library of Philadelphia, Mentor Public Library and Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library.



​Byanta Spencer, LISW-S, CCTP, Social Work Manager, Cuyahoga County Public Library
Bryanta L. Spencer is a licensed independent Social Worker and founder of Fortitude Wellness and Consultations LLC where she provides psychotherapy and professional development training.  She holds certifications as a Clinical Trauma Professional and Mental Health First Aider.  To compliment her passion for helping others and rooting for the underdog, she completed her undergraduate studies at The Ohio State University earning dual degrees in Social Work and Communications with a minor in Criminology.  She also holds a Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University.  Currently, she is serving as the Social Work Manager of Cuyahoga County Public library.  Social services being provided in libraries is a growing trend and she is the first Social Worker in Cuyahoga County to be employed by a library system. 


Deborah McCullough , Chief of Operations, Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County
As part of the Administrative Leadership Team, the COO has oversight of public services operations and buildings—staffing, hours of operation, management of a group of administrative team members that include the Director of Facilities and Maintenance, the Technical Services Manager ( including all materials acquisitions and processing), the public services managers and coordinators responsible for Main Library and all branch supervisors, and most recently the social worker who is a valued member of our team. She is  also the staff representative for the Building and Sites committee of the Board of Trustees.  She s in all building and renovation projects for PLYMC.


Jim Young is the Social Work Specialist for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County which consists of 14 active branches. Jim has 18 years of experience and has worked in various community mental health settings providing therapy and intervention techniques to children, adolescents, and adults. He is active in helping the library’s patrons in finding assistance for their various needs like shelter, benefits, and community agency access. In addition, Jim has experience working as a social worker for home health agencies and hospice providers. Jim has been vocal in helping to provide library staff with De-Escalation techniques for dealing with difficult situations and patrons. Prior to obtaining his Masters of Social Work degree from Youngstown State University, Jim worked for the state of Ohio aiding veterans with barriers to employment. Jim is licensed by the Counselor and Social Work Board in Ohio to practice as a LISW with Supervisor designation. He resides in Rogers Ohio with his therapy dogs Kirby, Katie, Loki, and Tonks that accompany him to work and help provide therapeutic benefits to those who need it.    


Location: Online via Zoom






You've Got Mail: Using Reference Mail Services to Reach Justice-Involved Individuals
8/2/2023

Recorded 8/2/23

Without regular access to the internet, many people in correctional facilities turn to libraries for help with their information and research needs. They send questions by snail mail, and this strikingly non-digital endeavor is easy to provide. St. Louis County Library has been receiving letters from people in correctional facilities for decades, but in recent years our service has increased by over 1,000%.

Answering questions via mail to correctional facilities requires a combination of traditional reference skills, modern searching techniques, and special security considerations. This service provides an excellent low-cost opportunity to serve the community and further the fundamental mission of public libraries. Join Megan Phifer-Davis to learn how you can start providing this service and develop procedures and guidelines to prioritize security and safeguard privacy. She’ll also explain methods used to expand the service and connecting with other libraries doing this work across the country.

Learning Objectives:
  • How to begin the service of answering reference questions by mail from people in correctional facilities
  • Best practices for responding to inquiries
  • Methods to promote the service
Presenter:

Megan Phifer-Davis is the Manager, Reference at St. Louis County Library in St. Louis, Missouri. She is responsible for the electronic resources for St. Louis County Library and managing the Reference librarian staff, a staff of 12, that work throughout all of St. Louis County providing research assistance to educators and students, small business owners, job seekers, and more. She previously worked at Lindenwood University as the Outreach and E-Learning Librarian in St. Charles, Missouri. She has served on local library committees and presented at local Missouri library conferences on the library's Reference by Mail service, as well as on Open Educational Resources. Megan received a B.S. in Psychology from Fontbonne University and a M.L.I.S. from Simmon's University.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






You’ve Got Mail: Using Reference Mail Services to Reach Justice-Involved Individuals
8/2/2023

Without regular access to the internet, many people in correctional facilities turn to libraries for help with their information and research needs. They send questions by snail mail, and this strikingly non-digital endeavor is easy to provide. St. Louis County Library has been receiving letters from people in correctional facilities for decades, but in recent years our service has increased by over 1,000%.

Answering questions via mail to correctional facilities requires a combination of traditional reference skills, modern searching techniques, and special security considerations. This service provides an excellent low-cost opportunity to serve the community and further the fundamental mission of public libraries. Join Megan Phifer-Davis to learn how you can start providing this service and develop procedures and guidelines to prioritize security and safeguard privacy. She’ll also explain methods used to expand the service and connecting with other libraries doing this work across the country.

Learning Objectives:
  • How to begin the service of answering reference questions by mail from people in correctional facilities
  • Best practices for responding to inquiries
  • Methods to promote the service
Presenter:

Megan Phifer-Davis is the Manager, Reference at St. Louis County Library in St. Louis, Missouri. She is responsible for the electronic resources for St. Louis County Library and managing the Reference librarian staff, a staff of 12, that work throughout all of St. Louis County providing research assistance to educators and students, small business owners, job seekers, and more. She previously worked at Lindenwood University as the Outreach and E-Learning Librarian in St. Charles, Missouri. She has served on local library committees and presented at local Missouri library conferences on the library's Reference by Mail service, as well as on Open Educational Resources. Megan received a B.S. in Psychology from Fontbonne University and a M.L.I.S. from Simmon's University.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Curiosity - The Secret Sauce
8/8/2023

Every organization has problems to solve, obstacles to overcome, and a desire to do things better, but how do you harness that energy and bring about change and improvement? Design thinking might be a useful tool for tackling complex challenges. It is both a process and a mindset fueled by curiosity. Join us for an overview of the how, what and why of design thinking. Follow along one organization’s journey through the process and learn about the unexpected, insightful and fun path they took to develop impactful solutions. Participants will be guided through this process with structured support to spur their creativity and set a course for new discoveries.  

Learning Objectives

  • Actively experience both the design thinking process and design thinking mindsets.
  • Apply the design thinking process to a current opportunity or challenge within their own unique library community.
  • Receive actionable tools to begin to solve their identified challenge through a human-centered lens.
Presenters:

Rachel Siegel is a design + innovation specialist at Lakeland Community College, spearheading The Teachers Guild program for K-12 educators in Northeast Ohio since 2018. Rachel also co-leads Alumni Engagement efforts for The Lakeland Foundation. Trained in human-centered design, Rachel has worked with design + innovation firm IDEO on multiple consulting projects, including the global Parents as Allies initiative. She is currently leading design teams from twenty-eight school districts in Western Pennsylvania on a family-school engagement partnership program supported by The Grable Foundation, Kidsburgh, The Brookings Institution, HundrED, and Learning Heroes. Rachel holds a M.S.Ed in School Counseling from Duquesne University. 

Jen Smyser is the program manager of the Nonprofit and Public Service Center at Lakeland Community. Jen draws on her experiences in higher education, nonprofit organizations and government agencies to inform her work serving the nonprofit community. She relishes volunteer opportunities, serving on the Lake Soil and Water Conservation District as a Board Supervisor and as the “cookie mom” for Girl Scout Troop 70444. Jen graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.A. in Sociology and a B.S. in Natural Resource Management. 




 
Location: Online via Zoom






Curiosity - The Secret Sauce
8/8/2023

Recorded 8/8/23

Every organization has problems to solve, obstacles to overcome, and a desire to do things better, but how do you harness that energy and bring about change and improvement? Design thinking might be a useful tool for tackling complex challenges. It is both a process and a mindset fueled by curiosity. Join us for an overview of the how, what and why of design thinking. Follow along one organization’s journey through the process and learn about the unexpected, insightful and fun path they took to develop impactful solutions. Participants will be guided through this process with structured support to spur their creativity and set a course for new discoveries.  

Learning Objectives

  • Actively experience both the design thinking process and design thinking mindsets.
  • Apply the design thinking process to a current opportunity or challenge within their own unique library community.
  • Receive actionable tools to begin to solve their identified challenge through a human-centered lens.
Presenters:

Rachel Siegel is a design + innovation specialist at Lakeland Community College, spearheading The Teachers Guild program for K-12 educators in Northeast Ohio since 2018. Rachel also co-leads Alumni Engagement efforts for The Lakeland Foundation. Trained in human-centered design, Rachel has worked with design + innovation firm IDEO on multiple consulting projects, including the global Parents as Allies initiative. She is currently leading design teams from twenty-eight school districts in Western Pennsylvania on a family-school engagement partnership program supported by The Grable Foundation, Kidsburgh, The Brookings Institution, HundrED, and Learning Heroes. Rachel holds a M.S.Ed in School Counseling from Duquesne University. 

Jen Smyser is the program manager of the Nonprofit and Public Service Center at Lakeland Community. Jen draws on her experiences in higher education, nonprofit organizations and government agencies to inform her work serving the nonprofit community. She relishes volunteer opportunities, serving on the Lake Soil and Water Conservation District as a Board Supervisor and as the “cookie mom” for Girl Scout Troop 70444. Jen graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.A. in Sociology and a B.S. in Natural Resource Management. 




 
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






Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
8/15/2023

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






Working Towards Equity
8/16/2023

Have you noticed the conversation shift towards equity and away from equality? This session will examine why. Participants will explore the concept of equity and begin to understand individual and institutional detours to achieving it.

***We will be utilizing breakout rooms.  If you do not have a microphone or a camera you will still be able to participate via the chat.

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






MeckTech: Lessons Learned Through Digital Equity Initiatives
8/17/2023

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library in NC adopted two major digital equity initiatives in 2021: distributing refurbished laptops to 20,000 adults and building a free WiFi network for a neighborhood with low internet connectivity. We will share knowledge gained, along with outcomes of both projects, during this session. Both projects provided valuable lessons for public libraries interested in digital equity work, from strategic partnerships and staff capacity to legal requirements and considerations for user experience.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify potential challenges and solutions for programs that address digital equity in their community.
  • Evaluate potential partnerships that can contribute to the success of digital equity projects.
  • Develop a strategic approach to a public library’s role in the digital equity landscape.
Presenter:

Emery Ortiz has worked in North Carolina public libraries since 2009, beginning in youth services and moving into library administration. After 8 years as a Library Director, she joined Charlotte Mecklenburg Library as its Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer in 2022. Emery loves public libraries for their ability to equitably spread knowledge and a sense of wonder throughout their communities.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






MeckTech: Lessons Learned Through Digital Equity Initiatives
8/17/2023

Recorded 8/17/23

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library in NC adopted two major digital equity initiatives in 2021: distributing refurbished laptops to 20,000 adults and building a free WiFi network for a neighborhood with low internet connectivity. We will share knowledge gained, along with outcomes of both projects, during this session. Both projects provided valuable lessons for public libraries interested in digital equity work, from strategic partnerships and staff capacity to legal requirements and considerations for user experience.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify potential challenges and solutions for programs that address digital equity in their community.
  • Evaluate potential partnerships that can contribute to the success of digital equity projects.
  • Develop a strategic approach to a public library’s role in the digital equity landscape.
Presenter:

Emery Ortiz has worked in North Carolina public libraries since 2009, beginning in youth services and moving into library administration. After 8 years as a Library Director, she joined Charlotte Mecklenburg Library as its Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer in 2022. Emery loves public libraries for their ability to equitably spread knowledge and a sense of wonder throughout their communities.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Boosting Your Leadership Self Confidence
8/22/2023

This online workshop is also part of the 2022 New Supervisors' Academy.

This online 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 setback

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






Mental Health First Aid
8/23/2023

Mental Health First Aid is a training course designed to give members of the public key skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Just as CPR training helps a layperson without medical training assist an individual following a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid training helps a layperson assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis.  This course will run 9:00 am - 3:30 pm.  There will be two hours worth of pre-work before the live instructor-led online workshop.  This course is limited to 30.  Register for this class only if you are able to attend. This class will not be archived.

The evidence behind Mental Health First Aid demonstrates that it makes people feel more comfortable managing a crisis situation and builds mental health literacy — helping the public identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness. Specifically, studies found that those who trained in Mental Health First Aid have greater confidence in providing help to others, greater likelihood of advising people to seek professional help, improved concordance with health professionals about treatments, and decreased stigmatizing attitudes.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize the potential risk factors and warning signs for a range of mental health problems, including: depression, anxiety/trauma, psychosis and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and self-injury
  • Use a 5-step action plan to help an individual in crisis connect with appropriate professional help
  • Interpret the prevalence of various mental health disorders in the U.S. and the need for reduced negative attitudes in their communities
  • Apply knowledge of the appropriate professional, peer, social, and self-help resources available to help someone
Presenter:  TBA
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.



Technical Services/Collection Development Networking Meeting
9/7/2023

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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: Foundational Principles of Library Service
9/13/2023

While libraries can vary in size, scope, and communities served, all libraries adhere to a set of overarching principles that include a commitment to equitable access, intellectual freedom, patron privacy and confidentiality, and the free expression of ideas. This session will provide an overview of these guiding principles and include examples of how they present in today's libraries.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to summarize the foundational tenets of library service as they relate to access and intellectual freedom.
  • Participants will be able to identify conditions and situations that might pose challenges to access and intellectual freedom in libraries.
  • Participants will be able to appraise their own libraries and work environments and recognize processes that support equitable access and intellectual freedom as well as those processes or procedures that could be improved.
Presenter:

Jeff Regensburger is currently a Library Consultant and LSTA Coordinator at the State Library of Ohio. In that capacity, he administers the State Libraries' LSTA Grants to States funds and assists libraries who have been awarded LSTA funding. Prior to that, Jeff served 25 years at Worthington Libraries that included time as an Adult Services Librarian, Supervisor, and 12 years as a Library Manager. Over the course of his career, Jeff has served on the State Library’s LSTA Advisory Council, OPLIN’s Content Advisory Committee, and OLC’s Intellectual Freedom Committee. Currently, Jeff serves on the Library Leadership Ohio Planning Committee and the ILEAD Ohio Planning Team.

Jeff earned a Master of Library Science from Kent State University School of Library and Information Science (now known as School of Information) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The Ohio State University.
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: Foundational Principles of Library Service
9/13/2023

Recorded 9/13/23

While libraries can vary in size, scope, and communities served, all libraries adhere to a set of overarching principles that include a commitment to equitable access, intellectual freedom, patron privacy and confidentiality, and the free expression of ideas. This session will provide an overview of these guiding principles and include examples of how they present in today's libraries.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to summarize the foundational tenets of library service as they relate to access and intellectual freedom.
  • Participants will be able to identify conditions and situations that might pose challenges to access and intellectual freedom in libraries.
  • Participants will be able to appraise their own libraries and work environments and recognize processes that support equitable access and intellectual freedom as well as those processes or procedures that could be improved.
Presenter:

Jeff Regensburger is currently a Library Consultant and LSTA Coordinator at the State Library of Ohio. In that capacity, he administers the State Libraries' LSTA Grants to States funds and assists libraries who have been awarded LSTA funding. Prior to that, Jeff served 25 years at Worthington Libraries that included time as an Adult Services Librarian, Supervisor, and 12 years as a Library Manager. Over the course of his career, Jeff has served on the State Library’s LSTA Advisory Council, OPLIN’s Content Advisory Committee, and OLC’s Intellectual Freedom Committee. Currently, Jeff serves on the Library Leadership Ohio Planning Committee and the ILEAD Ohio Planning Team.

Jeff earned a Master of Library Science from Kent State University School of Library and Information Science (now known as School of Information) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The Ohio State University.
Location: Online via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
9/20/2023

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Jane Carle any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






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






Construction and Facilities Networking Meeting- Focused on Facilities Maintenance
9/21/2023

Catch up with your peers in this networking opportunity about construction and facilities.  Send topics you would like to discuss to Melissa Lattanzi.

Featured Presentation:  Long-Term Facilities Planning: Prioritizing for the Future: The careful analysis of current facility assets is crucial to ensure that replacement is planned before obsolescence, unreliability or failure.  Join a discussion on the process the Facilities Manager at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library takes to ensure mechanical systems, building finishes and equipment are utilized to their best extent and planned for succession.

Presenter:  

Rob Chismar, a Youngstown area native, has been the Facilities Manager for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library system since 2019.  Rob’s experience includes numerous building and grounds management positions around Northeast Ohio.  He believes that a team-oriented and proactive environment is crucial to successful management of public facilities.  Rob holds an Associate of Applied Science and Bachelor of Applied Horticulture degree, both from Kent State University.  In his spare time, he enjoys gardening, home improvement projects and spending time with his two beagles, Olivia and Rex.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: Library Operations
9/21/2023

Recorded 9/21/23

In this webinar we will explore the functions of the departments typically found in public libraries and how they work together. We will discuss how to pursue the various careers available in the public library field, including the education requirements and how to match your soft skills with a suitable position.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how departments such as technical services, circulation, and adult services operate in a public library
  • Explore public library career paths
  • Discover what role(s) would best suit you
Presenter:

Jeff Laser is a Continuing Education Coordinator for the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System (NEO-RLS). Prior to joining NEO-RLS, he worked in public libraries for a decade, in both a single-building library and a large metropolitan system. His experience includes roles in circulation, adult services, and youth services.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: Library Operations
9/21/2023

In this webinar we will explore the functions of the departments typically found in public libraries and how they work together. We will discuss how to pursue the various careers available in the public library field, including the education requirements and how to match your soft skills with a suitable position.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how departments such as technical services, circulation, and adult services operate in a public library
  • Explore public library career paths
  • Discover what role(s) would best suit you
Presenter:

Jeff Laser is a Continuing Education Coordinator for the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System (NEO-RLS). Prior to joining NEO-RLS, he worked in public libraries for a decade, in both a single-building library and a large metropolitan system. His experience includes roles in circulation, adult services, and youth services.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






IT Networking Meeting
9/26/2023

Take this opportunity to network with your peers and discuss your challenges and successes.  Please send topics of discussion to Jeff Laser.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Recognizing Bias
10/3/2023

Various people, institutions and organizations help shape the way we view the world, sometimes in inaccurate ways. Participants will learn to identify implicit and explicit biases and explore strategies for challenging them in ourselves and others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand various concepts around bias
  • Develop strategies for counteracting biases you may have
  • Identify resources for continued learning and support
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

 


Location: Online via Zoom






Recognizing Bias
10/3/2023

Various people, institutions and organizations help shape the way we view the world, sometimes in inaccurate ways. Participants will learn to identify implicit and explicit biases and explore strategies for challenging them in ourselves and others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand various concepts around bias
  • Develop strategies for counteracting biases you may have
  • Identify resources for continued learning and support
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

 


Location: Online via Zoom






Library Boot Camp: Refresh & Reboot: Leveling Up Your Reference Interview & Information Searching Skills
10/4/2023

While we may provide information to patrons on a daily basis, sometimes we need to step back and re-assess not only what we're doing but how we're doing it. This webinar will provide you with a chance to look at standards of practice, suggestions on steps to take in the reference interview, and ways to search for information on any topic. Designed for those staff members new to the reference desk to get them off on the right foot.

Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will gain practical searching skills to apply within any information-searching environment.
  • Attendees will be acquainted with standards of reference service against which to measure their performance.
  • Attendees will learn the importance of - and how to conduct - a thorough reference interview.
Presenter:

Don Boozer is Manager of the Literature Department and Homebound Services at Cleveland Public Library as well as Coordinator of the Ohio Center for the Book. He is also an adjunct instructor at Kent State University's School of Information where he teaches the reference service and information sources class.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Boot Camp: Refresh & Reboot: Leveling Up Your Reference Interview & Information Searching Skills
10/4/2023

Recorded 10/4/23

While we may provide information to patrons on a daily basis, sometimes we need to step back and re-assess not only what we're doing but how we're doing it. This webinar will provide you with a chance to look at standards of practice, suggestions on steps to take in the reference interview, and ways to search for information on any topic. Designed for those staff members new to the reference desk to get them off on the right foot.

Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will gain practical searching skills to apply within any information-searching environment.
  • Attendees will be acquainted with standards of reference service against which to measure their performance.
  • Attendees will learn the importance of - and how to conduct - a thorough reference interview.
Presenter:

Don Boozer is Manager of the Literature Department and Homebound Services at Cleveland Public Library as well as Coordinator of the Ohio Center for the Book. He is also an adjunct instructor at Kent State University's School of Information where he teaches the reference service and information sources class.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






New Genealogy Networking Meeting
10/5/2023

We are excited to start this new genealogy networking group. 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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






New Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility Networking Meeting
10/10/2023

We are excited to start this new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility networking group. 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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






Practical Budget Management: How to Avoid Disaster, Make Smart Moves, Report Responsibly, and Stress Less About your Budget!
10/11/2023

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.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Practical Budget Management: How to Avoid Disaster, Make Smart Moves, Report Responsibly, and Stress Less About your Budget!
10/11/2023

Recorded 10/11/23

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.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Staying Current & Assisting Library Patrons through Rapid Technological Changes
10/12/2023

For years, library staff have fulfilled the role of technology instructors within our communities. However, in this era of swift transformations, this responsibility comes with its fair share of challenges. Our speaker will explore strategies for building and maintaining the skills necessary to succeed, as well as how to apply them when providing tech-help to library patrons.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Attendees will identify core library staff tech skills and develop strategies to build and maintain them. 
  • Attendees will identify current tech help topics and commonly used patron devices. 
  • Attendees will explore best practices in patron tech instruction.
 Presenter:

Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Location: Online via Zoom






Staying Current & Assisting Library Patrons through Rapid Technological Changes
10/12/2023

Recorded 10/12/23

For years, library staff have fulfilled the role of technology instructors within our communities. However, in this era of swift transformations, this responsibility comes with its fair share of challenges. Our speaker will explore strategies for building and maintaining the skills necessary to succeed, as well as how to apply them when providing tech-help to library patrons.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Attendees will identify core library staff tech skills and develop strategies to build and maintain them. 
  • Attendees will identify current tech help topics and commonly used patron devices. 
  • Attendees will explore best practices in patron tech instruction.
 Presenter:

Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Location: Online via Zoom






Inclusive Decision-Making: Navigating DEI Challenges for Effective Systems Change and Personal Growth
10/24/2023

Empower your decision-making, overcome pitfalls, challenge resistance, and foster resilience on the path towards inclusive change and personal well-being.

Learning Objectives:
  • DEI Decision Making: basic components of making decisions through the lens of inclusivity.
  • Common Missteps in DEI Systems Change: What are the major pitfalls to avoid when embarking on a systems change process.
  • Identifying and Challenging Resistance: What does resistance sound like from others? How do I identify and challenge it in myself and my everyday life?
  • Self-Identity and Resiliency: How do I care for myself in the process of DEI and advocacy?
Presenters:
 
Chinenye Nkemere
Chinenye (ChiChi) (she/her) is a strategic thinker. She has over 10 years of experience in community engagement, asset building and advocacy. She holds a B.A. in Political Science, African Studies and African American Studies from The Ohio State University, with a focus on race and electoral politics. ChiChi is a Teach for America alumni and highly skilled curriculum specialist. She is active in various civic projects and strategic initiatives in Northeast Ohio. She remains dedicated to progressive and radically inclusive equity in all spaces and for all peoples.

Bethany Studenic
Bethany (she/her) is a Master's level Social Worker and Attorney. Bethany has over a decade of experience in community change initiatives and has served as a leader in prominent social and research-based advocacy movements. Additionally, Bethany has worked in direct practice with diverse groups, including survivors of domestic violence, community police reform movements, and families experiencing poverty.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Inclusive Decision-Making: Navigating DEI Challenges for Effective Systems Change and Personal Growth
10/24/2023

Recorded 10/24/23

Empower your decision-making, overcome pitfalls, challenge resistance, and foster resilience on the path towards inclusive change and personal well-being.

Learning Objectives:
  • DEI Decision Making: basic components of making decisions through the lens of inclusivity.
  • Common Missteps in DEI Systems Change: What are the major pitfalls to avoid when embarking on a systems change process.
  • Identifying and Challenging Resistance: What does resistance sound like from others? How do I identify and challenge it in myself and my everyday life?
  • Self-Identity and Resiliency: How do I care for myself in the process of DEI and advocacy?
Presenters:
 
Chinenye Nkemere
Chinenye (ChiChi) (she/her) is a strategic thinker. She has over 10 years of experience in community engagement, asset building and advocacy. She holds a B.A. in Political Science, African Studies and African American Studies from The Ohio State University, with a focus on race and electoral politics. ChiChi is a Teach for America alumni and highly skilled curriculum specialist. She is active in various civic projects and strategic initiatives in Northeast Ohio. She remains dedicated to progressive and radically inclusive equity in all spaces and for all peoples.

Bethany Studenic
Bethany (she/her) is a Master's level Social Worker and Attorney. Bethany has over a decade of experience in community change initiatives and has served as a leader in prominent social and research-based advocacy movements. Additionally, Bethany has worked in direct practice with diverse groups, including survivors of domestic violence, community police reform movements, and families experiencing poverty.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
10/24/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Directors /Deputy Director/Admin Team Virtual Networking Meeting
10/26/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors.    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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Circulation Networking Meeting
11/2/2023

Take this opportunity to share your successes and challenges via a roundtable discussion. You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us Please send topics you would like discussed to Jeff Laser.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Social-Emotional Learning and the Library
11/2/2023

This social-emotional learning webinar will address your frustration with trying to contain and redirect the boundless energy of young people in the library.  You will build a deeper understanding of why youths act the way that they do, and hands-on tools to encourage their best choices.  Additionally, you will discover existing programs that actively and effectively build social-emotional intelligence, and inspiration to develop your own.

Learning Objectives:
  • Following the webinar, participants will be able to describe the origins of youth's behaviors.
  • At the end of the webinar, participants will be able to apply socially-emotionally aware communication tools.
  • Upon completion of the webinar, participants will be able to identify library programs that effectively encourage social-emotional intelligence.
Presenters:

Adina Bloom Lewkowicz is a social-emotional learning specialist; curriculum consultant; expressive arts teacher, and licensed independent social worker.  She is the author of “Teaching Emotional Intelligence: Strategies and Activities for Helping Students make Effective Choices” (Skyhorse, 2016).  Ms. Lewkowicz provides trainings, programs, and curricula for schools, and institutions such as the Cuyahoga County Public Library.  She is on the SEL 4OH Leadership Team, and also speaks nationally on the use of the expressive arts in education, prevention, and counseling.

Anna Heinz has served with Cuyahoga County Public Library as Literacy and Outreach Librarian, Teen Services Librarian and Children’s Services Supervisor for nearly 20 years. In addition to her MLIS, Anna is a professionally licensed 1-8th grade educator and has extensive training in working with youth that have experienced trauma as an Ohio licensed foster parent.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Social-Emotional Learning and the Library
11/2/2023

Recorded 11/2/2023

This social-emotional learning webinar will address your frustration with trying to contain and redirect the boundless energy of young people in the library.  You will build a deeper understanding of why youths act the way that they do, and hands-on tools to encourage their best choices.  Additionally, you will discover existing programs that actively and effectively build social-emotional intelligence, and inspiration to develop your own.

Learning Objectives:
  • Following the webinar, participants will be able to describe the origins of youth's behaviors.
  • At the end of the webinar, participants will be able to apply socially-emotionally aware communication tools.
  • Upon completion of the webinar, participants will be able to identify library programs that effectively encourage social-emotional intelligence.
Presenters:

Adina Bloom Lewkowicz is a social-emotional learning specialist; curriculum consultant; expressive arts teacher, and licensed independent social worker.  She is the author of “Teaching Emotional Intelligence: Strategies and Activities for Helping Students make Effective Choices” (Skyhorse, 2016).  Ms. Lewkowicz provides trainings, programs, and curricula for schools, and institutions such as the Cuyahoga County Public Library.  She is on the SEL 4OH Leadership Team, and also speaks nationally on the use of the expressive arts in education, prevention, and counseling.

Anna Heinz has served with Cuyahoga County Public Library as Literacy and Outreach Librarian, Teen Services Librarian and Children’s Services Supervisor for nearly 20 years. In addition to her MLIS, Anna is a professionally licensed 1-8th grade educator and has extensive training in working with youth that have experienced trauma as an Ohio licensed foster parent.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Start a Comic or Graphic Novel Book Club at Your Library
11/7/2023

This webinar will focus on how to lead a comics and graphic novels book club at your library or in partnership with another organization.We will think about the history and formalistic qualities of comics and reflect on the how the medium invites new ways of participation in reading groups. Finally, we will consider how to curate and focus on book clubs related to diverse subjects such as LGBTQ identity.  
  
Learning Objectives:  
 
  • Participants will develop skills to lead a comics and graphic novel book discussion  
  • Participants will be able to incorporate creative activities into their book discussions  
  • Participants will learn about diverse subjects through comics and graphic novels  
Presenter:

Valentino L. Zullo is the Anisfield-Wolf Postdoctoral Fellow in English and Public Humanities at Ursuline College. He is the former Scholar-in-Residence at the Ohio Center for the Book where he continues to co-lead the Get Graphic program and is the American editor of the Journal of Graphic Novels and Comics. He is also a licensed independent social worker training to be a psychoanalyst at the Cleveland Psychoanalytic Center. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Start a Comic or Graphic Novel Book Club at Your Library
11/7/2023

Recorded 11/7/23

This webinar will focus on how to lead a comics and graphic novels book club at your library or in partnership with another organization.We will think about the history and formalistic qualities of comics and reflect on the how the medium invites new ways of participation in reading groups. Finally, we will consider how to curate and focus on book clubs related to diverse subjects such as LGBTQ identity.  
  
Learning Objectives:  
 
  • Participants will develop skills to lead a comics and graphic novel book discussion  
  • Participants will be able to incorporate creative activities into their book discussions  
  • Participants will learn about diverse subjects through comics and graphic novels  
Presenter:

Valentino L. Zullo is the Anisfield-Wolf Postdoctoral Fellow in English and Public Humanities at Ursuline College. He is the former Scholar-in-Residence at the Ohio Center for the Book where he continues to co-lead the Get Graphic program and is the American editor of the Journal of Graphic Novels and Comics. He is also a licensed independent social worker training to be a psychoanalyst at the Cleveland Psychoanalytic Center. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Outreach Networking Meeting
11/8/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Ditching Dewey
11/14/2023

Many public libraries, and some school libraries, are transitioning away from using the Dewey Decimal System for a variety of reasons: it is outdated and leaves no room for change; to make libraries more accessible to a wider variety of people; and to group related subjects together to name a few. Get a basic overview of the BISAC system, hear about the experience of the Madison Public Library making the switch, and learn some tips and tricks for implementing your own alternative system at your library.
 
Learning Objectives:
 
  • Steps involved in making a switch in systems
  • Pros and Cons of eliminating Dewey
  • Tips for success
 
Presenter:

Dawn Weaver is the Collection Development Librarian at the Madison Public Library in Madison, Ohio, where she has worked for 20 years. She began her career working as a reference librarian in the Children's Department presenting programs and storytimes before transitioning to include adult reference and then accepting her current position in 2018. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a cognate in Criminal Justice from Bowling Green State University and enjoys being able to use her skills to better the lives of patrons.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Ditching Dewey
11/14/2023

Recorded 11/14/23

Many public libraries, and some school libraries, are transitioning away from using the Dewey Decimal System for a variety of reasons: it is outdated and leaves no room for change; to make libraries more accessible to a wider variety of people; and to group related subjects together to name a few. Get a basic overview of the BISAC system, hear about the experience of the Madison Public Library making the switch, and learn some tips and tricks for implementing your own alternative system at your library.
 
Learning Objectives:
 
  • Steps involved in making a switch in systems
  • Pros and Cons of eliminating Dewey
  • Tips for success
 
Presenter:

Dawn Weaver is the Collection Development Librarian at the Madison Public Library in Madison, Ohio, where she has worked for 20 years. She began her career working as a reference librarian in the Children's Department presenting programs and storytimes before transitioning to include adult reference and then accepting her current position in 2018. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a cognate in Criminal Justice from Bowling Green State University and enjoys being able to use her skills to better the lives of patrons.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Canva Tips and Tricks for Advanced Users
11/28/2023

Join us as we explore some of the lesser known features of Canva Pro, and learn new uses for commonly used features. From animation to picture retouching, Canva is a versatile tool with so many hidden uses!

Learning Objectives:
  • Utilize lesser-known features of common tools (such as the gradient sliders on the color selection tool)
  • Discover new features (such as Animation)
  • Improve the overall quality of Canva productions
Presenter:

Amanda Hughes is a youth services library associate with the Bexley Public Library by day, and an amateur graphic designer... also by day! She helps design many of the materials used in the building, including BPL's custom summer reading art.
Location: Online via Zoom






Canva Tips and Tricks for Advanced Users
11/28/2023

Recorded 11/28/23

Join us as we explore some of the lesser known features of Canva Pro, and learn new uses for commonly used features. From animation to picture retouching, Canva is a versatile tool with so many hidden uses!

Learning Objectives:
  • Utilize lesser-known features of common tools (such as the gradient sliders on the color selection tool)
  • Discover new features (such as Animation)
  • Improve the overall quality of Canva productions
Presenter:

Amanda Hughes is a youth services library associate with the Bexley Public Library by day, and an amateur graphic designer... also by day! She helps design many of the materials used in the building, including BPL's custom summer reading art.
Location: Online via Zoom






Youth Mental Health First Aid
11/29/2023

Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This 6-hour training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to children and adolescents (ages 6-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care.

This course will run 9:00 am - 3:00 pm.  There will be two hours' worth of pre-work before the live instructor-led online workshop.  This course is limited to 30.  Register for this class only if you are able to attend. This class will not be archived.

Presenter:
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019. 
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.



Library Bootcamp: Intro to Cataloging
11/30/2023

So what really IS cataloging, anyway? Why do we do it? What does a typical cataloger's day look like? Geared toward non-catalogers and brand-new catalogers, this session will share introductory vocabulary, concepts, and principles of cataloging, as well as advice for pursuing technical services work.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand why and how libraries catalog materials
  • Gain new vocabulary to discuss library catalogs
  • Learn to "read" catalog records at a basic level.
Presenter:

Misty Alvaro has worked in academic, public, and special libraries, but public libraries are their forever home. They worked in every possible public services department and technical services before landing their perfect gig as a cataloging and processing manager at Columbus Metropolitan Libraries. They are a member of CML's DEI Committee and are passionate about equity, inclusion, and representation in library collections. Most importantly, Misty loves answering questions!
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: Intro to Cataloging
11/30/2023

Recorded 11/30/23

So what really IS cataloging, anyway? Why do we do it? What does a typical cataloger's day look like? Geared toward non-catalogers and brand-new catalogers, this session will share introductory vocabulary, concepts, and principles of cataloging, as well as advice for pursuing technical services work.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand why and how libraries catalog materials
  • Gain new vocabulary to discuss library catalogs
  • Learn to "read" catalog records at a basic level.
Presenter:

Misty Alvaro has worked in academic, public, and special libraries, but public libraries are their forever home. They worked in every possible public services department and technical services before landing their perfect gig as a cataloging and processing manager at Columbus Metropolitan Libraries. They are a member of CML's DEI Committee and are passionate about equity, inclusion, and representation in library collections. Most importantly, Misty loves answering questions!
 
Location: Online via Zoom






So You are a New Children’s Librarian Supervisor or you Want to be One?
12/5/2023

What do you need to know?  Children’s Supervisors juggle onboarding and supporting staff, scheduling staff, programming, and outreach…and a lot more.  Learn the basics you need to run a successful children’s department.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the steps to successfully onboard new children’s staff and support them in their roles.
  • Learn tips on creating a work schedule and a programming schedule that meets the needs of their community.
  • Learn how to connect with community resources such as local schools, childcare centers, and nonprofit agencies.
Presenters:

Julia Boxler is the Youth Programming Manager at Cuyahoga County Public Library. In her role, she has led programming from birth to age 18 and has been an integral lead in a number of youth initiatives at CCPL. Julia’s work includes the expansion and re-imagination of homework services, the creation of a new avenue of programming to assist youth who struggle to meet the third-grade reading guarantee, the coordination of Parent Engagement programming, including a kindergarten readiness initiative, and the ongoing creation of partnerships with local organizations to support youth with special needs and their families.  Julia's ability to get the most out of her budget has provided the resources necessary to implement her various programs.

Maria Trivisonno is the Family Engagement Specialist for Cuyahoga County Public Library in suburban Cleveland, Ohio.  She started paging at CCPL when she was 16 years old and served as a children’s assistant, teen librarian, and children’s department head throughout the years.  Maria received a Laura Bush 21st Century “Youth Services, Librarians, and Museums—A New Vision of Learning” scholarship funded by the federal Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) in Washington, D.C. to get her MLIS at Kent State University, graduating in 2011. She is a member of the advisory board of the Virginia Hamilton Conference on Multicultural Literature for Youth, is co-chair of ALSC’s Intellectual Freedom Committee, and the current chair of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






So You are a New Children’s Librarian Supervisor or you Want to be One?
12/5/2023

Recorded 12/5/23

What do you need to know?  Children’s Supervisors juggle onboarding and supporting staff, scheduling staff, programming, and outreach…and a lot more.  Learn the basics you need to run a successful children’s department.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the steps to successfully onboard new children’s staff and support them in their roles.
  • Learn tips on creating a work schedule and a programming schedule that meets the needs of their community.
  • Learn how to connect with community resources such as local schools, childcare centers, and nonprofit agencies.
Presenters:

Julia Boxler is the Youth Programming Manager at Cuyahoga County Public Library. In her role, she has led programming from birth to age 18 and has been an integral lead in a number of youth initiatives at CCPL. Julia’s work includes the expansion and re-imagination of homework services, the creation of a new avenue of programming to assist youth who struggle to meet the third-grade reading guarantee, the coordination of Parent Engagement programming, including a kindergarten readiness initiative, and the ongoing creation of partnerships with local organizations to support youth with special needs and their families.  Julia's ability to get the most out of her budget has provided the resources necessary to implement her various programs.

Maria Trivisonno is the Family Engagement Specialist for Cuyahoga County Public Library in suburban Cleveland, Ohio.  She started paging at CCPL when she was 16 years old and served as a children’s assistant, teen librarian, and children’s department head throughout the years.  Maria received a Laura Bush 21st Century “Youth Services, Librarians, and Museums—A New Vision of Learning” scholarship funded by the federal Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) in Washington, D.C. to get her MLIS at Kent State University, graduating in 2011. She is a member of the advisory board of the Virginia Hamilton Conference on Multicultural Literature for Youth, is co-chair of ALSC’s Intellectual Freedom Committee, and the current chair of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






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






Special Libraries Network Meeting
12/6/2023

Join us for networking meeting of special libraries.  Come share your successes and challenges with your fellow special libraries colleagues.  This wiil be virtual via Zoom you will receive the link to the meeting 2 hours prior to the meeting.  Please send topics of interest to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






Adult Services Networking Meeting
12/7/2023

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Dealing with Digital Distractions: Ideas and Recommendations for Libraries
12/7/2023

Library managers and staff have many demands and distractions. This presentation will help cut through the noise and suggest both technical and non-technical solutions for better balance at work. You’ll learn about different software and apps that can help. Attendees will also learn more about how to deal with email stress, creating boundaries and routines, and more.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • More about prioritizing tasks
  • Tech-solutions for tech distractions
  • Effective project and time management digital tools
  • Communicating with colleagues and others to better create healthy boundaries
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 Digital Distractions: Ideas and Recommendations for Libraries
12/7/2023

Recorded 12/7/23

Library managers and staff have many demands and distractions. This presentation will help cut through the noise and suggest both technical and non-technical solutions for better balance at work. You’ll learn about different software and apps that can help. Attendees will also learn more about how to deal with email stress, creating boundaries and routines, and more.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • More about prioritizing tasks
  • Tech-solutions for tech distractions
  • Effective project and time management digital tools
  • Communicating with colleagues and others to better create healthy boundaries
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






Special Libraries: How Can They Help Your Patrons and Library
12/12/2023

We have many special libraries in the Northeast Ohio region.  Here we highlight three special libraries and what they can offer your patrons and library.
 
Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden)
Did you know that NE Ohio contains one of the best botanical and horticultural libraries in the country? The special libraries at Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden) not only contain books to help you learn about plants and trees but also a museum-class collection of botanical illustration, landscape architecture, and scientific manuscripts from Darwin to Redoute to van Leeuwenhoek. Learn about the resources, including outreach programs for public libraries, present in your own backyard! 
 
Presenter:
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. 


Ingalls Library, Cleveland Museum of Art
The Ingalls Library at the Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the largest art research libraries in the United States. We offer comprehensive access to art information covering all periods and geographic areas in many languages. The Museum Archives houses institutional records that document the history and role of the museum in the social and cultural history of the community and the world of art; and the personal papers of regional artists, arts businesses, and art collectors. We are open to the public, offering resources and assistance to meet any research need.  
Presenter:
Leslie Cade is the director of the Ingalls Library & Museum Archives at the Cleveland Museum of Art, responsible for all library and archival functions. A graduate of John Carroll University and Case Western Reserve University, Leslie’s career includes leadership positions in a variety of special libraries. Her wealth of experience includes policy and long-range planning; successful grant writing; library and archival collection development and management; preservation of materials in all formats; and records management.  



Cleveland Law Library
Fun fact: Every county in Ohio has a law library. Some are not staffed full-time and are only a bookshelf, while others can look like a typical branch of a public library.  Stark County Law Library provides legal information services to judges, attorneys, county and township officials AND the public. With four full-time staff and access to many valuable legal resources, the Stark County Law Library is happy to assist with legal information needs.

Presenter:

Kathleen M. Dugan, Esq., MLS:
 Ms. Dugan currently serves two roles as the Librarian and Secretary of the Cleveland Law Library and the Librarian & Chief Administrator of the Cuyahoga County Law Library. Ms. Dugan came to the Law Library in 2003 after working as a Reference Librarian at the CWRU School of Law Library. In addition to her administrative duties, Ms. Dugan performs reference and research services for the Library’s patrons and conducts training for Library members and staff. She frequently lectures on legal research topics, and she has written the chapter on law libraries for the Ohio State Bar Association’s online book entitled OfficeKeeper. Ms. Dugan is a 1984 graduate of John Carroll University, where she obtained a B.A. in English, a minor in Political Science and a concentration in business. Thereafter in 1987, Ms. Dugan obtained her J.D. from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, where she served as a Managing Editor of the Cleveland State Law Review. Upon graduation, Ms. Dugan practiced civil litigation for 13 years at a small boutique Cleveland law firm. While engaged in the practice of law, Ms. Dugan taught paralegal classes for both Notre Dame College of Ohio and the American Institute for Paralegal Studies. In 1999, Ms. Dugan finally pursued her true career love and went to Kent State University, where she obtained a graduate appointment and completed her Masters in Library in Science by the year 2000, graduating No. 1 in her class. Ms. Dugan is an active member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and its Justice For All Committee

Location: Online via Zoom






Special Libraries: How Can They Help Your Patrons and Library
12/12/2023

Recorded 12/12/23

We have many special libraries in the Northeast Ohio region.  Here we highlight three special libraries and what they can offer your patrons and library.
 
Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden)
Did you know that NE Ohio contains one of the best botanical and horticultural libraries in the country? The special libraries at Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden) not only contain books to help you learn about plants and trees but also a museum-class collection of botanical illustration, landscape architecture, and scientific manuscripts from Darwin to Redoute to van Leeuwenhoek. Learn about the resources, including outreach programs for public libraries, present in your own backyard! 
 
Presenter:
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. 


Ingalls Library, Cleveland Museum of Art
The Ingalls Library at the Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the largest art research libraries in the United States. We offer comprehensive access to art information covering all periods and geographic areas in many languages. The Museum Archives houses institutional records that document the history and role of the museum in the social and cultural history of the community and the world of art; and the personal papers of regional artists, arts businesses, and art collectors. We are open to the public, offering resources and assistance to meet any research need.  
Presenter:
Leslie Cade is the director of the Ingalls Library & Museum Archives at the Cleveland Museum of Art, responsible for all library and archival functions. A graduate of John Carroll University and Case Western Reserve University, Leslie’s career includes leadership positions in a variety of special libraries. Her wealth of experience includes policy and long-range planning; successful grant writing; library and archival collection development and management; preservation of materials in all formats; and records management.  



Cleveland Law Library
Fun fact: Every county in Ohio has a law library. Some are not staffed full-time and are only a bookshelf, while others can look like a typical branch of a public library.  Stark County Law Library provides legal information services to judges, attorneys, county and township officials AND the public. With four full-time staff and access to many valuable legal resources, the Stark County Law Library is happy to assist with legal information needs.

Presenter:

Kathleen M. Dugan, Esq., MLS:
 Ms. Dugan currently serves two roles as the Librarian and Secretary of the Cleveland Law Library and the Librarian & Chief Administrator of the Cuyahoga County Law Library. Ms. Dugan came to the Law Library in 2003 after working as a Reference Librarian at the CWRU School of Law Library. In addition to her administrative duties, Ms. Dugan performs reference and research services for the Library’s patrons and conducts training for Library members and staff. She frequently lectures on legal research topics, and she has written the chapter on law libraries for the Ohio State Bar Association’s online book entitled OfficeKeeper. Ms. Dugan is a 1984 graduate of John Carroll University, where she obtained a B.A. in English, a minor in Political Science and a concentration in business. Thereafter in 1987, Ms. Dugan obtained her J.D. from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, where she served as a Managing Editor of the Cleveland State Law Review. Upon graduation, Ms. Dugan practiced civil litigation for 13 years at a small boutique Cleveland law firm. While engaged in the practice of law, Ms. Dugan taught paralegal classes for both Notre Dame College of Ohio and the American Institute for Paralegal Studies. In 1999, Ms. Dugan finally pursued her true career love and went to Kent State University, where she obtained a graduate appointment and completed her Masters in Library in Science by the year 2000, graduating No. 1 in her class. Ms. Dugan is an active member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and its Justice For All Committee

Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting -Issue 2
12/13/2023

This is a last minute meeting that will focus on Issue 2 and what it means for libraries.
 

Navigating Issue 2: What Public Libraries Need to Know About Ohio’s Marijuana Legalization

Join Kastner Westman & Wilkins attorneys Michael Karst and Mike Tontillo on this timely, FREE, one-hour networking workshop explaining how the passage of Issue 2 affects public libraries and what they can still do to regulate marijuana in the workplace.  This is a great opportunity for interactive dialogue about how to manage the workplace as marijuana becomes more available to the public.


Location: Online
Via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting -Issue 2
12/13/2023

Recorded 12/13/23

This is a last minute meeting that will focus on Issue 2 and what it means for libraries.

Navigating Issue 2: What Public Libraries Need to Know About Ohio’s Marijuana Legalization

Join Kastner Westman & Wilkins attorneys Michael Karst and Mike Tontillo on this timely, FREE, one-hour networking workshop explaining how the passage of Issue 2 affects public libraries and what they can still do to regulate marijuana in the workplace.  This is a great opportunity for interactive dialogue about how to manage the workplace as marijuana becomes more available to the public.


Location: Online
Via Zoom






Patron Bashing in Public Libraries: Its Effect on the Professional and the Profession
12/13/2023

We have all been known to tell stories about our experiences working in the public library. Many of those include stories about patrons, sometimes positive ones, but far too often it’s the negative ones that get us the attention we are looking for when telling a story. While many believe venting helps reduce stress after a difficult interaction with a patron, the research shows the opposite is true.

In this session we will explore types of patron bashing and how it is damaging to the person doing it, their organization, and the profession.

Learning Objectives:
  • Several types of patron bashing and its effect on those around you.
  • Strategies to avoid contributing to patron bashing and how to respond when you witness it.
  • The qualities expected of service-oriented information professionals.  

Presenter:

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






Patron Bashing in Public Libraries: Its Effect on the Professional and the Profession
12/13/2023

Recorded 12/13/23

We have all been known to tell stories about our experiences working in the public library. Many of those include stories about patrons, sometimes positive ones, but far too often it’s the negative ones that get us the attention we are looking for when telling a story. While many believe venting helps reduce stress after a difficult interaction with a patron, the research shows the opposite is true.

In this session we will explore types of patron bashing and how it is damaging to the person doing it, their organization, and the profession.

Learning Objectives:
  • Several types of patron bashing and its effect on those around you.
  • Strategies to avoid contributing to patron bashing and how to respond when you witness it.
  • The qualities expected of service-oriented information professionals.  

Presenter:

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






Library Boot Camp: Reaching the Community Through Programming and Outreach
12/14/2023

Programs and outreach can feel daunting for new and old library staff alike. Where do you start? How do you decide what to offer? This webinar will provide a basic overview on what programs and outreach services can look like, how to design and implement them, challenges your library might face, and how to evaluate their success.

Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will learn about the forms programs and outreach services can take.
  • Attendees will learn about challenges and considerations when designing and implementing programs
  • Attendees will learn how to evaluate their programs whether they go well or poorly, and how to use that data to prepare for the future.
Presenters:  

Ann MacNamara has been with Heights Libraries in Cleveland Heights, OH for nearly 10 years. As a Technology Trainer, she provides group and one-on-one technology instruction on everything from how to use the mouse to Excel formulas and 3D printing. Ann earned a Bachelor of Arts from Earlham College in German Language and Literature and International Studies and a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University.



Steve Sanders has been the Refugee Services Librarian at the Noble Neighborhood Branch of Heights Libraries for the past six years. He is responsible for leading the library’s programming and outreach efforts with the Bhutanese refugee community living near the Noble Library and coordinating with other refugee service organizations to provide programs and services to the community. He graduated with a Master of Library and Information Science and a Master of Education from Kent State University in 2015.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Boot Camp: Reaching the Community Through Programming and Outreach
12/14/2023

Recorded 12/13/23

Programs and outreach can feel daunting for new and old library staff alike. Where do you start? How do you decide what to offer? This webinar will provide a basic overview on what programs and outreach services can look like, how to design and implement them, challenges your library might face, and how to evaluate their success.

Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will learn about the forms programs and outreach services can take.
  • Attendees will learn about challenges and considerations when designing and implementing programs
  • Attendees will learn how to evaluate their programs whether they go well or poorly, and how to use that data to prepare for the future.
Presenters:  

Ann MacNamara has been with Heights Libraries in Cleveland Heights, OH for nearly 10 years. As a Technology Trainer, she provides group and one-on-one technology instruction on everything from how to use the mouse to Excel formulas and 3D printing. Ann earned a Bachelor of Arts from Earlham College in German Language and Literature and International Studies and a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University.



Steve Sanders has been the Refugee Services Librarian at the Noble Neighborhood Branch of Heights Libraries for the past six years. He is responsible for leading the library’s programming and outreach efforts with the Bhutanese refugee community living near the Noble Library and coordinating with other refugee service organizations to provide programs and services to the community. He graduated with a Master of Library and Information Science and a Master of Education from Kent State University in 2015.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






HR and Legal Update: Recent Changes in the Law and Trends Impacting Public Libraries
1/9/2024

Keeping abreast of changes in employment laws is an on-going challenge for employers generally and for HR Professionals in particular.  In this webinar, we will examine recent developments in the law that impact the ability of public libraries to manage the workforce in a challenging environment.

Learning Objectives:  Attendees will come away with a stronger understanding of recent changes and developments in the law, including:

  • Becoming aware of recent developments in EEO law, including accommodation issues relating to pregnancy, disability, and religion.
  • Being prepared for impending changes impacting salaried exempt employees.
  • Understanding the heightened importance of maintaining positive employee relations in light of recent trends in union organizing activity.
Presenters:

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.


Amanda S Smith, Shareholder, OSBA-Certified Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, DE&I Officer , National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional, Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

Amanda’s unusual path to becoming a labor and employment attorney began with earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in neuroscience at Allegheny College and Kent State University, respectively. After determining that a career in science ultimately was not for her, she took a job as a legal assistant following her graduate studies, and immediately fell in love with law.

That first position at a plaintiff’s side labor and employment firm quickly evolved into enrolling in classes at the University of Akron School of Law, where she eventually earned her juris doctor degree, summa cum laude. Her experience to-date as a management-side labor and employment attorney has led to some lively discussions at the dinner table back home with her father (a police chief) and mother (a former union president).

Amanda has found the work to be both fascinating and fulfilling. She represents employers in many types of labor and employment matters, including charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission and other state fair employment practice agencies. She also counsels employers on litigation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution matters, as well as wage/hour compliance, performance and leave management, discipline, and workplace policies.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






HR and Legal Update: Recent Changes in the Law and Trends Impacting Public Libraries
1/9/2024

Recorded 1/9/24

Keeping abreast of changes in employment laws is an on-going challenge for employers generally and for HR Professionals in particular.  In this webinar, we will examine recent developments in the law that impact the ability of public libraries to manage the workforce in a challenging environment.

Learning Objectives:  Attendees will come away with a stronger understanding of recent changes and developments in the law, including:

  • Becoming aware of recent developments in EEO law, including accommodation issues relating to pregnancy, disability, and religion.
  • Being prepared for impending changes impacting salaried exempt employees.
  • Understanding the heightened importance of maintaining positive employee relations in light of recent trends in union organizing activity.
Presenters:

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.


Amanda S Smith, Shareholder, OSBA-Certified Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, DE&I Officer , National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional, Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

Amanda’s unusual path to becoming a labor and employment attorney began with earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in neuroscience at Allegheny College and Kent State University, respectively. After determining that a career in science ultimately was not for her, she took a job as a legal assistant following her graduate studies, and immediately fell in love with law.

That first position at a plaintiff’s side labor and employment firm quickly evolved into enrolling in classes at the University of Akron School of Law, where she eventually earned her juris doctor degree, summa cum laude. Her experience to-date as a management-side labor and employment attorney has led to some lively discussions at the dinner table back home with her father (a police chief) and mother (a former union president).

Amanda has found the work to be both fascinating and fulfilling. She represents employers in many types of labor and employment matters, including charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission and other state fair employment practice agencies. She also counsels employers on litigation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution matters, as well as wage/hour compliance, performance and leave management, discipline, and workplace policies.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Strategic Leadership
1/10/2024

This webinar is also part of the 2023-2024 Leadership Academy.

This Webinar will provide a brief overview of strategic leadership, provide you with tools to infuse strategic thinking into your library operations, and will discuss strategic leadership  in an ever changing world.
 
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 and 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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Strategic Leadership
1/10/2024

Recorded 1/10/24
This webinar is also part of the 2023-2024 Leadership Academy.

This Webinar will provide a brief overview of strategic leadership, provide you with tools to infuse strategic thinking into your library operations, and will discuss strategic leadership  in an ever changing world.
 
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 and 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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Gamifying the Onboarding Process
1/18/2024

Onboarding can be scary for new employees, ineffective for trainers, and frustrating for all involved. By gamifying the process, you can improve information retention while increasing motivation. Learn how to create a new employee challenge that is interesting, consistent, and fun!

Learning Objectives:

● Learn best practices for creating an online Beanstack challenge for training.
● Take a tour through a live challenge.
● Hear first-hand accounts of the adapted training experience.
● Discuss opportunities for growth in the onboarding process.

Presenter:

Emily Correa is the Deputy Director for the Campbell County Public Library System in Virginia. 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 Virginia Library Association's LGBTQIA+ Forum. Previously she was involved in leadership with other VLA groups, the Mid-Atlantic Library Alliance, The Power of WE Lynchburg, and the County of Campbell.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Gamifying the Onboarding Process
1/18/2024

Recorded 1/18/24

Onboarding can be scary for new employees, ineffective for trainers, and frustrating for all involved. By gamifying the process, you can improve information retention while increasing motivation. Learn how to create a new employee challenge that is interesting, consistent, and fun!

Learning Objectives:

● Learn best practices for creating an online Beanstack challenge for training.
● Take a tour through a live challenge.
● Hear first-hand accounts of the adapted training experience.
● Discuss opportunities for growth in the onboarding process.

Presenter:

Emily Correa is the Deputy Director for the Campbell County Public Library System in Virginia. 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 Virginia Library Association's LGBTQIA+ Forum. Previously she was involved in leadership with other VLA groups, the Mid-Atlantic Library Alliance, The Power of WE Lynchburg, and the County of Campbell.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Weeders Attract More Readers
1/23/2024

We all know that weeding is a necessary part of maintaining a healthy and useful library collection. But when it comes right down to it, the process isn’t as easy as it sounds. Should a book be pulled just because it hasn’t circulated in a year? What if some of the information is still okay? And when will we find the time? Besides, if we pulled every book that should be weeded the shelves would be bare!  (The 75-minute presentation time includes 15 minutes for Q&A.)
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn effective weeding strategies
  • Learn tips for overcoming the biggest obstacles—time, money and bad PR
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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Calm Challenging Patrons: How to Navigate Difficult Interactions
1/24/2024

No one wants to deal with difficult patrons, yet you will inevitably encounter one or two unreasonable people. In Calm Challenging Patrons, you'll convert negative interactions into positive outcomes by implementing the six-step model. This practical system is the same one that Mj developed to manage demanding corporate clients, giving her the nickname of The Clean-Up Crew because she could calm angry customers.

The A.L.E. technique unlocks the "why" behind the patrons' behaviors and emotions. You'll get suggestions to incorporate key verbal and non-verbal communication strategies to defuse conflicts, meet the patrons' needs, and improve relationships. With the Calm Challenging Patrons' step-by-step model, you'll navigate challenging interactions confidently and easily by applying the tools provided.

Learning Objectives:
  •     Understand the common cause of challenging patrons' behaviors and how to de-escalate them effectively.
  •     Use the A.L.E. technique to understand the other person's perspective.
  •     Develop effective communication strategies through the six-step model to resolve conflicts and build a stronger rapport with your patrons.
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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Calm Challenging Patrons: How to Navigate Difficult Interactions
1/24/2024

Recorded on 1/24/24

No one wants to deal with difficult patrons, yet you will inevitably encounter one or two unreasonable people. In Calm Challenging Patrons, you'll convert negative interactions into positive outcomes by implementing the six-step model. This practical system is the same one that Mj developed to manage demanding corporate clients, giving her the nickname of The Clean-Up Crew because she could calm angry customers.

The A.L.E. technique unlocks the "why" behind the patrons' behaviors and emotions. You'll get suggestions to incorporate key verbal and non-verbal communication strategies to defuse conflicts, meet the patrons' needs, and improve relationships. With the Calm Challenging Patrons' step-by-step model, you'll navigate challenging interactions confidently and easily by applying the tools provided.

Learning Objectives:
  •     Understand the common cause of challenging patrons' behaviors and how to de-escalate them effectively.
  •     Use the A.L.E. technique to understand the other person's perspective.
  •     Develop effective communication strategies through the six-step model to resolve conflicts and build a stronger rapport with your patrons.
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. 
Location: Online via Zoom






So, You Want to be a Manager?
1/25/2024

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a manager? Have you wondered if you have what it takes to be a good leader? Are you interested in working now to develop the skills and abilities needed to be a good manager and leader? If so, this webinar will help you gain a clear understanding of what skills, abilities, and qualities a good manager needs. You will also have a chance to hear from a panel of supervisors from different types of libraries, at different management levels, and at different points in their management careers about their experiences and advice for people wanting to become a manager. 

Learning Objectives:
  • You will learn what skills you will need to develop in order to be a good manager.
  • You will learn the qualities and abilities needed in a manager.
  • You will gain a sense of what it is like to be a manager or supervisor.
  • You will get real-world advice and guidance from the panel of managers. 
Facilitator:
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.



Panel:

Andrea Wittmer, Head Librarian at The Ohio State University Mansfield Campus
Bromfield Library And Information Commons
Andrea is the librarian and director of The Bromfield Library and Information Commons where she serves The Ohio State University at Mansfield and North Central State College communities. She has innumerable creative pursuits and can be found engaging in those when she’s not at work.



Kim Garrett, Deputy Director at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library
With a passion for knowledge and a dedication to serving the community, Kim 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. 


Mariana Branch, Director at Kingsville Public Library 
Mariana has a unique background, having earned her bachelor's degree in Archaeology from Kent State University to become an "Accidental Librarian" in 2009 serving as library director for 14 ½ years. She is a member of the Association of Rural and Small Libraries, serves on the American Library Association's (ALA) Peggy Barber Tribute Grant Selection Committee, and demonstrated her commitment to her local community by serving on the United Way of Ashtabula County Board from 2015 to 2018.

Kathy Zappitello, Executive Director at Conneaut Public Library
In addition to her role as Executive Director, Kathy is a past president of ARSL, the Association for Rural & Small Libraries. With over 20 years of experience, she has displayed courageous commitment to leadership paired with a genuine passion for empowering others, all within the framework of rural library service.


Kaya Burgin, Loveland Branch Manager for Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library
Kaya received her Bachelor of Arts in History and Bachelor of Science in Education from Miami University and her MLIS from the University of Pittsburgh. In 2015, she was named an American Library Association Emerging Leader. Kaya believes libraries are places where people can come together and share their experiences with each other.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






So, You Want to be a Manager?
1/25/2024

Recorded 1/25/24

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a manager? Have you wondered if you have what it takes to be a good leader? Are you interested in working now to develop the skills and abilities needed to be a good manager and leader? If so, this webinar will help you gain a clear understanding of what skills, abilities, and qualities a good manager needs. You will also have a chance to hear from a panel of supervisors from different types of libraries, at different management levels, and at different points in their management careers about their experiences and advice for people wanting to become a manager. 

Learning Objectives:
  • You will learn what skills you will need to develop in order to be a good manager.
  • You will learn the qualities and abilities needed in a manager.
  • You will gain a sense of what it is like to be a manager or supervisor.
  • You will get real-world advice and guidance from the panel of managers. 
Facilitator:
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.



Panel:

Andrea Wittmer, Head Librarian at The Ohio State University Mansfield Campus
Bromfield Library And Information Commons
Andrea is the librarian and director of The Bromfield Library and Information Commons where she serves The Ohio State University at Mansfield and North Central State College communities. She has innumerable creative pursuits and can be found engaging in those when she’s not at work.



Kim Garrett, Deputy Director at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library
With a passion for knowledge and a dedication to serving the community, Kim 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. 


Mariana Branch, Director at Kingsville Public Library 
Mariana has a unique background, having earned her bachelor's degree in Archaeology from Kent State University to become an "Accidental Librarian" in 2009 serving as library director for 14 ½ years. She is a member of the Association of Rural and Small Libraries, serves on the American Library Association's (ALA) Peggy Barber Tribute Grant Selection Committee, and demonstrated her commitment to her local community by serving on the United Way of Ashtabula County Board from 2015 to 2018.

Kathy Zappitello, Executive Director at Conneaut Public Library
In addition to her role as Executive Director, Kathy is a past president of ARSL, the Association for Rural & Small Libraries. With over 20 years of experience, she has displayed courageous commitment to leadership paired with a genuine passion for empowering others, all within the framework of rural library service.


Kaya Burgin, Loveland Branch Manager for Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library
Kaya received her Bachelor of Arts in History and Bachelor of Science in Education from Miami University and her MLIS from the University of Pittsburgh. In 2015, she was named an American Library Association Emerging Leader. Kaya believes libraries are places where people can come together and share their experiences with each other.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Top 23 Titles of 2023
1/31/2024

No one expects public service staff to have read every popular title that has been published in a given year; however, it's not an unrealistic expectation to be familiar with them to better serve patrons. This webinar will go over the top 23 titles of 2023, literary trends and anticipated releases to note for 2024, and tried and true reader's advisory tips & tricks. 
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Familiarize yourself with the buzziest books for children, teens, and adults in both fiction and non-fiction. 
  • Gain an understanding of the 2024 literary landscape.
  • Improve your reader’s advisory and circulation upselling skills.
Presenters:

Ris Labib, a librarian in the Business, Government, & Science Division at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, Main, believes in the power of a good book. She has been talking with others about books -- in a professional and personal capacity -- since middle school and was even technically on NPR! One of the (many) books she is currently reading is “Yellowface” by RF Kuang.

Amber Salmon has 19 years of experience in public libraries and is currently a librarian in the Business, Government, and Science Division at the Akron-Summit County Public Library whose areas of specialty are cookbooks, fashion & folklore, and general trivia.  She is the co-leader of specialty book clubs like: Think & Drink Book Club, Romance Book Club, and Speculative Fiction Book Club. Her favorite read of 2023 was “Fourth Wing” (The Empyrean, 1) by Rebecca Yarros. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Top 23 Titles of 2023
1/31/2024

Recorded 1/31/24

No one expects public service staff to have read every popular title that has been published in a given year; however, it's not an unrealistic expectation to be familiar with them to better serve patrons. This webinar will go over the top 23 titles of 2023, literary trends and anticipated releases to note for 2024, and tried and true reader's advisory tips & tricks. 
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Familiarize yourself with the buzziest books for children, teens, and adults in both fiction and non-fiction. 
  • Gain an understanding of the 2024 literary landscape.
  • Improve your reader’s advisory and circulation upselling skills.
Presenters:

Ris Labib, a librarian in the Business, Government, & Science Division at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, Main, believes in the power of a good book. She has been talking with others about books -- in a professional and personal capacity -- since middle school and was even technically on NPR! One of the (many) books she is currently reading is “Yellowface” by RF Kuang.

Amber Salmon has 19 years of experience in public libraries and is currently a librarian in the Business, Government, and Science Division at the Akron-Summit County Public Library whose areas of specialty are cookbooks, fashion & folklore, and general trivia.  She is the co-leader of specialty book clubs like: Think & Drink Book Club, Romance Book Club, and Speculative Fiction Book Club. Her favorite read of 2023 was “Fourth Wing” (The Empyrean, 1) by Rebecca Yarros. 
Location: Online via Zoom






Trans History Linked! : An Introduction to the Digital Transgender Archive
1/31/2024

This presentation will introduce the Digital Transgender Archive, an online hub for digitized historical materials, born-digital materials, and information on archival holdings globally relating to trans and gender non-normative individuals and practices. The presenter will discuss what items can be found on the DTA and how we determine what to add to our collection, how those items are organized, and suggestions for how to navigate the site and the additional resources it provides. Additionally, drawing on both his own experience working at the DTA and as a researcher working with items on the DTA, he will discuss suggestions for interacting with the DTA as a researcher.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn what kinds of items can be found on the DTA and how they are selected
  • Learn about the additional resources the DTA provides
  • Learn what the DTA offers from a researcher’s perspective
Presenter:

Leslie Beegle (he/they) is a 2nd year PhD student in the English Department at Northeastern University, and a Research Assistant and Lab Coordinator for the Digital Transgender Archive (DTA), where he works closely with his advisor and creator of the archive, Dr. K.J. Rawson. His work at the DTA includes managing undergraduates as they add items to the DTA, and coordinating with archives and individuals who provide new items for the DTA. Their PhD research focuses on the relationships between trans, archival, and medical rhetorics.
Location: Online via Zoom






Trans History Linked! : An Introduction to the Digital Transgender Archive
1/31/2024

Recorded 1/31/24

This presentation will introduce the Digital Transgender Archive, an online hub for digitized historical materials, born-digital materials, and information on archival holdings globally relating to trans and gender non-normative individuals and practices. The presenter will discuss what items can be found on the DTA and how we determine what to add to our collection, how those items are organized, and suggestions for how to navigate the site and the additional resources it provides. Additionally, drawing on both his own experience working at the DTA and as a researcher working with items on the DTA, he will discuss suggestions for interacting with the DTA as a researcher.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn what kinds of items can be found on the DTA and how they are selected
  • Learn about the additional resources the DTA provides
  • Learn what the DTA offers from a researcher’s perspective
Presenter:

Leslie Beegle (he/they) is a 2nd year PhD student in the English Department at Northeastern University, and a Research Assistant and Lab Coordinator for the Digital Transgender Archive (DTA), where he works closely with his advisor and creator of the archive, Dr. K.J. Rawson. His work at the DTA includes managing undergraduates as they add items to the DTA, and coordinating with archives and individuals who provide new items for the DTA. Their PhD research focuses on the relationships between trans, archival, and medical rhetorics.
Location: Online via Zoom






Teen Summer Reading Program: Adventure Begins at Your Library
2/1/2024

Adventure Begins at Your Library, and let's start the adventure with NEO-RLS's teen summer reading workshop. The adventure begins with getting to know new people with a fun icebreaker that will generate many program ideas. This will be followed by sessions focused on marketing and messaging to teens, a spy series, and an opportunity to try engineering. We will have a conversation about speakers and organizations to partner with, so bring your best contacts. Before lunch, we will have a role-playing demo with a craft. After lunch, we will be hosting a program palooza. You will have an opportunity to hear 6 different programs and ask questions. If you didn't get enough programming in the palooza, there will be a rapid-fire program feature and we will end the day learning about how NEO-RLS's VR kits can offer exciting adventures at your library. More details will be coming soon. Don't miss this fun-filled day and opportunity to connect with your colleagues.

Lunch is included in this workshop.
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.



Addressing Microaggressions
2/13/2024

Discover how everyday comments and actions can unintentionally hurt or harm someone. Participants will build skills and practice strategies to recognize and interrupt microaggressions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize microaggressions and explain what they are
  • Develop strategies for interrupting microaggressions in both others and ourselves
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

 


Location: Online via Zoom






Using EXCEL for Employee Accountability
2/15/2024

Simplistic ways to use EXCEL to create forms, collect data and use it for employee accountability will be addressed including rearranging tables to show various trends.  This webinar will show you how to track dates and times of various tasks to aid in quantifying performance using tools created to assess employees’ work.  Some possible concerns to track are attendance, pulling materials for online holds, putting books in order, errands, reference questions, or materials ordered.  Additionally, manipulating the data to suit your needs will be shown.

Learning objectives: 
  • Create simple forms using EXCEL
  • Collect, input and calculate data using EXCEL
  • Use data to evaluate employees’ performance
Presenter: 

Cynthia Coccaro is currently the Shelf Division Assistant Manager at Cleveland Public Library.  Combined with her work as a branch manager, she’s worked at CPL for nearly 25 years.  In her current role, she hires, trains and manages as many as 36 pages/shelvers, ranging in age from 14 to senior citizens.  Mrs. Coccaro received her MLIS from Kent State University.  Her career started in a hospital library  and then she worked as an academic reference li
Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer -Online Via Zoom
2/16/2024

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 email when you register and 1 hour before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Public Relations and Marketing Virtual Networking Meeting
2/20/2024

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 an hour before the meeting. We hope you will join us. 

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






Library Bootcamp: Unlocking the World of Youth Services in Public Libraries
2/21/2024

Recorded 2/21/24

Delve into the vibrant world of Youth Services in Public Libraries with Carolyn Burrier and Kathleen Mockensturm as they share over 45 years of combined experience./

Explore the multifaceted responsibilities of a youth services department, ensuring that the diverse needs of the youth demographic are met and celebrated. Kathleen and Carolyn will guide you through the essential pillars of youth library services, including programming, collection development, reference services, outreach efforts, and community engagement initiatives. These are the core elements that help build a strong and well-rounded youth services department within a public library.

Whether you're considering a career in youth services or new to the field, this presentation promises valuable insights. Join us as we unravel the layers of expertise and passion that Carrie and Kathleen bring to the table, and discover how you can make a lasting impact on the lives of the young readers and learners in your community.

Learning Objectives:
  • Collection – Ensuring the library has materials that meet the needs of all youth.
  • Programming – The library's role in supporting youth through library programming with a focus on Every Child Ready to Read, diversity, and the 40 Developmental Assets
  • Outreach/Community Engagement – Ensuring the library supports organizations that support youth.
Presenters:

Carrie Burrier started her library career as a student shelver at the Niantic Public Library in Connecticut where she decided she wanted to be a children's librarian. She has been the Youth Services Coordinator for the Akron-Summit County Public Library since 1999. Carrie's work includes representing the library on various community committees dealing with early childhood literacy and other topics of significance to youth and their families, planning and providing training for the systems early childhood librarians, overseeing the systems summer reading program and sitting on the Administrative team. Carrie also serves as a state trainer for Literacy 101. She manages an office of four who together support the 20 locations in providing service to the Library's customers. Carrie has also honed her customer service skills early on working in food service and retail.

Kathleen Mockensturm currently serves as the Assistant Youth Services Coordinator at the Akron Summit County Public Library. Throughout the year, she is actively engaged in various roles, including providing training sessions for intermediate/teen librarians, participating in committees focusing on youth, spearheading the signature event GeekFest, overseeing book acquisitions for the Summer Reading program, representing the library at community events, and orchestrating system-wide reading programs. Her diverse career in library services includes previous roles as an Early Childhood Librarian at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, a Youth Services Librarian at the Lenawee County Public Library in Michigan, and a Clerk in the Youth Department at the Wood County District Public Library. Prior to her venture into librarianship, Kathleen spent three years as a High School Teacher in Toledo.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: Unlocking the World of Youth Services in Public Libraries
2/21/2024

Delve into the vibrant world of Youth Services in Public Libraries with Carolyn Burrier and Kathleen Mockensturm as they share over 45 years of combined experience.

Explore the multifaceted responsibilities of a youth services department, ensuring that the diverse needs of the youth demographic are met and celebrated. Kathleen and Carolyn will guide you through the essential pillars of youth library services, including programming, collection development, reference services, outreach efforts, and community engagement initiatives. These are the core elements that help build a strong and well-rounded youth services department within a public library.

Whether you're considering a career in youth services or new to the field, this presentation promises valuable insights. Join us as we unravel the layers of expertise and passion that Carrie and Kathleen bring to the table, and discover how you can make a lasting impact on the lives of the young readers and learners in your community.

Learning Objectives:
  • Collection – Ensuring the library has materials that meet the needs of all youth.
  • Programming – The library's role in supporting youth through library programming with a focus on Every Child Ready to Read, diversity, and the 40 Developmental Assets
  • Outreach/Community Engagement – Ensuring the library supports organizations that support youth.
Presenters:

Carrie Burrier started her library career as a student shelver at the Niantic Public Library in Connecticut where she decided she wanted to be a children's librarian. She has been the Youth Services Coordinator for the Akron-Summit County Public Library since 1999. Carrie's work includes representing the library on various community committees dealing with early childhood literacy and other topics of significance to youth and their families, planning and providing training for the systems early childhood librarians, overseeing the systems summer reading program and sitting on the Administrative team. Carrie also serves as a state trainer for Literacy 101. She manages an office of four who together support the 20 locations in providing service to the Library's customers. Carrie has also honed her customer service skills early on working in food service and retail.

Kathleen Mockensturm currently serves as the Assistant Youth Services Coordinator at the Akron Summit County Public Library. Throughout the year, she is actively engaged in various roles, including providing training sessions for intermediate/teen librarians, participating in committees focusing on youth, spearheading the signature event GeekFest, overseeing book acquisitions for the Summer Reading program, representing the library at community events, and orchestrating system-wide reading programs. Her diverse career in library services includes previous roles as an Early Childhood Librarian at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, a Youth Services Librarian at the Lenawee County Public Library in Michigan, and a Clerk in the Youth Department at the Wood County District Public Library. Prior to her venture into librarianship, Kathleen spent three years as a High School Teacher in Toledo.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Staff Wellness Virtual Roundtable
2/27/2024

Join your Ohio library colleagues for a roundtable discussion about staff wellness initiatives. Share your challenges and successes related to employee assistance programs, wellness committees, staff recognition programs, and more. Yvette Wasko, Human Resources Manager at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library, will discuss the benefits of tying a wellness program into your health insurance benefits as a win/win for employees and the library. Jacey Duffer, Human Resources Generalist at Toledo Lucas County Public Library, will discuss TLCPL's partnership with Be Well Solutions to provide a comprehensive wellness program for all employees and spouses.

Panelists:
Yvette Wasko is a highly experienced Human Resources Professional with an impressive career spanning nearly 30 years, primarily dedicated to serving the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources Management from Youngstown State University (YSU), showcasing her commitment to excellence in her field.




Jacey Duffer is a seasoned Human Resources Generalist with a rich and diverse professional background spanning over 25 years. Her journey in the professional realm has been deeply rooted in the dynamic environment of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. Throughout her tenure at TLCPL, she has navigated through different roles, acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the organization’s intricacies. Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources Management, she has dedicated most of her career to serving the public in various capacities within the library system.  



Phyllis Winfield (she/her) is a veteran human resources generalist with 32 years in the field, primarily serving Worthington Libraries. In the HR universe, you name it, Phyllis has done it! She has grown HR at the Library from a department of one to a staff of four. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a dual major in Human Resources Management and Procurement/Materials Management from Bowling Green State University.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
2/28/2024

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Jane Carle any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Living Well With Dementia: The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide
2/28/2024

The library, a community gathering and learning place that serves people at all stages of life’s journey, plays a vital role in helping individuals live well with dementia. The new free resource from the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health, The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, provides a roadmap and practical tools for libraries and other community organizations to unite with fellow Ohioans in reshaping the narrative surrounding dementia to one of engaged community living.
 
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to: 
  • To navigate the free and comprehensive Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide and use its ready-to-implement resources to grow dementia inclusive practice in their libraries.
  • To facilitate staff development (including Dementia Friends training) and build staff enthusiasm for dementia inclusive service.
  • To identify potential allies for ongoing support and growth of their library’s Dementia Inclusive Initiative as a catalyst for a dementia inclusive community.
  • To craft next steps that are a “right fit” for the staffing, budget, and environmental capacities of their libraries.
Presenter:

Barb White, retired after 31 years of service with the Akron-Summit County Public Library (in early childhood and adult services and in public services administration),  continues her commitment to Dementia Inclusive communities as a Dementia Friends Champion, founding member of Dementia Friendly Summit County (OH), and Education and Programming Committee Chair with Dementia Action Alliance. Barb has shared strategies for Dementia Inclusive library practice on a statewide and national level, and brings Dementia Friends workshops to organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies across multiple community sectors in Summit County and beyond. Most recently, Barb co-authored (with Jennifer Brush and Margaret Jarrell) The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, a publication of the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Living Well With Dementia: The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide
2/28/2024

Recorded 2/28/24

The library, a community gathering and learning place that serves people at all stages of life’s journey, plays a vital role in helping individuals live well with dementia. The new free resource from the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health, The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, provides a roadmap and practical tools for libraries and other community organizations to unite with fellow Ohioans in reshaping the narrative surrounding dementia to one of engaged community living.
 
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to: 
  • To navigate the free and comprehensive Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide and use its ready-to-implement resources to grow dementia inclusive practice in their libraries.
  • To facilitate staff development (including Dementia Friends training) and build staff enthusiasm for dementia inclusive service.
  • To identify potential allies for ongoing support and growth of their library’s Dementia Inclusive Initiative as a catalyst for a dementia inclusive community.
  • To craft next steps that are a “right fit” for the staffing, budget, and environmental capacities of their libraries.
Presenter:

Barb White, retired after 31 years of service with the Akron-Summit County Public Library (in early childhood and adult services and in public services administration),  continues her commitment to Dementia Inclusive communities as a Dementia Friends Champion, founding member of Dementia Friendly Summit County (OH), and Education and Programming Committee Chair with Dementia Action Alliance. Barb has shared strategies for Dementia Inclusive library practice on a statewide and national level, and brings Dementia Friends workshops to organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies across multiple community sectors in Summit County and beyond. Most recently, Barb co-authored (with Jennifer Brush and Margaret Jarrell) The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, a publication of the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Construction and Facilities Networking Meeting
2/29/2024

Catch up with your peers in this networking opportunity about construction and facilities.  Send topics you would like to discuss to Melissa Lattanzi.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Circulation Networking Meeting
3/5/2024

Take this opportunity to share your successes and challenges via a roundtable discussion. You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us Please send topics you would like discussed to Jeff Laser.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






If I Hear the Letters "AI" One More Time...
3/7/2024

Recorded 3/7/24

As gateways to knowledge, libraries have a pivotal role to play in facilitating the safe use of AI. So, gear up for a lively and interactive discussion. Join CML staff, Michaela Herrick and Justin Bumbico, as they delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT and Bing Chat for Enterprise within the context of public libraries. Amidst continuous media attention and daily technological changes, CML proactively formed a cross-departmental AI task force to monitor advancements and its impact on libraries. During this session, we’ll explore our findings, focusing on their relevance to library customers and staff. This session will discuss the benefits of AI technology for libraries and underscore the associated challenges and evolution of best practices.

This session will provide a pragmatic understanding of AI’s role, applications, and challenges, regardless of library size or budget. You will gain a better understanding of how every library can benefit from these advancements and how to safeguard against biases and inaccuracies, a vital consideration for all institutions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn public library applications of Generative AI.
  • Gain an understanding of cautions and concerns when deciding on how to use AI in your library.
  • Gather resources for education, implementation, and usage of Generative AI technology.
Presenters:

Justin Bumbico serves as the Director of Information Technology at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML). In his position, he leads all aspects of CML’s technology operations, including Data Analytics. With over 20 years of experience in the technology field, Justin is focused on delivering reliable, secure, and cost-effective technological solutions.



Michaela Herrick is a Data and Applications Analyst for the Columbus Metropolitan Library. Past work in social science research from interviewing to data mining informs the way she thinks about library usership and customer encounters. She has a passion for improving processes, understanding library customers, and providing the best library experience by leveraging new and existing data sources. Her passion for data science and libraries has fueled her goal of helping to bridge the gap between analytics and libraries.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






If I Hear the Letters "AI" One More Time…
3/7/2024

As gateways to knowledge, libraries have a pivotal role to play in facilitating the safe use of AI. So, gear up for a lively and interactive discussion. Join CML staff, Michaela Herrick and Justin Bumbico, as they delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT and Bing Chat for Enterprise within the context of public libraries. Amidst continuous media attention and daily technological changes, CML proactively formed a cross-departmental AI task force to monitor advancements and its impact on libraries. During this session, we’ll explore our findings, focusing on their relevance to library customers and staff. This session will discuss the benefits of AI technology for libraries and underscore the associated challenges and evolution of best practices.

This session will provide a pragmatic understanding of AI’s role, applications, and challenges, regardless of library size or budget. You will gain a better understanding of how every library can benefit from these advancements and how to safeguard against biases and inaccuracies, a vital consideration for all institutions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn public library applications of Generative AI.
  • Gain an understanding of cautions and concerns when deciding on how to use AI in your library.
  • Gather resources for education, implementation, and usage of Generative AI technology.
Presenters:

Justin Bumbico serves as the Director of Information Technology at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML). In his position, he leads all aspects of CML’s technology operations, including Data Analytics. With over 20 years of experience in the technology field, Justin is focused on delivering reliable, secure, and cost-effective technological solutions.



Michaela Herrick is a Data and Applications Analyst for the Columbus Metropolitan Library. Past work in social science research from interviewing to data mining informs the way she thinks about library usership and customer encounters. She has a passion for improving processes, understanding library customers, and providing the best library experience by leveraging new and existing data sources. Her passion for data science and libraries has fueled her goal of helping to bridge the gap between analytics and libraries.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Directors/Deputy Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
3/13/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors and deputy directors. This meeting will be held via Zoom, which is user-friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Creating an Inclusive Workplace
3/14/2024

What does an inclusive workplace look like and how can we create one? Participants will explore these questions, learn some basics and strategize on how they can contribute to making a more inclusive work environment.

Presenter:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.


Location: Online via Zoom






Technical Services/Collection Development Networking Meeting
3/14/2024

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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






Supervisor Reasonable Suspicion Training
3/20/2024

This is a skill-building session designed to give supervisors and managers the knowledge necessary to recognize and deal with substance abuse at work. The training will cover workplace guidelines. The training will cover reasonable suspicion guidelines, identifying a problem, and initiating reasonable suspicion testing.

Learning Objectives:
  • Reasonable suspicion guidelines
  • Identifying a problem
  • Initiating reasonable suspicion testing
Presenter:  

Dyann McDowell is an HR Business Partner and Training Consultant working with small to medium employers. She is a trusted source and a highly respected leader in the HR industry with public and private clients. She brings 20+ years of hands-on, Drug-Free Workplace experience including development, employee and supervisor training, and program oversight and consultation. 15 years of HR consulting and Business Development who works with various Associations and is endorsed by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, Department of Transportation (DOT), and a recognized leader in the training industry. Specialties: HR Services, Training, and Development include Drug-Free Workplace, DEI, Diversity, Resiliency Leadership development training.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Dementia Friends for Libraries Training
3/26/2024

Living well with a dementia diagnosis is possible. With the rate of diagnosis increasing dramatically in the state of Ohio and across the country, reducing stigma, addressing myth and misinformation, and supporting individual purpose and community participation is the work of all of us in libraries and beyond. Dementia Friends for Libraries participants will learn what role they can play in this effort—by understanding better what dementia is (and what it isn’t) and how flexible, responsive strategies and dementia-inclusive community partnerships can ensure the abundant life for all.
 
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able:
 
  • To share with customers and community members the impact of dementia on brain health, memory, and cognitive processing.
  • To compare the early signs of dementia with those of typical aging.
  • To implement communication and environmental strategies for continuing to engage those living with a dementia diagnosis, and their care partners, in a life of purpose and participation.
  • To evaluate current practice, and build community partnerships, through a dementia inclusive lens.
Presenter:

Barb White, retired after 31 years of service with the Akron-Summit County Public Library (in early childhood and adult services and in public services administration), continues her commitment to Dementia Inclusive communities as a Dementia Friends Champion, founding member of Dementia Friendly Summit County (OH), and Education and Programming Committee Chair with Dementia Action Alliance. Barb has shared strategies for Dementia Inclusive library practice on a statewide and national level, and brings Dementia Friends workshops to organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies across multiple community sectors in Summit County and beyond. Most recently, Barb co-authored (with Jennifer Brush and Margaret Jarrell) The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, a publication of the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Preventing Burnout and Fatigue
3/27/2024

Burnout is increasingly a conversation topic among library workers.  Feeling burnout and/or experiencing fatigue can seriously impact the quality of life-work balance and work performance.  While burnout is not considered a medical condition but “an occupational phenomenon,” it is felt by library workers as it brings acute stress that is challenging to manage.

In this masterclass, we will start with definitions of burnout and fatigue which are characterized by different symptoms. We will focus on specific aspects and their challenges. These can be unique to each participant, therefore each individual needs personalized specific strategies to prevent burnout and fatigue. Garcia-Febo will guide attendees on a self-reflection session to check in with themselves. After that, everyone will create a checklist to identify stressors igniting burnout and fatigue, and then will set up their unique strategies to prevent burnout and fatigue. Participants are encouraged to bring pen/paper/devices to take notes and to work on their assessments and toolbox. Garcia-Febo’s events on wellness including burnout and fatigue have been attended by over 8,000 library workers from around the world. Read more general news about her work on her website.

Learning Objectives:
  • Personal burnout assessment
  • Personal fatigue assessment
  • Identify stressors, unique to each one, causing burnout and fatigue
  • Learn basic strategies to prevent burnout and fatigue
  • Learn basic self-care and mindfulness strategies they can adapt to their personal situation
  • Create a basic "Toolbox to manage burnout and fatigue”
Presenter:

Loida Garcia-Febo is a Puerto Rican American librarian and International Library Consultant with 24 years of experience as an expert in library services to diverse populations and human rights. President of the American Library Association 2018-2019. Garcia-Febo is worldwide known for her passion about diversity, communities, sustainability, innovation and digital transformation, library workers, library advocacy, wellness for library workers, and new librarians about which she has taught in 45 countries. In her job, she helps libraries, companies and organizations strategize programs, services and strategies in areas related to these topics and many others. Recently Garcia-Febo started a partnership with the San Jose State University iSchool where she is its first Health and Wellness Ambassador. Garcia-Febo has a Bachelors in Business Education, Masters in Library and Information Sciences.

Garcia-Febo has a long history of service with library associations. Highlights include- At IFLA: Governing Board 2013-2017 2023-Present, Co-Founder of IFLA New Professionals, two-term Member/Expert resource person of the Free Access to Information and Freedom of Expression Committee of IFLA (FAIFE), two-term member of the Continuing Professional Development and Workplace Learning Section of IFLA (CPDWL). Currently: CPDWL Advisor, Chair of the Management of Library Associations Section. Currently at ALA: Chair, IRC United Nations Subcommittee, Chair Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship. Recently at ALA: Chair, Public Awareness Committee; Chair, ALA United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Task Force developing a multi-year strategic plan for ALA. Garcia-Febo is serving her second term on the Freedom to Read Foundation. She is a Past President of REFORMA. Born, raised, and educated in Puerto Rico, Garcia-Febo has advocated for libraries at the United Nations, the European Union Parliament, U.S. Congress, NY State Senate, NY City Hall, and on sidewalks and streets in various states in the U.S.


Location: Online via Zoom






Preventing Burnout and Fatigue
3/27/2024

Recorded 3/27/24

Burnout is increasingly a conversation topic among library workers.  Feeling burnout and/or experiencing fatigue can seriously impact the quality of life-work balance and work performance.  While burnout is not considered a medical condition but “an occupational phenomenon,” it is felt by library workers as it brings acute stress that is challenging to manage.

In this masterclass, we will start with definitions of burnout and fatigue which are characterized by different symptoms. We will focus on specific aspects and their challenges. These can be unique to each participant, therefore each individual needs personalized specific strategies to prevent burnout and fatigue. Garcia-Febo will guide attendees on a self-reflection session to check in with themselves. After that, everyone will create a checklist to identify stressors igniting burnout and fatigue, and then will set up their unique strategies to prevent burnout and fatigue. Participants are encouraged to bring pen/paper/devices to take notes and to work on their assessments and toolbox. Garcia-Febo’s events on wellness including burnout and fatigue have been attended by over 8,000 library workers from around the world. Read more general news about her work on her website.

Learning Objectives:
  • Personal burnout assessment
  • Personal fatigue assessment
  • Identify stressors, unique to each one, causing burnout and fatigue
  • Learn basic strategies to prevent burnout and fatigue
  • Learn basic self-care and mindfulness strategies they can adapt to their personal situation
  • Create a basic "Toolbox to manage burnout and fatigue”
Presenter:

Loida Garcia-Febo is a Puerto Rican American librarian and International Library Consultant with 24 years of experience as an expert in library services to diverse populations and human rights. President of the American Library Association 2018-2019. Garcia-Febo is worldwide known for her passion about diversity, communities, sustainability, innovation and digital transformation, library workers, library advocacy, wellness for library workers, and new librarians about which she has taught in 45 countries. In her job, she helps libraries, companies and organizations strategize programs, services and strategies in areas related to these topics and many others. Recently Garcia-Febo started a partnership with the San Jose State University iSchool where she is its first Health and Wellness Ambassador. Garcia-Febo has a Bachelors in Business Education, Masters in Library and Information Sciences.

Garcia-Febo has a long history of service with library associations. Highlights include- At IFLA: Governing Board 2013-2017 2023-Present, Co-Founder of IFLA New Professionals, two-term Member/Expert resource person of the Free Access to Information and Freedom of Expression Committee of IFLA (FAIFE), two-term member of the Continuing Professional Development and Workplace Learning Section of IFLA (CPDWL). Currently: CPDWL Advisor, Chair of the Management of Library Associations Section. Currently at ALA: Chair, IRC United Nations Subcommittee, Chair Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship. Recently at ALA: Chair, Public Awareness Committee; Chair, ALA United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Task Force developing a multi-year strategic plan for ALA. Garcia-Febo is serving her second term on the Freedom to Read Foundation. She is a Past President of REFORMA. Born, raised, and educated in Puerto Rico, Garcia-Febo has advocated for libraries at the United Nations, the European Union Parliament, U.S. Congress, NY State Senate, NY City Hall, and on sidewalks and streets in various states in the U.S.


Location: Online via Zoom






New Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility Networking Meeting
3/28/2024

We are excited to start this new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility networking group. 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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






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






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
4/11/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Question MARC: is that all there is?
4/17/2024

Non-MARC metadata gets a lot of air time, but what is it? While MARC is still the most popular cataloging standard code, many other options are on the scene. We'll discuss popular metadata schema and their common uses. Explore metadata codes and standards that are used in library, archive, and museum environments in this highly accessible, beginner-friendly session.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the distinction between MARC and other codes used in cataloging.
  • Gain a broader understanding of the concept of metadata.
  • Build awareness of common uses of different metadata types.
Presenter:

Misty Alvaro has worked in academic, public, and special libraries, but public libraries are their forever home. They worked in every possible public services department and technical services before landing their perfect gig as a cataloging and processing manager at Columbus Metropolitan Library. Misty has taught cataloging courses since 2014 and loves to hula hoop.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Question MARC: is that all there is?
4/17/2024

Recorded 4/17/24

Non-MARC metadata gets a lot of air time, but what is it? While MARC is still the most popular cataloging standard code, many other options are on the scene. We'll discuss popular metadata schema and their common uses. Explore metadata codes and standards that are used in library, archive, and museum environments in this highly accessible, beginner-friendly session.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the distinction between MARC and other codes used in cataloging.
  • Gain a broader understanding of the concept of metadata.
  • Build awareness of common uses of different metadata types.
Presenter:

Misty Alvaro has worked in academic, public, and special libraries, but public libraries are their forever home. They worked in every possible public services department and technical services before landing their perfect gig as a cataloging and processing manager at Columbus Metropolitan Library. Misty has taught cataloging courses since 2014 and loves to hula hoop.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Canva Basics
4/23/2024

Canva is a powerful tool for creating quick graphics, but it can be tricky to learn all the ins and outs of it! Join us as we delve into some of the popular features of Canva and how to use them.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn some of the commonly used tools in Canva and how they function
  • Create a solid knowledge foundation in Canva terminology
  • Improve the overall quality of your Canva productions
Presenter:

Amanda Hughes is a youth services library associate with the Bexley Public Library by day, and an amateur graphic designer... also by day! She helps design many of the materials used in the building, including BPL's custom su
Location: Online via Zoom






Canva Basics
4/23/2024

Recorded 4/23/24

Canva is a powerful tool for creating quick graphics, but it can be tricky to learn all the ins and outs of it! Join us as we delve into some of the popular features of Canva and how to use them.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn some of the commonly used tools in Canva and how they function
  • Create a solid knowledge foundation in Canva terminology
  • Improve the overall quality of your Canva productions
Presenter:

Amanda Hughes is a youth services library associate with the Bexley Public Library by day, and an amateur graphic designer... also by day! She helps design many of the materials used in the building, including BPL's custom su
Location: Online via Zoom






Building Engagement with Restorative Practices for Teens
4/24/2024

Many libraries react to negative behavior by suspending or restricting services for youth. Leaders at Columbus Metropolitan Library collaborated on restorative practice tools to change that approach. Restorative practices can help strengthen relationships within communities by offering equitable and collaborative responses to behavior. This panel will discuss local successes and challenges with restorative practices and the path forward to weave these ideas into the culture of libraries.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how restorative practices are both a model for increased engagement and positive incident response with youth.
  • Apply practical knowledge to increase youth inclusion and equitable social justice responses.
  • Envision and communicate how to incorporate restorative practices into their own processes, policies, and culture to support youth.
Presenters:

Lea Mathis serves as the Branch Manager at the Driving Park Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library and is driven by a deep commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Lea, motivated by her own early challenges with reading and her local library, has been able to help in rolling out Restorative Practices at CML and support branches in maintaining the work. She hopes this work will resonate with the community and leave a lasting impact on the literary landscape.


Summer Sherman is Manager of the Northern Lights Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library. She obtained her M.Ed. in Integrated Language Arts from the Ohio State University and channeled her passion for education and youth advocacy into a career in public libraries. Summer contributed to the formal rollout of Restorative Practices at Columbus Metropolitan Library as a member of their Teens & Security Taskforce.




Heather West is Manager of the Parsons Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library. She attended Kent State University where she earned her M.L.I.S. with a specialization in youth services. Heather has worked at several Columbus library locations in circulation, reference, and supervisory roles. Her passion centers on creating an accessible, accepting, and inviting library environment for everyone in the community. Heather joined the Teens & Security Taskforce and contributed to the development and implementation of Restorative Practices at Columbus Metropolitan Library.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Building Engagement with Restorative Practices for Teens
4/24/2024

Recorded 4/24/24

Many libraries react to negative behavior by suspending or restricting services for youth. Leaders at Columbus Metropolitan Library collaborated on restorative practice tools to change that approach. Restorative practices can help strengthen relationships within communities by offering equitable and collaborative responses to behavior. This panel will discuss local successes and challenges with restorative practices and the path forward to weave these ideas into the culture of libraries.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how restorative practices are both a model for increased engagement and positive incident response with youth.
  • Apply practical knowledge to increase youth inclusion and equitable social justice responses.
  • Envision and communicate how to incorporate restorative practices into their own processes, policies, and culture to support youth.
Presenters:

Lea Mathis serves as the Branch Manager at the Driving Park Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library and is driven by a deep commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Lea, motivated by her own early challenges with reading and her local library, has been able to help in rolling out Restorative Practices at CML and support branches in maintaining the work. She hopes this work will resonate with the community and leave a lasting impact on the literary landscape.


Summer Sherman is Manager of the Northern Lights Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library. She obtained her M.Ed. in Integrated Language Arts from the Ohio State University and channeled her passion for education and youth advocacy into a career in public libraries. Summer contributed to the formal rollout of Restorative Practices at Columbus Metropolitan Library as a member of their Teens & Security Taskforce.




Heather West is Manager of the Parsons Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library. She attended Kent State University where she earned her M.L.I.S. with a specialization in youth services. Heather has worked at several Columbus library locations in circulation, reference, and supervisory roles. Her passion centers on creating an accessible, accepting, and inviting library environment for everyone in the community. Heather joined the Teens & Security Taskforce and contributed to the development and implementation of Restorative Practices at Columbus Metropolitan Library.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






IT Networking Meeting - Online Via Zoom
4/25/2024

Take this opportunity to share your successes and challenges via a roundtable discussion. You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us Please send topics you would like discussed to Jeff Laser.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Youth Mental Health First Aid
4/25/2024

Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This 6-hour training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to children and adolescents (ages 6-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care.

This course will run 9:00 am - 3:00 pm.  There will be two hours' worth of pre-work before the live instructor-led online workshop.  This course is limited to 30.  Register for this class only if you are able to attend. This class will not be archived.

Presenter:
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019. 
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.



Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
4/30/2024

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: The Story Of A Book: A Life Cycle
4/30/2024

Recorded 4/30/24

Have you ever wanted the big picture, the whole story of where library materials come from, how they live, and where they go? Staff from Avon Lake Public Library will take you from budgeting through selection, acquisition, cataloging, processing, circulation and weeding in an informative and informal fashion.  Those that do the work themselves will show and tell, and await your questions! This webinar will be of general interest to library staff who may be new or want an overview of the flow of materials in a small to medium-sized library. It could be your library!

Presenters:
Avon Lake Public Library Staff
Location: Online via Zoom






The Story Of A Book: A Life Cycle
4/30/2024

Have you ever wanted the big picture, the whole story of where library materials come from, how they live, and where they go? Staff from Avon Lake Public Library will take you from budgeting through selection, acquisition, cataloging, processing, circulation and weeding in an informative and informal fashion.  Those that do the work themselves will show and tell, and await your questions! This webinar will be of general interest to library staff who may be new or want an overview of the flow of materials in a small to medium-sized library. It could be your library!

Presenters:
Avon Lake Public Library Staff
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






Outreach Networking Meeting
5/7/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Special Libraries Network Meeting
5/14/2024

Join us for networking meeting of special libraries.  Come share your successes and challenges with your fellow special libraries colleagues.  This will be virtual via Zoom you will receive the link to the meeting 2 hours prior to the meeting.  Please send topics of interest to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






Time Management Yours and Theirs
5/15/2024

This webinar is part of the 2024 New Supervisors Academy.

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 12 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 Organization and ALA’s Council Training and Engagement 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






Time Management Yours and Theirs
5/15/2024

Recorded 5/15/24

This webinar is part of the 2024 New Supervisors Academy.

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 12 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 Organization and ALA’s Council Training and Engagement 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






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






New Genealogy Networking Meeting
5/22/2024

We are excited to start this new genealogy networking group. 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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






Cross-Training in a Union Environment
5/29/2024

Are you exploring cross-training at your library, but unsure of how it fits in with your union? Cheryl Grizzell, Chief Operating Officer at Lorain Public Library System, and Jennifer Welsh, Senior Director of Public Services at Stark Library, will offer their experiences navigating this matter. They will discuss topics such as:
  • The importance of the relationship between the union and management
  • How library size & staffing may impact cross-training
  • Staff members working "down" positionally versus working in multiple departments
  • Considerations for libraries that already have unions, as well as those where unionizing may be on the horizon
This program will include a Q&A and will not be recorded.

Presenters:

Cheryl Grizzell, Chief Operating Officer at Lorain Public Library System
Jennifer Welsh, Senior Director of Public Services at Stark Library
Location: Online via Zoom






After Care: How Employees Can Care for Themselves and Their Co-Workers After Difficult Patron Interactions
6/5/2024

Difficult interactions often leave us rattled and we either want to bury the memory deep inside or chronically complain about them. Neither is helpful nor effective. We can care for ourselves and others individually and as a group. Discover some best practices (as well as some things to avoid doing) after difficult interactions.

Learning Objectives:
  • 3 aftercare techniques you can do for yourself
  • 2 practices that can be done as a group
  • 1 thing you can do for another team member
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: Online via Zoom






After Care: How Employees Can Care for Themselves and Their Co-Workers After Difficult Patron Interactions
6/5/2024

Recorded 6/5/24

Difficult interactions often leave us rattled and we either want to bury the memory deep inside or chronically complain about them. Neither is helpful nor effective. We can care for ourselves and others individually and as a group. Discover some best practices (as well as some things to avoid doing) after difficult interactions.

Learning Objectives:
  • 3 aftercare techniques you can do for yourself
  • 2 practices that can be done as a group
  • 1 thing you can do for another team member
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: Online via Zoom






Excel Drop-in Q & A (Excel Nerds and Novices welcome)
6/5/2024

Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered.  Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel.  Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel?  Excel formula basics?  Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability?  Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS?  Power Query basics?  You may email questions and files ahead to Melissa Lattanzi of time or just join us on Zoom for the conversation.  Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.

Facilitator:

Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014.  Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives.  His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet.  While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks.  In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
 
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations. 
 


Location: Online via Zoom






Excel Drop-in Q & A (Excel Nerds and Novices welcome)
6/5/2024

Recorded 6/6/24
Questions Answered:

  • How to make my column headings “stick” as the spreadsheet gets longer
  • How to use Power-Query effectively
  • Working with Time

Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered.  Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel.  Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel?  Excel formula basics?  Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability?  Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS?  Power Query basics?  You may email questions and files ahead to Melissa Lattanzi of time or just join us on Zoom for the conversation.  Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.

Facilitator:

Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014.  Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives.  His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet.  While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks.  In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
 
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Human Resource/Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting-Via Zoom
6/7/2024

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 email when you register and 1 hour before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.

Morning Session: Managing Behavioral Health Issues under the ADA and FMLA

Learning Objectives:
 
  • How to identify behavioral health issues in your workforce.
  • Assessing when a behavioral health issue is a serious health condition under the FMLA and/or a disability under the ADA.
  • How to manage the unique challenges presented by mental health issues, including the accommodation process under the ADA.
Presenters:

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.


Amanda S Smith, Shareholder, OSBA-Certified Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, DE&I Officer , National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional, Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

Amanda’s unusual path to becoming a labor and employment attorney began with earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in neuroscience at Allegheny College and Kent State University, respectively. After determining that a career in science ultimately was not for her, she took a job as a legal assistant following her graduate studies, and immediately fell in love with law.

That first position at a plaintiff’s side labor and employment firm quickly evolved into enrolling in classes at the University of Akron School of Law, where she eventually earned her juris doctor degree, summa cum laude. Her experience to-date as a management-side labor and employment attorney has led to some lively discussions at the dinner table back home with her father (a police chief) and mother (a former union president).

Amanda has found the work to be both fascinating and fulfilling. She represents employers in many types of labor and employment matters, including charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission and other state fair employment practice agencies. She also counsels employers on litigation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution matters, as well as wage/hour compliance, performance and leave management, discipline, and workplace policies.


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Conducting a Diversity Audit of Your Collections and Ordering: Where to Start
6/12/2024


For libraries to effectively meet their mission of serving the educational, informational, and entertainment needs of their communities, their collections must be diverse and inclusive, offering windows into and mirrors of the vast array of perspectives and stories that make up our world. Library selectors and readers’ advisors must have a keen understanding of the basic frameworks for building and maintaining collections through an equitable lens, including the ability to apply that knowledge to a collection audit.

In this course, learn from Collection Managers Dontaná McPherson-Joseph and Betsy Bird as they explore key concepts essential to cultivating and promoting inclusive and equitable collections. You'll find out more about conducting a diversity audit of your collections, and learn how to include diverse books with wider perspectives that allow you to be more responsive to the community you serve and more reflective of the diversity of our world.

Learning Objectives:
  • To have a thorough understanding of the different types of equity audits and which methods suit your collection best.
  • To understand how equity begins with purchasing and does not stop after the audit stops.
  • To consider weeding, displays, and community outreach and how each one of those factors affects the representation found in your collection. 
Presenters:

Betsy Bird is the Collection Development Manager of Evanston Public Library and the former Youth Materials Specialist of Evanston Public Library. Betsy reviews for Kirkus and hosts the blog A Fuse #8 Production for School Library Journal. 







Dontaná McPherson-Joseph (she/her) is a collection management librarian at Oak Park (IL) Public Library. She has presented for Library Journal on inclusive collection development and auditing, and is an advocate for reading widely and diversely.




 
Location: Online via Zoom






Conducting a Diversity Audit of Your Collections and Ordering: Where to Start
6/12/2024

Recorded 6/12/24

For libraries to effectively meet their mission of serving the educational, informational, and entertainment needs of their communities, their collections must be diverse and inclusive, offering windows into and mirrors of the vast array of perspectives and stories that make up our world. Library selectors and readers’ advisors must have a keen understanding of the basic frameworks for building and maintaining collections through an equitable lens, including the ability to apply that knowledge to a collection audit.

In this course, learn from Collection Managers Dontaná McPherson-Joseph and Betsy Bird as they explore key concepts essential to cultivating and promoting inclusive and equitable collections. You'll find out more about conducting a diversity audit of your collections, and learn how to include diverse books with wider perspectives that allow you to be more responsive to the community you serve and more reflective of the diversity of our world.

Learning Objectives:
  • To have a thorough understanding of the different types of equity audits and which methods suit your collection best.
  • To understand how equity begins with purchasing and does not stop after the audit stops.
  • To consider weeding, displays, and community outreach and how each one of those factors affects the representation found in your collection. 
Presenters:

Betsy Bird is the Collection Development Manager of Evanston Public Library and the former Youth Materials Specialist of Evanston Public Library. Betsy reviews for Kirkus and hosts the blog A Fuse #8 Production for School Library Journal. 







Dontaná McPherson-Joseph (she/her) is a collection management librarian at Oak Park (IL) Public Library. She has presented for Library Journal on inclusive collection development and auditing, and is an advocate for reading widely and diversely.




 
Location: Online via Zoom






Mental Health First Aid
6/13/2024

Mental Health First Aid is a training course designed to give members of the public key skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Just as CPR training helps a layperson without medical training assist an individual following a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid training helps a layperson assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis.  This course will run 9:00 am - 3:30 pm.  There will be two hours worth of pre-work before the live instructor-led online workshop.  This course is limited to 30.  Register for this class only if you are able to attend. This class will not be archived.

The evidence behind Mental Health First Aid demonstrates that it makes people feel more comfortable managing a crisis situation and builds mental health literacy — helping the public identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness. Specifically, studies found that those who trained in Mental Health First Aid have greater confidence in providing help to others, greater likelihood of advising people to seek professional help, improved concordance with health professionals about treatments, and decreased stigmatizing attitudes.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize the potential risk factors and warning signs for a range of mental health problems, including: depression, anxiety/trauma, psychosis and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and self-injury
  • Use a 5-step action plan to help an individual in crisis connect with appropriate professional help
  • Interpret the prevalence of various mental health disorders in the U.S. and the need for reduced negative attitudes in their communities
  • Apply knowledge of the appropriate professional, peer, social, and self-help resources available to help someone
Presenter:
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 11 spots remaining out of 30





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






Practical Budget Management: How to Avoid Disaster, Make Smart Moves, Report Responsibly, and Stress Less About your Budget!
7/17/2024

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.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Practical Budget Management: How to Avoid Disaster, Make Smart Moves, Report Responsibly, and Stress Less About your Budget!
7/17/2024

Recorded 7/17/24

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 stores 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.

 
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






Putting Our Words into Action: A Toolkit for Customer Service
7/31/2024

Everyone says “we offer good customer service to our patrons,” but there is often a gap between saying and doing. The Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS) has developed a customer service plan based on action statements meant to empower staff in service consistency, putting our words into action. Join SRLS staff as they discuss the creation of the Patron Experience Toolkit, a resource designed to support staff in developing their skills to serve a diverse community.

Presenter:

Rebecca Camp  has been working in Public Libraries for 12 years, and is currently serving as the Patron Experience Manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.
Location: Online via Zoom






Putting Our Words into Action: A Toolkit for Customer Service
7/31/2024

Recorded 731/24

Everyone says “we offer good customer service to our patrons,” but there is often a gap between saying and doing. The Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS) has developed a customer service plan based on action statements meant to empower staff in service consistency, putting our words into action. Join SRLS staff as they discuss the creation of the Patron Experience Toolkit, a resource designed to support staff in developing their skills to serve a diverse community.

Presenter:

Rebecca Camp  has been working in Public Libraries for 12 years, and is currently serving as the Patron Experience Manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.
Location: Online via Zoom






Flying Solo: Considerations for Archivists & Librarians
8/6/2024

Do you work as a solo archivist in a public library, historical society, small college or government setting? Join your colleagues as we discuss how to juggle your priorities while preserving and providing access to your collections. Participants should be prepared to share examples of challenges and successes in their work and should have basic knowledge of archival concepts.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn how to manage their resources
  • Participants will learn how to leverage their collections
  • Participants will learn how to tackle digital preservation
Presenter:

Christina Zamon serves as Head of Special Collections & Archives at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia. With over 20 years of experience in the field, she is an active member of the Academy of Certified Archivists, Archives Management Section and College and University Archives Section of SAA, and the immediate past president of the Society of Georgia Archivists. In addition to her experience as Head of Special Collections & Archives, Zamon previously worked as Head of Archives and Special Collections at Emerson College, Archivist at the National Press Club, rare books acquisitionist at the Folger Shakespeare Library and a clean-up cataloger for the Frick Art Reference Library. She has published two books on the topic of being a solo archivist, The Lone Arranger: Succeeding in a Small Repository (2012) and Alone in the Stacks: Succeeding as a Solo Archivist (2024).
Location: Online via Zoom






Flying Solo: Considerations for Archivists & Librarians
8/6/2024

Recorded 8/6/24

Do you work as a solo archivist in a public library, historical society, small college or government setting? Join your colleagues as we discuss how to juggle your priorities while preserving and providing access to your collections. Participants should be prepared to share examples of challenges and successes in their work and should have basic knowledge of archival concepts.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn how to manage their resources
  • Participants will learn how to leverage their collections
  • Participants will learn how to tackle digital preservation
Presenter:

Christina Zamon serves as Head of Special Collections & Archives at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia. With over 20 years of experience in the field, she is an active member of the Academy of Certified Archivists, Archives Management Section and College and University Archives Section of SAA, and the immediate past president of the Society of Georgia Archivists. In addition to her experience as Head of Special Collections & Archives, Zamon previously worked as Head of Archives and Special Collections at Emerson College, Archivist at the National Press Club, rare books acquisitionist at the Folger Shakespeare Library and a clean-up cataloger for the Frick Art Reference Library. She has published two books on the topic of being a solo archivist, The Lone Arranger: Succeeding in a Small Repository (2012) and Alone in the Stacks: Succeeding as a Solo Archivist (2024).
Location: Online via Zoom






Engaging with Teens Beyond Your Teen Library Staff
8/15/2024

Recorded 8/15/24

This interactive presentation will foster library staff confidence in engaging with community youth by addressing common challenges faced in the workplace. It will also cover best practices through the lens of mental health and social justice.

Learning objectives:
  • At the end of this session, participants will be able to collaborate effectively as part of a professional team to more confidently engage with youth patrons.  
  • At the end of this session, participants will be able to better analyze their system’s code of conduct and how it addresses behavior with a social justice lens.
  • At the end of this session, participants will be able to engage responsibly and sensitively when mental health issues arise.
Presenters:

Maggie Gall-Maynard (she/her/hers) has a BA from Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA and a MLIS, with a focus in youth librarianship, from Kent State University in Kent, OH. Maggie has served youth patrons in public libraries in Columbus, OH, Syracuse, NY, West Carrollton, OH and is currently a School Library Media Specialist at Tippecanoe Middle School in Tipp City, OH. She is also certified with Youth Mental Health First Aid through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. In her free time, she enjoys reading, crafting, and hiking with her husband, David, and daughter, Aspasia. Email: mgallmaynard@tippcity.k12.oh.us Instagram: MrsMaggieLovesBooks



Amanda Feuerstein (she/her/hers) has a B.A. and M.A. in Spanish from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, OH. Amanda taught Spanish at a college level for four years and then high school Spanish for seven years. Post-pandemic she made the switch to being an Information Services Assistant at Dayton Metro Library’s West Carrollton Branch in West Carrollton, OH. She is currently studying for her MLIS at IUPUI.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






LGBTQ+ 101 with an Intergenerational Perspective
8/20/2024

The LGBTQ+ 101 training is designed to create a more inclusive and understanding workplace environment by providing participants with foundational knowledge and skills related to the LGBTQ+ community. This session will also incorporate intergenerational aspects of work, identity, and communication. This training aims to foster empathy, respect, and inclusivity towards individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understanding LGBTQ+ Terminology: Participants will familiarize themselves with key terms and concepts related to sexual orientation and gender identity, including but not limited to LGBTQ+, transgender, non-binary, and cisgender.
  • Creating Inclusive Spaces: Participants will learn practical ways to create inclusive and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ colleagues, clients, and customers, including language usage, policies, and organizational culture.
  • Enhancing Communication and Engagement Across Generations
Presenters:

Amanda Cole joined Plexus LGBT + Allied Chamber of Commerce as the first Executive Director in March of 2019. Her work in the non-profit sector began while a student at Antioch College during her first co-op directing an AmeriCorps program serving at-risk youth living in vulnerable communities. Since then she has been a servant leader and community activist. Amanda attended Wright State University where she pursued studies in non-profit management. After graduating she began a successful career in fundraising and development and returned to her alma mater, Antioch College, to run the annual fund and alumni relations departments. Her move to NEO was spurred by a wonderful opportunity to join the Museum of Contemporary Art leading the development department. Additionally, her community involvement and training includes leadership and change facilitation through Points of Light Youth Leadership, People’s Institute for Undoing Racism, and Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. 
An avid reader and consumer of podcasts, Amanda has been most inspired by Encyclopedia Brown to choose her own adventure. 

Dr. Jennifer E. Bosco (she/her) brings 20+ years of expertise in areas of business development, workplace culture, and inclusive practices. Jennifer serves as the founding Inclusion Hub Director for Plexus LGBT & Allied Chamber of Commerce for Northeast Ohio. Jennifer is also the founder of Bosco Consulting, a firm that guides businesses and organizations to align their vision and goals with a highly diverse, productive, and inclusive workplace. Her community actions include serving on the Board of Directors for Talespinner Children’s Theatre and as a member of an advocacy advising group for the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland. She earned her doctorate in international and multicultural education with a concentration in human rights from University of San Francisco where her research focused on antiracism activism and the intersectionality of race and gender.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






LGBTQ+ 101 with an Intergenerational Perspective
8/20/2024

Recorded 8/20/24

The LGBTQ+ 101 training is designed to create a more inclusive and understanding workplace environment by providing participants with foundational knowledge and skills related to the LGBTQ+ community. This session will also incorporate intergenerational aspects of work, identity, and communication. This training aims to foster empathy, respect, and inclusivity towards individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understanding LGBTQ+ Terminology: Participants will familiarize themselves with key terms and concepts related to sexual orientation and gender identity, including but not limited to LGBTQ+, transgender, non-binary, and cisgender.
  • Creating Inclusive Spaces: Participants will learn practical ways to create inclusive and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ colleagues, clients, and customers, including language usage, policies, and organizational culture.
  • Enhancing Communication and Engagement Across Generations
Presenters:

Dr. Jennifer E. Bosco (she/her) brings 20+ years of expertise in areas of business development, workplace culture, and inclusive practices. Jennifer serves as the founding Inclusion Hub Director for Plexus LGBT & Allied Chamber of Commerce for Northeast Ohio. Jennifer is also the founder of Bosco Consulting, a firm that guides businesses and organizations to align their vision and goals with a highly diverse, productive, and inclusive workplace. Her community actions include serving on the Board of Directors for Talespinner Children’s Theatre and as a member of an advocacy advising group for the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland. She earned her doctorate in international and multicultural education with a concentration in human rights from University of San Francisco where her research focused on antiracism activism and the intersectionality of race and gender.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Public Relations and Marketing Virtual Networking Meeting
8/20/2024

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 an hour before the meeting. We hope you will join us. 

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






What can Roku do for your library?
8/27/2024

We've been circulating Roku devices to our patrons since 2015. It's a way for them to experience streaming video without the investment and confusion and offer access to programs we can't offer or purchase in other ways. Discover how we made this streaming world accessible and what lessons we learned along the way. Be ready to experiment and enhance your existing physical and downloadable offerings.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Understand how Rokus (and similar appliances) and streaming services work for consumers
  • Understand how you can provide access to these for your community
  • How to make sense with and keep up with the world of streaming to continuously improve offerings.
Presenter:

Gerry Vogel, Avon Lake Public Library 
Gerry has been assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library since 2006. Gerry and his family stopped using cable shortly after getting their first Roku in 2015.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






What can Roku do for your library?
8/27/2024

Recorded 8/27/24

We've been circulating Roku devices to our patrons since 2015. It's a way for them to experience streaming video without the investment and confusion and offer access to programs we can't offer or purchase in other ways. Discover how we made this streaming world accessible and what lessons we learned along the way. Be ready to experiment and enhance your existing physical and downloadable offerings.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Understand how Rokus (and similar appliances) and streaming services work for consumers
  • Understand how you can provide access to these for your community
  • How to make sense with and keep up with the world of streaming to continuously improve offerings.
Presenter:

Gerry Vogel, Avon Lake Public Library 
Gerry has been assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library since 2006. Gerry and his family stopped using cable shortly after getting their first Roku in 2015.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
9/4/2024

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Carrie Kibby any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Prioritizing Self-Care for Management
9/4/2024

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 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


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Prioritizing Self-Care for Management
9/4/2024

Recorded 9/4/24

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 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


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Circulation Networking Meeting
9/5/2024

Take this opportunity to share your successes and challenges via a roundtable discussion. You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us Please send topics you would like discussed to Jeff Laser.
 
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






Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting
9/6/2024

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 email when you register and 1 hour before the meeting.  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






AI is Here, Now What Do I Do as a Library Worker? A Beginner’s Guide to Using AI in Everyday Workflows
9/11/2024

Step into the future of library work with our foundational workshop, "AI is Here, Now What Do I Do as a Library Worker?" Designed specifically for library professionals, this beginner’s guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to seamlessly integrate AI into your everyday workflows. Join us for this engaging and informative workshop and take the first step towards becoming proficient in using AI to revolutionize your work in the library. No prior experience with AI is required—just a curiosity and readiness to embrace the future of library services!

Learning Objectives:
  1. Understand Generative AI and Overall AI:
    • Gain a clear understanding of what generative AI is and how it fits within the broader context of artificial intelligence.
  2. Explore Future Applications of AI in Libraries:
    • Discover the potential ways AI can transform library services and operations.
  3. Integrate AI into Everyday Individual Workflows:
    • Learn practical methods to incorporate AI tools into your daily tasks.
    • See real-life examples of how AI can streamline routine processes, improve efficiency, and enhance the quality of service provided to library patrons
Presenter: Arnessa Dowell

With more than two decades of award-winning experience in the library field, Arnessa Dowell has worn many hats, starting as a Page and eventually taking on the role of Library Director in four different institutions working at academic, public, and federal government libraries. She earned her Master of Library Science degree from North Carolina Central University with a focus in academic librarianship and special collections. Additionally, she earned her Masters of Business Administration from the University of North Alabama with a concentration of Executive Leadership. Ms. Dowell is a passionate advocate for blending strategic planning with AI to expeditiously achieve the desired outcomes. 

Throughout her career, Ms. Dowell has focused on using libraries as dynamic platforms for fostering community engagement, promoting inclusivity, and raising the bar for customer service. Her signature approach involves crafting strategic frameworks that not only adapt to the changing landscape of library services but also position libraries as innovative hubs.

In the ever-evolving library landscape, Ms. Dowell wants to stay at the forefront of driving meaningful change. Her unwavering commitment revolves around solidifying libraries as integral community pillars, powered by the integration of AI technologies and thoughtful strategic planning.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






AI is Here, Now What Do I Do as a Library Worker? A Beginner’s Guide to Using AI in Everyday Workflows
9/11/2024

Recorded 9/11/24

Step into the future of library work with our foundational workshop, "AI is Here, Now What Do I Do as a Library Worker?" Designed specifically for library professionals, this beginner’s guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to seamlessly integrate AI into your everyday workflows. Join us for this engaging and informative workshop and take the first step towards becoming proficient in using AI to revolutionize your work in the library. No prior experience with AI is required—just a curiosity and readiness to embrace the future of library services!

Learning Objectives:
  1. Understand Generative AI and Overall AI:
    • Gain a clear understanding of what generative AI is and how it fits within the broader context of artificial intelligence.
  2. Explore Future Applications of AI in Libraries:
    • Discover the potential ways AI can transform library services and operations.
  3. Integrate AI into Everyday Individual Workflows:
    • Learn practical methods to incorporate AI tools into your daily tasks.
    • See real-life examples of how AI can streamline routine processes, improve efficiency, and enhance the quality of service provided to library patrons
Presenter: Arnessa Dowell

With more than two decades of award-winning experience in the library field, Arnessa Dowell has worn many hats, starting as a Page and eventually taking on the role of Library Director in four different institutions working at academic, public, and federal government libraries. She earned her Master of Library Science degree from North Carolina Central University with a focus in academic librarianship and special collections. Additionally, she earned her Masters of Business Administration from the University of North Alabama with a concentration of Executive Leadership. Ms. Dowell is a passionate advocate for blending strategic planning with AI to expeditiously achieve the desired outcomes. 

Throughout her career, Ms. Dowell has focused on using libraries as dynamic platforms for fostering community engagement, promoting inclusivity, and raising the bar for customer service. Her signature approach involves crafting strategic frameworks that not only adapt to the changing landscape of library services but also position libraries as innovative hubs.

In the ever-evolving library landscape, Ms. Dowell wants to stay at the forefront of driving meaningful change. Her unwavering commitment revolves around solidifying libraries as integral community pillars, powered by the integration of AI technologies and thoughtful strategic planning.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Excel Drop-in Q & A (Excel Nerds and Novices welcome)
9/11/2024

Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered.  Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel.  Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel?  Excel formula basics?  Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability?  Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS?  Power Query basics?  You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi  or just join us on Zoom for the conversation.  Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.

Facilitator:

Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014.  Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives.  His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet.  While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks.  In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
 
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Excel Drop-in Q & A (Excel Nerds and Novices welcome)
9/11/2024

Recorded 9/11/24

Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered.  Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel.  Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel?  Excel formula basics?  Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability?  Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS?  Power Query basics?  You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi  or just join us on Zoom for the conversation.  Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.

Facilitator:

Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014.  Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives.  His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet.  While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks.  In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
 
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Book Talking for Teens: In Middle Schools and High Schools
9/12/2024

Conducting a book talk for teens and middle school students requires engaging presentation techniques, relevant book choices, and ways to capture their interest. 

Learning Objectives:
  • The “Do’s” and “Don’ts” of book talking in schools: what works best and what doesn’t
  • Understand the basic components of a book talk presentation
  • How to find the most appealing titles for middle graders and high school students

Presenter:

Mel Vavra is the Teen Librarian at Brunswick branch of the Medina County District Library System. She has been making the public library memorable for teens since 2015.   


Location: Online via Zoom






Book Talking for Teens: In Middle Schools and High Schools
9/12/2024

Recorded 9/12/24

Conducting a book talk for teens and middle school students requires engaging presentation techniques, relevant book choices, and ways to capture their interest. 

Learning Objectives:
  • The “Do’s” and “Don’ts” of book talking in schools: what works best and what doesn’t
  • Understand the basic components of a book talk presentation
  • How to find the most appealing titles for middle graders and high school students

Presenter:

Mel Vavra is the Teen Librarian at Brunswick branch of the Medina County District Library System. She has been making the public library memorable for teens since 2015.   


Location: Online via Zoom






Thinking Outside the (Search) Box: Advanced Strategies and Techniques for Fulfilling Patrons' Information Needs
9/18/2024

You've successfully determined your patron's information need... now what? This webinar will provide strategies and techniques that library staff can put into practice to get the most out of the resources to which all libraries in Ohio have access, including databases, websites, online archives, and more. The presentation will also take a fresh look at some familiar information resources and will suggest ways to utilize them in innovative ways.

Learning Objectives:
  • Gain a working knowledge of a variety of information sources.
  • Learn practical searching skills to apply within any information-searching environment.
  • Identify novel uses for established information resources.
Presenter:

Don Boozer is Manager of the Literature Department and Homebound Services at Cleveland Public Library as well as Coordinator of the Ohio Center for the Book, the Buckeye State's affiliate of the Center for the Book at the Library of Congress. He is also an adjunct instructor at Kent State University's School of Information where he teaches the reference service and
Location: Online via Zoom






Thinking Outside the (Search) Box: Advanced Strategies and Techniques for Fulfilling Patrons' Information Needs
9/18/2024

Recorded 9/18/24

You've successfully determined your patron's information need... now what? This webinar will provide strategies and techniques that library staff can put into practice to get the most out of the resources to which all libraries in Ohio have access, including databases, websites, online archives, and more. The presentation will also take a fresh look at some familiar information resources and will suggest ways to utilize them in innovative ways.

Learning Objectives:
  • Gain a working knowledge of a variety of information sources.
  • Learn practical searching skills to apply within any information-searching environment.
  • Identify novel uses for established information resources.
Presenter:

Don Boozer is Manager of the Literature Department and Homebound Services at Cleveland Public Library as well as Coordinator of the Ohio Center for the Book, the Buckeye State's affiliate of the Center for the Book at the Library of Congress. He is also an adjunct instructor at Kent State University's School of Information where he teaches the reference service and
Location: Online via Zoom






Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
10/1/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Accessible Digital Libraries: Navigating Smartphone Assistive Technology with Low-Vision Patrons
10/2/2024

Have you ever wondered what assistive technology options exist to break down the barrier between library collections and our patrons with visual impairment or blindness? Join this webinar to get an introduction to built-in accessibility features on today's smartphones and see how they can be used to access library apps. We'll go over the basic gestures to get you started as well as tips for navigating. This will include a brief demonstration using the Libby app, but the skills can apply to any accessible digital collection.
 
***Attendees are encouraged to bring a mobile device (and headphones for it if you won't have a space to yourself) to participate in the practice portion of the presentation.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand why working with a mobile device's native accessibility features is important to equitable library service.
  • Identify and explain accessibility features native to Apple iOS and Android mobile devices.
  • Borrow and listen to digital audiobooks using only their hands and ears (no vision required).

Presenter:

Alyssa Hanson has been the Web Specialist at the Iowa City Public Library (ICPL) since 2016. Her work has included redesigning, building, and maintaining ICPL’s website as well as leading the front-end design work on ICPL's catalog, app, and other web projects. While not coding, she also works on the Info Desk helping people with technology and reference questions. She is continually looking for ways to improve the usability and accessibility of ICPL and its web presence as well as opportunities to help others learn more about accessibility.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Accessible Digital Libraries: Navigating Smartphone Assistive Technology with Low-Vision Patrons
10/2/2024

Recorded 10/2/24

Have you ever wondered what assistive technology options exist to break down the barrier between library collections and our patrons with visual impairment or blindness? Join this webinar to get an introduction to built-in accessibility features on today's smartphones and see how they can be used to access library apps. We'll go over the basic gestures to get you started as well as tips for navigating. This will include a brief demonstration using the Libby app, but the skills can apply to any accessible digital collection.
 
***Attendees are encouraged to bring a mobile device (and headphones for it if you won't have a space to yourself) to participate in the practice portion of the presentation.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand why working with a mobile device's native accessibility features is important to equitable library service.
  • Identify and explain accessibility features native to Apple iOS and Android mobile devices.
  • Borrow and listen to digital audiobooks using only their hands and ears (no vision required).

Presenter:

Alyssa Hanson has been the Web Specialist at the Iowa City Public Library (ICPL) since 2016. Her work has included redesigning, building, and maintaining ICPL’s website as well as leading the front-end design work on ICPL's catalog, app, and other web projects. While not coding, she also works on the Info Desk helping people with technology and reference questions. She is continually looking for ways to improve the usability and accessibility of ICPL and its web presence as well as opportunities to help others learn more about accessibility.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Directors/Deputy Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
10/2/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other directors and deputy directors. This meeting will be held via Zoom, which is user-friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Teen Book Discussion
10/9/2024

Join us for an engaging teen book discussion webinar where you'll discover insights from two successful teen book discussion programs.

Learn from Christina Getrost, who will share the secrets behind her long-running high school book club, a joint effort between Stow-Munroe Falls High School and Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, which averages 30 students each month.

Hear from Danielle Weiser-Cline of Kingsville Public Library about her unique approach to running a coffee shop teen book club.

Presenters:

Christina Getrost has worked as teen librarian/adult reference librarian at the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library in Stow, Ohio since May 2000. Prior to that she was a children’s librarian for several years at the Kent Free Library in Kent, Ohio, having obtained her BA and MLIS from Kent State University. Christina's other current professional commitments include serving as the President of the Buckeye Children’s and Teen Book Awards Council. 




Dani Weiser-Cline serves as the Youth Services and Outreach Coordinator at Kingsville Public Library, a small rural library in Northeast Ohio. In this role, she designs, implements, and runs all programming for children from birth to age 18. She is a PhD Candidate in Cultural Foundations of Education at Kent State University where she takes a philosophical approach to understanding out of school learning environments. She holds an M.A. in Theatre History and Criticism, a B.F.A. in Acting, and a B.F.A. in Technical Theatre and Design. She loves helping youth of all ages find their next favorite book!


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Teen Book Discussion
10/9/2024

Recorded:  10/9/24

Join us for an engaging teen book discussion webinar where you'll discover insights from two successful teen book discussion programs.

Learn from Christina Getrost, who will share the secrets behind her long-running high school book club, a joint effort between Stow-Munroe Falls High School and Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, which averages 30 students each month.

Hear from Danielle Weiser-Cline of Kingsville Public Library about her unique approach to running a coffee shop teen book club.

Presenters:

Christina Getrost has worked as teen librarian/adult reference librarian at the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library in Stow, Ohio since May 2000. Prior to that she was a children’s librarian for several years at the Kent Free Library in Kent, Ohio, having obtained her BA and MLIS from Kent State University. Christina's other current professional commitments include serving as the President of the Buckeye Children’s and Teen Book Awards Council. 




Dani Weiser-Cline serves as the Youth Services and Outreach Coordinator at Kingsville Public Library, a small rural library in Northeast Ohio. In this role, she designs, implements, and runs all programming for children from birth to age 18. She is a PhD Candidate in Cultural Foundations of Education at Kent State University where she takes a philosophical approach to understanding out of school learning environments. She holds an M.A. in Theatre History and Criticism, a B.F.A. in Acting, and a B.F.A. in Technical Theatre and Design. She loves helping youth of all ages find their next favorite book!


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: Readers' Advisory 101
10/16/2024

Readers' Advisory can feel scary because we want our patrons to leave the library with books that are perfect for their mood. Keeping up with the book world can be a daunting task, too. Learn some basic skills that will help you provide good RA service and be a more informed and passionate Readers' Advisor.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Define Readers' Advisory service in a public library.
  • Talk about appeal factors with patrons and listen actively to readers.
  • Use common resources to make reading suggestions and expand their own knowledge of popular books.
Presenter:

 Mary Olson is Readers' Advisory Librarian at Medina County District Library. Her duties include training, direct service to book clubs, promotional writing, collection development, and programming. She is the 2015 Allie Beth Martin award winner and the 2016 Pat Carterette Award winner.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Bootcamp: Readers' Advisory 101
10/16/2024

Recorded 10/16/24

Readers' Advisory can feel scary because we want our patrons to leave the library with books that are perfect for their mood. Keeping up with the book world can be a daunting task, too. Learn some basic skills that will help you provide good RA service and be a more informed and passionate Readers' Advisor.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Define Readers' Advisory service in a public library.
  • Talk about appeal factors with patrons and listen actively to readers.
  • Use common resources to make reading suggestions and expand their own knowledge of popular books.
Presenter:

 Mary Olson is Readers' Advisory Librarian at Medina County District Library. Her duties include training, direct service to book clubs, promotional writing, collection development, and programming. She is the 2015 Allie Beth Martin award winner and the 2016 Pat Carterette Award winner.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Intro to Digitization
10/17/2024

Digitization is a big project. Where do you start? What systems do you use and what resources are available for you? This webinar will introduce foundations of digitization for libraries that want to begin a digitization project.

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore digitization plans, and how to select resources for digitization.
  • Discover necessary tools such as content management systems and metadata.
  • Learn about the Digihubs in Ohio and what resources they provide
Presenter:

Penelope Shumaker is a Library Consultant at the State Library of Ohio. She specializes in Digitization and CE for library staff. She manages the Ohio Digital Network (ODN), which is the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) Service hub for Ohio. She has Master of Library and Information Science (Kent State University) and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (Cedarville University).
Location: Online via Zoom






Intro to Digitization
10/17/2024

Recorded 10/17/24

Digitization is a big project. Where do you start? What systems do you use and what resources are available for you? This webinar will introduce foundations of digitization for libraries that want to begin a digitization project.

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore digitization plans, and how to select resources for digitization.
  • Discover necessary tools such as content management systems and metadata.
  • Learn about the Digihubs in Ohio and what resources they provide
Presenter:

Penelope Shumaker is a Library Consultant at the State Library of Ohio. She specializes in Digitization and CE for library staff. She manages the Ohio Digital Network (ODN), which is the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) Service hub for Ohio. She has Master of Library and Information Science (Kent State University) and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (Cedarville University).
Location: Online via Zoom






Technical Services/Collection Development Networking Meeting
10/17/2024

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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






Intersectionality 101
10/22/2024

Intersectionality is a concept that allows us to examine multiple areas of our lives and social identities. During this session, participants will examine what it actually is, discuss the history of the theory and begin to apply an intersectional lens.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify intersectionality as a lens 
  • Identify how intersectionality can be utilized in their respective spaces 
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.


Location: Online via Zoom






Library Friends Groups: A Guide To Growing Your Friends
10/23/2024

Library Friends Groups are the backbone of community support for libraries, contributing financially and playing a crucial role in their thriving success. In this session, delve into the essentials, explore growth strategies, and get inspired.

Learning Objectives:
  • How friend groups support their library
  • How to form a Friends Group (or revitalize an existing group)
  • How to grow your Friends Group
  • Explore fun ideas for building community and fundraising.
Presenter:

Diana Silveira is a librarian and President of Novare Library Services, where she works with libraries to develop, implement, and utilize technology effectively. Previously, she was employed by the Tampa Bay Library Consortium and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. She has an MLIS from UNC-Greensboro and a BS in psychology from Catawba College. She is the author of the book Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow.
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Friends Groups: A Guide To Growing Your Friends
10/23/2024

Recorded 10/23/24

Library Friends Groups are the backbone of community support for libraries, contributing financially and playing a crucial role in their thriving success. In this session, delve into the essentials, explore growth strategies, and get inspired.

Learning Objectives:
  • How friend groups support their library
  • How to form a Friends Group (or revitalize an existing group)
  • How to grow your Friends Group
  • Explore fun ideas for building community and fundraising.
Presenter:

Diana Silveira is a librarian and President of Novare Library Services, where she works with libraries to develop, implement, and utilize technology effectively. Previously, she was employed by the Tampa Bay Library Consortium and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. She has an MLIS from UNC-Greensboro and a BS in psychology from Catawba College. She is the author of the book Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow.
Location: Online via Zoom






RescheduledWe See You: Library Programming for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
10/24/2024

This presentation aims to provide library workers with practical strategies and tools for developing outreach and in-library programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Participants will walk away with practical ideas for engaging with their community and concrete suggestions for successful and rewarding programming for adults with IDD.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will recognize the value and rewards inherent in providing services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Participants will learn concrete first steps for implementing programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Participants will learn details for at least three programming models to use with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Presenter:

Rebecca Wolfe
is the manager of the Grabill branch of the Allen County Public Library in Indiana. She worked for twenty years as manager of a large suburban branch of ACPL before moving in 2022 to the beautiful Grabill branch, which is a rural branch with its own hitching post for equine visitors. For the past decade, Rebecca has focused on programming for adults and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This work led to recognition as one of Library Journal's 2024 "Mover & Shakers."
Location: Online via Zoom






Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility Networking Meeting
10/24/2024

We are excited to start this new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility networking group. 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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






We See You: Library Programming for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
10/24/2024

Recorded 10/24/24

This presentation aims to provide library workers with practical strategies and tools for developing outreach and in-library programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Participants will walk away with practical ideas for engaging with their community and concrete suggestions for successful and rewarding programming for adults with IDD.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will recognize the value and rewards inherent in providing services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Participants will learn concrete first steps for implementing programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Participants will learn details for at least three programming models to use with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Presenter:

Rebecca Wolfe
is the manager of the Grabill branch of the Allen County Public Library in Indiana. She worked for twenty years as manager of a large suburban branch of ACPL before moving in 2022 to the beautiful Grabill branch, which is a rural branch with its own hitching post for equine visitors. For the past decade, Rebecca has focused on programming for adults and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This work led to recognition as one of Library Journal's 2024 "Mover & Shakers."
Location: Online via Zoom






Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
10/29/2024

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






How to Weather the Turbulence of a Video Auditor
11/6/2024

First amendment audits continue to occur in libraries and they can be unsettling and stressful for staff and patrons. What can you do to prepare for the next auditor’s visit and what strategies can be used when they have the camera in your face? Join us for a panel discussion that includes a public library assistant director and a representative from the ALA Office of Intellectual Freedom. The panelists will provide an overview of the legal environment, highlight case studies and share best practices for dealing with auditors.

Presenters:
Julianne Rist is a library leader with a commitment to transforming communities and a vision to keep libraries relevant in the 21st century. As Director of Public Serivces for Jefferson County Public Library she has piloted new services and overseen the redesign of several library buildings. She led the response for filming in JCPL libraries. She has an MLIS from University of South Florida and is the chair of the PLA Digital Literacy Committee.




Deborah Caldwell-Stone is Director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom and Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation. For over twenty years she has worked closely with library professionals and library trustees on a wide range of intellectual freedom issues. She has served on the faculty of the ALA-sponsored Lawyers for Libraries and Law for Librarians workshops and is a contributor to the 10th edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual. She has contributed articles on law, policy, and intellectual freedom to American Libraries and other publications.

Location: Online via Zoom






How to Weather the Turbulence of a Video Auditor
11/6/2024

Recorded:  11/6/24

First amendment audits continue to occur in libraries and they can be unsettling and stressful for staff and patrons. What can you do to prepare for the next auditor’s visit and what strategies can be used when they have the camera in your face? Join us for a panel discussion that includes a public library assistant director and a representative from the ALA Office of Intellectual Freedom. The panelists will provide an overview of the legal environment, highlight case studies and share best practices for dealing with auditors.

Presenters:
Julianne Rist is a library leader with a commitment to transforming communities and a vision to keep libraries relevant in the 21st century. As Director of Public Serivces for Jefferson County Public Library she has piloted new services and overseen the redesign of several library buildings. She led the response for filming in JCPL libraries. She has an MLIS from University of South Florida and is the chair of the PLA Digital Literacy Committee.




Deborah Caldwell-Stone is Director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom and Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation. For over twenty years she has worked closely with library professionals and library trustees on a wide range of intellectual freedom issues. She has served on the faculty of the ALA-sponsored Lawyers for Libraries and Law for Librarians workshops and is a contributor to the 10th edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual. She has contributed articles on law, policy, and intellectual freedom to American Libraries and other publications.

Location: Online via Zoom






Inclusive Hiring for Staff
11/12/2024

How can we make a staff hiring process more inclusive? Participants will examine the application review and interview phases, become aware of some common barriers, and learn about what practices they can incorporate. 




Learning Objectives:

  • Construct an interview process
  • Be aware of biases
  • Learn to be inclusive
Presenter:

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.


Location: Online via Zoom






Outreach Networking Meeting
11/12/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






Construction and Facilities Networking Meeting
11/14/2024

Catch up with your peers in this networking opportunity about construction and facilities.  Send topics you would like to discuss to Melissa Lattanzi.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Readers Advisory for Teens
11/14/2024

Figuring out what teens want to read can be tricky. This webinar will offer communication tips and familiarize you with titles, authors and trends that will help ensure teens won’t leave the library empty-handed.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn questions you can ask teens to help them find their next good book
  • Recognize some concerns that may arise during a Teen RA experience and appropriate responses
  • Familiarize yourself with popular titles, authors and trends, as well as perennial favorites.
Presenters:
 
Mel Vavra is the Teen Librarian at Brunswick branch of the Medina County District Library System. She has been making the public library memorable for teens since 2015.   


 
 
 
 
 
Natalie Keller is a Reference Librarian at the Brunswick branch of the Medina County District Library System. From 2021-2024, she served as an Associate with MCDL, where she gained Reference experience with all ages, including children and teens. She earned her MLIS from Kent State in May 2024 and is excited to grow into her new specialization in Adult Services. Possessing an English Literature degree from Kenyon College, she loves to channel her passion for literature into her Reader’s Advisory interactions
Location: Online via Zoom






Readers Advisory for Teens
11/14/2024

Recorded 11/14/24

Figuring out what teens want to read can be tricky. This webinar will offer communication tips and familiarize you with titles, authors and trends that will help ensure teens won’t leave the library empty-handed.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn questions you can ask teens to help them find their next good book
  • Recognize some concerns that may arise during a Teen RA experience and appropriate responses
  • Familiarize yourself with popular titles, authors and trends, as well as perennial favorites.
Presenters:
 
Mel Vavra is the Teen Librarian at Brunswick branch of the Medina County District Library System. She has been making the public library memorable for teens since 2015.   


 
 
 
 
 
Natalie Keller is a Reference Librarian at the Brunswick branch of the Medina County District Library System. From 2021-2024, she served as an Associate with MCDL, where she gained Reference experience with all ages, including children and teens. She earned her MLIS from Kent State in May 2024 and is excited to grow into her new specialization in Adult Services. Possessing an English Literature degree from Kenyon College, she loves to channel her passion for literature into her Reader’s Advisory interactions
Location: Online via Zoom






Practical Approaches to Library Assessment: Focus on Library Instruction and Programming
12/3/2024

Assessment is a key component of determining the success of library programming and services. Knowing where to begin with assessment can be a difficult task, made even more challenging by the large variety of programming and services in need of assessment. This webinar will introduce basic assessment concepts and connect them to practical approaches to engaging in library assessment with a focus on library instruction and library programs. Key aspects of library assessment will be discussed, including the importance of determining who, what, when, where, why, and how.

Learning Objectives:
  • Gain an understanding of assessment basics, including the distinction between formative and summative assessment.
  • Identify at least three potential approaches to assessment that can be applied to library instruction or programming.
  • Understand the importance of addressing who, what, when, where, why, and how when planning library assessment.
Presenter:

Dr. Kawanna Bright (she/her) is Assistant Professor of Library Science at East Carolina University. Dr. Bright earned her PhD in Research Methods and Statistics from the University of Denver in 2018. Prior to earning her doctorate, Dr. Bright worked as an academic librarian for 12 years, with a focus on reference, instructional services, and information literacy. Dr. Bright’s current research focuses on assessment in libraries, equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in libraries, the application of research methodology to the study of LIS, and the importance of the liaison librarianship role in academic libraries. Dr. Bright provides consulting and training for libraries and other information organizations in support of EDI efforts, strategic planning, and project development.
Location: Online via Zoom






Genealogy Networking Meeting
12/4/2024

We are excited to start this new genealogy networking group. 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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jeff Laser.
Location: Online via Zoom






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






NEW - Training / Staff Development Networking Meeting
12/5/2024

Now is your opportunity to chat with other library staff that plan training for staff or patrons. Come and share speaker suggestions. Bring your challenges and we will solve them together.
Location: Online via Zoom






Unlocking the Power of AI in Libraries: An Intermediate Guide to Enhancing Services and Workflows
12/10/2024

Elevate your library work to new heights with our intermediate workshop regarding A.I. This session is designed for library professionals who have a basic understanding of AI and are ready to deepen their knowledge and application of AI tools and techniques in their workflows. Join us for this comprehensive workshop and take your AI knowledge to the next level. Equip yourself with the expertise to lead AI initiatives and make a significant impact on your library's future. Participants should have a foundational understanding of AI concepts and a willingness to engage in more technical discussions in order to apply the knowledge.

Learning Objectives:
  1. Deep Dive into Generative AI and Applications:
    • Enhance your understanding of generative AI and their applications that are most helpful to library work.
  2. Strategic Implementation of AI in Library Services:
    • Learn how where to strategically implement AI solutions to address common library challenges and improve service delivery.
    • Investigate case studies and best practices from libraries that have successfully integrated AI into their operations.
  3. Optimize Individual and Team Workflows with AI:
    • Discover advanced techniques to optimize both individual and team workflows within the library using AI
Presenter:  Arnessa Dowell

With more than two decades of award-winning experience in the library field, Arnessa Dowell has worn many hats, starting as a Page and eventually taking on the role of Library Director in four different institutions working at academic, public, and federal government libraries. She earned her Master of Library Science degree from North Carolina Central University with a focus in academic librarianship and special collections. Additionally, she earned her Masters of Business Administration from the University of North Alabama with a concentration of Executive Leadership. Ms. Dowell is a passionate advocate for blending strategic planning with AI to expeditiously achieve the desired outcomes. 

Throughout her career, Ms. Dowell has focused on using libraries as dynamic platforms for fostering community engagement, promoting inclusivity, and raising the bar for customer service. Her signature approach involves crafting strategic frameworks that not only adapt to the changing landscape of library services but also position libraries as innovative hubs.

In the ever-evolving library landscape, Ms. Dowell wants to stay at the forefront of driving meaningful change. Her unwavering commitment revolves around solidifying libraries as integral community pillars, powered by the integration of AI technologies and thoughtful strategic planning.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Adobe Illustrator Basics
12/11/2024

Design a logo using the various shape, drawing and text tools available in Adobe Illustrator.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the fundamentals of vector illustration
  • Explore the Illustrator workspace
  • Create and transform objects using Drawing Tools
Presenter:

Elizabeth Alessandro has been a technology trainer for Cuyahoga County Public Library for 3 years. She is a certified Microsoft Office Specialist Expert with certifications in all Microsoft Office Associate 365 programs, as well as Microsoft Word Expert and Microsoft Access 2019. She is also an Adobe Certified Professional in Adobe Photoshop. Before teaching technology, she was an educator of English to speakers of other languages for over 10 years. She has found that teaching technology is very similar to teaching a language and this has helped her develop my skills in this field.
 
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






Book Discussion Networking Meeting
12/18/2024

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Jane Carle any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom






What Does it Mean to be Anti-Racist?
1/14/2025


Anti-racism is a term that is frequently discussed in the public consciousness. This session provides a space to understand what anti-racism really means, safely reflect on where you are in your own journey, and explore how we can practice anti-racism in our communities.



Learning Objectives:

  • What anti-racism really means
  • Reflect on owr views
  • Explore how we can practice anti-racism in our communities
Presenter:

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.


Shaunte Rouse was born and raised in Northeastern Ohio. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Music from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Education degree in College Student Personnel from Ohio University. During her professional experience in Higher Education, Shaunte developed expertise in areas including strategic partnership cultivation, student advocacy, advising, mentoring, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making.
 
Shaunte has spearheaded initiatives aimed at removing barriers and advocating for policy changes to better support students, faculty, and staff at various higher education institutions. One of her key accomplishments includes the creation and facilitation of college-based diversity and inclusion committees at different institutions, which played a vital role in fostering a culture of inclusion on campuses.
 
Shaunte Rouse is passionate about creating inclusive and equitable spaces within Higher Education. She is committed to continuing this important work to drive positive change in our institutions and communities.


Location: Online via Zoom






Strategic Leadership
1/22/2025

This webinar is also part of the 2024-2025 Leadership Academy.

This Webinar will provide a brief overview of strategic leadership, provide you with tools to infuse strategic thinking into your library operations, and will discuss strategic leadership  in an ever changing world.
 
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 and 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.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Top 24 Titles of 2024
1/28/2025

No one expects public service staff to have read every popular title that has been published in a given year; however, it's not an unrealistic expectation to be familiar with them to better serve patrons. This webinar will go over the top 24 titles of 2024, literary trends and anticipated releases to note for 2025, and tried and true reader's advisory tips & tricks.  
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Familiarize yourself with the buzziest books for children, teens, and adults in both fiction and non-fiction.  
  • Gain an understanding of the 2024 and 2025 literary landscape. 
  • Improve your reader’s advisory and circulation upselling skills. 
Presenters:

Ris Labib, is a librarian in the Business, Government, & Science Division at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, Main, believes in the power of a good book. She has been talking with others about books -- in a professional and personal capacity -- since middle school and was even on NPR! One of the (many) books she is currently reading is “Book of Love” by Kelly Link. 


 
Amber has 20 years of experience in public libraries and is currently a librarian in the Business, Government, and Science Division at the Akron-Summit County Public Library whose areas of specialty are cookbooks, fashion & folklore, and general trivia.  She is the co-leader of specialty book clubs like: Romance Book Club and Speculative Fiction Book Club. Her favorite read of 2024 was “Funny Story” by Emily Henry.  

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Success in Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (DD)
2/4/2025

Offering programs for a subset of adults with DD is a great start, but it’s time to reach out to neurodiverse patrons in an evidence based, more holistic, and systemic way.
In this webinar, the authors of Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities will lead a discussion on:
  • How to identify and overcome barriers to inclusive programming
  • How to create a library-wide culture of inclusion
  • How to design and implement fun and exciting programs that work for patrons both with and without disabilities, and more.
You’ll leave the session informed, inspired, and empowered to begin or grow your own successful programming!

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to list three techniques they can use to make their adult programs more inclusive and accessible.
  • Participants will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the various stakeholders in successful programming and at least two ways they can involve self-advocates and community partners.
  • Participants will be able to identify at least three program models and how they can bring these to their own libraries.
Presenters:

Barbara Klipper is a retired public librarian who has been an advocate for people with developmental disabilities in libraries since the early 2000s. She is the author or Programming for Children and Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ALA, 2014), and co-author with Carrie Banks of several book chapters as well as Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (ALA, 2021). She created the “Autism Welcome Here: Library Programs, Services, and More grant, which funded innovative programs and services over a five-year period.
 


Carrie Banks runs Brooklyn Public Library’s services to children and teens with disabilities, Inclusive Services. Inclusive Services serves youth throughout Brooklyn in libraries, schools, hospitals, transitional housing facilities, group homes and detention centers. She taught Including Youth with Disabilities at Pratt Institute. Active in ALA since 2000, she was ASGCLA’s President in 2020 and part of ALA President Loida Garcia-Febo’s EDI Presidential Team. Publications include revising Including Families of Children with Special Needs: A How to Do It Manual for Librarians, Libraries and Garden: Growing Together, with Cynthia Mediavilla, and Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities, with Barbara Klipper. She is currently working on a book on libraries disrupting the school to prison pipeline.
 
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






Canva Essentials: From Ideas to Designs
2/18/2025

In this Canva Essentials session, you will discover how to create stunning visuals with ease using Canva. This beginner-friendly program covers essential design principles, from navigating the interface to customizing templates for various projects. By the end, you'll have the skills to craft eye-catching graphics for social media, presentations, and more!

Learning Objectives:
  • Getting Started: Familiarize yourself with Canva’s interface and features.
  • Creating Projects: Learn how to create stunning graphics for social media, presentations, flyers, and more.
  • Tips and Tricks with Canva: See what you can do with Canva to take your designs to the next level.
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 almost 3 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 2024 Westlake in Bloom first place win.

 
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






Cultivating Your Resilience to Avoid Burnt Out: Managing Stress, Appreciation Inequalities, and Workload Demands
3/12/2025

Libraries are at the heart of their communities as educators and a primary resource in programming and services and a refuge to the people they serve. However, the attitudes that come with it puts pressure on a library to do everything and be everything, putting a strain on expectations of the humans that run it. Unspoken expectations reinforce the idea that libraries are expected to handle everything, therefore end up being glorified security guards, babysitters, social workers, and frontline staff. Burnout is inevitable if you don’t learn how to cope with undue stress. This webinar will enforce learning how to set boundaries so that you can focus on the qualities that made you come into the profession. Discover ways to avoid burn out, refocus your role, and give yourself permission to step back.  

Learning Objectives:
  • How to set healthy boundaries with your community and coworkers
  • To identify and communicate needed support from higher levels
  • Develop approaches in reducing stress
  • To shift your perspective, reducing guilt for allowing yourself to re-prioritize your well-being
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