We're hosting a lively workshop to jointly develop ideas for the 2026 Adult summer reading theme, "Unearth a Story."

Did someone say murder?  Kicking off the morning with a bang, we present a Murder Mystery Game—and show you exactly how to create and implement one for your own library.  Followed by a presentation on CSLP theme, Unearth a Story, highlighting resources presented by Katy Hite of the State Library. TikTok isn’t just for teens, learn how to create simple summer reading TikToks to market your library effectively.

After a provided lunch, you will have dedicated time to connect with colleagues, sharing and developing innovative ideas for programs, incentives, and reading tracking methods.
The afternoon features our Program Palooza, where you'll hear about six distinct programs you can readily implement in your library. We will wrap up the day with Programming during tough times: Free, Cheap, and Recycled.  Don't miss this energizing day and opportunity to connect with your peers. More details will be coming soon.

Murder in the Stacks: Hosting Murder Mysteries at the Library
Learn where to find and facilitate interactive murder mystery programs for patrons of all ages. Warm up your detective skills with a mini murder mystery game, then explore planning, pacing, and best practices.

Presenter:  
Lindsay Miraglia, is the Adult Assistant Manager at the Wayne County Public Library. She has spent nearly 15 years working in public libraries across Northeast Ohio—including Akron-Summit County Public Library, Stark Library, Canal Fulton Public Library, and now WCPL—gaining a deep appreciation for the communities we serve. A lifelong true crime and horror enthusiast, Lindsay turned that passion into creating immersive, story-driven murder mystery programs for patrons. She even designed custom mysteries inspired by the summer reading themes. Fun fact: she once built a full life-size coffin out of cardboard for a vampire-themed mystery.


Dig In! Unearth Your Summer Why
Unearthing the WHYs of including adult participation in your summer reading program can help you identify which practices are vibrant and beneficial and which should go extinct. We’ll identify our whys, celebrate what we love about summer, and name something we’d like to revisit, change, or let go. This session will also feature a quick tour of CSLP’s “Unearth a Story” theme, art, and resources and other statewide summer planning supports.

Presenter:
Katy Hite is the Adult Services Library Consultant at the State Library of Ohio. Her job is to support and champion the work of library staff across the state who are serving adult patrons through programs, services and outreach. Katy facilitates Adult Services networking meetings, co-facilitates Building Community-Based Summers learning sessions and provides strategic planning services across the state. She has worked as an adult services supervisor, adult reference librarian and programmer, and an emerging technology librarian at libraries throughout central Ohio.


Reel Results: Have Fun Marketing Your Library on Social Media 
You don’t need a production studio or a huge team to create videos that engage your community.  Even beginners can use simple gear to plan, film, and edit professional, compelling videos quickly and easily. Learn simple techniques to capture your patrons’ attention and draw them into the library. 

Presenters:

Marie Grmek is a lifelong reader and has worked at Kirtland Public Library for the last 5 years and she had limited success talking people into participating in social media videos until Mackenzie and Sarah started this past spring at the library. We have enjoyed making fools of ourselves online since September and will continue to do so for as long as we can!

Marie Grmek,  Circulation/Marketing Assistant
Mackenzie Campbell,  Circulation Clerk
Sarah Iaboni,  Circulation Clerk




Programming during tough times: Free, Cheap, and Recycled
Are recent budget cuts creating obstacles for your library programming? Join Paula Wagner, the Head of Adult Services at the Middlefield Branch of the Geauga County Public Library system, as she shares her tips and tricks for integrating free, low-cost, and recycled materials into your library programs. By combining ingenuity with budget-friendly options, you can still create events your patrons will love! Every participant in the workshop will receive a packet of project sheets (including cost per person) for each of the highlighted programs.

Presenter:
Paula Wagner is the Head of Adult Services/Assistant Branch Manager for the Middlefield Branch of the Geauga County Public Library System. Librarianship is Paula's second career after working as a Software Developer for 10 years. Paula was a runner-up for the Northeastern Ohio Regional Library System's Rising Star Award in 2016. She enjoys collaborating with youth services on large scale events such as Harry Potter's 45th birthday celebration, an Edgar Allen Poe Escape Room, and Tea Parties. Paula is a former member of the Ohio Library Council's Adult and Reference Services Division, and the 2024 NEO-RLS Shooting Star winner.