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Northeast Ohio Regional Library System

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Broken Image 2015 Directors' Retreat
5/20/2015 - 5/21/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:         $250
Full/CE Member Cost:                   $250
Includes lodging, meals and workshop

What Every Library Director Should Know
Hear from author, Susan Carol Curzon,  as she gives real advice to directors

How to Make Your Board Nervous (or Not)
Tips from Catherine Monnin, former board president

Secrets to Success
Go home with tried and true ideas for tomorrow from a panel of library experts.
 
 
Location: Mohican Lodge and Conference Center
4700 Goon Road
Perrysville, OH 44864

There are currently 18 spots remaining out of 40




Broken Image 2016 Directors' Retreat
5/25/2016 - 5/26/2016

Price for All        $250
Special Event Pricing
Includes lodging, meals and workshop

You’ve heard plenty about library – community partnerships. Come, relax, sit back and hear how these collaborations can be part of your Presence Based Leadership. You’ll leave with a plan to make “courageous moves” happen at your library!  Former ALA President Maureen Sullivan will co-facilitate this popular event along with Cathy Monnin, an experienced and popular trainer. This retreat grows every year because directors keep coming back! Sign up today!

Must have 20 registered by Friday, January 22, 2016!
 
Sign up today!
 
 
Location: Mohican Lodge and Conference Center
4700 Goon Road
Perrysville, OH 44864

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 30




Project Management: Plain and Simple
10/14/2014

Geographic Member/Other Cost:         $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                  $25
Not reserved for only engineering, project management is simply the organization and execution of any task, big or small. This webinar will demystify project management and offer concrete tools for the successful completion of your next library endeavor, whether it is a new software adoption or a workflow improvement. 
 
Presenter:  Nan Carmack

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 40 spots remaining out of 40




I'm a Manager - Now What? Things You Didn't Learn in Library School
10/16/2014

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25

Many library professionals are placed into management roles with little or no guidance because there isn’t time for training or their position is newly created. Since Librarian skills are different from Managerial skills, these newly minted managers may struggle getting a handle on their new positions.

Presenter:
Jennifer Parsick

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 31 spots remaining out of 40




360 Degrees and More
11/6/2014

Geographic Member/Other Cost:       $100
Full/CE Member Cost:                     $  50
Lunch included

Why do Evaluations?  Why are they important?  Cathy Hakala-Ausperk  will discuss how evaluations fit into effective coaching, discipline and performances.  Robin Wood will follow with a conversation about 3600 evalluations.  We will conclude the day with talking about the role of self evaluation in career development.

Presenters:
Robin Wood, Cleveland Public Library
Cathy Hakala-Ausperk, NEO-RLS
 
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 38




Creative Internships at Your Library
11/20/2014

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25
Are you scrambling to provide your patrons with on-going, engaging programming such as, art classes, computer classes, ESOL lessons, and homework help?
Hire an intern! And not just any intern…a non-library school student intern.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 38 spots remaining out of 40




Budget and Resource Management
12/9/2014

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25

Sometimes it seems that managing a library requires a crystal ball—anticipating budgetary needs, patron needs, and appropriate responses all at once! The need for fortune telling can be greatly reduced with careful attention to budget creation and policy-making. 



 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 27 spots remaining out of 30




Developing and Implementing a Motivational Strategy to Empower Employees
1/6/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25

Many times when budgets get tight, patron use increases while resources become more limited. Keeping your staff happy and motivated can become increasingly more difficult. However, the successful manager knows how to keep his or her employees motivated to bring their best to the job every day. A thorough understanding of what drives human beings to do their best (hint—it’s seldom money!) is the key to maintaining a high level of service in the toughest of times.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 30




It Came Upon a New Year Clear: Why Traditional Goal Setting Doesn’t Work and What You Should Do Differently
1/15/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:         $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                  $25

For many of us, goal setting is a continuous process of success and failure, celebration and disappointment. Perhaps this is why less than 10% of people in the United States actually create, document and track their written goals.
 
The problem is not that we set goals; the problem is the process we have learned in the goal setting process.

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 7 spots remaining out of 25




12+ WAYS TO HELP YOUR NEW EMPLOYEES FEEL WELCOME AND INCLUDED
1/22/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:         $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                  $25

Staff are the most important resource for achieving the library’s mission and goals. Supervisors spend valuable time to recruit, interview, and hire the right person at the right time. And yet often, the new employee has no time to get comfortable in their new environment before being given a list of tasks and projects to complete. As a result, it may take longer than necessary for the new employee to feel truly at home in their new job.

 
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 11 spots remaining out of 25




The Five Practices of Leadership
1/27/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:         $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                  $25

Are leaders born or bred? Both! And everyone can be a leader.
We all start with innate talents and abilities. We also have the chance to hone and develop our skills over time. In the end, leadership is an ongoing practice, and our successes are determined by the people that we lead.

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect


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.


Get Results! Making Staff Training Work
2/24/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $170
Full/CE Member Cost:               $85

Have you ever had to teach the staff about a new piece of equipment or do a library-wide customer service review? If your library has core competencies or any kind of learning expectations, you want to support them with training that works! This is a hands-on workshop that will focus on 25 training activities that have been proven to help support real learning. You don’t have a lot of time with staff for in-house training, so make the most of what you have with effective tools like these. Based on the book Telling Ain’t Training, by Stolovitch and Keeps, this workshop will leave you  with ideas you can use!

 
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 25




Herding Cats in a Thunderstorm Three Assessment Tools that Help You Identify and Measure the Functionality and Behaviors of Your Team
2/26/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:         $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                  $25

Specifically we will discuss these three assessment tools:
  • Team Effectiveness Assessment 
  • Enhancing Your Daily Interactions 
  • Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 10 spots remaining out of 25




The 5 Tough Conversations New Managers Will Have
3/26/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25

Participants will get insight into these tough conversations:
  1. Dealing with challenging patrons – “I deserve special treatment!  You’re wrong!  Your library is lame!”
  2. Redirecting an employee’s intensity – “This is the rule, I’m going to follow it no matter what!”
  3. Correcting employee skills – “I already know this, bored now.”
  4. Helping employees adjust an emotional or personality trait to better get along with their peers – “Did you hear about so-and-so?  Well, I heard…”Coordinating with other professionals in your building – “What do you mean you need me to do something?”

Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 10 spots remaining out of 25




2015 New Supervisors’ Academy
3/31/2015 - 6/17/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $400
Full/CE Member Cost:                     $200


Because our dues structure is changing the New Supervisors’ Academy will be offered in 2 parts.

Part I (March 2015 – June 2015)
Brought back by popular demand is NEO’s New Supervisors’ Academy.    
This series will provide you with more confidence with the challenges of being a supervisor. This series is for new supervisors and those that want a refresher.   The series will focus on three areas, personal growth, communication, and leadership.
 
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 2 spots remaining out of 30




Assumed Trust: What It Is, How to Keep and Build It and Why Your Organization Won’t Survive Without It
4/7/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25

Despite the inference from the popular saying, it is not “Money that makes the world go ‘round”; it is trust. Money is a byproduct of trust.

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 23 spots remaining out of 25




The Numbers Game: Quantifying the Unquantifiable
4/14/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25

We talk about libraries being a wise investment for communities, but are we really having an impact where we think we are? Are there services or programs that we don’t realize are truly impacting the community?
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 22 spots remaining out of 25




Board Basics: A Development Event for New and Seasoned Trustees
4/18/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:         $100
Full/CE Member Cost:                  $50
Includes lunch

If you want to be the best board member you can be plan to attend, Board Basics:  A Development Event for New and Seasoned Trustees.  Catherine Hakala-Ausperk, director of NEO-RLS will discuss the roles and responsibilities of the board and Deborah O’Connor director of the Geauga County Public Library will share the ins and outs of library funding and finances.  The day will end with a review of how to work with your director from evaluation to growth.

 
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 24 spots remaining out of 40




If It's Broke, Fix It: Handling Leftover Challenges Effectively
4/29/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:      $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                    $25
This is part of the New Supervisors’ Academy which is a blended continuing education event with face to face and online sessions. If you wish to attend the entire series or want more details on the series. Please click here for the entire list of courses.

If It’s Broke Fix It: Handling Leftover Challenges Effectively
All too often, outgoing supervisors leave unresolved challenges “for the next guy” to fix. Then, you arrive! As the new supervisor, you have two choices. You can look the other way, forge ahead with your plans and hope the old issues disappear (although, if they didn’t before, it’s not likely they will now) or you can fix them. The right answer is, of course, to correct the problems, so you have a clear shot at success in your position. But, how do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time? In this webinar, we’ll consider 5 Simple Steps to Starting with a Clean Slate. Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:
Cathy Hakala-Ausperk, Executive Director, NEO-RLS
 


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 35 spots remaining out of 50




Time Management: Yours and Theirs
5/13/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                   $25

This is part of the New Supervisors’ Academy which is a blended continuing education event with face to face and online sessions. If you wish to attend the entire series or want more details on the series. Please click here for the entire list of courses.

Time Management: Yours and Theirs
As a new supervisor, the first thing you may have noticed is that it appears there is simply too much to do to ever get it all done! Never fear ~ there are tips and techniques that can help you manage the workload, manage your time, and help your employees manage their time, too.

First on the list is delegation, which can be a lifesaver for the new supervisor. Do you have a system for delegating or do you just hand tasks to the first person walking by? When you learn to delegate effectively, you are better able to manage your time. The real benefit, though, is that you’ll not only be managing your own time, but you'll be helping your employees manage theirs too. That helps create a motivating environment where employees are encouraged to learn and grow.

In this workshop, we’ll also discover some of the obstacles that tend to keep us from managing our own time – and what we can do to overcome those obstacles. Are you a procrastinator? You’ll discover how to overcome that procrastination – and when you shouldn't even try. Do pesky interruptions take up the bulk of your day? Are you a victim of "marathon meeting madness"? There is help for each of these time-robbers – and the benefits will compound when you help your employees in these areas, too.

We’ll end this fast-paced session with several practical tips that will help keep you on target in managing your time and theirs. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to be a more effective supervisor!

Presenter:
Linda Bruno has been helping people grow, both professionally and personally, for over 10 years. She works with libraries, universities, Chambers of Commerce, corporations and other organizations to help them nurture their most valuable resource- their employees.
 


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 41 spots remaining out of 50




HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know
5/27/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                   $25

This is part of the New Supervisors’ Academy which is a blended continuing education event with face to face and online sessions. If you wish to attend the entire series or want more details on the series. Please click here for the entire list of courses.

HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know

In order to successfully lead others, supervisors need to feel empowered, knowledgeable, capable of exciting their team members and inspiring them to do their best work every day. Join Robin S. Wood, MBA, MLIS, Main Team manager at Cleveland Public Library, as she walks you through the basics of Human Resource Management for library supervisors, managers and leaders. Robin will identify the most important core principals and concepts you will need to know to successfully lead your team and keep you out of trouble.

Presenter:
Robin Wood, MBA, MLIS, Main Team manager at Cleveland Public Library
 


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 33 spots remaining out of 50




Mindful Leadership: How Mindfulness Can Make You a Better Manager
6/3/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25

How do we, as library leaders, set the tone for a dynamic, positive, and nurturing environment? Mindfulness, or developing a conscious awareness of the present moment, can help.

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 22 spots remaining out of 30




Interviewing, Hiring and Motivating Employees in the 21st Century Public Library
6/11/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $170
Full/CE Member Cost:                   $ 85

This program explores two critical areas of human resource management: interviewing and hiring; and motivating library staff. Hiring the right person is the key to a library's success. Issues, techniques and approaches will be explored for effective interviewing and hiring. Similarly, our best employees do much more than the specific tasks of the job. They are hard-working, positive, and committed to the organization. The factors that promote motivation, positive job attitudes, and organizational citizenship will be explored.
 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 13 spots remaining out of 35




Effective Workplace Communication for New Supervisors
6/17/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:                  $25

This is part of the New Supervisors’ Academy which is a blended continuing education event with face to face and online sessions. If you wish to attend the entire series or want more details on the series. Please click here for the entire list of courses.

Effective Workplace Communication for New Supervisors
Experts suggest that we are communicating in one way or another more than 90% of time that we are awake! Communication can be positive or negative, verbal, non-verbal or in writing. Communicating effectively is a learned skill that requires practice, patience and a desire to be more effective every day.

More importantly, your success as a supervisor will greatly depend on how effectively you are in communicating your message to others in your library. This webinar program for the New Supervisors Academy of NEO-RLS will focus on the do’s and don’ts of effectively communicating with others (including your boss)!

Presnter:
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

There are currently 48 spots remaining out of 50




Hiring: A Tale of Fear and Loathing in the Workplace
6/30/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $50
Full/CE Member Cost:             $25

Hiring the wrong person is so disappointing and potentially expensive. So we enter the hiring adventure with fear and loathing and a heavy burden of risk.

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 24 spots remaining out of 25




2015 New Supervisors’ Academy Part II
7/9/2015

Cost:                                     $480
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $367.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount            $255
Cost w/ Gold Discount             $ 30
Includes 2 lunches
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Join us for part II of the New Supervisors' Academy.  Even it you didn't attend part I you can still join us.  This program will benefit new supervisors and those that would like a refesher.  This is a blended learning experience that includes webinars and face to face events.
 
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 12 spots remaining out of 35




Setting Performance Goals, Evaluations and Coaching
7/9/2015

Geographic Member/Other Cost:    $165
Bronze Member                             $127.50
Siver Member                                $ 90
Gold Member                                $ 15
Lunch included

Setting Performance Goals and Evaluations:

In this session you will learn the basics of each and then apply your learning with real- life scenarios. Come prepared to learn how you can successful in helping staff be effective in their individual work performance and motivate them to be their very best.

Performance Planning:
 Learn how to have clear, empowering conversations with employees in order to create a performance plan that brings focus, clarity, and motivation.


 


Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 25 spots remaining out of 35




Meetings That Matter
7/22/2015

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

This is part of the 2015 New Supervisors Academy Part II.  Click here for more information regarding the academy.
Meetings That Matter:

If you’ve ever thought, “Will this meeting EVER end?” then you know what kind of a meeting NOT to lead! At this webinar, supervisors will learn to:

  • Respect everyone’s time and talent
  • Listen as well as talk
  • Lead meetings that matter – to the staff and to the organization!
Presenter:
Cathy Hakala-Ausperk, Executive Director, NEO-RLS
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 43 spots remaining out of 50




Soft Skills for Strong Management: Cultivating Good Critical Thinking
8/5/2015

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

This is part of the 2015 New Supervisors Academy Part II.  Click here for more information regarding the academy.

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?

 


Presenter:
Holly Klingler, Emerging Technologies Librarian, NEO-RLS


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 40 spots remaining out of 50




A Simple Leadership Recipe
8/12/2015

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

When faced with a challenge that involves many different steps, the best thing is often to just pick one – and do it. Building leadership skills can seem like that. Whether you are new to your position or have been supervising for a while or, maybe, you want to move into leadership some day, this webinar will suggest the first – and most critical – actions that can assure your success.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 28 spots remaining out of 50




copy of A Simple Leadership Recipe
8/12/2015

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

When faced with a challenge that involves many different steps, the best thing is often to just pick one – and do it. Building leadership skills can seem like that. Whether you are new to your position or have been supervising for a while or, maybe, you want to move into leadership some day, this webinar will suggest the first – and most critical – actions that can assure your success.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 50 spots remaining out of 50




How to Write a Press Release
8/13/2015

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Want to write a good to great press release? In this webinar program, publisher and mass media instructor Karl Beckstrand teaches attendees how to write a newsworthy story that is true, balanced, concise, accurate, and compelling.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 25




Marketing Academy: Sales Training
8/18/2015

Cost:                                     $165
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $127.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $ 90
Cost w/ Gold Discount            $ 15
Lunch included
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Whether you know it or not, all of us are in sales. So what does that mean and how does it affect how you do your job? Today, sales means problem solving. We'll look at customer service from a new angle and address such issues as: How do we best serve a diverse population? Who really is our customer? What drives success in the library context? Ideal for anyone who works with patrons or staff supervisors.

 
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 21 spots remaining out of 30




Budgeting, Public Speaking and More
9/10/2015

Cost:                                     $165
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $127.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $ 90
Cost w/ Gold Discount            $ 15
Lunch included
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

This is part of the 2015 New Supervisors Academy Part II.  Click here for more information regarding the academy.
Budgeting:
Demystifying the forms, procedures, and checks and balances involved in public finance.

Public Speaking: You Can Do It!

  • Proven tips to overcome your fear of public speaking
  • Recognize the need for public speaking
  • Consider Your Audience
  • Sharpen your message

Presenter:
Deborah O'Connor, Director, Geauga County Public Library

Parking:  Please park behind the building.  NEO is the last door and you may enter there before the workshop starts.  After the workshop has begun please use our front entrance.
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 34 spots remaining out of 35




Influencing for Results: Five Key Steps to Being Heard and Impacting the Conversation in a Meaningful Way
9/15/2015

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)
No matter what your personal style of communication, you influence people on a daily basis…at home, at work, with friends, managing a team, or even starting a new venture. This interactive presentation will help you build and maintain long-term relationships to achieve optimal business results through five steps:
 
Location: NEO-RLS
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 14 spots remaining out of 25




21st Century Collection Development--New Date
9/17/2015

  Cost:                                     $165
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $127.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $ 90
Cost w/ Gold Discount            $ 15


Make your collection the best it can be.  Come to this workshop to hear about the latest in selection, acquisitions, floating collections weeding and more. 
 
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 7 spots remaining out of 30




YOU Can Get a Grant!
10/19/2015

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

No matter your skills, background or experience with grant writing, you will leave this webinar confident that you CAN get a grant for your library? How? By creating a focused goal, involving talented people and following some simple – but invaluable tips!

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 28 spots remaining out of 50




Marketing Academy: Marketing on an Hour a Day--New Date
10/20/2015

  Cost:                                     $165
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $127.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $ 90
Cost w/ Gold Discount            $ 15

Marketing is increasingly important in an age of instant communication. But how do you handle the job when you have little or no budget, no staff, and not a lot of training?
If marketing is just one of the hats you wear, and you don't have more than about an hour a day to do it, thenthis session is for you. (But bring other staff members, too! You can make all of your hours count. 




 
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 20 spots remaining out of 30




Mentoring Works
10/22/2015

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Mentoring works, join us to hear about best practices from libraries around Ohio.   Learn how they implemented their mentoring programs and how easy it can be for you to do the same.  From formal to informal mentoring you will receive ideas that will help you determinne the best fit for your library.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 40 spots remaining out of 50




Shut Up and Listen: How We Used Social Listening to Connect With Customers/Students and Build a Community
1/1/2016

In social media, content creation is often king. The University of North Florida’s Thomas G. Carpenter Library has refocused its efforts away from original content in an effort to focus on listening and engagement. This practice has led the Carpenter Library to build a reliable, friendly, and helpful online community that has inspired other departments on campus to do the same. By monitoring keywords, hashtags, and geotags, library staff has kept tabs on what students have to say about the library’s various services, resources, spaces, employees, and more. Over the past 2 years, follower counts on Facebook and Twitter have almost doubled, as have engagements such as likes and shares.

This presentation will share:

  • A variety of exchanges and informal data points that have been generated by using social listening

  • How other libraries can easily follow suit

  • Monitoring tools

  • Ways in which the Carpenter Library plans to move forward

Presenter:  Maria Atilano is the Marketing and Student Outreach Librarian at the University of North Florida’s (UNF) Thomas G. Carpenter Library in Jacksonville. She began working in academic libraries in 2002 as a student employee while studying at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Before becoming a librarian, Maria held staff positions as Library Services Specialist in Public Services and Sr. Library Services Associate in Special Collections at UNF. She graduated with her M.L.I.S. from Florida State University in 2012. Maria’s professional interests

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





Connecting across Distance: Staff Community and Collaboration
1/1/2016

At the end of this session, participants will be able to identify at least three ways to create a virtual staff space; describe the pros and cons of various staff communication tools; and identify at least three ideas for planning an interactive staff meeting.

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

There are currently 46 spots remaining out of 50




Day for Page Supervisors: Hiring on the Fly
1/1/2016

If your page departments seems to have a revolving door on it and you spend more time hiring pages than seeing items actually get shelved, this workshop is for you. Come hear some great ideas for streamlining this never ending, challenging and rewarding job of Page Supervisor.

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





Day for Page Supervisors: Training Shelvers
1/1/2016

Ideas for Training your Pages.

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

There are currently 79 spots remaining out of 100




Delivering Effective & Strategic Performance Appraisals
1/1/2016

  • ​How can you use your performance appraisal and goal setting system to change and reinforce your organization’s corporate culture?

  • What are the most common errors made in performance appraisals, and how can they be overcome?

  • How can managers get employees to take more accountability in the performance appraisal process?

  • What makes appraisals legally defensible … and is your appraisal a ticking time bomb?

Presenter: Scott Warrick

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





Don't Do This! Interview Mistakes to Avoid
1/1/2016 - 11/30/1999

​
  • ​Learn how important it is to hire carefully.

  • Understand that any search should begin with a profile of a the new employee.

  • Consider building a  multi-faceted approach to interviewing, from initial communication to actual questioning to showcasing your library.

  • Question creatively, with all questions designed to tell something

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





Electronic Records Management
1/1/2016

Everyone creates records in the course of doing their jobs, and in today’s increasingly digital office environment those records are likely to be in electronic formats.  Managing electronic records can be challenging—there may be multiple copies in various locations, a lack of appropriate storage, or records may be in difficult formats such as email.  Susan Hernandez, Digital Archivist and Systems Librarian at the Cleveland Museum of Art, will provide an overview of electronic records management, discuss strategies for organizing and managing electronic records, and offer ideas for collaborating with information technology professionals. 

Presenter:  Susan Hernandez
Susan Hernandez is the Digital Archivist and Systems Librarian at the Cleveland Museum of Art where her duties include training museum staff in electronic records management, creating and updating records schedules, overseeing library and archives databases, systems, web presence, and digitization program, accessioning and processing electronic records, and serving on the development team for the museum’s institutional repository. Susan received her MA in History, Archives, and Museum Studies from Duquesne University and earned her Digital Archives Specialist Certificate from the Society of American Archivists in 2013.

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





Introduction to Content Marketing
1/1/2016

Content marketing may be a new term for librarians, but it is a growing and effective trend in the business world. In this workshop, Laura Solomon will introduce you to content marketing by teaching you how to create a content strategy and how to implement it. This workshop will explain this growing trend, as well as give you and your staff the tools they need to get started on creating your own content strategy."

Presenter:  Laura Solomon, Library Services Manager, Ohio Public Library Information Network and author of The Librarian's Nitty Gritty Guide to Content Marketing and Doing Social Media So It Matters: A Librarian's Guide.

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





It's a Manager/Supervisor's Job to Motivate Staff
1/1/2016

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

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





Managing Change
1/1/2016

Organizational change occurs at a rapid pace and you and your team are often faced with altering methods and procedures that have become familiar and comfortable. In this webinar you will learn the dynamics of the change process, the difference between change and transition, and strategies to manage yourself and your team to be comfortable with the uncomfortable.

Presenter: Ned Parks

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


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Meetings That Matter
1/1/2016

This webinar will focus on how to run an effective meeting by covering the following topics:

  1. How to prepare

  2. Who to invite

  3. Creating an Agenda

  4. The Meeting Setup

  5. Dealing with Problem Personalities in a Meeting

  6. The Value of Disagreement

  7. The Importance of Action Steps and Minutes

Presenter:  Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS

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


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Movin' Up: Transitioning from Peer to Supervisor
1/1/2016

You aced the interview and are being promoted!  Now that you are a supervisor there are many things to learn and challenges to navigate as you begin your new role.  One change is that many people don't anticipate is the change in your relationships with your coworkers.  This webinar will discuss the transition period and important steps you should take to start on the right rack as a manager.
 

Presenter:   Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public 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 Adobe Connect





That's Already Encumbered
1/1/2016

I am sure you have heard the phrase, “that's already encumbered.”  What exactly does this mean?  Come to this webinar to find out what this means, how libraries are funded and much more.

Upon completion of this webinar you will have a better understanding of:

  • How libraries are funded – PLF and other revenues that libraries typically receive

  • The types of Funds public libraries typically have (General, Building & Repair, etc.) and what types of expenses are appropriated/budgeted in each

  • What public funds are and the requirements for spending them

  • How purchasing works in libraries (requisitions, PO’s, etc.) and why we use these processes

  • How revenues and expenses roll into the financial reporting and what agencies the library is required to report

This webinar is for non-financial staff.

Presenter:  Kelly Kroll has been the Business Manager/Fiscal Officer for the Medina County District Library since April 2012.  Previously, she has worked as Fiscal Officer for four other public libraries as well as a regional library system, all located in northeast Ohio.  Kelly has been Coordinator of the Ohio Library Council’s Library Accounting Division and was a member of the Treasurer of State’s Center for Public Investment Management first Advisory Board.  She has also been a consultant for many Ohio public library boards and is co-author of several editions of OLC’s Ohio Public Library Accounting Handbook.  Kelly has done many presentations for library fiscal officers and directors on issues including budgeting, cash forecasting, insurance procurement, using technology in the fiscal office, advanced Excel and investing public funds.  She holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration - Finance from the University of Akron, and a Master’s in Public Administration from Walden University. 

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





Best Practices for Evaluations That Inspire
2/2/2016

Cost:                                     $80
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $60
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $40
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Question: What is the very best development tool that supervisors have ….but most often don’t use? If you answered annual evaluations, you’re right! If the number one job of a supervisor is to help her/his staff grow (it is), then this number one tool to achieve that needs to be understood and used! Come learn how to do just that at the half day workshop.  Then, plan to stay for the “Toastmasters” meeting in the afternoon!

 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236


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.


Best Practices in Evaluations That Inspire
2/8/2016

Cost:                                     $80
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $60
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $40
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Question: What is the very best development tool that supervisors have ….but most often don’t use? If you answered annual evaluations, you’re right! If the number one job of a supervisor is to help her/his staff grow (it is), then this number one tool to achieve that needs to be understood and used! Come learn how to do just that at the half day workshop.  Then, plan to stay for the “Toastmasters” meeting in the afternoon!

 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 21 spots remaining out of 30




A Day for Page Supervisors
2/9/2016

Cost:                                    $80
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $60
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $40
Cost w/ Gold Discount            $  0
Lunch included
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Supervising pages is a unique and rewarding challenge. Attend this half day “kick off” webinar to meet with other Page Supervisors, bring and share training and hiring materials, and then plan to attend all or some of the three webinars to follow in this series.
 
Face to Face Training – February 9, 2016; 9:30 -12:30
 
Webinar #1 - Wednesday, March 16th – HIRING ON THE FLY
 
Webinar #2 -Wednesday, April 13th – SCHEDULING FOR WORK-LIFE-SCHOOL-LIBRARY BALANCE
 
Webinar #3 - Tuesday, May 10th -  TRAINING SHELVERS
 
Webinar #4 -Wednesday, June 8th– SOLVING PAGE PROBLEMS

 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 5 spots remaining out of 30




Best Practices Thriving in the Middle
3/1/2016

Cost:                                     $80
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $60
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $40
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Surviving and thriving in the middle. 

Whether you are a department manager, branch manager, assistant other positions that are caught in the middle this workshop is for you. Sometimes it can be challenging when you work in the middle. Come to this workshop to hear tips about being successful in the Middle. Pam Hickson-Stevenson the Deputy Director of Akron Summit County Public Library will be our presenter for the day. Be sure to join us!

 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 27 spots remaining out of 30




Best Practices for a Unified Desk
3/8/2016

Cost:                                     $80
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $60
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $40
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

Have you been hearing about “unified desks” at libraries? What does that really mean? With staffing numbers shrinking and staff teams getting stronger, it makes more sense to all work together, even going as far as sharing the desk. Come to this workshop to hear just how to make this work –for the benefit of your staff and your patrons.

 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 28 spots remaining out of 30




Day for Page Supervisors: Hiring on the Fly
3/16/2016

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

If your page departments seems to have a revolving door on it and you spend more time hiring pages than seeing items actually get shelved, this workshop is for you. Come hear some great ideas for streamlining this never ending, challenging and rewarding job of Page Supervisor.

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 9 spots remaining out of 30




Best Practices in Working with Volunteers
3/22/2016

Cost:                                     $80
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $60
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $40
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

With about 10,000 Baby Boomers retiring every day, libraries should be building strong, educated, energized volunteer corps to help support and expand services. But, how? Come to this workshop to share your experiences and to hear from some libraries that have mastered the fine art of the volunteer.

 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 18 spots remaining out of 30




Best Practices in How to Ask for Money
4/5/2016

Cost:                                     $80
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $60
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $ 40
Cost w/ Gold Discount           FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)


Libraries are always looking for more funding and new ways to obtain it.  Learn to ask for money from the fundraising expert Christine Klecic, Director of Advancement, Kent State University.

 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 14 spots remaining out of 25




Scheduling For Work-Life-School-Library Balance
4/13/2016

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

More information to come.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 14 spots remaining out of 30




It All Starts with Attitude and Knowing Yourself (1st Class in New Supervisors' Academy)
4/21/2016

Cost:                                     $165
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $127.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $ 90
Cost w/ Gold Discount            $ 15
Lunch included
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

This is part of the New Supervisors’ Academy which is a blended continuing education event with face to face and online sessions.

It All Starts with Attitude: Being a good supervisor starts with having a great attitude. Join this knowledgeable panel of managers and directors as they share their experiences. There will be time for interaction with the panel so bring those most pressing questions.

The afternoon will focus on the Myers Briggs. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment provides a useful method for understanding people by looking at eight personality preferences that everyone uses at different times. 

 


Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 18 spots remaining out of 30




Time Management: Yours and Theirs
5/4/2016

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)


This is part of the New Supervisors’ Academy which is a blended continuing education event with face to face and online sessions.

Time Management: Yours and Theirs
As a new supervisor, the first thing you may have noticed is that it appears there is simply too much to do to ever get it all done! Never fear ~ there are tips and techniques that can help you manage the workload, manage your time, and help your employees manage their time, too.

 


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 27 spots remaining out of 50




Day for Page Supervisors: Training Shelvers
5/10/2016

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

More informtion to come.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 6 spots remaining out of 30




A Day for Page Supervisors: Solving Page Problems
6/8/2016

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

More information to come.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 7 spots remaining out of 30




Movin' Up: Transitioning from Peer to Supervisor
6/15/2016

Cost:                                     $50
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $37.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $25
Cost w/ Gold Discount            FREE
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)

You aced the interview and are being promoted!  Now that you are a supervisor there are many things to learn and challenges to navigate as you begin your new wrole.  One change is that many people don't anticipate is the change in your relationships with your coworkers.  This webinar will discuss the transition period and important steps you should take to start on the right rack as a manager.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 36 spots remaining out of 50




A Day for Marketing: Market Like a Pro
6/16/2016

Cost:                                     $165
Cost w/ Bronze Discount         $127.50
Cost w/ Silver Discount           $ 90
Cost w/ Gold Discount            $ 15
Lunch included
(It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO Discounts are pro-rated! Call us today to sign up!)
 
This workshop will feature tips from successful, highly energized library marketers who know what it takes to really engage a community! Come, learn from their experiences and passions and help make your own library something your community can’t live without!
 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 10 spots remaining out of 20




Setting Performance Goals, Evaluations and Coaching
7/13/2016

Morning:  Setting Performance Goals and Evaluations:
Setting performance goals, coaching and monitoring performance, and conducting periodic evaluations are critical job skills for all supervisors. In this session you will learn the basics of each and then apply your learning with real- life scenarios. Come prepared to learn how you can successful in helping staff be effective in their individual work performance and motivate them to be their very best.

Afternoon:  Performance Planning:
Effective performance planning is a key component in the performance management cycle. Learn how to have clear, empowering conversations with employees in order to create a performance plan that brings focus, clarity, and motivation. This session will also use scenario-based learning to help those in attendance apply learning in real-life examples.

Presenters:
Catherine Monnin, Library Consultant
Sharon Tuffts, Library Consultant


Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 9 spots remaining out of 25




Soft Skills for Strong Management: Cultivating Good Critical Thinking
8/17/2016

This is part of the 2016 New Supervisors Academy. 

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?

 Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Emerging Technologies Librarian, NEO-RLS


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 21 spots remaining out of 50




Meetings That Matter
8/24/2016

This is part of the 2016 New Supervisors Academy.

Meetings That Matter:

If you’ve ever thought, “Will this meeting EVER end?” then you know what kind of a meeting NOT to lead! At this webinar, supervisors will learn to:

  • Respect everyone’s time and talent
  • Listen as well as talk
  • Lead meetings that matter – to the staff and to the organization!

Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 34 spots remaining out of 50




Budgeting, Public Speaking and More
9/8/2016

This is part of the 2015 New Supervisors Academy Part II. 
Budgeting:
Demystifying the forms, procedures, and checks and balances involved in public finance.

Public Speaking: You Can Do It!

  • Proven tips to overcome your fear of public speaking
  • Recognize the need for public speaking
  • Consider Your Audience
  • Sharpen your message
Competency:  Library Management

Parking:  Please park behind the building.  NEO is the last door and you may enter there before the workshop starts.  After the workshop has begun please use our front entrance.
Location: New NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 19 spots remaining out of 25




Best Practices Thriving in the Middle
9/21/2016

Surviving and thriving in the middle. 

Whether you are a department manager, branch manager, assistant other positions that are caught in the middle this workshop is for you. Sometimes it can be challenging when you work in the middle.  Learn how to manage your boss, your staff  and  yourself.  Come to this workshop to hear tips about being successful in the Middle. Pam Hickson-Stevenson the Deputy Director of Akron Summit County Public Library will be our presenter for the day. Be sure to join us!
 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 15 spots remaining out of 25




Best Practices in Motivating Staff
10/4/2016

Join your colleagues as you hear about some best practices in motivating and staff and how to overcome barriers that may get in the way of motivation
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 13 spots remaining out of 25




Best Practices in Evaluations
11/10/2016

Evaluations are important tools for bringing out the best in your staff.  Evaluations can provide invaluable feedback on strengths and weaknesses and create a positive effect on future performance.  At its best, the performance evaluation is an effective means of looking at the growth of a staff member and their participation in carrying out the vision of the organization.  At its worst, the performance evaluation is a poorly designed and meaningless exercise met with anxiety on the part of both managers and staff.  Best Practices in Evaluations will present information on the creation of effective evaluation tools, tips for writing an evaluation based on staff performance and not personality, and ideas on how to help staff write realistic self-evaluations.  In addition, positive ways of administering evaluations to staff, how to’s for providing follow-through on problems, tips for using the evaluation for discussing career growth with staff, and discussion of the challenges of conducting evaluations in a union environment will be addressed.  Join us for a lively program around a topic of great importance to all.

Presenter:  Sara Hodgson is the Director of Human Resources at the Mandel Jewish Community Center where she is responsible for developing and implementing policies and procedures encompassing all aspects of Human Resources including employee and labor relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, performance management, and recruitment. Prior to joining the Mandel JCC in 2014, Sara was the HR Manager at the Cleveland Museum of Art for 16 years. Sara has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Ohio University and holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certifications.  
Location: NEO-RLS
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 12 spots remaining out of 25




A Day Circulation Managers
12/6/2016

Join the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System for an informative day for circulation managers and anyone interested in reporting standards for library usage and what we measure to show impact.  We will start the morning off with Tena Wilson sharing her story about making Stark County District Library a fines free library and what she has learned along the way. 
 
The next half of the morning Tena will discuss circulation and what we are measuring.  You count circulation and visits, but what else should you be measuring? Let's dig in and consider why we are counting anything at all. Sure, there are reporting standards for library usage, but which of these measurements substantiate our goals and desired outcomes? When you say, "Circ went up," what exactly does that mean -- besides the obvious? What else should you be measuring in order to get a full picture of the positive impact the public library has in the community? This is a practical, interactive discussion meant to inspire you to think about what you are doing and why. You will never look at statistics the same after this workshop.
The afternoon will consist of a roundtable discussion of sharing challenges and successes.
 
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 21 spots remaining out of 50




Best Practices in Employer Interviewing
1/24/2017

Hiring great people is what we all want when there is a job open in our libraries.  Great people are easy to work with, easy to train, and make everyone’s work life better.  So how do we use the interviewing process to make certain that we end up with great people?  This workshop will:
  • Look at how employers can prepare for successful interviews
  • Discuss different types of interviews
  • Examine different interviewing techniques
  • Share insights into improving interviewing skills
  • Provide suggestions on interview questions to ask
  • Outline legal guidelines for interview questions
Make certain that your next hire is great by using interview strategies for successful hiring.

Presented by:  Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS
Location: NEO-RLS
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 15 spots remaining out of 25




Connecting across Distance: Staff Community and Collaboration
2/14/2017

How do you develop a sense of community among library staff members when they work in different departments or branches and rarely interact? The St. Louis County Library combines in-person and online tactics to encourage collaboration among programming staff across the 20-branch system. Discussion will include planning educational and interactive meetings, using virtual space as cooperative tool and developing routine shared communication. Learn how one library system utilizes programming forums, Google apps and e-mail to build community among dispersed staff members.

At the end of this session, participants will be able to identify at least three ways to create a virtual staff space; describe the pros and cons of various staff communication tools; and identify at least three ideas for planning an interactive staff meeting.

Presenter:  Stacey Lewis, Manager of Adult Programming for St. Louis County Library (SLCL)  guides program initiatives and develops partnerships for the 20-branch library system. She holds duel master’s degrees in Social Work from Saint Louis University and Library Science from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Prior to a career in librarianship, she worked in nonprofit development, fundraising and event planning. She utilizes these combined experiences to provide engaging lifelong learning opportunities and connect patrons to resources in the St. Louis community – and to each other.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 37 spots remaining out of 50




It's a Manager/Supervisor's Job to Motivate Staff
2/15/2017

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 Adobe Connect

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 70




New Supervisors' Academy
3/9/2017

The NEO-RLS New Supervisors’ Academy is back by popular demand.      
This series will provide you with confidence to handle the many and varied challenges of being a supervisor and will focus on three key areas: personal growth, communication, and leadership.  The series is appropriate for new supervisors and for those that want a refresher.  
  • This is a blended course running from March through October and consisting of 6 webinars and 4 face to face events. 
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning.
  • For those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict, we will make archives of the live webinars available at your convenience.
  • For those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety, the live webinars will be available individually for registration.

Session 1
Thursday, March 9, 2017 -- Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library—9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
It all Starts with Attitude and Knowing Yourself
 
Being a good supervisor starts with having a great attitude and our series will begin with the opportunity to listen and interact with leaders as they share their experiences regarding the impact of attitude.  Be sure to bring your most pressing questions.   
 
The panel will consist of:
Mary Crehore, Director, Avon Lake Public Library
Ed Worso, Director, Geauga County Public Library
Chris May, Deputy Director, Mansfield/Richland County Public Library
Michelle Rossman, Library Program Chair, Lakeland Community College
Lorena Williams, Director, Hubbard Public Library
The afternoon will focus on a Myers Briggs assessment. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment provides a useful method for understanding people by looking at eight personality preferences that everyone uses at different times. One of the most critical aspects of the MBTI is that it identifies preferences, not abilities or skills. It is designed to bring type awareness to those who might find growth and learning within its ideas. You will have fun exploring and validating your type preferences. The MBTI is the most popular assessment in the world and has been applied as a tool for many years by a variety of users around the globe. This assessment will not only help you to know yourself but give you insights into how your employees work.

Presenter:  Marti Peden, President of Peden and Associates, a management and development firm specializing in management seminar presentations, speaking engagements, and organizational development activities such as team building, change management and conflict resolution.

Session 2
Thursday, April 13, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know
In order to successfully lead others, supervisors need to feel empowered, knowledgeable, capable of exciting their team members and inspiring them to do their best work every day. Join Robin S. Wood, MBA, MLIS, Assistant Director of Public Service - Main Library at Cleveland Public Library, as she walks you through the basics of Human Resource Management for library supervisors, managers and leaders. Robin will identify the most important core principals and concepts you will need to know to successfully lead your team and keep you out of trouble. 

Presenter:
Robin Wood, MBA, MLIS, Assistant Director of Public Service - Main Library at Cleveland Public Library 

Session 3
Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Meetings That Matter
Meetings are important to organizations although many times we feel that nothing is accomplished and we have wasted our time.  This webinar will focus on how to run an effective meeting by covering the following topics:
  1. How to prepare
  2. Who to invite
  3. Creating an Agenda
  4. The Meeting Setup
  5. Dealing with Problem Personalities in a Meeting
  6. The Value of Disagreement
  7. The Importance of Action Steps and Minutes
Presenter:  Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS

Session 4
Thursday, June 8, 2017- NEO-RLS Office –9:30-3:30
New Supervisors Toolkit
Supervisors must balance a variety of competing priorities. Fortunately, the necessary skills of an effective supervisor can be learned. In this one-day program you will learn about the five key supervisory skills and have a chance to put them into practice during a game simulation. We'll also complete a self-evaluation relating to the five skills and you'll develop a plan of action by the end of the day that relates to the skills you'd like to most improve in the following 90 days.
Learning Outcomes from the New Supervisor's Tool Kit:
  1. Understand the role of the supervisor
  2. Identify five key supervisory skills
  3. Learn key steps in effective planning
  4. Learn how to delegate
  5. Learn ways to handle competing and/or shifting priorities
  6. Learn about effective goal setting
  7. Learn how to get results with your team

Presenter:  Melanie A. Blau McDonald, Executive Director, SWON Libraries

  Session 5
Wednesday, July 12, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Effective Workplace Communication for New Supervisors
Experts suggest that we are communicating in one way or another more than 90% of the time we are awake! Communication can be positive or negative, verbal, non-verbal or in writing.  Communicating effectively is a learned skill that requires practice, patience and a desire to be more effective every day.
More importantly, your success as a supervisor will greatly depend on how effective you are in communicating your message to others in your library. This webinar program for the New Supervisors Academy of NEO-RLS will focus on the dos and don’ts of effectively communicating with others (including your boss)!

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.

Session 6
Wednesday, August 2, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Time Management: Yours and Theirs
As a new supervisor, the first thing you may have noticed is that it appears there is simply too much to do to ever get it all done! Never fear-there are many proven tips and techniques that can help you manage the workload, manage your time, and help your employees manage their time, too.

Presenter:  TBA

Session 7
Wednesday, August 16, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Critical Thinking
Great critical thinking skills are essential in handling the challenges and demands that supervisors continually face each day.  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.
We will define what the concept of critical thinking is and explore several of the associated tools mentioned above. We will then investigate these soft skills and learn ways we can immediately improve them so that we can become a more conscious and efficient critical thinker.

Presenter:  Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS

Session 8
Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
If It’s Broke Fix It: Handling Leftover Challenges Effectively
All too often, outgoing supervisors leave unresolved challenges “for the next guy” to fix. Then, you arrive! As the new supervisor, you have two choices. You can look the other way, forge ahead with your plans and hope the old issues disappear (although, if they didn’t before, it’s not likely they will now) or you can fix them. The right answer is, of course, to correct the problems so you have a clear shot at success in your position. But, how do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time? In this webinar, we’ll consider 5 Simple Steps to Starting with a Clean Slate. Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:  TBA

Session 9
Thursday, September 21, 2017 –NEO-RLS Office in Hudson –9:30 -3:30
Setting Performance Goals and Evaluations
In the morning session we will learn about setting performance goals, coaching and monitoring performance, and conducting periodic evaluations, all critical job skills for all supervisors. You will learn the basics of each and then apply your learning to real-life scenarios. Come prepared to learn how you can be successful in helping staff be effective in their individual work performance and motivate them to be their very best.
 
Performance Planning
The afternoon session will concentrate on effective performance planning as a key component in the performance management cycle. Learn how to have clear, empowering conversations with employees in order to create a performance plan that brings focus, clarity, and motivation. This session will also use scenario-based learning to help those in attendance apply learning to real-life examples.

Presenters:
Catherine Monnin, Library Consultant
Sharon Tufts, Library Consultant 
 
Session 10
Tuesday, October 24, 2017 –NEO-RLS Office in Hudson –9:30 -12:30
Budgeting, Interviewing, and Caring for Yourself
 
The last session will focus on supervisory skills that are often overlooked until they are necessary.

Budgeting
Learn about where library funding comes from.  Demystify the forms, procedures, and checks and balances involved in public finance. 
Presenter:  Mary Schultz, CPA, Fiscal Officer, Bellevue Public Library

Interviewing Techniques for New Supervisors
Hiring great employees is critical to an organization’s success and makes life easier for everyone.  The key to hiring the right person starts with the application and interview process.  You will learn how to create an interview plan, how to construct appropriate interview questions that provide the information you need, and how to avoid common interview mistakes.  In addition, we will cover what is and isn’t legal to ask a candidate and how to evaluate the information you have received in order to make the best decision.
 
Taking Care of Yourself
As supervisors and leaders we know we should care for ourselves but we often don’t.  We are focused on taking care of our organizations, our employees and meeting our goals.  However, neglecting yourself can become a very real detriment to your team while healthy self-care can actually increase your effectiveness and that of your employees.   Self-care is a hallmark of effective leaders.  Learn how to recognize when you need to focus on yourself and what questions to ask to begin taking care of yourself. 

Presenter:  Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS
Location: Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
3512 Darrow Rd.
Stow, OH 44224

There are currently 12 spots remaining out of 40




Introduction to Content Marketing
3/15/2017

"Has your library been promoting itself online through various social media channels (blogs, Facebook, etc.)? Have you seen mixed results? One way to be more effective online is by moving beyond the promotional mindset of traditional marketing and by embracing a different way of creating content that will engage and help serve the needs of your community. Are you ready to make your library’s online efforts more effective? Welcome to content marketing.

Content marketing may be a new term for librarians, but it is a growing and effective trend in the business world. In this workshop, Laura Solomon will introduce you to content marketing by teaching you how to create a content strategy and how to implement it. This workshop will explain this growing trend, as well as give you and your staff the tools they need to get started on creating your own content strategy."

Presenter:  Laura Solomon, Library Services Manager, Ohio Public Library Information Network and author of The Librarian's Nitty Gritty Guide to Content Marketing and Doing Social Media So It Matters: A Librarian's Guide.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 30 spots remaining out of 50




That's Already Encumbered
3/22/2017

 
I am sure you have heard the phrase, “that's already encumbered.”  What exactly does this mean?  Come to this webinar to find out what this means, how libraries are funded and much more.

Upon completion of this webinar you will have a better understanding of:
  • How libraries are funded – PLF and other revenues that libraries typically receive
  • The types of Funds public libraries typically have (General, Building & Repair, etc.) and what types of expenses are appropriated/budgeted in each
  • What public funds are and the requirements for spending them
  • How purchasing works in libraries (requisitions, PO’s, etc.) and why we use these processes
  • How revenues and expenses roll into the financial reporting and what agencies the library is required to report
This webinar is for non-financial staff.

Presenter:  Kelly Kroll has been the Business Manager/Fiscal Officer for the Medina County District Library since April 2012.  Previously, she has worked as Fiscal Officer for four other public libraries as well as a regional library system, all located in northeast Ohio.  Kelly has been Coordinator of the Ohio Library Council’s Library Accounting Division and was a member of the Treasurer of State’s Center for Public Investment Management first Advisory Board.  She has also been a consultant for many Ohio public library boards and is co-author of several editions of OLC’s Ohio Public Library Accounting Handbook.  Kelly has done many presentations for library fiscal officers and directors on issues including budgeting, cash forecasting, insurance procurement, using technology in the fiscal office, advanced Excel and investing public funds.  She holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration - Finance from the University of Akron, and a Master’s in Public Administration from Walden University. 
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 50




How to Create New Revenue Streams for Your Library
4/5/2017

Ed Rossman’s new book 40+ New Revenue Sources for Libraries and Nonprofits is more than a book, it’s a treasure map! In this fast-paced, webinar, the author will be getting right into the key considerations for methods to generate revenue. He’ll then reinforce these by introducing several fast-track methods discussed in his book and will share valuable tips on how to start implementing these techniques immediately to create new money by summer!

You’ll come out of this webinar with:

  •  5 fast-track revenue methods;
  •  Suggestions for proper in-house procedures;
  •  Features and benefits to promote the methods;
  •  Exercises to determine the proper value and price points for your area;
  •  Online resources to make creation of product easier; and
  •  Critical first steps to take internally and with your stakeholders.

Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 29 spots remaining out of 50




Public Relations/Marketing Network Meeting - NEW
4/11/2017

Our NEO-RLS Networks are informal discussion groups that meet quarterly to discuss the challenges, ideas and strategies around a specific topic of interest.  Network topics are determined by the members and may include invited speakers.  Due to a number of requests, we are starting a Public Relations/Marketing Network group dedicated to encouraging discussion of the public relations and marketing challenges you face in your library.  The Public Relations/Marketing Network group will be hosted by the Cuyahoga Falls Public Library and is open to anyone in our region.  Join your fellow library staff with responsibilities in public relations and/or marketing to share your expertise and learn from others.  Bring your challenges and successes to share.  We will start the meeting off with a presentation by Reena Goodwin.

DIY PR for the modern (but minimally staffed) library
Without a dedicated marketing and public relations team, finding the resources to engage and inform patrons and the public about our libraries can be a challenging necessity. In this interactive presentation, librarians will leave with a sense of what exactly is involved in public relations and marketing, and how to create and execute a small-scale and small-budget plan on behalf of your organization. Attendees will also gain a basic understanding of media relations, crisis communications, social media, and content marketing practices. 

Reena S. Goodwin has spent her 13 year career in integrated marketing and communications working for and with the music, arts, culture, lifestyle, nonprofit, special events, travel, food & drink, retail, and education industries. In 2015, she joined Hathaway Brown School as its Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications from the Cleveland Museum of Art, where she was responsible for the institution's online communication strategy and implementation via the web, blogging, social media, e-news and digital content. Previously, she worked on the communications team at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame + Museum, focused on media and public relations, as well as social and digital media for the institution, its Library & Archives, and annual Induction Ceremony. Prior to her move to Cleveland in 2008, she resided in New York City, where she worked as a marketing coordinator for the world-renowned Columbia Records. 



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

There are currently 20 spots remaining out of 30




ABCs of Community Partnerships
4/12/2017

In this day and age of ever-advancing technology and the proliferation of online everything, how do libraries become indispensable?  One way is to build partnerships throughout the community.  Become one of your community’s best assets by partnering with other local institutions.  We’ll focus on the why, how and what, and provide you with plenty of examples and ideas.  If you can dream it, it just may happen!

In the afternoon you will hear about different partnerships libraries have developed and have an opportunity to brainstorm and have a roundtable discussion.

Presenter:  Mary Crehore, Director, Avon Lake Public Library
 
Location: NEO Office
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 25




HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know
4/13/2017

In order to successfully lead others, supervisors need to feel empowered, knowledgeable, capable of exciting their team members and inspiring them to do their best work every day. Join Robin S. Wood, MBA, MLIS, Assistant Director of Public Service - Main Library at Cleveland Public Library, as she walks you through the basics of Human Resource Management for library supervisors, managers and leaders. Robin will identify the most important core principals and concepts you will need to know to successfully lead your team and keep you out of trouble. 

Presenter:
Robin Wood, MBA, MLIS, Assistant Director of Public Service - Main Library at Cleveland Public Library
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 36 spots remaining out of 50




Electronic Records Management
5/3/2017

Everyone creates records in the course of doing their jobs, and in today’s increasingly digital office environment those records are likely to be in electronic formats.  Managing electronic records can be challenging—there may be multiple copies in various locations, a lack of appropriate storage, or records may be in difficult formats such as email.  Susan Hernandez, Digital Archivist and Systems Librarian at the Cleveland Museum of Art, will provide an overview of electronic records management, discuss strategies for organizing and managing electronic records, and offer ideas for collaborating with information technology professionals. 

Presenter:  Susan Hernandez
Susan Hernandez is the Digital Archivist and Systems Librarian at the Cleveland Museum of Art where her duties include training museum staff in electronic records management, creating and updating records schedules, overseeing library and archives databases, systems, web presence, and digitization program, accessioning and processing electronic records, and serving on the development team for the museum’s institutional repository. Susan received her MA in History, Archives, and Museum Studies from Duquesne University and earned her Digital Archives Specialist Certificate from the Society of American Archivists in 2013.

 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 50




Meetings That Matter
5/9/2017

Meetings are important to organizations although many times we feel that nothing is accomplished and we have wasted our time.  This webinar will focus on how to run an effective meeting by covering the following topics:
  1. How to prepare
  2. Who to invite
  3. Creating an Agenda
  4. The Meeting Setup
  5. Dealing with Problem Personalities in a Meeting
  6. The Value of Disagreement
  7. The Importance of Action Steps and Minutes
Presenter:  Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 39 spots remaining out of 50




Directors' Retreat: "Tactical Vs. Strategic Leadership"
5/24/2017 - 5/25/2017

NEO-RLS’s Annual Directors’ Retreat continues to grow in popularity.  The program, originally intended primarily for directors, is now open to deputy/assistant directors as well.  The theme for this year’s 5th Annual Retreat is Tactical vs. Strategic Leadership.  We are pleased to feature Paula Miller, Director, Baltimore County Public Library and former Ohio library director, as our primary presenter and facilitator.  The morning will begin at 9:30 a.m. focusing on Tactical vs. Strategic Leadership. 
 
The afternoon will continue with a presentation by Caitlin Williams, Career Development Facilitator on How to Help Your Staff Grow Professionally.  We will continue the day with rich conversations after dinner. 
 
On the second morning of the retreat Paula Miller will focus on Situational Leadership and Crisis Communication.  Everyone will leave with an action plan to assist in the implementation of the new strategies learned.

This will be held at The Bertram Inn at Glenmoor in Canton, Ohio.
 
Location: The Bertram Inn at Glenmoor
4191 Gelnmoor Rd. NW
Canton, OH 44718

There are currently 9 spots remaining out of 40




Shut Up and Listen: How We Used Social Listening to Connect With Customers/Students and Build a Community
5/31/2017

In social media, content creation is often king. The University of North Florida’s Thomas G. Carpenter Library has refocused its efforts away from original content in an effort to focus on listening and engagement. This practice has led the Carpenter Library to build a reliable, friendly, and helpful online community that has inspired other departments on campus to do the same. By monitoring keywords, hashtags, and geotags, library staff has kept tabs on what students have to say about the library’s various services, resources, spaces, employees, and more. Over the past 2 years, follower counts on Facebook and Twitter have almost doubled, as have engagements such as likes and shares.

This presentation will share:
  • A variety of exchanges and informal data points that have been generated by using social listening
  • How other libraries can easily follow suit
  • Monitoring tools
  • Ways in which the Carpenter Library plans to move forward
Presenter:  Maria Atilano is the Marketing and Student Outreach Librarian at the University of North Florida’s (UNF) Thomas G. Carpenter Library in Jacksonville. She began working in academic libraries in 2002 as a student employee while studying at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Before becoming a librarian, Maria held staff positions as Library Services Specialist in Public Services and Sr. Library Services Associate in Special Collections at UNF. She graduated with her M.L.I.S. from Florida State University in 2012. Maria’s professional interests
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 35 spots remaining out of 50




Beyond the Survey: Qualitative Research Practices and Techniques
6/20/2017

Elizabeth Bolander, Director of Research and Evaluation at the Cleveland Museum of Art, will share ways of gathering, managing, and analyzing qualitative data during this entry-level, hands-on workshop. Participants will learn best practices for conducting one-on-one interviews with patrons and walk away ready to tackle their own exploratory qualitative research projects.

Presenter:  Elizabeth Bolander currently serves as the Director of Research and Evaluation at the Cleveland Museum of Art and manages the museum’s audience research and prospect research functions. Prior appointments include the Director of Communications and Research and Assistant Director of Audience Research and Development at the Cleveland Museum of Art and Editor of Institutional Collateral and Visitor Research Coordinator at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Bolander is a frequent presenter at museum conferences and webinars, including the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), MuseumNext, Museums and the Web, and the Visitor Studies Association (VSA).
 
Location: NEO-RLS
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 3 spots remaining out of 20




Effective Workplace Communication for New Supervisors
7/12/2017

Experts suggest that we are communicating in one way or another more than 90% of the time we are awake! Communication can be positive or negative, verbal, non-verbal or in writing.  Communicating effectively is a learned skill that requires practice, patience and a desire to be more effective every day.
More importantly, your success as a supervisor will greatly depend on how effective you are in communicating your message to others in your library. This webinar program for the New Supervisors Academy of NEO-RLS will focus on the dos and don’ts of effectively communicating with others (including your boss)!

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

There are currently 38 spots remaining out of 50




The Librarian as Candidate: How to Activate Voters and Constituents for Support
8/2/2017

Voters, constituents, and donors behave the way they do specific reasons, and very little of it has to do with what "library conventional wisdom" says. Most of what drives their behavior—at the polls, when you ask them to advocate, or when you appeal to them for donations—is not their own user experience, but is instead their perceptions and attitudes of the public library as an institution and the people who work there. In this session, John Chrastka, Executive Director of EveryLibrary, will share critical public-perception data and field-tested messages to activate those perceptions to help you shape more effective marketing for your library. You will learn short, actionable messaging and marketing techniques to begin to update citizens' perceptions and to change their attitudes in your favor.

Presenter: 

John Chrastka is Founder and Executive Director of EveryLibrary, the fi rst nationwide political action committee (PAC) for libraries. EveryLibrary provides pro-bono strategic and tactical support to library communities when they are on the ballot. Since 2012, they have helped libraries win over $100 million at the ballot box. Chrastka is a former partner in AssociaDirect, a Chicago-based consultancy focused on supporting associations in membership recruitment, conference, and governance activities. He is a former President and member of the Board of Trustees for the Berwyn (Ill.) Public Library (2006–2015) and is a former President of the Reaching Across Illinois Libraries System (RAILS) multi-type library system.

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

There are currently 43 spots remaining out of 50




Soft Skills for Strong Management: Cultivating Good Critical Thinking
8/9/2017

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.

We will define what the concept of critical thinking is and explore several of the associated tools mentioned above. We will then investigate these soft skills and learn ways we can immediately improve them so that we can become a more conscious and efficient critical thinker.

 Presenter:
Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 36 spots remaining out of 50




Soft Skills for Strong Management: Cultivating Good Critical Thinking
8/9/2017

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 what the concept of critical thinking

  • Explore several of the associated tools mentioned above

  • Investigate soft skills and learn ways we can immediately improve to become a more conscious and efficient critical thinker

 Presenter:  Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 

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





Time Management: Yours and Theirs
8/16/2017

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.
 
There are many different techniques for helping manage our time.  In this webinar we will focus on the following:
  • 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

There are currently 34 spots remaining out of 50




Beyond "Lean In"
8/22/2017

In this half-day interactive session, participants are encouraged to share their own experiences in the library workforce. The facilitators will lead discussion on how to strategize for career advancement and enact positive change for women in librarianship. Learn practical tips for interviewing, addressing conflict, and charting the path to your personal vision of success. The facilitators have worked in a variety of library positions, both management and non-management, professional and para-professional, and look forward to guiding constructive conversation.

Presenters:
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library since November 2011.  She has presented at OLC Chapter and Annual Conferences and continues to be active in the Public Library Association and the American Library Association as well.  She’s been a branch manager in two different library systems, in addition to past work in a variety of settings.

Aurora Martinez is the Director of Morley Library in Painesville. Prior to that, she was a branch manager and children’s librarian at Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, and held youth services positions at Euclid Public Library and Geauga County Public Library. She has presented training on various topics for NEO-RLS, Ohio Library Council, and the Public Library Association.
Location: NEO-RLS
1580 Georgetown Rd.
Hudson, OH 44236

There are currently 18 spots remaining out of 25




If It's Broke, Fix It: Handling Leftover Challenges Effectively
8/23/2017

If It’s Broke Fix It: Handling Leftover Challenges Effectively
All too often, outgoing supervisors leave unresolved challenges “for the next guy” to fix. Then, you arrive! As the new supervisor, you have two choices. You can look the other way, forge ahead with your plans and hope the old issues disappear (although, if they didn’t before, it’s not likely they will now) or you can fix them. The right answer is, of course, to correct the problems, so you have a clear shot at success in your position. But, how do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time? In this webinar, we’ll consider 5 Simple Steps to Starting with a Clean Slate. 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 Adobe Connect

There are currently 45 spots remaining out of 50




Marketing and Graphic Design for Libraries
8/24/2017

Learn the basics about marketing and graphic design for your library. The marketing team from the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library will discuss how they rebranded their library, create multi-media marketing materials, and handle social media, web design and merchandising.

Also learn time and money saving tips, as well as design elements to enhance your library's message including:
- Choosing and using type
- Developing a color theme
- Working with images

This is a class for reluctant library marketers who want some tips and tricks and for serious design professionals. 
 
Location: Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
3512 Darrow Rd.
Stow, OH 44224

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 40




Measuring for Success using Data Visualization
9/8/2017

Does looking at your library’s usage statistics make your head spin? Libraries often collect dozens of outputs every month yet wonder what they actually communicate about meaningful impact. As traditional measures of success like circulation decline, librarians are left wondering what will take their place. We will take a look at how to first define the measures that work for your library and then explore easy ways to visually communicate data to community stakeholders.

In this workshop you will learn:
  • What you might want to measure
  • How to measure it
  • How to visually communicate the statistics
Presenter: 
Anastasia Diamond-Ortiz, Director, Lorain Public Library System
Location: Lorain Public Library
North Ridgeville Branch
35700 Bainbridge Rd , OH
North Ridgeville, OH 44039

There are currently 24 spots remaining out of 40




PR Networking Event
9/12/2017

Join your fellow peers for a lively round table discussion about public relations.  Bring your challenges and successes to share with the group.
Location: Geauga County Public Library
Administrative Center
Chardon, OH 44024

There are currently 20 spots remaining out of 30




Help Me Out Here: Vendor Participation in Library Marketing Efforts
9/20/2017


Did I spot you flinching? Is that because you just cut a giant check for a database license only to turn around and devote time, energy, and more money to marketing and promoting the resource to your users? The time has come for librarians to rethink the origin of their marketing materials. This session will encourage and support librarians and library staffers as they plan to work with vendors to market their products, not to a library, but to the patrons!  Attendees will leave the session with a list of questions to ask vendors and with tried-and-true approaches for vendor/library collaborative marketing. The session will also include tips for gathering giveaways, suggestions for offering useful vendor-sponsored sessions, and more. This high-energy session will include  audience participation and practical skills development. 

Presenter:
Corie Dugas is the Head of Outreach and Access Services at Saint Louis University’s Immel Law Library and the Executive Director of the Mid-America Law Library Consortium. Dugas spends a lot of time and energy connecting people to resources and services,She is an active local, regional, national, and international speaker and has presented on strategic thinking, project management, and numerous marketing and public relations strategies.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 35 spots remaining out of 50




Help Me Out Here: Vendor Participation in Library Marketing Efforts
9/20/2017


Did I spot you flinching? Is that because you just cut a giant check for a database license only to turn around and devote time, energy, and more money to marketing and promoting the resource to your users? The time has come for librarians to rethink the origin of their marketing materials. This session will encourage and support librarians and library staffers as they plan to work with vendors to market their products, not to a library, but to the patrons!  Attendees will leave the session with a list of questions to ask vendors and with tried-and-true approaches for vendor/library collaborative marketing. The session will also include tips for gathering giveaways, suggestions for offering useful vendor-sponsored sessions, and more. This high-energy session will include  audience participation and practical skills development. 

Presenter:
Corie Dugas is the Head of Outreach and Access Services at Saint Louis University’s Immel Law Library and the Executive Director of the Mid-America Law Library Consortium. Dugas spends a lot of time and energy connecting people to resources and services,She is an active local, regional, national, and international speaker and has presented on strategic thinking, project management, and numerous marketing and public relations strategies.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Managing Generational Differences in Times of Change
9/26/2017

Join us for an interactive workshop exploring the challenges associated with managing library personnel who span several age cohorts.   Participants will be encouraged to articulate their concerns especially as they are informed by past experiences managing a diverse workforce and will learn how to appropriately guide employees through change regardless of age or tenure.  Dr. Snell will present research related to generational differences in work identity and learning styles and suggest methods for incorporating these principles into managerial practice. She will also connect these issues to the broader context by demonstrating that employee behaviors are intertwined with leadership expectations, structural changes to the job, new technology interfaces and changes in patrons.

In this workshop you will learn:
  • Generational differences in work identity and learning styles
  • Best practices for managing these differences
  • Employee behaviors in dealing with change
Presenter:  Andrea F. Snell, Ph.D is an Associate Professor of Psychology and is currently serving as chair of the Industrial/Organizational Psychology Graduate Program. Her research interests include employee survey development, personality testing in the workplace, job search and placement issues associated with older workers. Dr. Snell has an active research program with both Master’s and Ph.D. level students and enjoys collaborative research projects with schools, organizations and municipalities.
 
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 23 spots remaining out of 40




PR/Marketer in your Pocket
10/25/2017

Library staff members have become great photographers for their library, snapping fantastic pictures or videos on the fly for their library event, program or patrons using their phone or tablet.  But what do you do with those pictures after that?  Are you able to create stunning marketing material for your library right from a phone or tablet?
 
Discover how you can have a PR and marketer in your pocket! 
  • You will learn about great apps that can edit and retouch your photos in seconds or add graphic elements that turn your picture into a high-end digital poster.
  •  You will also hear about editors that can turn your pictures or videos into a professionally crafted promotional video.
  • You will learn social media tips and best practices in order to get your posted images or video noticed! 

Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 50




A Day for Small Libraries and Branches
10/26/2017

We are pleased to have Rosemary Cooper, Director of the Albert Wisner Public Library, voted the 2016 Best Small Library in America, come to Northeast Ohio to share her story and her knowledge with other small libraries and branches. 
 
Once quaint, the Albert Wisner Public Library galvanized support for a new library that narrows the digital divide and powers a roster of nonstop programs.  Rosemary will talk about how she engaged and listened to her community which resulted in 180 volunteers and the ability to offer 1,379 programs.  This was all accomplished through building relationships and establishing new standards for innovation and creativity. 
This program will focus on 3 key areas:
  •        Community Engagement
  •        Volunteer Management
  •        Problem Solving
Bring your most difficult small library or branch challenges and leave with solutions.  You will have an opportunity to network with colleagues in the afternoon for a roundtable discussion.

Presenter:  Rosemary Cooper has been the Director of the Albert Wisner Public Library in Warwick NY since 2001.  Her previous experience includes Adult Services Librarian with the Boise Public Library, Senior Librarian, Children’s Services with the Upland Public Library, Upland, CA.  She was Branch Librarian with the Pasadena Public Library, in Pasadena, California, Technical Services Librarian with the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington, VT and Director of Information Services with Wells, Rich, Greene, Inc. of New York, NY where she managed the marketing library for one of the nation’s largest advertising agencies. 
 
Rosemary is the former President-Elect (‘03) and President (‘04) of the Orange County Library Association.  She is a member of the New York Library Association and the American Library Association.  She was a member and former President of the Vermont Library Association.  She is a Board Member of the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce. 
 
Rosemary received a B.A. in English from Fordham University and a M.L.S. from Pratt Institute and completed the Public Library Administrator’s Certification Program with the Palmer School of Library and Information Science in April of 2008.
 
Location: Highland Library
Medina County District Library
Medina , OH 44256

There are currently 12 spots remaining out of 30




A Day for Small Libraries and Branches
10/27/2017

We are pleased to have Rosemary Cooper, Director of the Albert Wisner Public Library, voted the 2016 Best Small Library in America, come to Northeast Ohio to share her story and her knowledge with other small libraries and branches. 
 
Once quaint, the Albert Wisner Public Library galvanized support for a new library that narrows the digital divide and powers a roster of nonstop programs.  Rosemary will talk about how she engaged and listened to her community which resulted in 180 volunteers and the ability to offer 1,379 programs.  This was all accomplished through building relationships and establishing new standards for innovation and creativity. 
This program will focus on 3 key areas:
  •        Community Engagement
  •        Volunteer Management
  •        Problem Solving
Bring your most difficult small library or branch challenges and leave with solutions.  You will have an opportunity to network with colleagues in the afternoon for a roundtable discussion.

Presenter:  Rosemary Cooper has been the Director of the Albert Wisner Public Library in Warwick NY since 2001.  Her previous experience includes Adult Services Librarian with the Boise Public Library, Senior Librarian, Children’s Services with the Upland Public Library, Upland, CA.  She was Branch Librarian with the Pasadena Public Library, in Pasadena, California, Technical Services Librarian with the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington, VT and Director of Information Services with Wells, Rich, Greene, Inc. of New York, NY where she managed the marketing library for one of the nation’s largest advertising agencies. 
 
Rosemary is the former President-Elect (‘03) and President (‘04) of the Orange County Library Association.  She is a member of the New York Library Association and the American Library Association.  She was a member and former President of the Vermont Library Association.  She is a Board Member of the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce. 
 
Rosemary received a B.A. in English from Fordham University and a M.L.S. from Pratt Institute and completed the Public Library Administrator’s Certification Program with the Palmer School of Library and Information Science in April of 2008.
Location: Rodman Public Library
215 E Broadway St.
Alliance, OH 44601

There are currently 21 spots remaining out of 30




Construction and Facilities Networking Event
11/2/2017

Join your fellow administrators and facilities staff for the first Construction and Facilities Networking Event. 
Jordan Foster will discuss:
  • Tips for construction projects
  • Pitfalls to be aware of before and during your construction project
Presenter:  Jordan Foster, Business Development Manager with IAP Government Services Group which is a construction management firm that has been in business since 2002. IAP holds a contract with the State of Ohio for Third Party Administration for facility maintenance, repair and construction. This contract is available for all libraries to utilize through the State’s cooperative purchasing program. The contract offers a turnkey project management solution that includes developing a scope of work, managing the bidding process (which is ORC compliant), and managing the construction process in its entirety.
 
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 30




How to Facilitate a Presentation and not Lose your Audience
11/16/2017

If you have ever been on the receiving end on an excruciatingly boring presentation… or you have personally had the misfortune of being scheduled to present immediately after a rather large meal or at the conclusion of a very long day, you will better understand the importance of effective facilitation skills. 
This class is designed to offer tools and techniques on:
  • Achieving presentation objectives and outcomes
  • Establishing a collaborative learning community
  • Making a difference in your speaking style and technique
  • Effectively using humor in your sessions
  • Dealing with disruptions
  • Planning the facilitators process
Your personal objective as a facilitator is to have your audience completely involved from introduction to conclusion, while having them walk away with take-a-ways that will benefit their future needs.

Presenter:  John Cox considers himself a perennial  student in the art of communication.  After graduating from Midland University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, he went on to a successful 40 year career with the Swagelok Company in sales and product development; business development; human resources; industrial coaching; along with mentoring and training.  He now works as a personal consultant with "Selling Basics llc" in the areas of Communication in the Workplace; Facilitation Skills; Selling Yourself; and Negotiation.
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 23 spots remaining out of 40




Winning Library Grants
12/7/2017

Grants can support the changing needs in your community and your budget, as well as many additional benefits. Stephanie Gerding’s grant webinars are known for being easy to understand, motivating, fun and full of valuable tips.

In this interactive webinar, you will learn the basic process of grant work, including how to develop a winning grant project, where to look for funding sources, and what key elements go into a great proposal. Learn how to quickly locate grant opportunities through free resources, find out what funders are looking for in a successful grant proposal, and discover real library grant success techniques. Practical advice, easy grants for beginners, partnership ideas, and valuable resource lists will be shared. You’ll be excited, motivated, and ready to win grants for your library!

Participants will be able to:
  • Apply the basic process of grant work
  • Develop grant projects using community needs & planning
  • Find library grant funding sources
  • Write a proposal funders will love
Presenter:  Stephanie Gerding, MLIS, is a library consultant, author, and trainer. She has in-depth knowledge and practical experience with grants, having worked on all sides of the grant process as a grant writer, funder, project coordinator, and evaluator. Stephanie is the author of four books, including Winning Grants and The Accidental Technology Trainer, as well as over 20 professional library articles on fundraising.

Recent projects include sole creation and facilitation for the Public Library Association's strategic planning initiative, Dynamic Planning Institute, instructor for Infopeople's Building a Culture of Learning initiative, trainer for PLA's Project Outcome, and training needs assessments for state and national organizations. She is Executive Director of Act of Giving, a nonprofit giving circle.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 17 spots remaining out of 50




Highly Effective Meetings
3/14/2018

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

  • How to prepare

  • Who to invite

  • Creating an Agenda

  • The Meeting Setup

  • Dealing with Problem Personalities in a Meeting

  • The Value of Disagreement

  • The Importance of Action Steps and Minutes

Presenter:  Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS


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





We Can't Stop Doing That!
6/6/2018

Why is it so easy to start new projects or formulate new procedures and policies, yet so hard to stop doing things that are no longer important, efficient or effective, especially if they were once necessary or successful?  How can you help yourself and your staff see the value in cutting procedures or services that are no longer working?  This webinar will look at the reasons it is often difficult to eliminate something that we do or provide and will talk about a model for actively involving staff in determining if something can be stopped, why it can be stopped, when it can be stopped and how it can be stopped. 
Learning Objectives:

  • Understand barriers to stopping a task or activity

  • Examine tasks and activities in terms of value to the organization

  • Provide a model for effectively involving staff in the decisions  

Presenter:
Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System

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





Quick Copy Writing Tips that Work
6/20/2018

Brush up on your writing skills in this one-hour Webinar focusing on content, style, tone and structure. Many library workers write their own program descriptions and promotions, as well as their own newsletters, and this workshop will provide some quick, formal training on writing. Learn how to communicate what the audience needs to know by effectively stating and positioning pertinent details. Attendees will also learn how to make their content catchy, as well as persuasive, to get desired results.

In the webinar you will learn:

  • To communicate what the audience needs to know

  • Make content cathchy

  • Make content persuasive

Presenter:  Kristin Casale, Children's Librarian, Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
She has managed thechildren's department newsletter for approximately seven years. Kristin  also used to be a reporter and editor for Record Publishing Co., and has a degree in journalism from Penn State University, as well as a master's in library science from Kent State University.

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


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Designing the Future: Using Human-Centered Design to Implement Service Improvements
7/10/2018

The challenges facing librarians are real, complex and varied. As such, they require new perspectives, new tools and new approaches. With support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and in partnership with Chicago Public Library and Aarhus Public Library, IDEO created a toolkit for using design thinking to better understand library patrons. Discover how you can use design thinking to uncover solutions to everyday challenges.
 
Presenter:  Michelle Frisque,  Chief of Technology, Content and Innovation, Chicago Public Library (CPL)
In this role, she ensures that information technology, collections and data metrics support the library’s programs, services, operations and strategies, and provides support and evaluation for the innovation process. Before joining CPL, Michelle was the Head of Information Systems at the Galter Health Sciences Library, Northwestern University. She is a former president of the Library & Information Technology Association (LITA), a division of the American Library Association. She has a Masters of Learning and Organization Change from Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy, and a Masters of Library and Information Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh.
 

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 50




Designing the Future: Using Human-Centered Design to Implement Service Improvements
7/10/2018

The challenges facing librarians are real, complex and varied. As such, they require new perspectives, new tools and new approaches. With support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and in partnership with Chicago Public Library and Aarhus Public Library, IDEO created a toolkit for using design thinking to better understand library patrons. Discover how you can use design thinking to uncover solutions to everyday challenges.
 
Presenter:  Michelle Frisque,  Chief of Technology, Content and Innovation, Chicago Public Library (CPL)
In this role, she ensures that information technology, collections and data metrics support the library’s programs, services, operations and strategies, and provides support and evaluation for the innovation process. Before joining CPL, Michelle was the Head of Information Systems at the Galter Health Sciences Library, Northwestern University. She is a former president of the Library & Information Technology Association (LITA), a division of the American Library Association. She has a Masters of Learning and Organization Change from Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy, and a Masters of Library and Information Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh.

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

There are currently 29 spots remaining out of 50




Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Training for Management
7/18/2018

In this webinar we will:

  • Review sample Equal Employment Opportunity and Anti-Harassment policies.

  • Provide an overview of discrimination and harassment law and prohibitions against retaliation.

  • Provide specific examples of behaviors prohibited by the sample policies and the law.

  • Identify recommended avenues to report discrimination and harassment.

  • Identify expectations for workplace behaviors that go beyond the law.

Presenters: 
John Gerak focuses his practice on employment counseling, including employment policies and practices, reductions in force, executive hires/terminations, and issues arising out of mergers and acquisitions.  John also has significant experience handling complex employment litigation, including class and collective action litigation and non-compete matters .

Katie Sanz represents a variety of employers in all phases of litigation in both state and federal court and before administrative agencies.  She has experience defending employers against claims related to discrimination, retaliation, harassment, breach of contract, wage and hour, and claims brought pursuant to the Family Medical Leave Act.  Katie also counsels and advises employers regarding a wide range of employment-related matters.

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





If It's Broke, Fix It: Handling Leftover Challenges Effectively
8/1/2018

If It’s Broke Fix It: Handling Leftover Challenges Effectively
All too often, outgoing supervisors leave unresolved challenges “for the next guy” to fix. Then, you arrive! As the new supervisor, you have two choices. You can look the other way, forge ahead with your plans and hope the old issues disappear (although, if they didn’t before, it’s not likely they will now) or you can fix them. The right answer is, of course, to correct the problems, so you have a clear shot at success in your position. But, how do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time? In this webinar, we’ll consider 5 Simple Steps to Starting with a Clean Slate. 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 >

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


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Best Practices in Performance Documentation
8/21/2018

Proper employee performance documentation can protect a library from future litigation and benefits its employees by providing concrete and specific feedback on areas in need of improvement.
This webinar will explore:

  • How to document performance

  • Scoring perils

  • How to deliver difficult performance evaluations

Presenter:
Sara Hodgson is the Director of Human Resources at the Mandel Jewish Community Center where she is responsible for developing and implementing policies and procedures encompassing all aspects of Human Resources including employee and labor relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, performance management, and recruitment. Prior to joining the Mandel JCC in 2014, Sara was the HR Manager at the Cleveland Museum of Art for 16 years. Sara has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Ohio University and holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certifications.  

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





How to develop and execute a marketing and communications plan for your library
9/11/2018

You've heard all about it and know it's important, but just how do you create and leverage it to the best of your library's advantage? During this hands-on workshop, attendees will gain an understanding of the importance of developing and executing an integrated marketing and communications plan with content creation in mind. We'll cover different types of marketing and communications tactics, as well as offer actionable strategies that will help your library identify and engage with your audiences both online and offline. Resources to help your small staff to work smarter, not harder and on a tight budget will be revealed as we also discuss some of the challenges and opportunities that face libraries today. Finally, attendees will receive a marketing and communications template as we put pen-to-paper together and take those first steps of developing your own plan!  
 
Learning Objectives
  • Why you need a marketing and communication plan
  • How to create and execute a plan
  • Tips and resources to help you work smarter
  • Leave with the start of a plan
The afternoon will be a round table discussion of challenges and successes shared by your peers.
Presenter:

Reena Goodwin is the founder + director of FACTEUR PR, a boutique integrated marketing and communications studio based in Cleveland. She began her career with Sony Music in 2004 while earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Affairs Journalism at The Ohio State University before relocating to New York City, and now she calls Cleveland home.   She has spent her career in integrated marketing and communications, working for and with the music, art and design, lifestyle, nonprofit, special events, travel, food and drink, fashion and retail, and education industries.  

For more than 13 years, she’s worked alongside reporters and editors on feature stories in national media outlets, from Rolling Stone to Food & Wine, to Bustle.com and NPR, as well as local and regional media. Her digital and social media campaigns have garnered attention in USA Today, The Los Angeles Times, and more. She is also a blogging and content strategist and evangelist with world-class organizations like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art on her list of credits. Additionally, Goodwin has presented or participated in presentations at FearlessCon, SXSW, and the American Alliance of Museums Annual Meeting + Museum Expo. She has served as a member on the communications committee of the American Advertising Federation of Cleveland.  

Goodwin has been recognized by New York Times bestselling business author Chris Guillebeau, PR Couture, Career Contessa, Crain’s Cleveland Business, and The Plain Dealer for her varied and passionate career path, attributing the dedication to her career to the love of the work she does everyday.
 
 
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 12 spots remaining out of 40




Library Website Design: Is Your Site an Obstacle Course?
9/12/2018

Library websites can be prone to a number of issues that frustrate their users. Many sites use outdated conventions, anecdotal "data" or fail to use standard practices, resulting in poor experiences for patrons, and a loss of credibility for the library as a community institution. In this webinar, learn about common problems found on today's library websites, backed by current research, from a web designer/developer who has been working with library websites for more than two decades. 
 
OUTCOMES: 

  • Discover issues that commonly cause usability problems for website users

  • Learn about outdated practices that should no longer be used on your library's website, and why

  • Get resources for educating yourself and others about current trends and usability data

Presenter:  Laura Solomon, MCIW, MLS is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network . 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.

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





Branch Managers Network
9/14/2018

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other branch managers within the region.  If you were unable to last time please join us for a lively discussion with your fellow branch managers. Please send agenda items to Emily Crilley.
 

 Light refreshments will be provided.

 


Location: Akron Summit County Public Library- Nordonia Hills Branch Library
9458 Olde Eight Rd.
Northfield, OH 44067

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 40




The Art of Managing Student Workers
9/25/2018

The management of student workers brings its own unique set of challenges and rewards.  Whether you are managing work study students in a university library or regular student employees in a public or special library, there are many aspects to consider in making the situation one that is mutually beneficial.  Join us as Kathy Hodkey, Circulation Supervisor, Bass Library & Resource Center, Lorain County Community College, talks about how to make certain that your student employees are successful in the workplace and helping you forward the goals of your library. 
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Setting expectations for student workers
  • Handling schedules and absenteeism
  • Communication, training and inclusion
 
Location: Shaker Heights Public Library
16500 Van Aken Blvd
Shaker Heights, OH 44120





Disaster Planning: Are You Prepared?
9/26/2018

You never know when disaster will strike.  It is important to be prepared and to plan for the unforeseen.
During this emergency preparedness workshop, we’ll explore various aspects of disaster planning to help you find a place to start. Learn from colleagues in public and academic Ohio libraries as we share stories of lessons learned, familiarize yourself with different types of disaster planning resources, and identify key aspects of disaster planning development that you can implement today.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn what should be included in a disaster plan
  • Learn about disaster planning resources
  • Hear lessoned learned
Presenters:

Holly Prochaska, Preservation Librarian and co-manager of the Preservation Lab, a collaborative hybrid lab of The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County and the University of Cincinnati Libraries. Holly has worked at the University of Cincinnati Libraries since 1999 and has been the Preservation Librarian since 2006. Prior to heading Preservation, Holly coordinated University of Cincinnati Libraries’ renovation projects and facilities maintenance for the 10 library facilities. She has been an active member in the Ohio Preservation Council, serving as Chair from 2016 – 2017.
 
Ashleigh Schieszer, holds an MA in Art Conservation from Buffalo State College and is the conservator of special collections and co-manager of the Preservation Lab.  Ashleigh has managed special collections treatment at the Preservation Lab since 2013 and is currently serving as Education and Programs Chair for the Ohio Preservation Council.
Location: Cleveland Heights-University Heights Library
2345 Lee Rd
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118





Construction and Facilities Networking Event
10/18/2018

Join your colleagues for a round table discussion about the latest issues effecting construction and facilities in libraries. Please send agenda items to Shawna Keringer. 
Location: Newton Falls Public Library
204 S Canal St
Newton Falls, OH 44444

There are currently 21 spots remaining out of 30




Make Your Library Deaf-friendly
10/30/2018

We will start the morning with Ben Gulyas, Deaf Services Coordinator at the Coventry Village Branch of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, talking about the various aspects of making your library deaf-friendly.  He will give tips for collection development, resources, programming and staff training.
 
Ben will be followed by Bill Morgan, Artistic Manager, SignStage, will give an overview of Deaf culture and use of ASL and give a basic lesson for ASL that would be useful in library settings.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Learn ways to make your library Deaf-friendly
  • Learn about programming for the Deaf community
  • Learn about the Deaf Culture
  • Learn Basic American Sign Language (ASL)
 Presenters:

Ben Gulyas is an adult services librarian, page supervisor and He maintains the Deaf material collection and coordinates Deaf programs and staff ASL training at the branch. Along with ongoing programming that consists of a monthly Deaf social, a quarterly Deaf Film Night and free public ASL classes offered twice a year, Ben has arranged other Deaf special events including authors, educators and entertainers. In October 2017, the library sponsored a free performance by deaf comedian and actor CJ Jones to an enthusiastic audience of 600.
 
Bill Morgan, Artistic Manager, SignStage
 
 
Location: Coventry Village Branch of Heights Libraries
1925 Coventry Rd # 2
Cleveland , OH 44118

There are currently 15 spots remaining out of 30




Managing Staff Remotely
11/2/2018

Managing staff remotely is not always easy.  Hear some tips from Enda Bracken and Caroline Vicchiarelli, Branch Services Directors at Cuyahoga County Public Library.  In addition bring your questions and concerns and learn from one another.
Learning Objectives:
  • Communication is essential to remote management
  • Support your staff
  • Trust and empower your staff
Presenters:

Enda Bracken is the Branch Services Director for the east side of Cuyahoga County Public Library. He works closely with the 11 branch managers who oversee 14 branches. Enda has previously worked for Dublin Public Libraries in Ireland, The Free Library of Philadelphia, Mentor Public Library and Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library.
 
Caroline Vicchiarelli is the other Branch Services Directors at the Cuyahoga County Public Library!  She received her Bachelor’s degree from Hiram College, and her Masters of Library Science from Kent State University.  Caroline began her professional library career at the Columbus Metropolitan Library in the Center for Discovery, then later moved to the Ritter Public Library in Vermilion, Ohio.  She then married and took a position with the Cuyahoga County Public Library  where she has worked since.  In  2011 Caroline became the Branch Services Director for CCPL for the West side, and manages 14 branches …..remotely.
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 30 spots remaining out of 40




Data-driven Collection Development
11/29/2018

Are you struggling to make the best collection choices for your community?  Why not make data-driven decisions for your collection?  Learn how Deb Lambert, Director of Collection Management, Indianapolis Public Library, uses evidence-based data, trend analysis and communication at all levels to build and sustain interest and knowledge of the library’s vast collections.  

3 Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn ways to harvest and analyze collection usage data to make exceptional purchasing decisions to meet patron demand 
  • Participants will learn about educating public library staff on collection usage trends that might conflict with their perspectives and biases to help them adjust shelving allocations to match patron collection use and collection purchasing trends. 
  • Participants will learn about various data tools used for collection analysis, including ILS data, Excel Pivot Tables, collectionHQ, physical shelf measurement, and RFID shelf management devices.
 Presenter:
 
Deb Lambert is passionate about helping libraries and patrons live in both the digital and physical library world, she has spent years balancing budgets, training and staffing to support digital and physical library collections.  An outspoken advocate for libraries, she actively works with vendors to develop awareness of library needs.  As Director of Collection Management at the Indianapolis Public Library, she encourages her team to utilize data analysis and technology to streamline processes and collaborate effectively with the staff and public of a large multi-branch system and its community partners.
 
Location: Mentor Public Library
8215 Mentor Ave.
Mentor, OH 44060

There are currently 7 spots remaining out of 40




Hire for Success
1/9/2019

Hiring the right person is not easy.  You need to take many things into consideration.  

Learning Objectives:

  • Know who you are

  • Advertise Properly

  • Hire for Soft Skills

Presenter: 

Nick Grove is the Tech Library Supervisor for the Meridian Library District at the new technology library, unBound.

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





Construction and Facilities Network
1/31/2019

Join your colleagues for a round table discussion about the latest issues affecting construction and facilities in libraries. Please send agenda items to Shawna Keringer. 
Location: Kirtland Public Library
9267 Chillicothe Road , OH
Kirtland, OH 44094

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 30




Public Relations Network
2/8/2019

Library Marketing is evolving.  Targeted emailing is changing the way the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Marketing does business.  We are making data-driven decisions based on our customer’s check-out habits, and then sending them custom emails based on what their interests are.  For the first time, we know our actual number of active patrons, what our market share is, and how many inactive patrons re-engage with the library.  When you know your patron and their preference, marketing is more successful.  And isn’t that what we all want? ​ Join Ann Malthaner for the Public Relations Network Meeting.  Please send Ann Malthaner any other topics you would like to discuss.

Facilitator: 

Ann Malthaner, Marketing and Public Relations Manager, Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
 
Location: Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
3512 Darrow Rd
Stow, OH 44224

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 30




What the Heck Happened? 2018 Employment Law Update: Part II
2/13/2019

Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates in his own unique, practical, entertaining and humorous style.  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!  More details coming soon.

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 12 spots remaining out of 50




Services for Immigrants (and your community) - Lessons Learned from Library Services for Immigrants and New Americans
2/20/2019

In her book Library Services for Immigrants and New Americans, Jennifer Koerber reviewed programs and services provided by more than 20 libraries across the country. In this webinar, she'll share 5 case studies and highlight the best practices they represent, including how to broaden the scope to include long-time residents and other community members. At the end, she'll guide you through an exercise to create a list of 10 concrete tasks you can take in your library to add or improve services to newcomer populations. There will be time for questions and answers, and a handout will include links to all libraries mentioned in the talk.
 
Learning Objectives:
During and after this webinar, participants:

  1. Are exposed to diverse approaches to serve immigrants/New Americans at different levels of investment.

  2. Will recognize that providing these services and programs can often be multi-purposed to serve long-time residents and any new resident as well as newcomers to the US.

  3. Construct a list of 10 concrete things they can do in their buildings and in their communities based on webinar content.

 Presenter: 
Jennifer Koerber has two decades of experience in libraries, in both public-facing and behind-the-scenes roles. After 17 years at the Boston Public Library, she established her own business providing technology training and consulting services to libraries. Jennifer is also currently the Training Manager at Harvard University Library, overseeing staff training for a new service platform.
 
She has written extensively for Library Journal on public library services and technology, and in May 2018, her book Library Services to Immigrants and New Americans: Celebration and Integration was released by Libraries Unlimited. In what remains of her time, she is an avid mobile photographer and traveler.
When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





I Didn't Know You Did That! - Public Library Board Game Circulation
2/27/2019

Spend an agreeable hour learning how to write a board game circulation policy that aligns with your library’s mission and strategic plan, how to determine your audience, what type of games you should invest in, and the best places to purchase them. You will learn the basic logistics of board game storage, advertising the collection, packaging for circulation, and incorporating the board games into your library’s programming.  

Participants will:

  • Discuss ways to engage patrons and boost circulation using board games as a tool

  • Learn details of how to most efficiently manage the many facets of the collection

  • Learn the basics of "board game advisory" - how to help patrons choose games to check out

Presenters:
Cari Dubiel is the Adult Learning and Information Services Manager at Twinsburg Public Library. With over twenty years of library experience, she has led many discussions on the topic of collection development and circulating nontraditional items. Her favorite board games are those that involve a puzzle or mystery, like Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective and any type of escape room. 

Maggie Rose is an Adult Learning and Information Services Librarian at the TPL. She has managed the collection for the past 18 months, expanding it from 20 games to over 120. Her favorite games are The Captain is Dead, and games to play with her children like Candy Land, and Ticket to Ride First Journey. 

Ashley Sroka is an Adult Learning and Information Services Associate at the TPL. She has been instrumental in coordinating the board game collection. She has always been a board gamer, even attending the 5-day long Origins Game Fair in Columbus. Her favorite games are Carcassonne, and cooperative games like Mysterium.

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


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Difficult Conversations re: Corrective Action and Termination
3/12/2019

Having a difficult conversation with an employee is a manager’s least favorite, yet extremely necessary, part of the job. Addressing performance issues head-on will not only save you and your organization time and energy, it could help a poor performing employee become a star performer. 

Learning Objectives:

  •  How to document performance
  • The creation of Performance Improvement Plans (PIP)
  • Scripting the difficult conversation
Presenter:

Sara Hodgson is the Director of Human Resources at the Mandel Jewish Community Center where she is responsible for developing and implementing policies and procedures encompassing all aspects of Human Resources including employee and labor relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, performance management, and recruitment. Prior to joining the Mandel JCC in 2014, Sara was the HR Manager at the Cleveland Museum of Art for 16 years. Sara has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Ohio University and holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certifications.  
Location: Rocky River Public Library
1600 Hampton Rd, ,
Rocky River, OH 44116

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 40




Branch Managers Network Meeting
3/22/2019

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other branch managers within the region.  
 

 Light refreshments will be provided.

 


Location: Akron Summit County Public Library-Good Year Branch Library
60 Goodyear Blvd.
Akron,, OH 44305

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 30




Increase Library Usage Through Strategic Merchandising
4/18/2019

There's a lot of science and psychology in the retail merchandising world that can benefit your library. In fact, it can not only invigorate and improve your everyday displays and signage, it can also increase your usage statistics. Trying it doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. In this webinar, Kathy Dempsey will explain what merchandising is and will reveal strategies to help you do it quickly and effectively. Through pro tips and lots of photographic examples, you will:

  • Learn the difference between creating displays and doing merchandising.

  • Understand how the magic of merchandising can increase library usage and circulation.

  • Realize what turns people off and keeps them from entering your building.

  • View photos of great (and not-so-great) merchandising from libraries around the world.

  • Realize how merchandising, signage, and displays affect the user experience (UX).

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

 
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Collaboration Connection: Planting the seeds to building successful community partnerships
5/2/2019

Are you waiting for a collaborator in order to get your great idea off the ground or to apply for a grant?  Do you have services, collections, skills, etc. that you or your organization could offer to potential collaborators?  How do unrelated organizations seeking a collaborative partnership make a case for funding, establish an MOU/MOA, what are the logistics of such partnerships, and how does each entity benefit?  Join us for this opportunity to learn more about successful collaborations and find the collaboration partner you are looking for.  This program is jointly sponsored by NEO-RLS, SWON, and ALAO’s newly formed Programming, Outreach, and Marketing Interest Group.
 
Facilitators Kieth Peppers and Wendy Wasman have successfully collaborated on a grant-funded project between the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Baldwin Wallace University, The University of Akron and the Cleveland Metroparks.  The morning will be devoted to hearing about their collaboration and a collaboration between the Madison Public Library, Madison Local Schools and Lakeland Community College around College Credit Plus.   Presenters will discuss the creation of their projects, partnerships in practice and provide ideas for you apply ideas to your own situation and project.  The morning will continue with learning how to write an effective MOU/MOA and finding out what makes partnerships attractive to funders.  In the afternoon the facilitators will lead attendees through “Collaboration Connection,” an interactive process designed to help you find the collaborator or resources that you need, right in this very workshop.
 
Learning objectives:
  • Find out how to develop a successful multi-type organizational collaboration
  • Learn how to write a MOU/MOA
  • Learn more about how foundations look at funding applications for partnerships
  • Link to potential collaborators around project ideas
Presenters:

Kieth A. Peppers, University Archivist, Instructor, Baldwin Wallace University
Kieth A. Peppers received his education at Cleveland State University where he achieved a Master of History and Museum Studies summa cum laude. He is the co-founder and CEO of Pursue Posterity, an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of all history. He is concurrently employed with Baldwin Wallace University as the archivist, historian, and faculty, where he teaches classes in Public History, curates exhibits, writes grants, and collaborates with external institutions. During the development of his vocation, Kieth worked with a variety of museums, archives, special collections, and libraries across northeast Ohio on numerous projects from publishing corporate histories to cataloguing and photographing museum collections.
 
Wendy Wasman, Librarian and Archivist, Cleveland Museum of Natural History 
Wendy Wasman has a B.A. in Cultural Anthropology from Oberlin College. She received her Master's in Library Science (MLS) from Kent State University in 1988. Wendy was the Librarian at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History from 1988 until her move to Philadelphia in 1994, where she served as the Science Librarian at Haverford College. She returned to Cleveland in 2000 and rejoined the Museum as Librarian in 2008. In 2012, she assumed responsibility for the Museum Archives. As the Librarian and Archivist, Wendy oversees the 50,000-volume research library, curates the 1,000-volume rare book collection, maintains the special collections, and manages records retention for the Museum. Wearing four different hats is sometimes challenging, but Wendy loves that she can learn something new every single day.
 
Shawn D. Walsh, Emerging Services and Technologies Librarian, Madison Public Library in Madison, OH
Shawn has been in the library field since 1997, and is a contributor to Public Libraries Online, Children and Libraries, and chapters in several different library related anthologies. He is the co-author of the book Library Service to Tweens published in 2017. Shawn is also responsible for maintaining Madison Public Library's technology infrastructure and oversees computer and technology instruction to patrons and staff. Within the community, Shawn is best known for his school presentations and preaching the awesomeness of online library services
 
Thomas Hyland, M.A., M.L.I.S., Associate Professor, Acting Library Program Chair, and Library Instruction Coordinator, Lakeland Community College
Thomas Hyland is currently in his fifteenth year at Lakeland Community College.  In addition to an MLIS from Kent State, he holds an MA in Creative Writing from Miami University of Ohio. Serving as Library Instruction Coordinator, Thomas has concentrated on creating and sustaining a scaffolded information literacy instruction program designed to prepare students to think critically about information. 
 
Presenters TBA for Effective MOU/MOA Writing and Working with Foundations.
Location: Mansfield-Richland County Public Library
43 West Third Street
Mansfield, OH 44902

There are currently 27 spots remaining out of 50




Gripes, Grumbles and Grievances: Improving Labor-Management Relations through Effective Communication and Grievance Processing
5/9/2019

This highly interactive course will help participants build strong labor-management relationships through effective communication and grievance handling skills.  Participants will get information and hands on experience in communication, collaborative problem-solving, grievance processing as well as tips for preventing grievances.  

Learning Objectives Part I: Moving from Conflict to Collaboration
  • Communication Basics
  • Active Listening
  • Collaborative Problem-Solving    
 
Learning Objectives Part 2:  Effective Grievance Handling
  • Grievance Steps
  • Grievance vs. Gripe
  • Tips for Preventing Grievances
  • Grievance Mediation
Don't miss this workshop and the newly renovated South Branch (Carnegie Building) of Cleveland Public Library.

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. In addition, Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
 
Location: South Branch of Cleveland Public Library
3096 Scranton Road
Cleveland, OH 44113

There are currently 25 spots remaining out of 45




2019 Directors' Retreat: Steps to Stress Free Leadership
5/22/2019 - 5/23/2019

This year we will focus on you the leader.  The first day will be devoted to Facilitative Leadership with topics to include: developer of people, developer of teams, manager of conflict and master of problem solving.   The evening will continue with facilitated "Rich Conversations" focused on HR and other issues.  The second day will begin with Leading Inside & Out of Your Library: Finding Balance, followed by time for reflection and the creation of an action plan.  We will end the Retreat with The Art of Relaxation.

Day 1: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm with dinner at 6 pm and Rich Conversations to follow 
Facilitative Leadership

Facilitative leadership involves four modes of behaviors - Manager of Conflict, Developer of People and Teams, and Master of Problems Solving Tools. These behaviors are sets of skills which can be learned and practiced. Effective leadership behaviors are unique to the group of followers you lead. Understanding the motivation of followers is critical to succeeding as a leader. Glenn Ray helps leaders relate to followers and peers in a personal way while maintaining focus on the organization's needs.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to develop people and teams
  • Manage conflict with ease
  • Take away problem solving tools
  • Be aware of verbal and nonverbal listening
Presenter:
Glenn Ray is the President of RayCom Learning, which helps leaders who want to create an environment where people communicate clearly and choose to commit to organizational goals. He spent 16 years in industries such as chemical, construction, mining, and manufacturing and 10 years as an external consultant while Director of the Institute of Education and Training for Business at Marietta College. He has also had extensive experience training and facilitating federal government employees as well as family owned companies. His positions have spanned corporate training director, plant training manager, production supervisor, and production worker. As an internal consultant, he designed and administered employee development processes to improve organizational performance. He taught communication and leadership courses at Ohio University and Marietta College. He has led over 1500 workshops on facilitative leadership, small group facilitation techniques, communication, team development, and conflict management. His clients include 36 multinational companies, and 105 hospitals, government, education, and domestic industries spanning eleven states.

Day 2: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Leading Inside & Out of Your Library: Finding Balance

This session is inspired by the Library Journal article, “Leading Inside & Out.”  Running a library is a full-time job and then some. Yet library leaders still find time to lead communitywide, state, and national initiatives. These efforts advance the power and prestige of libraries as a field but can still pull focus from their institutions. We will discuss the importance of leading outside your library and ways leaders juggle internal and external commitments, as well as how they balance their time—and why the balancing act is worth it.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify leadership opportunities outside of your library
  • Identify strategies for prioritizing internal and external commitments and ways to balance your time  
  • You will have a chance to:
    • Create an action plan to get involved outside of your library if you are not already doing so OR increase external involvement if desired. 
    • Analyze your current external commitments and determine if they are the right commitments for you at this time, create an action plan based on the results (if needed).
Presenter:
Wendy Tressler, Manager of Project Management & Quality Department, Columbus Metropolitan Library.  Over the past 17 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 core team in 2012. In 2013, Wendy joined the 2020 Vision Plan department full time.
 
Art of Relaxation

Learning Objectives:
  • Various simple relaxation techniques that you can practice daily
  • The benefits of practicing relaxation techniques
Presenter:
Dr. Michael Schechter has extensive experience as an instructor and administrator, and currently serves as the Director of Wellness Services.  Dr. Schechter received his B.S. from Miami University and his M.D. from The Ohio State University College of Medicine in 1989.  He received a Physician Executive Certificate from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Continuing Studies in 1999.  He has served as the Chairman of the Departments of Psychiatry at St. Luke’s Medical Center and St. Vincent Charity Hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio where he provided supervision and strategic planning to the clinical staff of two large departments.  He has served as a medical director of several agencies.  In addition, Dr. Schechter is an award-winning teacher, being recognized as Northeastern Ohio Universities Psychiatry Resident Teacher of the Year in 2000-2001 and 2003-2004.  Prior to founding Be Well Solutions, he served as a staff psychiatrist and Chairman of Quality Improvement and Peer Review for the Department of Psychiatry at SUMMA Hospitals in Akron, Ohio.  He has authored and presented nearly 100 lectures in the areas of wellness, strategies for change, behavioral health and professional responsibility. Dr. Schechter co-founded Be Well Solutions in 2005. 
Location: Mohican Lodge & Conference Center
1098 Ashland County Rd. #3006
Perrysville, OH 44864





HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know
6/5/2019

In order to successfully lead others, supervisors need to feel empowered, knowledgeable, capable of exciting their team members and inspiring them to do their best work every day. Join Robin S. Wood, MBA, MLIS, Assistant Director of Public Service - Main Library at Cleveland Public Library, as she walks you through the basics of Human Resource Management for library supervisors, managers and leaders. Robin will identify the most important core principals and concepts you will need to know to successfully lead your team and keep you out of trouble. 

Presenter:
Robin Wood, MBA, MLIS, Assistant Director of Public Service - Main Library at Cleveland Public Library
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 15 spots remaining out of 50




HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know
6/5/2019

In order to successfully lead others, supervisors need to feel empowered, knowledgeable, capable of exciting their team members and inspiring them to do their best work every day. Join Robin S. Wood, MBA, MLIS, General Research Collections Manager, Cleveland Public Library, as she walks you through the basics of Human Resource Management for library supervisors, managers and leaders. Robin will identify the most important core principals and concepts you will need to know to successfully lead your team and keep you out of trouble. 

Presenter:
Robin Wood, MBA, MLIS, General Research Collections Manager, >Cleveland Public 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 Adobe Connect





Team + Work = TEAMWORK
6/19/2019

“Teamwork” can’t exist unless you have a motivated “TEAM” and are willing to put in “WORK”.  In this presentation, we will discuss how to facilitate a staff development session that demonstrates how important effective communication is in building a strong, cohesive and productive team that works together to reach common organizational goals. The best part is that you can do it with little to no money using supplies you probably already have in the library!

Communication is not easy…it takes WORK! A staff that communicates effectively understands that communication is affected by the varied personalities and temperaments of the individuals who make up the collective “team”.  It is key that team members learn one another’s communication styles and, more importantly, develop strategies for constructively articulating individual wants and needs while considering the needs and wants of other team members, so that they can collaborate together to further the organization. For example, think of the library as a giant wheel, and the only way it can move forward is if all of the individual gears inside of that wheel—all staff members from all departments—work together.

In this webinar you will learn four different games/activities that you can do with your staff during a staff development session that demonstrate the importance of communicating clearly rather than assuming that others can read your mind:
  • Salt And Pepper
  • He-Said-She-Said Game
  • Minefield
  • Googly Eyes
Finally there will be a culminating activity that will bring it all together and allow your team to participate in an exercise that will require them to work together and use effective communication practices.
 Learning Objectives:
  • Learn to facilitate a staff day on a shoe string budget
  • Discover ways to demonstrate to staff the importance of using effective, articulate communication skills
  • Learn an activity that will allow you to put effective communication and positive team work into practice
Presenter:

Kim Garrett has been the Director for the Kinsman Free Public Library since 2016. Prior to becoming a Director, Kim served as a Youth Services Manager for 7 years. Kim also serves as the Vice President/President-Elect of the NEO-RLS Board of Trustees.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 17 spots remaining out of 50




Brainstorming and Innovation
6/27/2019

Brainstorming is an incredibly powerful innovation tool. From solving problems to generating creative, groundbreaking ideas, the act of brainstorming can spark fresh and extraordinary concepts, vision and actions.  However, is there a systematic way to brainstorm? And how can we make our brainstorming sessions most productive and efficient in order to produce innovative ideas?
 
There are hundreds of brainstorming techniques available, and each can produce valuable ideas and objectives, but not all are created equally. In addition to this, people think that brainstorming is best when it has no boundaries or plans, letting ideas flow. While the goal is to create an open environment, brainstorming works best when there is a framework. 
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Discover what can hinder the brainstorming process and strategies on how to successfully overcome them, providing “out of the box” thinking for innovation.
  • Work on ways to break down problems systematically and create a foundation for effective and productive brainstorming.
  • Understand and apply a wide variety of brainstorming techniques to be used individually, in meetings, with groups and more, for immediate results. 
 Use brainstorming to get past the conventional ideas and move into new, uncharted and innovative thinking
 
Presenter:

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

There are currently 31 spots remaining out of 50




Brainstorming and Innovation
6/27/2019

Brainstorming is an incredibly powerful innovation tool. From solving problems to generating creative, groundbreaking ideas, the act of brainstorming can spark fresh and extraordinary concepts, vision and actions.  However, is there a systematic way to brainstorm? And how can we make our brainstorming sessions most productive and efficient in order to produce innovative ideas?
 
There are hundreds of brainstorming techniques available, and each can produce valuable ideas and objectives, but not all are created equally. In addition to this, people think that brainstorming is best when it has no boundaries or plans, letting ideas flow. While the goal is to create an open environment, brainstorming works best when there is a framework. 
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Discover what can hinder the brainstorming process and strategies on how to successfully overcome them, providing “out of the box” thinking for innovation.

  • Work on ways to break down problems systematically and create a foundation for effective and productive brainstorming.

  • Understand and apply a wide variety of brainstorming techniques to be used individually, in meetings, with groups and more, for immediate results. 

 Use brainstorming to get past the conventional ideas and move into new, uncharted and innovative thinking
 
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 
When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 435 spots remaining out of 500




Time Management: Yours and Theirs
7/10/2019

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

There are currently 21 spots remaining out of 50




Time Management: Yours and Theirs
7/10/2019

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.

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





A Tale of Two Levies: A Case Study for Planning Your Library Levy
8/15/2019

Do you have a levy coming up?  Then this workshop is for you. Bring your team and learn the do's and don'ts of a levy campaign and how all staff need to be involved in getting a levy passed.

Learning Objectives:

  • An overview of the back-to-back election efforts of Stark Library in November 2018 and May 2019

  • Lessons learned that can be applied to any library levy

  • Tips for how to develop your campaign efforts and maintain separation with library operations

Presenters:

Stephanie Cargill is the Communications Director at Stark Library, overseeing all of the internal communications as well as the Library’s traditional marketing and public relations efforts, and all digital properties. Stephanie is relatively new to the library, having recently come from the private sector. She had experience working on campaigns when she worked for a local ad agency, but it was trial by fire when she was hired mid-stream in the November 2018 campaign cycle.


Derek Gordon is the Director of Special Projects and Security at the Stark Library.  In addition to his responsibilities overseeing the construction of a new Jackson Township branch and plans to renovate the remaining library branches, Derek has extensive experience in local ballot issues.  Before coming to the library, he worked for the City of Canton for ten years and led three separate municipal park levy campaigns and was part of two Mayoral campaigns.  He helped coordinate both of the recent Stark Library levies.


Location: Stark County District Library
715 Market Ave. N
Canton, OH 44702

There are currently 28 spots remaining out of 40




Supervisors' Network Meeting
9/6/2019

It's always great when you have an opportunity to network with your peers.    The ability to share successes and find answers to your challenges can go a long way when working as a supervisor.  Based on input from our membership, NEO-RLS has created a Supervisors' Network Group.  This was previous the New Superviosrs' Network and we decided to open this up to all supervisors.  This will be a self-directed group open to all supervisors in any library within our region.  You do not need to be a NEO-RLS Member Library and there is no charge. Please email Pam Myers, Customer Service Manager, Grafton-Midview Public Library,  by August 30th with any topics you would like discussed
 
Location: Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
3512 Darrow Rd.
Stow, OH 44224

There are currently 33 spots remaining out of 35




Emergency Preparedness Plan Preparation
9/10/2019

Description: Developing emergency preparedness plans and training staff to respond accordingly to emergency is growing in importance.  Emergency planning for libraries must grow beyond the protection of the libraries collection.  The goal of a progressive emergency plan should include the safety of staff, patrons, property, the environment, as well as, the collection.  This session will introduce and reinforce strategies to accomplish these goals.
  
Learning Objectives:
  • Fundamentals of emergency planning
  • Developing emergency training modules for staff
  • Understanding the importance for sustainable and sesilient thinking in the planning
 
Presenter:

Kevin Echols is the Safety Services Manager for the Cleveland Heights/University Heights Public Libraries.  He started his employment with the Heights Library System as a part-time security officer.  During that time Kevin was a Captain with the Cleveland Fire Department.  He moved into the full-time position of Safety Services Supervisor in June of 2012 the position was upgraded to a management position in 2015.  Kevin holds a BS in Fire Science & Emergency Management from Kaplan University and MS in Homeland Security & Emergency Management from Purdue University.
 
Location: Cleveland Heights-University Heights Library
2345 Lee Rd
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

There are currently 19 spots remaining out of 40




Soft Skills for Strong Management: Cultivating Good Critical Thinking
9/18/2019

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

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





Reducing Friction - Library User Experience on a Budget, Online and In Your Building
9/26/2019

User experience is the study of how users interact with products, spaces, and websites, and it's increasingly being applied to libraries. In this webinar, we'll look at user experience principles and how to evaluate existing buildings and sites, including journey maps and direct observation. We'll briefly discuss developing patron personas and how they help conceptualize how users interact with sites and spaces. Then, we'll move on to resources and strategies for improving the library user experience with low or no budget, and conclude with a chat-based brainstorming session on what you already see you can change about your building or website. A list of resources - print materials, websites, and organizations - will be available, along with the presentation slides.

Learning Objectives:
 
During and after this webinar, participants:
  • Are introduced to user experience terminology, strategies, and tools, for both online and physical spaces.
  • Will learn how to construct and implement a basic, low/no budget user experience study and improvements.
  • May construct a brief list of "quick wins" they can implement immediately, based on brainstorming in the webinar chat.
  • Can follow up with a list of additional user experience resources.
Presenter:

Jennifer Koerber has two decades of experience in libraries, in both public-facing and behind-the-scenes roles. After 17 years at the Boston Public Library, she established her own business providing technology training and consulting services to libraries, and recently completed a contract as Training Manager at Harvard University Library, overseeing staff training for a new ILS platform.

She has written extensively for Library Journal on public library services and technology, and in May 2018, her book Library Services to Immigrants and New Americans: Celebration and Integration was released by Libraries Unlimited. In what remains of her time, she is an avid mobile photographer, crafter, and traveler.

You can find Jennifer online at www.jenniferkoerber.com and www.worksfromthetreehouse.com.


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 57 spots remaining out of 75




Reducing Friction - Library User Experience on a Budget, Online and In Your Building
9/26/2019

User experience is the study of how users interact with products, spaces, and websites, and it's increasingly being applied to libraries. In this webinar, we'll look at user experience principles and how to evaluate existing buildings and sites, including journey maps and direct observation. We'll briefly discuss developing patron personas and how they help conceptualize how users interact with sites and spaces. Then, we'll move on to resources and strategies for improving the library user experience with low or no budget, and conclude with a chat-based brainstorming session on what you already see you can change about your building or website. A list of resources - print materials, websites, and organizations - will be available, along with the presentation slides.

Learning Objectives:
 
During and after this webinar, participants:

  • Are introduced to user experience terminology, strategies, and tools, for both online and physical spaces.

  • Will learn how to construct and implement a basic, low/no budget user experience study and improvements.

  • May construct a brief list of "quick wins" they can implement immediately, based on brainstorming in the webinar chat.

  • Can follow up with a list of additional user experience resources.

Presenter:

Jennifer Koerber has two decades of experience in libraries, in both public-facing and behind-the-scenes roles. After 17 years at the Boston Public Library, she established her own business providing technology training and consulting services to libraries, and recently completed a contract as Training Manager at Harvard University Library, overseeing staff training for a new ILS platform.

She has written extensively for Library Journal on public library services and technology, and in May 2018, her book Library Services to Immigrants and New Americans: Celebration and Integration was released by Libraries Unlimited. In what remains of her time, she is an avid mobile photographer, crafter, and traveler.

You can find Jennifer online at www.jenniferkoerber.com and www.worksfromthetreehouse.com.


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





It's a Manager/Supervisor's Job to Motivate Staff
10/10/2019

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 Adobe Connect

There are currently 10 spots remaining out of 75




Branch Manager's Network Meeting
10/18/2019

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other branch managers within the region.  
 Light refreshments will be provided.
Location: Dalton Branch
Wayne County Public Library
Dalton, OH 44618

There are currently 23 spots remaining out of 30




Facilitation Skills Workshop
11/19/2019

This seminar is designed to teach the skills necessary to facilitate group interactions to achieve a successful conversation or discussion of a topic.  Facilitation skills training will include the four essential functions of high quality facilitation:  providing structure, encouraging participation, reflecting the group and moving the group forward.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Develop the skills for effective group facilitation
  • Encourage participation and get the discussion going
  • Choose and design the right group process(es) for your session
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: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 25 spots remaining out of 35




Academic Library Director's Network Meeting
12/6/2019

The Northeast Ohio Regional Library System hosts a networking group for the Academic Library Directors in the region. The Academic Library Directors Networking Group (ALDNG) meets about every three months (four times a year) to discuss relevant issues in our libraries and includes a diverse set library directors, from public and private institutions.
 
Topics for the December 2019 meeting have yet to be determine. Please send any agenda topics to Karla Aleman, Dean of the Library at Lorain County Community College, via email (kaleman@lorainccc.edu) or phone (440-522-8065).
 
Meeting Location & Parking:
Parking is free on the campus of Lorain County Community College. Please review Map and Directions to LCCC page for details on accessing the campus. Parking in lots 9 and 1 are the closest to the Bass Library (LC) Building. The meeting will be held in the Bass Library, room LC 210.
 
Location: Bass Library/Community Resource Center
Lorain County Community College
Elyria, OH 44035

There are currently 19 spots remaining out of 25




Run Your Friends Like a Firehouse
1/16/2020

Recruitment and retention of library volunteers is an ongoing issue. Looking to other non-profit industries for creative solutions, presenters Kathy Kosinski and Madeline Jarvis discovered many similarities in the world of volunteer fire service. They will share the tips and tricks they learned for recruiting and retaining volunteers in 2020.

Learning Objectives:

  • Draw parallels between libraries and the volunteer fire service

  • Create an elevator pitch for their organization and its accomplishments

  • Identify strategies to minimize attrition of recruits

Presenters:

Kathy Kosinski is the Statewide Library Services Analyst at the Library of Michigan. 

Madeline Jarvis is the Adult and Information Services Manager at the Marion (IA) Public Library and a 2019 Graduate of the Marion Citizens Fire Academy.?

Madeline Jarvis and Kathy Kosinski are members of the United for Libraries Millennial Engagement Task Force. 

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


Location: Online via Adobe Connect





Onboarding Essentials: From Interview to Integration
1/30/2020

Effective onboarding is related to many important outcomes for an organization including higher job satisfaction, organizational commitment, lower turnover, higher performance, reduced stress, and on-the-job effectiveness. Unfortunately, onboarding often does not get the time and attention it deserves. This webinar will demystify the process and provide concrete steps to help with the development of a successful onboarding process or to improve upon existing onboarding activities.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the basic components of onboarding, how the onboarding process differs from orientation, and how a successful onboarding program can improve recruitment and retention
  • Learn tips for creating a sustainable, scalable, cost-effective and easily deployable onboarding program
  • Explore ways to gather feedback on the program and measure its success
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 Adobe Connect

There are currently 13 spots remaining out of 50




New Supervisors' Academy
2/13/2020

The NEO-RLS New Supervisor's Academy is back by popular demand.
Becoming a supervisor adds new and different challenges to your work day regardless of the type of library you work in or the size of library you work in, The Academy's courses will provide you with the skills and confidence you need to handle the many and varied challenges of being a supervisor. Programs will focus on three key areas:  leadership, communication and staff development. The Academy is appropriate for new supervisors in multi-type libraries and for those who want a refresher.
  • The Academy is a blended course which runs from February through November and consists of 4 face-to-face workshops and 6 webinars
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety
Past participants had this to say:
It was great to network with others that are in the same situation as myself. It was great to gain more knowledge on several topics about being a supervisor. I liked being able to bounce ideas off of each other too.

Session 1
Thursday, February 13, 2020 - Twinsburg Public Library 9:30 a.m. -  4:00 p.m.
It all Starts with Attitude and Knowing Yourself

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

The panel will consist of:
Amy Switzer, Director,Shaker Heights Public Library
Thomas Hyland, Library Program Chair, Professor, Lakeland Community College Library
Katie Ringenbach, Director, Burton Public Library
Jamie Mason, Director, Rocky River Public Library
Anastasia Diamond Ortiz, Director, Lorain Public Library System

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

Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS

Session 2:
Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
If It's Broke Fix It: Handling Leftover Challenges Effectively

All too often, outgoing supervisors leave unresolved challenges for the next person to fix. Then, you arrive! As the new supervisor, you have two choices. You can look the other way, forge ahead with your plans and hope the old issues disappear (although, if they didn't before, it's not likely they will now) or you can fix them. The right answer is, of course, to correct the problems so you have a clear shot at success in your position. But, how do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time? In this webinar, we'll consider 5 Simple Steps to Starting with a Clean Slate. Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library

Session 3
Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at 10:00 a.m to 11:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Effective Workplace Communication for New Supervisors

Experts suggest that we are communicating in one way or another more than 90% of the time we are awake! Communication can be positive or negative, verbal, non-verbal or in writing.  Communicating effectively is a learned skill that requires practice, patience and a desire to be more effective every day.
More importantly, your success as a supervisor will greatly depend on how effective you are in communicating your message to others in your library. This webinar program for the New Supervisors Academy of NEO-RLS will focus on the dos and don'ts of effectively communicating with others (including your boss)!

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.

Session 4
Tuesday, May 5 2020- Location-Cuyahoga Falls Library-9:30-4:00
The New Supervisor's Toolkit

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

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

Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS

Session 5
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 from Your Desktop 10:00 am - 11:30 am
HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know

In order to successfully lead others, supervisors need to feel empowered, knowledgeable, capable of exciting their team members and inspiring them to do their best work every day. Scott Warrick will share  the basics of Human Resource Management for library supervisors, managers and leaders. 

Presenter:

Scott Warrick, 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.​

Session 6
Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Time Management: Yours and Theirs

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.
 
There are many different techniques for helping manage our time. 

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.

Session 7
Thursday, August 6, 2020- Location Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library-9:30-3:30
Setting Performance Goals and Evaluations

In the morning session we will learn about setting performance goals, coaching and monitoring performance, and conducting periodic evaluations - all critical job skills for all supervisors. You will learn the basics of each and then apply your learning to real-life scenarios. Come prepared to learn how you can be successful in helping staff be effective in their individual work performance and motivate them to be their very best.

Performance Planning
The afternoon session will concentrate on effective performance planning as a key component in the performance management cycle. Learn how to have clear, empowering conversations with employees in order to create a performance plan that brings focus, clarity, and motivation. This session will also use scenario-based learning to help those in attendance apply learning to real-life examples.

Presenters:

Catherine Monnin, Library Consultant
Sharon Tufts, Library Consultant

Session 8
Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Critical Thinking

Great critical thinking skills are essential in handling the challenges and demands that supervisors continually face each day. 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.

We will define what the concept of critical thinking is and explore several of the associated tools mentioned above. We will then investigate these soft skills and learn ways we can immediately improve them so that we can become a more conscious and efficient critical thinker.

Presenter: 

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS

Session 9
Thursday, October 15, 2020  From Your Desktop 10:00 am
It's a Manager/Supervisor's  Job to  Motivate  Staff!

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

Session 10
Thursday, November 12, 2020- Location TBA 9:30 -3:30
Budgeting, Interviewing, and Caring for Yourself

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

Budgeting
Learn about where library funding comes from. Demystify the forms, procedures, and checks and balances involved in public finance.

Presenter:  Amie Lynn,CPA,  Fiscal Officer, Massillon Public Library

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

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

Presenter:

Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS

Lunch and light refreshments will be provided.
Location: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087


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


The Basics of Project Management
3/10/2020

Project management is one of the most critical components of a successful business. It affects our goals, our performance and our ability to be and do who and what we say we are as an organization.
 
Whether your library has only one project in the works at a time, or is juggling several projects at once, knowing the basics of project management is important in completing your projects timely, on budget and as planned.
 
Whether you are new to Project Management or are looking for a refresher, this program is for you!
 
Learning Objectives:
 
•       The Definition of Project Management
•       The Project Management Core Components
•       The Five Major Stakeholders
•       To Use a Gantt Chart
•       To use a Risk Matrix
•       The importance of Post Mortem and Lessons Learned

Presenter:  

Dean Russell is a Professional Strategic Coach. He helps organizations and businesses increase their effectiveness through leadership coaching, training, and public speaking engagements. He has a gift and passion for helping people and organizations quickly grasp their company’s vision, gain operational traction, and work as a healthy, functional, and cohesive team.  He is a national speaker and recognized expert specializing in business management, leadership improvement, and better employee performance.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 31 spots remaining out of 60




The Basics of Project Management
3/10/2020

Project management is one of the most critical components of a successful business. It affects our goals, our performance and our ability to be and do who and what we say we are as an organization.
 
Whether your library has only one project in the works at a time, or is juggling several projects at once, knowing the basics of project management is important in completing your projects timely, on budget and as planned.
 
Whether you are new to Project Management or are looking for a refresher, this program is for you!
 
Learning Objectives: 

  • The Definition of Project Management

  • The Project Management Core Components

  • The Five Major Stakeholders

  • To Use a Gantt Chart

  • To use a Risk Matrix

  • The importance of Post Mortem and Lessons Learned


Presenter:  

Dean Russell is a Professional Strategic Coach. He helps organizations and businesses increase their effectiveness through leadership coaching, training, and public speaking engagements. He has a gift and passion for helping people and organizations quickly grasp their company’s vision, gain operational traction, and work as a healthy, functional, and cohesive team.  He is a national speaker and recognized expert specializing in business management, leadership improvement, and better employee performance.

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





The Road to Copyright Clarity, Part 2
3/17/2020

In this session, you'll practice exercising your "fair use muscles," applying the legal reasoning process to a variety of situations involving copyrighted materials in libraries and schools. Learn how to evaluate whether particular uses of copyrighted material can be used freely without payment or permission or whether permissions and licensing are needed.

 Presenter:

Renee Hobbs is the author of Copyright Clarity: How Fair Use Supports Digital Learning and 9 other books about digital and media literacy education. Professor and Director of the Media Education Lab at the University of Rhode Island's Harrington School of Communication and Media,  where she co-directs the Graduate Certificate in Digital Literacy. Hobbs is a educator, researcher and activist who advances the quality of media literacy education in the United States and around the world. She is the Founding Editor of the Journal of Media Literacy Education. 

Who Should Attend:  Anyone interested in copyright
Competency:  Laws

GEO Cost:      $40
Bronze Cost:  $24
Silver Cost:    FREE
Gold Cost:     FREE

Can't attend on the date or time listed? Sign up anyway! All of our webinars include archive access for later viewing at your convenience.

It’s never too late to save your library money. NEO-RLS Memberships are pro-rated! Call us today to join.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 62 spots remaining out of 70




The Road to Copyright Clarity, Part 2
3/17/2020

In this session, you'll practice exercising your "fair use muscles," applying the legal reasoning process to a variety of situations involving copyrighted materials in libraries and schools. Learn how to evaluate whether particular uses of copyrighted material can be used freely without payment or permission or whether permissions and licensing are needed.

 Presenter:

Renee Hobbs is the author of Copyright Clarity: How Fair Use Supports Digital Learning and 9 other books about digital and media literacy education. Professor and Director of the Media Education Lab at the University of Rhode Island's Harrington School of Communication and Media,  where she co-directs the Graduate Certificate in Digital Literacy. Hobbs is a educator, researcher and activist who advances the quality of media literacy education in the United States and around the world. She is the Founding Editor of the Journal of Media Literacy Education. 

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 685 spots remaining out of 700




Leadership Academy
3/19/2020

NEO-RLS Introduces the 2020 Leadership Academy
What does it mean to be a leader and how do the skills needed differ from those needed to be a good manager?  Many people struggle with how to leave behind former priorities and mindsets when they enter a leadership role.  Learning how to balance implementation with vision, connect with others in order to achieve goals, become an effective decision-maker and develop others are all important skills that help build alignment with direct reports and across an organization.  The Leadership Academy will focus on enhancing the skills you already have and building new ones in order to assist you in developing a vision of how you can confidently move into the future as a leader.
  • The Academy is a blended course which runs from March through November and consists of 5 face-to-face workshops and 4 webinars
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety
Session 1
Thursday, March 19, 2020 - Barberton Public Library
9:30 am - 3:30 pm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Session 2
Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at 10:00 am From Your Desktop
From Peer to Leader

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

Presenter: 
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library






Session 3
Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at 10:00 am From Your Desktop
Good Leaders, Bad Decisions

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

Learning Objectives:

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


Session 4
Thursday, June 18, 2020 - Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Peer to Peer Coaching

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

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

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

Session 5
Delegating Made Easy
Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at 10:00 am From Your Desktop

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

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

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

Learning objectives:

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

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






Session 6
Wednesday, August 19, 2020 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Achieving Leadership Effectiveness: The Power of Influence

Learning Objectives:

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

Presenter:  

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


Session 7
Thursday, September 10, 2020 -Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Culture by Design

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

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

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

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify an eight step framework and prepare a plan to design your organization’s culture.
  • Recognize the values and behaviors of the culture you are seeking to create.
  • Discuss the rituals that will sustain the desired behaviors and how to make the culture visible throughout the work environment.
Presenter:
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients.  Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.


Session 8
Date October 14, 2020  at 10:00 am From Your Desktop
Strategic Leadership

Presenter:  Paula Miller, Director, Baltimore County Public Library
Program description coming soon!

Session 9
Thursday, November 19,2020 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am - 3:30 pm

All Leaders Don’t Have Titles  (Morning Session)

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

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

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

Presenter:  
Shanika Heyward, the Indianapolis Public Library’s Area Resource Manager for Indianapolis Public Library’s West Region branches:  Decatur, Eagle, Haughville, Michigan Road, Pike, Wayne, and West Indianapolis. Shanika earned a Master’s Degree in Library Science in 2010 from Indiana University’s School of Library & Information Science, where she excelled as an Indiana Librarian Leading in Diversity Fellow. Shanika received the prestigious Library Journal’s 2016 “Movers & Shakers” recognition for her innovative community efforts dedicated to “giving others the chance to succeed.” Shanika has a proven record of establishing strategic partnerships and outcome-based programs for greater impact, shaping the future of libraries.

The Importance of Mentoring (Afternoon Session)

Learning Objectives:

  • Discover the difference between coaching, counseling, and mentoring
  • Understand the heart and rhythm of coaching conversations and practice with scenario-based learning exercises
  • Identify qualities for being an effective mentor and mentee
Presenter:

Catherine Monnin has extensive experience in mentoring others in individual and group settings. She has decades of experience as a branch manager as well as extensive experience as an administrator, including Branch Services Director, at Cuyahoga County Public Library.  Her strengths include coaching leaders to strengthen emotional intelligence skills to improve performance, effectively influence others, and better contribute to organizational effectiveness.  She was twice a mentor at Library Leadership Ohio and served as Board President of CAMLS.  She is currently completing work for credentialing with the International Coach Federation.


Location: Barberton Public Library
602 W Park Ave.
Barberton, OH 44203


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.


Free Tools for Working with Graphics and the Web
3/25/2020

Do you spend a good part of your job working with graphics, social media or websites? The web is filled with tools vying for your attention, but some of the best lie waiting under the radar. Learn about these online gems, which you can use to improve your workflow or create new content, or share with your friends and colleagues. Discover a plethora of online tools that you probably haven’t heard of but will be glad that (now) you have.

Presenter: Laura Solomon, MCIW, MLS, is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network . 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.

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


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Team + Work = TEAMWORK
3/30/2020

“Teamwork” can’t exist unless you have a motivated “TEAM” and are willing to put in “WORK”.  In this presentation, we will discuss how to facilitate a staff development session that demonstrates how important effective communication is in building a strong, cohesive and productive team that works together to reach common organizational goals. The best part is that you can do it with little to no money using supplies you probably already have in the library!

Communication is not easy…it takes WORK! A staff that communicates effectively understands that communication is affected by the varied personalities and temperaments of the individuals who make up the collective “team”.  It is key that team members learn one another’s communication styles and, more importantly, develop strategies for constructively articulating individual wants and needs while considering the needs and wants of other team members, so that they can collaborate together to further the organization. For example, think of the library as a giant wheel, and the only way it can move forward is if all of the individual gears inside of that wheel—all staff members from all departments—work together.

In this webinar you will learn four different games/activities that you can do with your staff during a staff development session that demonstrate the importance of communicating clearly rather than assuming that others can read your mind:

  • Salt And Pepper

  • He-Said-She-Said Game

  • Minefield

  • Googly Eyes

Finally there will be a culminating activity that will bring it all together and allow your team to participate in an exercise that will require them to work together and use effective communication practices.
 Learning Objectives:

  • Learn to facilitate a staff day on a shoe string budget

  • Discover ways to demonstrate to staff the importance of using effective, articulate communication skills

  • Learn an activity that will allow you to put effective communication and positive team work into practice

Presenter:  Kim Garrett has been the Director for the Kinsman Free Public Library since 2016. Prior to becoming a Director, Kim served as a Youth Services Manager for 7 years. Kim also serves as the Vice President/President-Elect of the NEO-RLS Board of Trustees.

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





[NEW] Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
4/8/2020

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





Effective Workplace Communication for New Supervisors
4/8/2020

Experts suggest that we are communicating in one way or another more than 90% of the time we are awake! Communication can be positive or negative, verbal, non-verbal or in writing.  Communicating effectively is a learned skill that requires practice, patience and a desire to be more effective every day.
More importantly, your success as a supervisor will greatly depend on how effective you are in communicating your message to others in your library. This webinar program for the New Supervisors' Academy of NEO-RLS will focus on the dos and don’ts of effectively communicating with others (including your boss)!

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

There are currently 28 spots remaining out of 50




[NEW] Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
4/15/2020

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

There are currently 63 spots remaining out of 95




From Peer to Leader
4/15/2020

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 Adobe Connect

There are currently 40 spots remaining out of 60




From Peer to Leader
4/15/2020

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 Adobe Connect





Copyright Basics for Librarians
4/16/2020

Confused by copyright? You are not alone! U.S. copyright law permeates almost every facet of librarianship, and in this 90-minute session we'll explore the basics of U.S. copyright law that all librarians should be familiar with. 

Learning Objectives:

  • How copyright is secured;

  • The types of works eligible for copyright protection;

  • The rights granted to those who create copyrightable works; and

  • The duration of copyright

We'll also explore tools and resources librarians can consult to learn more abut the law.

Presenter:
Carla Myers serves as Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Scholarly Communications for the Miami University Libraries. Her professional presentations and publications focus on fair use, copyright in the classroom, and library copyright issues.

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

There are currently 431 spots remaining out of 500




Onboarding Essentials: From Interview to Integration
4/17/2020

Effective onboarding is related to many important outcomes for an organization including higher job satisfaction, organizational commitment, lower turnover, higher performance, reduced stress, and on-the-job effectiveness. Unfortunately, onboarding often does not get the time and attention it deserves. This webinar will demystify the process and provide concrete steps to help with the development of a successful onboarding process or to improve upon existing onboarding activities.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the basic components of onboarding, how the onboarding process differs from orientation, and how a successful onboarding program can improve recruitment and retention

  • Learn tips for creating a sustainable, scalable, cost-effective and easily deployable onboarding program

  • Explore ways to gather feedback on the program and measure its success

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.


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





[NEW] Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
4/22/2020

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

There are currently 277 spots remaining out of 300




[NEW] Facilities and Admin Virtual Networking Meeting - How to Plan to Return to the Library
4/28/2020

Join Kevin Echols, Safety Services Manager, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for an informative conversation about returning to the library and working with the public.
 
Come and share your concerns about reopening to the public.  What precautions should the library be taking to protect your staff and patrons?  How do you handle materials, book drops, do you wear masks and gloves, what needs to be cleaned?  Join us for this most needed conversation.
 
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.


2020 Directors' Retreat: Creating Vision, Culture and Advocates
5/7/2020 - 5/8/2020

This year's Retreat will focus on moving your library forward through vision, culture and advocacy.  The first day will be devoted to Getting to Vision and Building an Intentional Culture.  The evening will continue with facilitated "Rich Conversations" focused on HR and other issues.  The second day will provide you with tools to turn everyone into library advocates.  Topics will be tailored to a multi-type library audience of directors and deputy/assistant directors.

Thursday, May 7th
​Day 1: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm with dinner at 6 pm and Rich Conversations to follow 

We will start the retreat with Getting to Vision.  Too often, boards and staff imagine that a director shows up with vision, a clear direction for the institution. But the charismatic salesperson who comes with a strong direction may leave with it, too. It's better to craft a vision collaboratively and iteratively. Let's talk about vision that is about exploration, a dialog involving everyone in the organization, and not a pitch from the top down.

The afternoon will focus on Building an Intentional Culture.  There's the culture we advertise, the culture we train for, and the culture we live. Too often, it just happens, an accident of communication styles and legacy procedures. But as many have noted, "Organizational culture eats strategic planning for breakfast." What can the director do to build a library culture that is purposeful and coherent?

Presenter:

Jamie LaRue is the CEO of LaRue and Associates. Author of "The New Inquisition: Understanding and Managing Intellectual Freedom Challenges," LaRue was a public library director for many years, as well as a weekly newspaper columnist and cable TV host. From January of 2016 to November of 2018, he was director of the Freedom to Read Foundation, and ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom. He has written, spoken, and consulted extensively on intellectual freedom issues, leadership and organizational development, community engagement, and the future of libraries.





The evening will end with Rich Conversations following dinner.

Friday, May 8th
Day Two:  8:30 am - Noon

Day Two of the Retreat will focus on From Advocates to Activists.  In this session, we will challenge the traditional model of advocacy for libraries and instead look at how we create activists for libraries to build the public support we need to survive. We’ll look at how our current advocacy model is failing libraries and causing massive defunding and closures and we’ll explore many of the strategies and tactics used by some of the best community organizers, political action committees, and politicians to build real actionable support from networks of change through community organizing and political action. We will emphasize the resources and skills that librarians and library staff need to develop in order to identify, cultivate, and empower their communities of supporters through messaging, digital strategies, and coalition building.


Presenter:

Patrick Sweeney is a tireless and innovative advocate for libraries. A 2007 graduate of the San Jose School of Library and Information Sciences, Mr. Sweeney is the former Administrative Librarian of the Sunnyvale (CA) Public Library and was Executive Director of EveryLibrary California, a statewide initiative to support library Propositions.  He was awarded Library Journal’s “Movers and Shakers” award in 2015 for his library advocacy work. He is co-author of “Winning Elections and Influencing Politicians for Library Funding” as well as “Before the Ballot; Building Support for Library Funding.”


Location: Mohican Lodge & Conference Center
1098 Ashland County Rd. #3006
Perrysville, OH 44864

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 35




An Overview of SharedWork Ohio and the CARES Act
5/8/2020 - 5/8/2020

A high-level overview of the CARES Act provisions and an overview on the SharedWork Ohio program will be presented by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

Presenter:  Juliane Barone, Legal Chief, OUIO Legal Support, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services

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





Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow: Part 1
5/12/2020

The prospect of technology planning can seem overwhelming and time-consuming, especially for those who work in an already short-staffed library. However, a robust technology plan can help you create an environment that truly meets the needs of the community your library serves.

During this two-part series, we will explore the steps to create a practical technology plan that can help move your library and community forward.  This two-part series guides attendees on creating a community-based technology plan from the first steps of planning to how to implement their technology plan successfully. 
In part one, we will focus on creating a technology plan that reflects your library and community’s needs. The second webinar will focus on writing an effective technology plan and how to create an implementation plan for technology that will work. 

Between classes and following the second workshop, the instructor will work with attendees on their plans.  

Learning Objectives: 

  • The webinar will create a framework for attendees to develop a plan for their library
  • Attendees will gain an understanding of their library and community’s technology needs
  • Attendees will understand the tools and decisions that need to be incorporated into a working technology plan

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 worked at the Tampa Bay (FL) Library Consortium and the Charlotte Mecklenburg (NC) Library. She has an MLIS from UNC-Greensboro and a BS in psychology from Catawba College.  Her book Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow is available through Amazon and the Rowan & Littlefield Website.





 
Location: Online via Adobe Connect

There are currently 11 spots remaining out of 50




Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow: Part 1
5/12/2020

The prospect of technology planning can seem overwhelming and time-consuming, especially for those who work in an already short-staffed library. However, a robust technology plan can help you create an environment that truly meets the needs of the community your library serves.

During this two-part series, we will explore the steps to create a practical technology plan that can help move your library and community forward.  This two-part series guides attendees on creating a community-based technology plan from the first steps of planning to how to implement their technology plan successfully. 
In part one, we will focus on creating a technology plan that reflects your library and community’s needs. The second webinar will focus on writing an effective technology plan and how to create an implementation plan for technology that will work. 

Learning Objectives: 

  • The webinar will create a framework for attendees to develop a plan for their library

  • Attendees will gain an understanding of their library and community’s technology needs

  • Attendees will understand the tools and decisions that need to be incorporated into a working technology plan

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 worked at the Tampa Bay (FL) Library Consortium and the Charlotte Mecklenburg (NC) Library. She has an MLIS from UNC-Greensboro and a BS in psychology from Catawba College.  Her book Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow is available through Amazon and the Rowan & Littlefield Website.


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

 
Location: Online via Adobe Connect





Preparing your Library for Returning to Work - Post Stay at Home
5/13/2020

Learning Objectives:
  • Best practices relating to returning to work safely and following Ohio governor’s restart schedule
  • Best practices in communication with employees around initial notifications and safety
  • Other obstacles that might occur relating to unemployment and workers’ compensation in the new Covid-19 normal
Presenters:

Mark Plusinci has 39 years of experience in manufacturing, academia, and consulting.  In his consulting capacity, he’s worked with both general industry and construction
trades clients in a variety of industries and applications.  He is an OSHA authorized GI trainer, and has had the opportunity to teach many different topic specific safety standard classes.

Matt Flynn has more than 13 years of experience assisting Ohio Employers with workers’ compensation, safety, and unemployment. His deep knowledge of Ohio BWC rating formulas, programs, and processes gives him the ability to be truly consultative when exploring what type of Sheakley solution might be a good fit for your business.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 264 spots remaining out of 400




Branch Managers Network Meeting
5/15/2020

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other branch managers within the region.  
 

 Light refreshments will be provided.

 


Location: Dalton Branch
Wayne County Public Library
Dalton, OH 44618

There are currently 29 spots remaining out of 30




Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
5/20/2020

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





[NEW] Branch Managers Virtual Networking Meeting
5/26/2020

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





Facilities and Admin Networking Meeting
5/26/2020

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.  

Kevin Echols, Safety Services Manager, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library will be available to answer follow up questions as you begin to reopen your libraries.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 373 spots remaining out of 400




Good Leaders, Bad Decisions
5/27/2020

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

Learning Objectives:

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

There are currently 10 spots remaining out of 60




Good Leaders, Bad Decisions
5/27/2020

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

Learning Objectives:

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

There are currently 44 spots remaining out of 60




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





Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow: Part 2
6/9/2020

The prospect of technology planning can seem overwhelming and time-consuming, especially for those who work in an already short-staffed library. However, a robust technology plan can help you create an environment that truly meets the needs of the community your library serves.

During this two-part series, we will explore the steps to create a practical technology plan that can help move your library and community forward.  This two-part series guides attendees on creating a community-based technology plan from the first steps of planning to how to implement their technology plan successfully. 
In part one, we will focus on creating a technology plan that reflects your library and community’s needs. The second webinar will focus on writing an effective technology plan and how to create an implementation plan for technology that will work. 

Between classes and following the second workshop, the instructor will work with attendees on their plans.  

Learning Objectives: 

  • The webinar will create a framework for attendees to develop a plan for their library

  • Attendees will gain an understanding of their library and community’s technology needs

  • Attendees will understand the tools and decisions that need to be incorporated into a working technology plan

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 worked at the Tampa Bay (FL) Library Consortium and the Charlotte Mecklenburg (NC) Library. She has an MLIS from UNC-Greensboro and a BS in psychology from Catawba College.  Her book Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow is available through Amazon and the Rowan & Littlefield Website.





 
Location: Online via Adobe Connect





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 Warrick” as 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





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





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





Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
7/8/2020

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





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





Branch Manager's Meeting
7/15/2020

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

There are currently 95 spots remaining out of 100




Delegating Made Easy
7/15/2020

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 Adobe Connect





Delegating Made Easy
7/15/2020

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.

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


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
7/31/2020

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





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





Facilities and Admin Networking Meeting
8/11/2020

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





Managing a Professional Customer Service Team
8/27/2020

Managing a team of even the most talented customer service professionals can be difficult. The secret ingredient to professional customer service in any organization is the people who work in it. Every organization has good days and bad days and the way the team is managed during each defines the service are customers will receive.
 
In this interactive and informative webinar, we will look at the approaches and actions that people managing, supervising and leading teams can use to create and maintain a culture of professionalism.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Holding team members accountable to being professional
  • Staying cool when understaffed and extra busy
  • Ways to keep things fresh for you and your team
  • Techniques for empowering your team to do more
Presenter: 

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for libraries and library organizations for more than twenty-five years. He has presented Web-based, On-line, and Face-to-Face sessions on Management and Leadership, Customer Service and Communication Skills in the U.S. and numerous countries around the world.
 
He is the chairman of the board of the Haywood County Public Library and a monthly donor to EveryLibrary, advocating for libraries everywhere that support is needed.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect





Managing a Professional Customer Service Team
8/27/2020

Managing a team of even the most talented customer service professionals can be difficult. The secret ingredient to professional customer service in any organization is the people who work in it. Every organization has good days and bad days and the way the team is managed during each defines the service are customers will receive.
 
In this interactive and informative webinar, we will look at the approaches and actions that people managing, supervising and leading teams can use to create and maintain a culture of professionalism.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Holding team members accountable to being professional

  • Staying cool when understaffed and extra busy

  • Ways to keep things fresh for you and your team

  • Techniques for empowering your team to do more

Presenter: 

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for libraries and library organizations for more than twenty-five years. He has presented Web-based, On-line, and Face-to-Face sessions on Management and Leadership, Customer Service and Communication Skills in the U.S. and numerous countries around the world.
 
He is the chairman of the board of the Haywood County Public Library and a monthly donor to EveryLibrary, advocating for libraries everywhere that support is needed.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect





Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
9/9/2020

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





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





Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
9/30/2020

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 to share your successes and find answers to your challenges.  Email topics a head of time to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online via Zoom





Raising the Bar! Tools for Continuous Improvement with Your Customer Service Team
10/7/2020

Management thinker Peter Drucker said “what gets measured gets managed”. How do you measure success(es) with your customer service team? And how do you manage your team to build upon those successes to raise the bar to achieve more?
 
Continuous improvement is one approach to consider. But what is it?
Continuous improvement is a dedication to making small changes and improvements every day, with the expectation that those small improvements will add up to something significant.
 
In this interactive and informative webinar, we will look at the three step approach to using continuous improvement to raise the bar for your customer service team and discuss how you can immediately apply each step in your department and organization.
 
 
Presenter: 

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for libraries and library organizations for more than twenty-five years. He has presented Web-based, On-line, and Face-to-Face sessions on Management and Leadership, Customer Service and Communication Skills in the U.S. and numerous countries around the world.
 
He is the chairman of the board of the Haywood County Public Library and a monthly donor to EveryLibrary, advocating for libraries everywhere that support is needed.
 
Location: Online via Adobe Connect

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 50




Raising the Bar! Tools for Continuous Improvement with Your Customer Service Team
10/7/2020

Management thinker Peter Drucker said “what gets measured gets managed”. How do you measure success(es) with your customer service team? And how do you manage your team to build upon those successes to raise the bar to achieve more?
 
Continuous improvement is one approach to consider. But what is it?
Continuous improvement is a dedication to making small changes and improvements every day, with the expectation that those small improvements will add up to something significant.
 
In this interactive and informative webinar, we will look at the three step approach to using continuous improvement to raise the bar for your customer service team and discuss how you can immediately apply each step in your department and organization.
 
 
Presenter: 

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for libraries and library organizations for more than twenty-five years. He has presented Web-based, On-line, and Face-to-Face sessions on Management and Leadership, Customer Service and Communication Skills in the U.S. and numerous countries around the world.
 
He is the chairman of the board of the Haywood County Public Library and a monthly donor to EveryLibrary, advocating for libraries everywhere that support is needed.

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

There are currently 28 spots remaining out of 50




Strategic Leadership
10/14/2020

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 a post-COVID library 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 emanating from the pandemic and discuss potential impacts on future library operations
Presenter:

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





Strategic Leadership
10/14/2020

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 a post-COVID library 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 emanating from the pandemic and discuss potential impacts on future library operations
Presenter:

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





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





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





NEO-RLS Annual Membership and Appreciation Meeting
11/17/2020

Mark your calendars to attend the NEO-RLS 2020 Annual Membership and Appreciation Meeting on Tuesday, November 17, 2020.  Although we can’t bring you breakfast virtually, we promise the meeting will be informative and will provide you with time to network with colleagues around a variety of table topics.  We will use Zoom for the meeting and then will use a new software platform, the Remo Conference software, for the networking aspect of the meeting.  Remo will allow us to try out some fun, new features not available on Zoom. 
  • 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, Shooting Star and Advocacy Award recipients and honorees
  • Meet Wendy Knapp the new State Librarian of Ohio
  • Hear from the leadership of many of Ohio’s library organizations around the theme, “Look to the Future: Next Steps after the Pandemic to include INFOhio, OLC , OhioNET, OhioLINK, OPLIN and information from the SLO on LSTA grants
  • The meeting will conclude with a networking opportunity focused on selected table topics

Location: Online via Remo

There are currently 85 spots remaining out of 200




NEO-RLS Annual Membership and Appreciation Meeting
11/17/2020

Mark your calendars to attend the NEO-RLS 2020 Annual Membership and Appreciation Meeting on Tuesday, November 17, 2020.  Although we can’t bring you breakfast virtually, we promise the meeting will be informative and will provide you with time to network with colleagues around a variety of table topics.  We will use Zoom for the meeting and then will use a new software platform, the Remo Conference software, for the networking aspect of the meeting.  Remo will allow us to try out some fun, new features not available on Zoom. 
  • 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, Shooting Star and Advocacy Award recipients and honorees
  • Meet Wendy Knapp the new State Librarian of Ohio
  • Hear from the leadership of many of Ohio’s library organizations around the theme, “Look to the Future: Next Steps after the Pandemic to include INFOhio, OLC , OhioNET, OhioLINK, OPLIN and information from the SLO on LSTA grants
  • The meeting will conclude with a networking opportunity focused on selected table topics

Location: Online via Remo

There are currently 200 spots remaining out of 200




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





Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
12/4/2020

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





What the Heck Happened? 2020 Employment Law Update: Part I
1/5/2021

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 69 spots remaining out of 100




What the Heck Happened? 2020 Employment Law Update: Part I
1/5/2021

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 99 spots remaining out of 100




Parliamentary Procedure and Zoom, Oh My!
1/7/2021

This 90-minute experiential student session will cover three essential topics regarding conducting a meeting using Robert’s Rules of Order and implementing parliamentary precedence.  The topics include using Zoom as an electronic meeting platform, defining the concept and construct of deliberative, and the fundamentals of an effective meeting - namely agendas and handling a motion.  Participants will participate in learning by active discussion, participation in a skit designed to facilitate learning, and reflection on learning.

Learning Objectives:
  • Using Zoom as an electronic meeting platform
  • Roberts Rules of Order
  • Conducting effective meetings
Presenter:

Edward Magiste, Ph.D. is an adjunct faculty member in the Cleveland State University School of Social Work and teaches research and clinical course work to both graduates and undergraduates.  His research focus is on professional development and experiential education. Dr. Magiste has taught English as a Second Language to international students as well.  He also worked as interim director of the Tutoring and Academic Success Center at Cleveland State. 

Dr. Magiste is a long-standing member of the National Association of Parliamentarians and the Ohio Association of Parliamentarians.  He currently serves as the Vice President of the state association.  He is also President of his local unit, Lori-El.  He has presented numerous topics on parliamentary precedence including running meetings, nominations, parliamentary debate, teaching parliamentary precedence and board development locally as well as at the state and national levels.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Parliamentary Procedure and Zoom, Oh My!
1/7/2021

This 90-minute experiential student session will cover three essential topics regarding conducting a meeting using Robert’s Rules of Order and implementing parliamentary precedence.  The topics include using Zoom as an electronic meeting platform, defining the concept and construct of deliberative, and the fundamentals of an effective meeting - namely agendas and handling a motion.  Participants will participate in learning by active discussion, participation in a skit designed to facilitate learning, and reflection on learning.

Learning Objectives:
  • Using Zoom as an electronic meeting platform
  • Roberts Rules of Order
  • Conducting effective meetings
Presenter:

Edward Magiste, Ph.D. is an adjunct faculty member in the Cleveland State University School of Social Work and teaches research and clinical course work to both graduates and undergraduates.  His research focus is on professional development and experiential education. Dr. Magiste has taught English as a Second Language to international students as well.  He also worked as interim director of the Tutoring and Academic Success Center at Cleveland State. 

Dr. Magiste is a long-standing member of the National Association of Parliamentarians and the Ohio Association of Parliamentarians.  He currently serves as the Vice President of the state association.  He is also President of his local unit, Lori-El.  He has presented numerous topics on parliamentary precedence including running meetings, nominations, parliamentary debate, teaching parliamentary precedence and board development locally as well as at the state and national levels.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Statewide Directors Networking Meeting
1/13/2021

Would you like to hear what your fellow directors around the state are doing in the midst of the current surges in COVID cases?  Would you like to be able to discuss your challenges and share your solutions?  The four state regional library systems (NEO-RLS, NORWELD, SERLS and SWON) in conjunction with the State Library of Ohio invite you to a statewide directors’ Network Meeting on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.  Wendy Knapp, State Librarian, will share information from the State Library and Evan Struble, Associate State Librarian for Library Development, will moderate the discussion.  This event is open to all and is free.  Please register so that we can ensure an optimal experience.
 
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





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




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




Public Relations and Marketing Networking Meeting
2/25/2021

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 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





Directors Virtual Networking Meeting
3/3/2021

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. Please send agenda items/questions to Jonathan Harris.
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





Statewide Directors' Networking Meeting
4/14/2021

Would you like to hear what your fellow directors around the state are doing as we move into spring and summer in the midst of the continuing pandemic?  Would you like to be able to discuss your challenges and share your solutions?  The four state regional library systems (NEO-RLS, NORWELD, SERLS and SWON) in conjunction with the State Library of Ohio invite you to the second statewide directors’ Network Meeting on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.  Wendy Knapp, State Librarian, will share information from the State Library and Evan Struble, Associate State Librarian for Library Development, will moderate the discussion.  This event is open to all and is free.  Please register so that we can ensure an optimal experience.
 
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





Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
4/16/2021

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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





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





New Supervisors' Academy
2/23/2022

The 2022 NEO-RLS New Supervisors' Academy has been updated and is back by popular demand!
Becoming a supervisor adds new and different challenges to your work day regardless of the type of library you work in or the size of library you work in. The Academy's courses will provide you with the skills and confidence you need to handle the many and varied challenges of being a supervisor. Programs will focus on three key areas: leadership, communication and staff development. The Academy is appropriate for new supervisors in multi-type libraries and for those who want a refresher.
  • The Academy is a blended course which runs from February through November and consists of 3 in-person workshops (will be determined on a case by case basis, per COVID), 3 online workshops and 5 webinars.
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning.
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict.
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety.
Past participants had this to say:
"It was great to network with others that are in the same situation as myself. It was great to gain more knowledge on several topics about being a supervisor. I liked being able to bounce ideas off of each other too."

Session 1
Wednesday, February 23, 2022 - Virtual
10:00 a.m. -  12:00 p.m.
It all Starts with Attitude and Knowing Yourself
Being a good supervisor starts with having a great attitude and our series will begin with the opportunity to listen and interact with leaders as they share their experiences regarding the impact of attitude. Be sure to bring your most pressing questions.

The panel will consist of:
Laura Ponikvar, Library Director, Jessica R. Gund Memorial Library, Cleveland Institute of Art
Brock Hutchinson, Director, Louiseville Public Library
Kathleen Webb, Director, Marvin Memorial Library
Pam Hickson-Stevenson, Executive Director, Akron-Summit County Public Library

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
The afternoon will focus on a Myers Briggs assessment. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment provides a useful method for understanding people by looking at eight personality preferences that everyone uses at different times. One of the most critical aspects of the MBTI is that it identifies preferences, not abilities or skills. It is designed to bring type awareness to those who might find growth and learning within its ideas. You will have fun exploring and validating your type preferences. The MBTI is the most popular assessment in the world and has been applied as a tool for many years by a variety of users around the globe. This assessment will not only help you to know yourself but give you insights into how your employees work.

Presenter:

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

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

Session 2
Thursday, March 17, 2022 at 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Change Course without Rocking the Boat
As new supervisors you may find unresolved challenges with your staff that need to be addressed sooner rather than later.  How do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time without Rocking the Boat?  Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







Session 3
Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at 9:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m. From Your Desktop
Resolving Conflict through Trust and Team Building
Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive webinar will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The webinar will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to create and build a cohesive team
  • Learn the dos and don’ts of creating and maintaining trust
  • Learn a step-by-step process for having difficult conversations
Presenter:

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


Session 4
Thursday, May 5, 2022 - Twinsburg Public Library
 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Supervising with Confidence:  A Skills Assessment
Supervisors must balance a variety of competing priorities while working with a variety of people.  Fortunately, the necessary skills of an effective supervisor can be learned. In the morning we will focus on the five key supervisory skills, complete a self-evaluation relating to the five skills and develop a plan of action that relates to the skills you'd like to most improve in the following 90 days. You will have a chance to put the supervisory skills into practice during game simulation. This interactive workshop will focus on the five key supervisory skills that form the New Supervisor's Tool Kit.

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

Betsy Lantz, Executive Director, NEO-RLS







Session 5
Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at 10:00 - 11:00 am from Your Desktop 
HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know: Part I

Learning Objectives:
  • The big compliance issues (FLSA, EEOC, ADA and FMLA)
  • What a supervisor can ask/say to employees
  • Harassment and discrimination
Session 6
Wednesday, June 22, 2022 at 10:00 - 11:00 am from Your Desktop 
HR Stuff that Every Supervisor Should Know: Part II
  • 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.  



Session 7
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.


Session 8
Tuesday, August 16, 2022 
10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Boosting Your Leadership Self Confidence
This webinar offers positive actions leaders must take to help break free from stress, perfectionism and self-doubt so they can find the confidence to work and lead effectively.

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

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




Session 9
Thursday, September 15, 2022   Cuyahoga Falls Library
 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Setting Performance Goals and Evaluations
In the morning session we will learn about setting performance goals, coaching and monitoring performance, and conducting periodic evaluations - all critical job skills for all supervisors. You will learn the basics of each and then apply your learning to real-life scenarios. Come prepared to learn how you can be successful in helping staff be effective in their individual work performance and motivate them to be their very best.

Performance Planning
The afternoon session will concentrate on effective performance planning as a key component in the performance management cycle. Learn how to have clear, empowering conversations with employees in order to create a performance plan that brings focus, clarity, and motivation. This session will also use scenario-based learning to help those in attendance apply learning to real-life examples.

Presenters:

Catherine Monnin has extensive experience in mentoring others in individual and group settings. She has decades of experience as a branch manager as well as extensive experience as an administrator, including Branch Services Director, at Cuyahoga County Public Library.  Her strengths include coaching leaders to strengthen emotional intelligence skills to improve performance, effectively influence others, and better contribute to organizational effectiveness.  She was twice a mentor at Library Leadership Ohio.


Sharon Tufts, Library Consultant

Session 10
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Getting the Most out of Your Budget

Session 11
Thursday, November 10, 2022 - Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
 Interviewing, and Caring for Yourself
The last session of the Academy will focus on supervisory skills that are often overlooked until they are necessary.

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

Learning Objectives:

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

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


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

Presenter: 

Ragan Snead, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Online and at various libraries


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


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





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





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





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





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.





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





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





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





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





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





Public Bidding and Requirements for Design Professionals and Construction
6/7/2022

Learn more about the processes required by Ohio law specifically for public libraries and what you need to know to make sure your library is following the law when hiring a Design Professional, Contractor, Construction Manager at Risk, or Design-Builder – it’s not just bidding anymore!

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand what the law states regarding selecting an architect and/or engineer.

  • Learn the difference between different construction methodologies.

  • Hear tips for interviewing architects.


Presenters:

Laura Bowman, Partner Bricker & Eckler
Laura Bowman’s practice focuses on the preparation of construction project documents on behalf of private and public owners. Laura provides guidance on project delivery systems, including construction manager at risk and design-build, and creates procurement and bidding documents as well as construction project contracts. Her experience also includes advising public owners on compliance with Ohio statutory requirements relating to construction bidding and procurement. Project values vary from less than $100,000 to over $1 billion.

Laura represents a variety of public and private entities in Ohio. She has worked on agreements for private developers; renovation and new build projects for cities, villages, townships, libraries, counties and port authorities; jail construction and renovation projects; water/wastewater construction projects; and school renovations, including urgent necessity projects.

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





Public Bidding and Requirements for Design Professionals and Construction
6/7/2022

Recorded 6/7/2022

Learn more about the processes required by Ohio law specifically for public libraries and what you need to know to make sure your library is following the law when hiring a Design Professional, Contractor, Construction Manager at Risk, or Design-Builder – it’s not just bidding anymore!

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand what the law states regarding selecting an architect and/or engineer.

  • Learn the difference between different construction methodologies.

  • Hear tips for interviewing architects.


Presenters:

Laura Bowman, Partner Bricker & Eckler
Laura Bowman’s practice focuses on the preparation of construction project documents on behalf of private and public owners. Laura provides guidance on project delivery systems, including construction manager at risk and design-build, and creates procurement and bidding documents as well as construction project contracts. Her experience also includes advising public owners on compliance with Ohio statutory requirements relating to construction bidding and procurement. Project values vary from less than $100,000 to over $1 billion.

Laura represents a variety of public and private entities in Ohio. She has worked on agreements for private developers; renovation and new build projects for cities, villages, townships, libraries, counties and port authorities; jail construction and renovation projects; water/wastewater construction projects; and school renovations, including urgent necessity projects.

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





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





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





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





2022 Directors' Retreat: Creating an Organizational Leadership Strategic Plan
7/28/2022 - 7/29/2022

We are excited to announce the 2022 Directors' Retreat which will be held at Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center.  We will kick off the retreat with a breakfast at 9:00 a.m. the first day, the perfect time to catch up with your peers.  The program will begin at 10 a.m. and this year we are focusing on Creating an Organizational Leadership Strategic Plan.  We will conclude the first day at 4:30 p.m.  Dinner will be at 6:00 p.m. with the tradition of rich conversations to follow.  The second day will start with breakfast at 8:00 a.m. and conclude at noon with a quick lunch.

Creating an Organizational Leadership Strategic Plan
According to MIT’s Sloan Management Review, today’s employees are 10 times more likely to leave “toxic” cultures and bad leadership than low wages.  When employees describe “toxic work cultures” they are looking at the failure to support diversity, equity, and inclusion; workers feeling disrespected and overworked; along with unchecked and unethical behavior.  

As we know, leaders are hired to inspire and motivate employees to emotionally invest and support the goals of the organization.  As they bring their best versions of themselves to work, they’re more likely to remain engaged, committed, focused, and fulfilled when helping their company reach its top priorities.

Executing leadership vision may be among the toughest core competencies for leaders to develop. To successfully execute your leadership vision, you must be able to define the vision, strategy, and tactical plan for your organization, and then effectively communicate it to your team in a way that engages and focuses them around a common goal.
During this two-day workshop, we will be creating an organizational leadership strategic plan.  This is different than your normal strategic plan, and the execution of the plan will guide you in terms of DEI initiatives, future recruitment strategies and a strong framework to engage your current leadership team.

Learning Objectives:
  • Creating or strengthening your current leadership vision statement
  • Understanding the framework and importance of a leadership vision board with specific examples to take back to your organization
  • Identifying the organizational climate strengths and weaknesses and how to take concrete action steps towards a healthier workplace environment
  • Develop leadership goals that will serve as the foundation for your current and future recruitment and sustainability plan
  • Learn how to leverage your new framework to enhance your DEI strategies and initiatives
Presenter:

Elaina Norlin is currently the Professional Development/DEI Coordinator for the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries. She is an accomplished teacher, technology and leadership development trainer and writer with extensive leadership experience and a flair for public relations, sales and communications. To date, she has delivered over 70 workshops, training sessions, presentations and institutes both nationally and internationally on marketing, web usability design, employee engagement, strategic planning, leadership coaching and conflict management. Self-motivated and results oriented, she is well known for her ability to juggle many projects at once. She is author of 3 books, Usability Testing for Library Websites, E-Learning and Business Plans: National and International Case Studies and The Six Steps to Library Employee Engagement (2021).
 

 
Location: Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center
11755 Kinsman Road
Newbury, OH 44065

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 35




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





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





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





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





Iterative Problem Solving in Academic Libraries
9/14/2022

The webinar presenters will walk attendees through a process by which common problems faced by academic libraries can potentially be resolved. The webinar will focus on budget, space, and personnel challenges using real examples. These case studies will explore the outcomes, both positive and negative, and allow the attendees to explore potential iterative approaches of their own.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Come away with a basic understanding of iterative design.
  • Be able to compare own academic environments with those of real-life case studies.
  • Be able to apply iterative design processes to own library challenges.
Presenters:

Joelle Pitts is the Senior Associate Dean for Carnegie Mellon University Libraries. In that role she is responsible for library finances, access services, technical services including cataloging and acquisitions, operations, human resources, assessment, and reporting. Previously she served as the head of the Content Development and Academic Services departments of the Kansas State University Libraries. Joelle holds masters degrees in library science and business administration. She is a founder and board member of the award-winning New Literacies Alliance, an inter-institutional information literacy consortium dedicated to creating institutional, technological, and vendor-agnostic online lessons. Integrating her instructional design, collections, and management experience, Joelle’s research areas include: distance education and e-learning theory, design, and assessment; inter-institutional collaboration; collection assessment; as well as the intersections of scholarly communication and information literacy. She has published and presented on these topics at the local, national, and international level.
 
L. Angie Ohler is the Associate University Librarian for Collections and Content Strategy at the University of Minnesota Libraries with responsibilities for collections strategy and budget, statewide enterprise systems, acquisitions and e-resource management, cataloging and metadata, preservation, ILL and digital delivery, copyright and scholarly communications. Previously, she served as the Associate Dean for Content and Digital Initiatives at the University of Arkansas Libraries and before that was the Director of Collection Services at the University of Maryland Libraries. Angie has had a long career working with and across consortia, acting as the central point of negotiation for statewide library groups across Maryland and Arkansas, and was instrumental in helping national consortia NERL and GWLA to codify their preferred practices for vendor and publisher negotiations. She earned her MLIS at Catholic University and a Masters in Anthropology from American University in Washington DC. A regular contributor to the profession, Angie is currently the Chair of the American Library Association’s Core Division Metadata and Collections Section. Her scholarship includes peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and national conference presentations focusing on scholarly communication, collection development, e-resource management, library IT and systems, organizational change and change management.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Iterative Problem Solving in Academic Libraries
9/14/2022

Recorded 9/14/2022

The webinar presenters will walk attendees through a process by which common problems faced by academic libraries can potentially be resolved. The webinar will focus on budget, space, and personnel challenges using real examples. These case studies will explore the outcomes, both positive and negative, and allow the attendees to explore potential iterative approaches of their own.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Come away with a basic understanding of iterative design.
  • Be able to compare own academic environments with those of real-life case studies.
  • Be able to apply iterative design processes to own library challenges.
Presenters:

Joelle Pitts is the Senior Associate Dean for Carnegie Mellon University Libraries. In that role she is responsible for library finances, access services, technical services including cataloging and acquisitions, operations, human resources, assessment, and reporting. Previously she served as the head of the Content Development and Academic Services departments of the Kansas State University Libraries. Joelle holds masters degrees in library science and business administration. She is a founder and board member of the award-winning New Literacies Alliance, an inter-institutional information literacy consortium dedicated to creating institutional, technological, and vendor-agnostic online lessons. Integrating her instructional design, collections, and management experience, Joelle’s research areas include: distance education and e-learning theory, design, and assessment; inter-institutional collaboration; collection assessment; as well as the intersections of scholarly communication and information literacy. She has published and presented on these topics at the local, national, and international level.
 
L. Angie Ohler is the Associate University Librarian for Collections and Content Strategy at the University of Minnesota Libraries with responsibilities for collections strategy and budget, statewide enterprise systems, acquisitions and e-resource management, cataloging and metadata, preservation, ILL and digital delivery, copyright and scholarly communications. Previously, she served as the Associate Dean for Content and Digital Initiatives at the University of Arkansas Libraries and before that was the Director of Collection Services at the University of Maryland Libraries. Angie has had a long career working with and across consortia, acting as the central point of negotiation for statewide library groups across Maryland and Arkansas, and was instrumental in helping national consortia NERL and GWLA to codify their preferred practices for vendor and publisher negotiations. She earned her MLIS at Catholic University and a Masters in Anthropology from American University in Washington DC. A regular contributor to the profession, Angie is currently the Chair of the American Library Association’s Core Division Metadata and Collections Section. Her scholarship includes peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and national conference presentations focusing on scholarly communication, collection development, e-resource management, library IT and systems, organizational change and change management.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





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





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





Leadership Academy
10/20/2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Presenter: 
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







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

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

Learning Objectives:

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


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

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

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

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

Learning objectives:

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

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






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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learning Objectives:

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

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

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



Session 7
Thursday, April 20, 2023 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Achieving Leadership Effectiveness: The Power of Influence

Learning Objectives:

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

Presenter:  

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


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

All Leaders Don’t Have Titles  (Morning Session)

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

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

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

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



The Importance of Mentoring (Afternoon Session)

Learning Objectives:

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


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


2022 Technology Conference: The IT Factor
10/25/2022

We are excited to announce our first Technology Conference which will feature sessions on cybersecurity, working with your IT staff, technology innovations, and much more. This conference is for IT Managers, IT Staff, Trainers, and Administration.  

Keynote: Aviate, Navigate, Communicate: Crisis Management Factors for a Ransomware Ready Organization
Using lessons learned from a series of security incidents impacting libraries and research in higher-education, this presentation proposes to illustrate how library leaders can understand how to prepare for ransomware risk by developing their incident/crisis management frameworks, protective technologies, as well as resilience.

Presenter:  
Tom Siu, Chief Information Security Office, Michigan State University
As CISO, Tom leads the Security Engineering; Security Operations; Incident Response; and Governance, Risk and Compliance; and Resilience teams within the Information Security department and is responsible for the university-wide information security strategy. 
 
Tom joined MSU in the fall of 2020, after having served for 14 years as CISO for Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH. At CWRU, Tom oversaw the development of the information security program, helped in the centralization of IT under the University Technology, [U] Tech, brand, and organized the multiple institutional partnerships for the CWRU secure research environment, and the 2020 Presidential Debate in Cleveland. 
 
Tom has presented multiple topics for EDUCAUSE and Research & Education Networks Information Sharing & Analysis Center (REN-ISAC) and is well known among peers at research universities though committee leadership in the Higher Education Information Security Committee (HEISC). He also helped establish the NEOCC, a cross-industry threat intelligence sharing and collaboration organization.  

Breakout Session 1

Working with your IT Department

Presenter:  Dan Shell, Director of Technology, Lorain Public Library System

Building Cybersecurity Resiliency into your Professional and Personal Life
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) resources will be shared and information presented on how libraries can build security resilience into their operations.

Presenter:  
Terin Williams serves as the Cyber Security Advisor for Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). In this role, Terin is responsible for bringing together critical infrastructure owner/operators with federal, state, local, and other stakeholders to maximize collaboration and minimize cyber risk in the State of Ohio.

Tech Literacy for Patrons
Two libraries will give an overview of their technology programs for patrons.  The following topics will be discussed and there will be time for Q & A.
  • How do you market your programs? 
  • What challenges have you encountered? 
  • How has the program evolved through the years? 
  • What is your greatest success?
Presenters:
Molly McGirr Norri, Training Services Manager, Rocky River Public Library

Cailey Williams, Branch Manager, Mentor-on-the-Lake Branch of Mentor Public Library. Cailey has run technology programs with the library system for over ten years, from the basics to the up-and-coming trends. She is passionate about library programming, and enjoys developing new programs to allow patrons to access new or new-to-them topics and technology. 



Breakout Session 2

Rainbows, Butterflies, and Unicorns​:  Advanced Cybersecurity and You
The internet can be a scary place for you, but what about your users. From ransomware, malware to data breaches you might think twice about letting them connect online. Compliance and Cybersecurity insurance has raised the bar on what you must do to protect your users. Learn where to focus to be compliant, keep data safe,john dolinar and put your cybersecurity program in a happy place

Presenter:  John Dolinar, Executive Director Enterprise Application Services
John Dolinar is the Executive Director, Enterprise Application Services at Cuyahoga Community College. John has been with the college 36 years and served previously as the Director, Office of Safe and Secure Computing. His 30+ years of IT experience range from programming, network support and configuration, information security, application support and project management.
 
John holds a Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance from Western Governors University, a Bachelor of Science in IT security from Western Governors University and an Associates of Applied Business in Data processing from Cuyahoga Community College.
 
The First Statewide Library-Led Telehealth Initiative in the First State
We are living in both a healthcare and an internet access crisis. Since 2012, the State of Delaware has seen depression rates increase by 33% and drug overdose deaths increase by 122%. We also see reports from the Census that 16% of households statewide still do not have internet access. Instead of focusing on the aftermath of the crisis, public libraries need to treat the symptoms, specifically simple and equitable access to health and social services.

The Delaware Libraries are solving this by setting up telehealth booths statewide, leveraging our reputability as a safe space in the community and our high-speed Internet infrastructure. We have already deployed three booths in key rural libraries in the state. These soundproof booths are equipped with HEPA filtration, UV sanitization, and an iPad for all services. Despite its name, we envision patrons using the telehealth booths for other social services including legal matters, immigration help, and job interviews. Each booth is staffed with a “Navigator” who is there to help patrons schedule appointments and assist with technology. We are partnering with healthcare systems, like ChristianaCare, to extend the reach of their offerings into the community.  This program is the first statewide library-led telehealth initiative in the country, and it is fitting that Delaware, the “First State,” be at the forefront.

Expected outcomes of this program include patrons accessing healthcare and behavioral health support for the first time, decreased lead time to see providers, and overall increased traffic to public libraries across the state. While visiting their local library, patrons can discover the multitude of other programs and events that are happening right in their community. 

Presenter:  Nick Martin is a chemical engineer by training who has found his passion at the intersection of emerging technology and social impact. Prior to his current role, he spent several years in the nonprofit space, which included helping build a Delaware-based K-12 STEM outreach organization. His research background in renewable energy technology most recently led him to receive State Department funding to create a solar energy community center in a slum outside of Lagos, Nigeria. Nick currently serves as the Telehealth Coordinator and Emerging Technology Consultant for the Delaware Libraries.


Breakout Session 3

TechKnowledge: Demystifying Technology for Library Staff 
Much like life, technology is constantly changing, and we (the library staff) need to change with it. While tech can be fun (video games), entertaining (social media and streaming services), and productive (MS Office), it can also feel scary (artifical intelligence) and intimidating (VR or 3D printing). We’ve all felt this way and in this interactive session, Heights Libraries’ Continuing Education Manager Heather Howiler will lead a discussion on ways to support and encourage staff tech learning. We will talk about Northstar Digital Literacy Assessment, Niche Acadmey, and other resources available to staff.

Presenter:  Heather Howiler (pronouns She, Her, Hers) has worked for Heights Libraries for 25 years, starting as an adult services librarian, then transitioning to staff training and development. Heather has an MLS from the University of Pittsburgh and a BA in History from The College of Wooster. She is currently working on an Advanced Design Thinking Certificatin from IDEO. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening and spending time with family.


Technology Management Solutions
Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to help one another out and solve problems.  Dan Shell, Director of Technology from Lorain Public Library System, will facilitate this conversation and will also be able to answer questions regarding Microsoft Office 365.

Stan the Tech Van: When Your Makerspace Becomes Mobile
When your community wants the machines of a makerspace but can’t always get to the library, you find a way to come to them.  That was the idea that grew into Stan the Tech Van. This van and the machinery to go with it were received through a grant that was part of the American Rescue Plan Act and funded in part through the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services LSTA grant awarded by the State Library of Ohio. In the midst of COVID, Madison Public Library came together with its community partners and decided their local makers and crafters needed a way to be able to create regardless of whether they had transportation to the library. The State Library’s grant was the perfect way to fill this need. Hear from staff about the entire process of how Madison Public Library’s CreateSpace became mobile.

Presenters: 

Shawn Walsh is the Emerging Services and Technologies Librarian for Madison Public Library. Overseeing the technology, marketing, and digital presence of the library, he was also the project manager of the grant that resulted in Stan the Tech Van. In libraries for 25 years total and at Madison Public Library for 10, Shawn has been involved of many aspects of libraries, and loves to share his experiences and knowledge with others.
 


Closing Session: The work of librarians in a world on fire

Librarians are used to operating within well-established boundaries of authority and trust. But the realities of the 21st century — including the climate emergency, conflict, and rapid technological and social change - reveal gaps and flaws in the practical boundaries of our work.

In this provocative and inspiring keynote, cultural strategist and digital pioneer Michael Peter Edson will draw from 30 years of work in the library and museum sector to argue that librarians and their supporters at all levels need to adjust and expand our concept of librarianship if we are to respond to today’s most important questions about culture, society, and change.

Learning Objectives:

  • New perspectives on the value and limits of traditional library practice

  • Practical examples of new and emerging library programming, strategy, and services

Usingdata

Michael Peter Edson is a digital strategist working at the intersection of tech, culture, and democracy around the world. He was Co-founder of the newly emerging Museum for the United Nations - UN Live and formerly was the Director of Web and New Media Strategy at the Smithsonian Institution.

Michael is a Salzburg Global Fellow, a Fellow at the Getty Leadership Institute, a Distinguished Presidential Fellow (emeritus) at CLIR, the Council on Library and Information Services (USA), and he served as a juror for the MacArthur Foundation's $100m 100&Change initiative and Cumulus Green, a global design competition to find new design solutions to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Michael is currently writing The Age of Scale, a book about the impact of scope, scale, and speed in the modern world. He was named a “Tech Titan” person to watch by Washingtonian Magazine.

Check back for program updates.
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


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


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





Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting - In-person
11/4/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with your peers.  This will be an in-person meeting at the newly renovated Warren-Trumbull County Public Library  We hope you will join us.  Please send agenda items/questions to Yvette Wasko.


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


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.


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





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

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

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

 

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


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


From Peer to Leader
11/17/2022

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

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

Presenter: 

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
 


Location: Online via Zoom





From Peer to Leader
11/17/2022

Recorded 11/17/2022

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

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

Presenter: 

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
 


Location: Online via Zoom





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





Good Leaders, Bad Decisions
12/7/2022

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

Learning Objectives:

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

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





Good Leaders, Bad Decisions
12/7/2022

Recorded 12/7/2023

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

Learning Objectives:

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

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





New 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 Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
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 Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
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





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





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





Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Virtual Networking Meeting
2/3/2023

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





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





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 Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
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 Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
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.
 





New Supervisors' Academy
2/23/2023

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

Session 1
Thursday, February 23, 2022 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am -  4:00 pm
It all Starts with Attitude and Knowing Yourself
Being a good supervisor starts with having a great attitude and our series will begin with the opportunity to listen and interact with leaders as they share their experiences regarding the impact of attitude. Be sure to bring your most pressing questions.

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

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

Presenter:

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

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

Session 2
Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. From Your Desktop
Change Course without Rocking the Boat
As new supervisors you may find unresolved challenges with your staff that need to be addressed sooner rather than later.  How do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time without Rocking the Boat?  Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.

Presenter:

Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







Session 3
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 9:30 am to 12:00 pm From Your Desktop
Resolving Conflict through Trust and Team Building
Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive webinar will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The webinar will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to create and build a cohesive team
  • Learn the dos and don’ts of creating and maintaining trust
  • Learn a step-by-step process for having difficult conversations
Presenter:

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


Session 4
Thursday, May 4, 2023 - Cuyahoga Falls Library
 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Supervising with Confidence:  A Skills Assessment
Supervisors must balance a variety of competing priorities while working with a variety of people.  Fortunately, the necessary skills of an effective supervisor can be learned. In the morning we will focus on the five key supervisory skills, complete a self-evaluation relating to the five skills and develop a plan of action that relates to the skills you'd like to most improve in the following 90 days. You will have a chance to put the supervisory skills into practice during game simulation. This interactive workshop will focus on the five key supervisory skills that form the New Supervisor's Tool Kit.

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

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







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

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

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

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

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

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

Session 7
Wednesday, July 12, 2023
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Time Management Yours and Theirs
Time management is one of the most important skills that any manager/supervisor should have.   Understanding, implementing and following effective time management practices will help you accomplish more.
 
Learning objectives:
  • Valuing your own time
  • Setting realistic priorities
  • Delegating tasks effectively
  • Recognizing and avoiding time wasters
  • Taking Action
  • Practical Tools
Presenter:

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


Session 8
Tuesday, August 22, 2023 
10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Boosting Your Leadership Self Confidence
This webinar offers positive actions leaders must take to help break free from stress, perfectionism and self-doubt so they can find the confidence to work and lead effectively.

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

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




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

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

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


Presenter:

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

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

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

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

Session 11
Thursday, November 9, 2023 - Location TBA
 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
 Interviewing, and Caring for Yourself
The last session of the Academy will focus on supervisory skills that are often overlooked until they are necessary.

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

Learning Objectives:

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

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


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

Presenter: 

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


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


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 Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
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 Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
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





Library Outreach: Creating and cultivating partnership for your library patrons
3/14/2023

Determining relevant partnerships can be an overwhelming process. When an efficient and effective plan is in place, we have the greatest possible impact in our communities. During this session participants will receive the tools to enable library staff to make decisions on partnerships that best serve their communities, within the library's mission and strategic plan 

  • Participants will learn how to assess the needs of communities they serve to understand what partnership should be created.  
  • Participants will develop skills to source, identify and cultivate relationships with various partners. 
  • Understand how to create partnership agreements and understanding from internal and external partners to meet the need of your library patrons
Presenter: 
Nicole Bryan, MLS 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





Library Outreach: Creating and cultivating partnership for your library patrons
3/14/2023

Recorded 3/14/2023

Determining relevant partnerships can be an overwhelming process. When an efficient and effective plan is in place, we have the greatest possible impact in our communities. During this session participants will receive the tools to enable library staff to make decisions on partnerships that best serve their communities, within the library's mission and strategic plan 

  • Participants will learn how to assess the needs of communities they serve to understand what partnership should be created.  
  • Participants will develop skills to source, identify and cultivate relationships with various partners. 
  • Understand how to create partnership agreements and understanding from internal and external partners to meet the need of your library patrons
Presenter: 
Nicole Bryan, MLS 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





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





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

Recorded 4/18/2023

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

Presenter:

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





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

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

Presenter:

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





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 Networking Meeting-In-person
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: Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
3512 Darrow Rd.
Stow, OH 44224


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.


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





2023 Directors' Retreat: Start Planning for your Library’s Future Now
5/25/2023 - 5/26/2023

We are excited to announce the 2023 Directors' Retreat! We will be returning to the Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center this year. The retreat will kick off with breakfast on Thursday, May 25th at 9:00 a.m. - the perfect time to catch up with your peers. The workshop will begin at 10 a.m. and will focus on Succession Planning and Learning Organization Practices. We will conclude the first day at 4:30 p.m. Dinner will be at 6:00 p.m. with the tradition of rich conversations to follow. The second day will start with breakfast at 8:00 a.m. followed by a program on Mentoring. We will conclude at noon with a quick lunch.

Thursday, May 25, 2023
Up Next: Ensuring a Leadership Pipeline through Succession Planning and Learning Organization Practices

Does succession planning keep getting pushed to the bottom of your list? Having a succession plan in place is critical for stability, sustainability, and strategic plan impact. However, engaging in a succession planning process sounds...well, not fun. This session will break down succession planning into do-able chunks that will help you get ahead of potential staffing changes in leadership positions at your library. Beyond starting a succession plan for your library, we'll talk about learning organization practices to increase staff engagement and ensure talent pipeline development.
 
Learning Objectives:
After the session, participants will..
  • Understand how to develop a succession plan for key library roles.
  • Know how to implement and update the library's succession plan.
  • Understand learning organization practices and how to use them.
Presenter:

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



Friday, May 26, 2023
Mentoring For Individual And Organizational Success

Learning Objectives:
  • Discuss and understand 3 distinct types of mentoring
  • Understand the critical role of self-care, psychological safety, and humility in mentoring
  • Explore some examples of organizational mentoring and learn how they can build organizational culture and capacity
  • Leave with a brief mentoring action plan
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: Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center
11755 Kinsman Road
Newbury, OH 44065

There are currently 4 spots remaining out of 35




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





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





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





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





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





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





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





Human Resource and Fiscal Officer -Online Via Zoom
9/15/2023

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 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





Human Resource and Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting-In-person
9/15/2023

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


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


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





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





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





Building a Resilient Workforce and Networking Event for Directors, Deputy Directors, & Admin Teams
10/26/2023

It seems today, with the help of technology, work is always looming like a shadowy specter even when we’ve left the office. There’s always more to do and it keeps coming in, whether it’s a 1 am email or a phone call while you’re on vacation. This is leading to employees and leaders feeling overwhelmed by the relentless demands of work that bleeds into every part of their lives.
 
More than one-third of executives in our global survey rated this issue among their top five priorities, but fewer than one in ten thought they were dealing with it effectively.
 
What can be done to manage the frenetic communications practices that overwhelm employees, simplify the work environment, create more flexible work standards, and teach workers how to prioritize?

In this program, we will explore how to manage the overwhelmed employee, and build our own resiliency while learning how to build a resilient organization. 
By adding to your resilience ‘tool kit’ you will have a lot more to call upon when the going gets rough.
 
  • Discover what factors are causing today’s employees to be so overwhelmed at work
  • Understand ways that admin can help the overwhelmed employees and simplify the workplace to reinvent the employee experience.
  • Hear about organizations that have successfully redefined the employee experience.
  • Learn the five keys to success in today's “Simply Irresistible” workplace – one that not only attracts great people but also gives them an environment to truly thrive.
After lunch, we will have a roundtable discussion with your peers.

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: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087


Online Registration has closed for this event


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





Leadership Academy
10/31/2023

NEO-RLS Introduces the 2023-2024 Leadership Academy
What does it mean to be a leader and how do the skills needed differ from those needed to be a good manager?  Many people struggle with how to leave behind former priorities and mindsets when they enter a leadership role.  Learning how to balance implementation with vision, connect with others in order to achieve goals, become an effective decision-maker and develop others are all important skills that help build alignment with direct reports and across an organization. The Leadership Academy will focus on enhancing the skills you already have and building new ones in order to assist you in developing a vision of how you can confidently move into the future as a leader.
  • The Academy is a blended course which runs from March through November and consists of 4 face-to-face workshops, 2 webinars and 1 online workshop.
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety
Session 1
Tuesday, October 31, 2023 - Cuyahoga Falls Library
9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Everything DiSC® on Catalyst™

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

Learning Objectives:

  • Better understand themselves
  • Appreciate and value differences in perspective and approach
  • Adapt to the unique needs of each person or situation they encounter
  • Connect with colleagues through the Catalyst platform
  • Gain access tips to help work better with different DiSC styles in a variety of situations
Presenter:  

Ned Parks has had a rich and varied life that has taken him from police officer to helicopter pilot to successful entrepreneur with management and leadership positions in the journey.

He brings this experience to his consulting practice as a global provider of business consulting and staff development services that help organizations improve management and strategic competencies enhance customer service and improve employee engagement efforts.


Session 2: 
Thursday, November 16, 2023 at Bainbridge Branch, Geauga County Public Library
9:30 am - 4:00 pm

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

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

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

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

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

Learning Objectives:

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

Presenters:

Ellen Shafer has had a diverse career involving many facets of talent and organizational development. Prior to starting Canterbury Coaching and Consulting, her professional portfolio included working for an employee assistance program, creating and managing customized training programs and conducting employee assessments for a northeast Ohio community college. Most recently, Ellen served as the manager of the Leadership Development Center at Lorain County Community College.Ellen is a skilled facilitator with over 30 years of experience in talent and organizational development and in working with people as a trainer, mentor, seminar leader and coach. As a leadership and performance coach she specializes in the areas of performance challenges, transition, people skills, emotional intelligence and leadership.

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


Session 3
Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am From Your Desktop

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

Session 4
Wednesday, January 10, 2024  from 10:00 am - 11:30 am  From Your Desktop

Strategic Leadership

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

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

Session 5
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 from 10 am - 12:30 pm from YOUR Desktop

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

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

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



Session 6
Thursday, March 21, 2024 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 4:00 pm

Good Leaders, Bad Decisions (Morning Session)

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 workshop 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
Success Through Accountability  (Afternoon Session)
Creating accountability is the number one personal, managerial and leadership challenge facing individuals and organizations today.  The essence of this workshop boils down to the simple lessons of taking personal accountability-how to rise above our circumstances and do what it takes to achieve the results we want. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Demonstrate the power of accountability in achieving successful results
  • Take control of your choices and your life
  • Gain skills in attitude renewal that allow you to bounce back and regain a positive outlook

Presenters:  

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.

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

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

Session 7
Thursday, April 18, 2024 - Location TBA
9:30 am - 4:00 pm

Create a Growth Mindset: Guiding your Employees to Resiliency, Grit, Optimism & Forgiveness (Morning Session)
Our mindset is the way we think, filter our thoughts and make meaning of a situation. Is mindset fixed, or can we change it – and help others change theirs?

Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck developed the term “growth mindset” after researching motivation, personality and development. Dweck suggests that a growth mindset evolves from an attitude of hard work, learning, training and perseverance. In comparison, individuals with a fixed mindset believe that success comes from innate ability, focus on the rewards of immediate success and dread failure.
 
Because mindsets are shaped by our environments, organizations can do quite a bit to foster a growth mindset within.  The growth mindset is all about learning, growing and continuing to work hard despite setbacks, while a person with a fixed mindset may be embarrassed by and not willing to admit their personal or professional failures.
 
Growing out of a fixed mindset does not happen overnight. It takes conscious effort to move to a different way of thinking. As Leaders, we can help ourselves, colleagues and ultimately the organization by promoting a growth mindset throughout. 
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Identify the difference of a fixed mindset vs. growth mindset, take a self-assessment to determine your mindset
  • Realize the importance and define five characteristics of a growth mindset workplace and its’ impact on goal setting and feedback
  • Learn the two biggest obstacles to organizational growth mindset and how to overcome them
  • Recognize the three common misconceptions that contribute to a false growth mindset and spot your fixed-mindset triggers
  • Understand what Neuroplasticity is and how it relates to re-wiring the brain to grow in areas such as resilient, grit, optimism and forgiveness
  • Acquire strategies to foster a growth mindset and practice four habits to cultivate a growth mindset in yourself
Presenter:

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



Empathetic Leadership (Afternoon Session)
Leadership styles have shifted greatly over the last several decades, to allow for room to include Person-Centered Leadership models to support our workforce.  Please join this conversation to learn the tools and characteristics of Empathetic Leadership to support your response to the needs of your employees.  

Presenter:

  Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community-based crisis intervention.   Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing. 
 
Location: Cuyahoga Falls Library
2015 3rd St.
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221


Online Registration has closed for this event


NEO-RLS 2023 Annual Membership Meeting & Appreciation Breakfast
11/15/2023

Mark your calendars to attend the NEO-RLS 2023 Annual Membership Meeting & Appreciation Breakfast in person on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.  The Membership Meeting & Appreciation Breakfast is open to library administrators, trustees, and staff.
 
  • Learn how NEO-RLS is progressing financially, what our plans are for the future, more about the services we currently provide, and share any feedback you may have
  • Celebrate all those who have contributed time and expertise to NEO-RLS over the past year
  • Congratulate the 2022 Rising Star, Shooting Star, and Advocacy Award recipients and honorees
  • Hear from Wendy Knapp, State Librarian of Ohio
Featured Presentation:

Through current demographic changes, American society will see traditionally marginalized groups demand change and influence within municipal systems and departments - advocacy efforts are the beginning. Departmental shifts in policy, legal requirements, economic purchase patterns, targeted marketing, and philanthropy must evolve to represent and include Black Women at the foundational level. The 21st-century political economy will be built through a coalition of diverse voices, ideas, and capital. Government officials who get ahead of the curve now will be better positioned to maximize these shifting demographics to create regions of equitable prosperity.

Learning Objectives:
  • Economic Case + Trends-Summary of important trends and statistics forecasting the future of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within systems.
  • Intergenerational Learning-The importance of perspective throughout generations, and facilitating healthy intergenerational learning and support
  • Facilitating Authentic Environments-How you can create and facilitate authenticity and expression at work. We will cover common exclusionary tactics, and how to create spaces that are not tolerant of oppression.
  • Self-Care-We will discuss the importance of focusing on your own sphere of influence, how to recognize and combat burnout, and how to support one another through challenging circumstances.
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: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


Online Registration has closed for this event


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





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





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





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





New Supervisors' Academy
2/22/2024

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

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

Session 1
Thursday, February 22, 2024 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am -  4:00 pm
It all Starts with Attitude and Knowing Yourself
Being a good supervisor starts with having a great attitude and our series will begin with the opportunity to listen and interact with leaders as they share their experiences regarding the impact of attitude. Be sure to bring your most pressing questions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Presenter:
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







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


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






Session 4
Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 10:00 am - 11:00 am From Your Desktop
Time Management Yours and Theirs
Time management is one of the most important skills that any manager/supervisor should have. Understanding, implementing and following effective time management practices will help you accomplish more.
 
Learning objectives:
  • Valuing your own time
  • Setting realistic priorities
  • Delegating tasks effectively
  • Recognizing and avoiding time wasters
  • Taking Action
  • Practical Tools
Presenter:
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and co-chairs PLA’s Membership Advisory Group. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.

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

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

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

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

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


Session 6
Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 10 am - 11 am From Your Desktop
Practical Budget Management: How to Avoid Disaster, Make Smart Moves, Report Responsibly, and Stress Less About your Budget! 
Whether you’re a newly minted library staffer responsible for the budget for Summer Reading, a Director concerned with making the most of your budget, or have budgeting responsibilities somewhere in-between, budgeting can be intimidating. Join Wendy Bartlett, Collection Development & Acquisitions Manager for Cuyahoga County Public Library, and learn basic budgeting do’s and don’ts, how to be ready for unexpected decreases in funding, how to cope if you mess up, and how to educate yourself about the bigger budgeting picture. You’ll leave with practical ideas (and tools!) that will make working with the budget a pleasure rather than a chore.

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

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

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

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

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

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









Final Session - Thursday, October 3, 2024 at a Location TBD
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Morning Session
Boosting Your Leadership Self Confidence
This workshop offers positive actions leaders must take to help break free from stress, perfectionism and self-doubt so they can find the confidence to work and lead effectively.

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




Afternoon Session

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

Location: Online and at various libraries


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


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





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





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





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





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





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





Human Resource/Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting-In Person
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: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44087


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


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





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





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





Become a Sustainability Leader: How to Increase the Environmental Capital of your Library.
8/28/2024

Sustainability is one of the nine core values in librarianship. This webinar, which will focus specifically on the environmental aspect of sustainability, is geared towards all library staff that are interested in bolstering their library and community against the effects of climate change. It will highlight examples of how librarians can increase their library’s environmental capital through practices, collections, spaces, programs, and strategic plans.
 
Learning objectives
  • Participants will learn what environmental sustainability means in the context of librarianship.
  • Participants will understand why environmental stewardship is necessary and important for libraries.
  • Participants will gain strategies to increase the environmental capital at their library by applying the obtainable examples given in the webinar.
Presenter:

Emily Lindberg is a Youth Services Associate at Westlake Porter Public Library and earned her MLIS from Valdosta State University with a specialization in youth services. In 2021 she was certified as a cycling instructor from the League of American Bicyclists, which she uses to educate people who bike and drive how to share the road safely and legally.  Emily recently worked alongside city planners to develop an active transportation plan for Lakewood, Ohio.  She continues to work as an advocate for pedestrians and bicyclists by implementing programs aimed at giving residents the information, skills, and practical experience they need to take advantage of existing and future active transportation infrastructure.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Become a Sustainability Leader: How to Increase the Environmental Capital of your Library.
8/28/2024

Recorded 8/28/24

Sustainability is one of the nine core values in librarianship. This webinar, which will focus specifically on the environmental aspect of sustainability, is geared towards all library staff that are interested in bolstering their library and community against the effects of climate change. It will highlight examples of how librarians can increase their library’s environmental capital through practices, collections, spaces, programs, and strategic plans.
 
Learning objectives
  • Participants will learn what environmental sustainability means in the context of librarianship.
  • Participants will understand why environmental stewardship is necessary and important for libraries.
  • Participants will gain strategies to increase the environmental capital at their library by applying the obtainable examples given in the webinar.
Presenter:

Emily Lindberg is a Youth Services Associate at Westlake Porter Public Library and earned her MLIS from Valdosta State University with a specialization in youth services. In 2021 she was certified as a cycling instructor from the League of American Bicyclists, which she uses to educate people who bike and drive how to share the road safely and legally.  Emily recently worked alongside city planners to develop an active transportation plan for Lakewood, Ohio.  She continues to work as an advocate for pedestrians and bicyclists by implementing programs aimed at giving residents the information, skills, and practical experience they need to take advantage of existing and future active transportation infrastructure.
 
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





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





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





2024-2025 Leadership Academy
10/10/2024

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

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

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


Session 2: 
Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library
9:30 am - 4:00 pm
 
Morning Session:  Get Smart About Emotional Intelligence: Enhance Your Effectiveness
People with higher emotional intelligence tend to be better decision makers, more effective leaders, more resilient, better communicators, have more self-awareness and self-control, and more success in life overall. Emotional intelligence is being able to identify and manage your emotions and those of others. It is crucial for working collaboratively and effectively and having difficult conversations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Session 3
Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am From Your Desktop
 
 
Management in Harmony
"Management in Harmony" is an enlightening and engaging webinar that delves into the art of cultivating a management team that operates in perfect harmony. In today's dynamic library landscape, the success of an organization often hinges on how effectively its management functions as a cohesive unit. This webinar aims to provide participants with invaluable insights and actionable strategies to foster a culture of collaboration, effective communication, and synergy within their management teams.
 
Attendees will learn the key principles and practices that enable managers from diverse backgrounds and departments to align their goals, work seamlessly together, and drive organizational success. Throughout "Management in Harmony," participants will discover 7 key strategies that focus on the importance of aligning departmental objectives, building strong inter-departmental relationships, and establishing clear communication channels. Whether you're an experienced manager looking to enhance your team's cohesion or a new or aspiring leader seeking to unlock the full potential of your management cadre, this webinar promises to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to create a management team that harmoniously navigates challenges, maximizes opportunities, and ultimately propels your organization toward its strategic objectives.
 
Join presenters from the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library System, Kim Garrett, Deputy Director, and Sarah Everly, Mobile Library Services Manager, for an illuminating session where you'll learn how to orchestrate your management team to perform in perfect harmony, driving excellence and innovation across your organization.
 
  • H: Honor Diversity
  • A: Align Goals
  • R: Regular Communication
  • M: Mutual Trust & Mentorship
  • O: Operational Efficiency
  • N: Neutralize Conflict
  • Y: Yield to Feedback
Presenter:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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


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

Presenter:

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

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

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


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


2024 Technology Conference: AI and Cybersecurity for Forward-Thinking Libraries
11/7/2024

Explore the world of artificial intelligence and learn ways to protect your library from cyberattacks. This conference will bring together industry experts, technologists, and librarians to discuss innovative AI applications and cybersecurity strategies.  Our keynote will be Jia (Kevin) Liu from The Ohio State University, with breakout topics including takeaways from data breaches, CISA Best Practices, Using AI Robots with Neurodivergent Youth, Breaking Boundaries and Harnessing the Power of AI and ChatGPT to Transform Libraries, and More.

Keynote:  Recent Trends in Generative AI

Keynote Sponsor

Presenter:  
Jia (Kevin) Liu is an Associate Professor in the Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering at The Ohio State University (OSU) and an Amazon Visiting Academic (AVA) with Amazon.com. He currently serves as the Managing Director of the NSF AI Institute for Future Edge Networks and Distributed Intelligence (AI-EDGE) at OSU. He received his Ph.D. degree from the Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Virginia Tech in 2010. His research areas include theoretical machine learning, stochastic network optimization and control, and performance analysis for data analytics infrastructure and cyber-physical systems. Dr. Liu is a senior member of IEEE and a member of ACM. He has received numerous best paper awards at top venues in the areas of networking and communications. He has also received multiple honors of long/spotlight presentations at top machine learning conferences, including ICML, NeurIPS, and ICLR. He is an NSF CAREER Award recipient in 2020, a winner of the DARPA Young Faculty Award (YFA) in 2024, and a winner of the Google Faculty Research Award in 2020.

Breakout Session 1
Recovering From & Avoiding Ransomware
The Daviess County Public Library had three consecutive run-ins with ransomware in 2019. In this session, Wesley Johnson, from DCPL’s IT department, will discuss how it happened, how they recovered from it, and what they implemented to help them avoid it in the future.
 
Presenter:
Wesley Johnson, wjohnson@dcplibrary.org, is a Library Associate/IT Technician at the Daviess County Public Library. His time is split between computer repair and adult programming. He has presented at the Kentucky Public Library Association Conference, Kentucky Library Association Conference, and Computers in Libraries. 




Breaking Boundaries: Harnessing the Power of Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT to Transform Library Services​
Join the Artificial Intelligence revolution in libraries by leveraging the potential of machine learning applications to enhance library services. Attendees will explore a holistic strategy to guide evaluating AI's role in the research process using information literacy frameworks. This comprehensive three-part presentation will equip attendees with a theoretical foundation for understanding the role AI can play in libraries, give practical demonstrations on integrating AI into library services, and provide valuable insights on building alliances within their institution to overcome the challenges of incorporating AI. A component of the session will be real-time crowdsourcing of AI tools, prompt engineering, AI literacy concepts, and potential AI initiative opportunities. Take advantage of this growing opportunity to explore the empowering potential of Generative AI and its impact on the future of library services. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to leverage Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT in a library context.
  • Recognize the benefits and challenges of incorporating AI projects in libraries.
  • Discuss AI Literacy concepts including ethical concerns related to AI and ChatGPT in libraries, issues of bias and misinformation, and strategies to ensure appropriate AI implementation in library settings.
  • Develop practical steps for initiating collaborative AI projects in your library or institution.
  • Explore ways to assess the success and impact of collaborative AI initiatives.
Presenters:
Christopher M. Jimenez, Web Services Librarian, Florida International University
Chris  works as a librarian at Florida International University Libraries, where he is part of the Information and Research Services Department. His specialty is Web Services, and his research interests include topics like web design, information literacy, and using new technologies in libraries. Recently, Jimenez has done webinars and published scholarship looking at how artificial intelligence could be used in libraries, as well as how taking a user experience-focused approach can help libraries adapt to the changing nature of research.
 

Melissa Del Castillo (she/her) is the Virtual Learning & Outreach Librarian at Florida International University, the largest minority-serving institution in the State of Florida, and the largest Hispanic Serving Institution in the United States. She is a dedicated academic reference librarian passionate about public service and information literacy. Her primary work responsibilities include coordinating the virtual chat reference services, assessing service offerings, creating learning objects, administration of LibApps, and library instruction. Melissa’s commitment to lifelong learning, collaboration, and mentoring is reflected across all aspects of her librarianship, through her service work, scholarship, and day-to-day practice. She fosters collegiality, spreads awareness, shares new knowledge, and diligently advocates for her library users’ needs. Her research interests include visual literacy, threshold concepts, instruction, active learning pedagogy, embedded librarianship, diversity, accessibility, and the value of reference. Melissa is also interested in developing tools to promote AI literacy and the evaluation of generative AI. Ultimately, we will need to strike a balance between traditional human decision-making and AI algorithms.

Breakout Session 2
Cybersecurity Best Practices: Understanding the Fundamentals
The presentation will discuss the current threat landscape and trends we are seeing.  Some foundational steps to take to protect their networks and educate users.  I will also talk about a few services CISA offers that may be beneficial to help increase security and awareness.

Presenter: 
Jillian Burner has over 20 years’ experience in the public sector, 14 of those years being focused on cybersecurity.  Jillian has led cyber leaders and operators at different levels within the state, county, and local governments.  She has experience with all aspects of incident response, forensic investigations and has led teams of engineers that collaborate with internal and external partners to implement enterprise cybersecurity solutions and mitigate risk. Jillian is a Cybersecurity Advisor with the Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and focuses on building resiliency within critical infrastructure sectors in Ohio.  Jillian is a United States Air Force veteran, holds a Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigations from University Maryland Global Campus and is an ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).



Talpa: How to Build an AI Product for Libraries and Not Lose Your Soul
Is AI a game changer or another inflated tech trend? Is it invaluable or useless? Should libraries embrace it—or reject it? Tim Spalding, the founder of LibraryThing and creator of Talpa Search, cuts through the hype and horror around artificial intelligence, to offer a balanced perspective: AI is neither panacea nor plague. It can be horribly misused, but it has good uses and much potential, especially when aligned with library values and know-how.

Tim will ground his reflections in his experience as the principle developer of Talpa Search, a new library search system based on both AI and library data, best known for something that isn't even really AI at all—answering the age-old question "Do you have that book… it's blue?"

Presenter:
Tim Spalding is the founder and president of LibraryThing. LibraryThing is known for the cataloging and social networking site LibraryThing.com, with millions of devoted members. LibraryThing also co-develops Syndetics Unbound, with ProQuest/Clarivate, enhancing thousands of OPACs around the world. Recently, Tim and his team of programmers and librarians created Talpa Search, the focus of his session. A one-time aspiring Classics scholar, Tim lives with his wife and son in Portland, Maine.

Breakout Session 3
Cybersecurity Lessons from the Threat Actors 
Ryan McCoy, Technology Director, will provide an in-depth analysis of the cybersecurity incident that affected Akron-Summit County Public Library in 2023. The presentation will cover the response actions, insight into the threat actors involved, and the valuable lessons learned. 
 
Ryan McCoy serves as Technology Director for the Akron-Summit County Public Library, bringing over 14 years of experience and 7 certifications from the Information Technology field. He has a Master's degree in Library and Information Science and is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). He actively contributes to the community as a member of the North High School Technology Advisory Board, volunteer computer teacher for Project Learn Summit, and a member of Akron Torchbearers. 



 
Using AI robots with Neurodivergent Youth for a library based Robot Mediated Behavior Intervention program
This presentation will provide an overview of Santa Ana Public Library's AstounD Robot-Mediated Behavior Intervention (RMBI) program. This program connects Neurodivergent youth with RMBI Robots and technology tools, using advanced artificial intelligence programming, which helps them develop social and life skills as well as facilitate learning. This presentation will provide a showcase of several different types of RMBI programmed robots and technology tools, as well as best practices that have been utilized as part of the AStounD program at the Santa Ana Public Library for the past two years of our program's pilot. Additionally the presentation will discuss program components that engage teen volunteers, parents, and community stakeholders. There will also be a focus provided on programmatic elements that support the lending out of robotic companions for home use. This program was featured in a CNN evening news segment and articles in both Mother Jones and American Libraries.

Presenters:

Cheryl A. Eberly is the Principal Librarian for the Young Adult and Volunteer Services at the Santa Ana Public Library.  She is the responsible for the creation and development of the 2014 National Arts and Humanities award winning TeenSpace Circle of Mentoring Project.  She has over 15 years of experience in engaging youth and emerging adults via a targeted mentorship approach to civic engagement and youth workforce development via the various mentorship based programs at the library like the Teen Community Historians, Youth Health Ambassadors, and Seeds to Trees Digital Media Technology Institute Program at Santa Ana Public Library. She was the Project Director for the Memories of Migration Project.  It is a three-year, library-based community memory program funded by the Federal Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to build community connections and cultural heritage collections through documenting the stories of migration in America.  Partners for the project are Historypin, New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, Queens Library, West Hartford Public Library and REFORMA.  She was also the project Director for the “Youth Know CS” project  which is an ALA “ Libraries Ready to Code” sponsored program. In 2020, she piloted a Robots in Residence and  an AStounD Robot-Mediated Behavior Intervention program for Neurodivergent Youth at the Santa Ana Public Library.

Yocelin Esqueda is the primary STEM educator at the Santa Ana Public Library. She engages youth in a variety of engineering and mathematical activities, introducing them to STEM concepts through programs like Robo Digi-Buddy and Robo Fun-Time. Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Engineering, Yocelin is passionate about utilizing robots to actively engage students on the spectrum in their learning journeys, tailoring interactions to accommodate and support their unique learning styles. The Robot Mediated Behavior Intervention program at the Santa Ana Public Library allows her to explore innovative educational techniques, enhancing the learning experiences of neurodivergent youth.
 
Lawrence Singer entered the library and information services field in a roundabout way, first being in the mental health field as a doctor of psychology. This past experience helped him greatly in the adventure that awaited when he took a job at the Santa Ana Public Library working in the Teenspace.  Lawrence began mentoring and conducting life skills and executive functioning presentations, as well as taking part in the various programs offered. With the launch of AStounD and Robots in Residence began, Lawrence was a natural choice to help helm the program, learning about Robot Mediated Behavior Intervention (RMBI) in order to utilize clinically sound and proven techniques to reach the youth on the spectrum. The program has been a success and is unlike any other program offered in the library profession.

Closing Session:
A structured round table discussion and an opportunity for more networking. 
 

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


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


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





Management in Harmony
12/5/2024

Recorded 12/45/24

"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





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





HR and Legal Update: Recent Changes in the Law and Trends Impacting Public Libraries
1/7/2025

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: 
  • Where are we with regulatory changes impacting salaried exempt employees?
  • Recognizing the recent trend toward unionization among Ohio public libraries and what it means.
  • Becoming aware of recent developments in EEO law, especially accommodation issues relating to pregnancy, religion, and disability.
  • Understanding the importance of the U.S. Supreme Court decision on affirmative action and its impact on libraries’ hiring and promotion decisions and their DE&I initiatives.
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
1/7/2025

Recorded 1/7/25

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: 
  • Where are we with regulatory changes impacting salaried exempt employees?
  • Recognizing the recent trend toward unionization among Ohio public libraries and what it means.
  • Becoming aware of recent developments in EEO law, especially accommodation issues relating to pregnancy, religion, and disability.
  • Understanding the importance of the U.S. Supreme Court decision on affirmative action and its impact on libraries’ hiring and promotion decisions and their DE&I initiatives.
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
1/22/2025

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





Strategic Leadership
1/22/2025

Recorded 1/22/25

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





Ohio Regional Library Webinar - Navigating HR Changes in 2025
1/28/2025 - 1/28/2025

Recorded 1/28/25

Enhance your knowledge and connect with fellow professionals at this dynamic learning and networking opportunity. This informative webinar will address the latest developments in workplace regulations, including:

  • New U.S. Dept. of Labor Overtime Rule
  • New Federal Law & Rules for Pregnant & Nursing Employees
  • New U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Guidance on Workplace Harassment
  • Federal and State Changes Related to Marijuana/Cannabis

What do these changes mean for you and your library?

Join Drew Esposito, HR Consultant at Clemans, Nelson & Associates, as he facilitates an engaging, HR-focused session that provides clarity on these critical updates.

The webinar will conclude with an interactive "Ask the Expert" session, offering a safe and supportive space to address your HR-related questions and concerns. Don’t miss this chance to stay informed and empowered in your role!

Andrew Esposito is the Director of Operations and Shareholder for Clemans Nelson. He joined Clemans Nelson in 2011. Mr. Esposito advises clients in human resource management, labor relations, contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, discipline, employee investigations, EEOC/OCRC investigations and policy development. He regularly conducts training throughout the State of Ohio and across the nation on a variety of human resource and labor relations issues such as social media and technology in the workplace, supervisory principles and practices, performance evaluations, FLSA, FMLA, and discriminatory harassment. Mr. Esposito received his J.D. from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and his Bachelors of Specialized Studies from Ohio University in Political Science and Biology.







Leading from the Middle: Managing Up and Down Simultaneously
2/12/2025

This is part of the 2024-2025 Leadership Academy.

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

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

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie is the author of four books: Teen Fandom and Geek Programming (2018), Digital Citizenship: Teaching and Practice from the Field (2019), Serving Teens and Adults on the Autism Spectrum: A Guide for Libraries (2020), and Becoming a Digital Parent: A Practical Guide to Help Families Navigate Technology (2021). She 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. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Leading from the Middle: Managing Up and Down Simultaneously
2/12/2025

Recorded 2/12/25

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

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

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie is the author of four books: Teen Fandom and Geek Programming (2018), Digital Citizenship: Teaching and Practice from the Field (2019), Serving Teens and Adults on the Autism Spectrum: A Guide for Libraries (2020), and Becoming a Digital Parent: A Practical Guide to Help Families Navigate Technology (2021). She 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. 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
2/14/2025

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
2/25/2025

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. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom





New Supervisors' Academy
2/26/2025

The 2025 NEO-RLS New Supervisors' Academy is looking for new attendees.
Becoming a supervisor adds new and different challenges to your work day regardless of the type or size of library you work in. The Academy's courses will provide you with the skills and confidence you need to handle the many and varied challenges of being a supervisor. Programs will focus on three key areas: leadership, communication and staff development. The Academy is appropriate for new supervisors in multi-type libraries and for those who want a refresher.
  • The Academy is a blended course that runs from February through October and consists of 6 in-person workshops and 3 webinars.
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning.
  • Archives of live webinars will be available at your convenience for those attending the Academy in its entirety and experiencing a scheduling conflict.
  • Live webinars will be available individually for registration for those NOT attending the Academy in its entirety.
Past participants had this to say:
"It was a great opportunity that allowed me to network and meet other library supervisors and increase my knowledge of how to be a leader in any role that I take on."

"In general, this was a great academy where I learned a lot and it pushed me to think about where I needed more help and helped me to develop some new ways of doing things that will hopefully benefit everyone."

Session 1
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am -  4:00 pm

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

The panel will consist of:
Mary Frankenfield, Deputy Director, Mansfield-Richland County Public Library
Eric Taggart, Director, Rodman Public Library
Jennifer Buch, Director, Huron Public Library
Suzanna Schroeder-Green. Director, Library and Academic Suppport Services, Ursuline University
Steve Haynie, Branch Manager, South Euclid Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library

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

Presenter:
Holly Klingler, an MBTI Certified Practitioner and Facilitator, has over 16 years of experience empowering professionals across various fields to enhance their careers and personal growth. Specializing in MBTI-based approaches, she helps individuals maximize their communication, creativity, and critical thinking skills. With 12 years dedicated to training library staff and communities, Holly offers personalized insights that help professionals showcase their strengths and grow their confidence.




Session 2
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 - Bainbridge Branch, Geauga County Public Library
 9:30 am - 4:00 pm

Leading with Assurance: Decision-Making and Effective Supervision 
This workshop is designed for library supervisors seeking to enhance their leadership skills, focusing on confident decision-making and effective supervision strategies. Participants will engage in interactive discussions, real-life scenarios, and collaborative activities to strengthen their ability to navigate challenges, set strategic goals, and cultivate accountability within their teams. 

Learning Objectives: 
  • Gain the confidence needed to lead proactively and make informed decisions. 
  • Analyze potential scenarios, responses, and outcomes encountered in a supervisory role. 
  • Participate in group activities and engage with peers to collaboratively explore and share insights, offer mutual support, and exchange best practices. 
Presenter:
Ragan Snead, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System, has 12 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has experience in management, community outreach, and strategic planning. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
 



Tuesday, Apri 10, 2025 - Brooklyn Branch, Cuyahoga County Public Library
9:30 am - 4:00 pm

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

Presenter:
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







Afternoon Session-Servant Leadership: A Service First Approach to Supervising & Developing People
Whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned pro, this session will take a deep dive into leading through the lens of service. Learn tips on finding and growing talent, creating a sense of ownership, and building an engaged, effective team full of people who love their jobs. Many of the customer service skills you already know will help you to be a manager you’d love to have. Learn how great service will help you manage conflict resolution, high emotions, and course corrections while still building a culture of empowerment and belonging.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to translate customer service skills to leadership success.
  • Learn the nuts and bolts of navigating high emotions and difficult employees with a positive over punitive approach
  • Develop strategies to identify, develop, and empower employees to contribute to an outstanding culture 

​Presenter:
Ben Heckman, Director, Bexley Public Library
Ben Heckman has loved books, conversation, and people since he can remember. So, it is no surprise that after obtaining his undergraduate degree, his career first took him into teaching and then on to management at Starbucks Coffee Company. Eventually, his passion for learning and his curious nature led him into the library world. In 2014, he earned his Master’s in Library Science. He began his library career at Bexley Public Library at the circulation desk, moving on to managing public services, and then served as Assistant Library Director before becoming the Library’s tenth director in 2017. Having the opportunity to work every day with the incredible staff at Bexley Public Library is one of his greatest joys.

Session 4
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 10:00 am - 11:00 am From Your Desktop
Time Management Yours and Theirs
Time management is one of the most important skills that any manager/supervisor should have. Understanding, implementing and following effective time management practices will help you accomplish more.
 
Learning objectives:
  • Valuing your own time
  • Setting realistic priorities
  • Delegating tasks effectively
  • Recognizing and avoiding time wasters
  • Taking Action
  • Practical Tools
Presenter:
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 13 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on as the chair of ALA’s Committee on Organization, is a member of PLA’s Continuing Education Advisory Group and is on the OLC Board of Directors. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.


Session 5
Tuesday, June 5, 2025 -  LocationTBA
9:30 am - 4:00 pm

HR Stuff Every New Supervisor Should Know: Having a Solid Legal Foundation

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

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

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


Session 6
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 10 am - 11 am From Your Desktop
Practical Budget Management: How to Avoid Disaster, Make Smart Moves, Report Responsibly, and Stress Less About your Budget! 
Whether you’re a newly minted library staffer responsible for the budget for Summer Reading, a Director concerned with making the most of your budget, or have budgeting responsibilities somewhere in-between, budgeting can be intimidating. Join Wendy Bartlett, Collection Development & Acquisitions Manager for Cuyahoga County Public Library, and learn basic budgeting do’s and don’ts, how to be ready for unexpected decreases in funding, how to cope if you mess up, and how to educate yourself about the bigger budgeting picture. You’ll leave with practical ideas (and tools!) that will make working with the budget a pleasure rather than a chore.

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

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



Session 7
Date and-Location TBA
 9:30 am -4:00 pm
 
Morning Session-Setting Performance Goals and Evaluations
In the morning session we will learn about setting performance goals, monitoring performance, and conducting periodic evaluations - all critical job skills for all supervisors. We will utilize real-life scenarios through group activities to reinforce these skills.
 
Afternoon Session-Performance Planning
The afternoon session will focus on professional language to use in writing the evaluation that will provide clear, empowering conversations with employees.  Scenario-based group learning will also be used in this session.  Handouts will give those in attendance useful takeaways to assist in all aspects of the performance process.

Presenter:  TBD
 
Final Session - Thursday, September 18, 2025 at a Location TBD
9:30 am -4:00 pm

Morning Session-Boosting Leadership Self-Confidence
As leaders, we often prioritize supporting others over our own well-being, but neglecting self-care can harm both us and our teams. Recognizing and prioritizing self-care is essential for effective leadership. At the same time, many leaders grapple with impostor syndrome and self-doubt, which can lead to stress, perfectionism, and hesitation. This workshop will guide you in recognizing and re framing these thoughts while equipping you with actionable strategies to build confidence and resilience.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Prioritize self-care to enhance your leadership capacity.
  • Overcome impostor syndrome and re frame self-doubt.
  • Speak and act with greater confidence and assertiveness.
  • Build resilience and recover from setbacks effectively.
Presenter:
Ragan Snead, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System, has 12 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has experience in management, community outreach, and strategic planning. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
 

 

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

Location: At Various Libraries and Online


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.


Time Management Yours and Theirs
5/7/2025

This webinar is part of the 2025 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 13 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on as the chair of ALA’s Committee on Organization, is a member of PLA’s Continuing Education Advisory Group and is on the OLC Board of Directors. 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





Google Forms: Gather all the Things for Action
5/13/2025

Are you already using Google for email, calendar and shared document functions? Use it to handle purchase requests, suggestions for management, track professional development, and log technology and customer service issues. Create forms on the fly to share and communicate, and improve processes and outcomes.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify Google tools that can help with library workflow
  • Hear about examples of how the tools have been used effectively
  • Be able to apply the tools for your own needs
Presenter:

Gerry Vogel is assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library and a NEO-RLS trustee. Likes football, forms and spreadsheets are his life.
Location: Online via Zoom





Google Forms: Gather all the Things for Action
5/13/2025

Recorded 5/13/25

Are you already using Google for email, calendar and shared document functions? Use it to handle purchase requests, suggestions for management, track professional development, and log technology and customer service issues. Create forms on the fly to share and communicate, and improve processes and outcomes.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify Google tools that can help with library workflow
  • Hear about examples of how the tools have been used effectively
  • Be able to apply the tools for your own needs
Presenter:

Gerry Vogel is assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library and a NEO-RLS trustee. Likes football, forms and spreadsheets are his life.
Location: Online via Zoom





Construction and Facilities Networking Meeting
5/29/2025

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





Human Resource/Fiscal Officer Networking Meeting-Via Zoom
6/11/2025

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 will be announced.
Location: Online via Zoom





Special Libraries Network Meeting
6/11/2025

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 Melissa Lattanzi
Location: Online via Zoom





Quiet Leadership 2.0: Distinguish your leadership capabilities, build confidence, and pathways to find support as a quiet leader
6/18/2025

Quiet leadership challenges the extroverted norms and expectations. As an extension of the popular webinar Quiet Leadership, Quiet leadership 2.0 takes it a step further by discussing healthy and successful working environments for the quiet leader. Participants will be challenged to build their leadership skills and aspirations to further inhibit leadership confidence. This webinar will focus on implementing leadership models according to type and is ideal for the emerging or intermediate leader.

Learning Objectives:
  • Apply introvert types such as social, thinking, anxious, and restrained
  • Acquire pathways of support via mentorship and partnership
  • Advance your skill in implementing leadership models
  • Increase your quiet leadership strengths by identifying and applying growth areas
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





Quiet Leadership 2.0: Distinguish your leadership capabilities, build confidence, and pathways to find support as a quiet leader
6/18/2025

Recorded 6/18/25

Quiet leadership challenges the extroverted norms and expectations. As an extension of the popular webinar Quiet Leadership, Quiet leadership 2.0 takes it a step further by discussing healthy and successful working environments for the quiet leader. Participants will be challenged to build their leadership skills and aspirations to further inhibit leadership confidence. This webinar will focus on implementing leadership models according to type and is ideal for the emerging or intermediate leader.

Learning Objectives:
  • Apply introvert types such as social, thinking, anxious, and restrained
  • Acquire pathways of support via mentorship and partnership
  • Advance your skill in implementing leadership models
  • Increase your quiet leadership strengths by identifying and applying growth areas
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!
7/16/2025

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!
7/16/2025

Recorded 7/16/25

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





Lead with Clarity: Intentional Communication for Library Supervisors
9/10/2025

Supervisors and leaders set the tone for communication in the workplace. This webinar focuses on strengthening leadership communication through intentional dialogue, supportive feedback, and responsive listening. You will learn how to reduce communication apprehension (for you and your staff), navigate challenging conversations with empathy and clarity, and foster a culture of open, respectful feedback.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize and address communication apprehension to foster a more open communication environment.
  • Use intentional communication techniques to give developmental and appreciative feedback effectively.
  • Model and promote active listening to support staff engagement and conflict management.
Presenter:

Dr. Stevie M. Munz is an award-winning teacher and researcher with 13+ years of experience in the communication field. She has led hundreds of discussion forums, presentations, trainings, and workshops. As a published author, her work appears in numerous peer-reviewed publications and popular press outlets.

As a communication expert, she is passionate about developing your communication power skills. From public speaking to relationship communication, conflict, group communication, and so much more—Dr. Munz supports you in transforming your personal and professional communication life!

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Lead with Clarity: Intentional Communication for Library Supervisors
9/10/2025

Recorded 9/10/25

Supervisors and leaders set the tone for communication in the workplace. This webinar focuses on strengthening leadership communication through intentional dialogue, supportive feedback, and responsive listening. You will learn how to reduce communication apprehension (for you and your staff), navigate challenging conversations with empathy and clarity, and foster a culture of open, respectful feedback.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize and address communication apprehension to foster a more open communication environment.
  • Use intentional communication techniques to give developmental and appreciative feedback effectively.
  • Model and promote active listening to support staff engagement and conflict management.
Presenter:

Dr. Stevie M. Munz is an award-winning teacher and researcher with 13+ years of experience in the communication field. She has led hundreds of discussion forums, presentations, trainings, and workshops. As a published author, her work appears in numerous peer-reviewed publications and popular press outlets.

As a communication expert, she is passionate about developing your communication power skills. From public speaking to relationship communication, conflict, group communication, and so much more—Dr. Munz supports you in transforming your personal and professional communication life!

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Human Resource/Fiscal Officer Active Learning Community Meeting
9/12/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

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 Yvette Wasko.


Location: Online via Zoom





Public Relations and Marketing Active Learning Community Meeting
9/25/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

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 Jill Grunenwald.


Location: Online via Zoom





Directors/Deputy Directors Active Learning Community Meeting
10/8/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

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





Construction and Facilities Active Learning Community Meeting
10/30/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

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





You're Not Alone: The Power of Peer Support in Management
12/4/2025

Becoming a manager is a significant step, bringing exciting new challenges and shifts in how you approach your work yet, it often comes with a surprising sense of isolation. The familiar camaraderie with coworkers fades, leaving you feeling alone when navigating tough decisions or problem-solving. This feeling is especially true for middle managers, who often find themselves caught balancing the needs of front-line staff with the directives of administration. In this interactive workshop, we'll dive into the key issues faced by managers, particularly those in middle management, and explore practical strategies for building stronger peer support. You'll leave the workshop with a clear understanding of the mutual respect, open communication, and shared sense of purpose needed for robust peer relationships. You'll also be equipped with actionable strategies to cultivate an environment where you and other managers can freely share experiences, learn from one another, and collaboratively find solutions that benefit everyone.

Learning Objectives:
  • Have a  clear understanding of the mutual respect, open communication, and shared sense of purpose 
  • Cultivate an environment of sharing, learning, and collaborating

Presenter:
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 seven 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
Location: Online via Zoom





You're Not Alone: The Power of Peer Support in Management
12/4/2025

Recorded 12/4/25

Becoming a manager is a significant step, bringing exciting new challenges and shifts in how you approach your work yet, it often comes with a surprising sense of isolation. The familiar camaraderie with coworkers fades, leaving you feeling alone when navigating tough decisions or problem-solving. This feeling is especially true for middle managers, who often find themselves caught balancing the needs of front-line staff with the directives of administration. In this interactive workshop, we'll dive into the key issues faced by managers, particularly those in middle management, and explore practical strategies for building stronger peer support. You'll leave the workshop with a clear understanding of the mutual respect, open communication, and shared sense of purpose needed for robust peer relationships. You'll also be equipped with actionable strategies to cultivate an environment where you and other managers can freely share experiences, learn from one another, and collaboratively find solutions that benefit everyone.

Learning Objectives:
  • Have a  clear understanding of the mutual respect, open communication, and shared sense of purpose 
  • Cultivate an environment of sharing, learning, and collaborating

Presenter:
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 seven 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
Location: Online via Zoom





HR and Legal Update: Recent Changes in the Law and Trends Impacting Public Libraries
1/7/2026

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.

Presenter:

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
1/7/2026

Recorded 1/7/26

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.

Presenter:

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





Don't just shake it off: using debriefing tools to support front-line library staff
1/15/2026

Recorded: 1/15/26

As public libraries across North America experience increasing complex social issues, front line staff are confronted with challenging situations on a daily basis and it is no longer enough to expect them to simply “shake it off”. Systematic supports such as Employee Family Assistance Providers and employee wellness programs can help with ongoing concerns, but immediate support is crucial and can be harder to access or provide.

After identifying the need for timely and flexible intervention, Calgary Public Library explored the process of debriefing and through small pilots and peer training, established a process that can be used by all library workers to walk each other through the immediate impact of any incident.

We will share our insight into the benefits of debriefing, steps in developing debriefing plans that fit a variety of public service contexts, tips on training staff to use this process effectively, and observations of how debriefing supports overall organizational resiliency.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the de-briefing process, what it can (and can’t) accomplish, when it can be utilized, and how it can benefit front-line library staff, library leadership, and library patrons
  • Explore ways to leverage partnerships and community resources to create tools to support library staff
  • Provide a replicable framework for other library systems providing service to the public to implement debriefing processes for their staff in a way that works in their context.
Presenter:

Becky Potter is a Library Experience Supervisor at Central Library at Calgary Public Library. Her role focuses on supporting staff with safety and security, community partnerships and library services for vulnerable Calgarians. Previous roles at Calgary Public Library include Adult Literacy and Learning Advocate focusing on community partnerships and community outreach and Program Coordinator delivering programs to community partners serving the vulnerable sector. Becky has worked on community Initiatives including, Financial Futures Collaborative (FFC), Calgary Poverty Reduction Initiative (CPRI) and the Safe Communities Opportunity Resource Center (SCORCe). 

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Don’t just shake it off: using debriefing tools to support front-line library staff
1/15/2026

As public libraries across North America experience increasing complex social issues, front line staff are confronted with challenging situations on a daily basis and it is no longer enough to expect them to simply “shake it off”. Systematic supports such as Employee Family Assistance Providers and employee wellness programs can help with ongoing concerns, but immediate support is crucial and can be harder to access or provide.

After identifying the need for timely and flexible intervention, Calgary Public Library explored the process of debriefing and through small pilots and peer training, established a process that can be used by all library workers to walk each other through the immediate impact of any incident.

We will share our insight into the benefits of debriefing, steps in developing debriefing plans that fit a variety of public service contexts, tips on training staff to use this process effectively, and observations of how debriefing supports overall organizational resiliency.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the de-briefing process, what it can (and can’t) accomplish, when it can be utilized, and how it can benefit front-line library staff, library leadership, and library patrons
  • Explore ways to leverage partnerships and community resources to create tools to support library staff
  • Provide a replicable framework for other library systems providing service to the public to implement debriefing processes for their staff in a way that works in their context.
Presenter:

Becky Potter is a Library Experience Supervisor at Central Library at Calgary Public Library. Her role focuses on supporting staff with safety and security, community partnerships and library services for vulnerable Calgarians. Previous roles at Calgary Public Library include Adult Literacy and Learning Advocate focusing on community partnerships and community outreach and Program Coordinator delivering programs to community partners serving the vulnerable sector. Becky has worked on community Initiatives including, Financial Futures Collaborative (FFC), Calgary Poverty Reduction Initiative (CPRI) and the Safe Communities Opportunity Resource Center (SCORCe). 

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Directors/Deputy Directors Active Learning Community Meeting
2/4/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. 

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 Ragan Snead.


Location: Online
Via Zoom





Leading from the Middle: Managing Up and Down Simultaneously
2/11/2026

This is part of the 2025-2026 Leadership Academy.

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

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

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead worked in libraries for nearly a decade and now consults and trains librarians. She regularly researches and writes for librarians, educators and parents. Carrie is the author of four books: Teen Fandom and Geek Programming (2018), Digital Citizenship: Teaching and Practice from the Field (2019), Serving Teens and Adults on the Autism Spectrum: A Guide for Libraries (2020), and Becoming a Digital Parent: A Practical Guide to Help Families Navigate Technology (2021). She 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. Carrie is a sought after trainer, former TEDx speaker, adjunct instructor and loves to teach others. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Human Resource/Fiscal Officer Active Learning Community Meeting
2/13/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. 

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 Yvette Wasko.


Location: Online via Zoom





Public Relations and Marketing Active Learning Community Meeting
2/18/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. 

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 Jill Grunenwald.


Location: Online via Zoom





New Supervisors' Academy
2/25/2026

The 2026 NEO-RLS New Supervisors' Academy is looking for new attendees.
Becoming a supervisor adds new and different challenges to your workday, regardless of the type or size of library you work in. The Academy's courses will provide you with the skills and confidence you need to handle the many and varied challenges of being a supervisor. Programs will focus on three key areas: leadership, communication, and staff development. The Academy is appropriate for new supervisors in multi-type libraries and for those who want a refresher.

A review of the past two years of surveys has shown that attendees find the most value in attending in-person workshops. Therefore, we have transitioned this year’s academy to an all in-person format.
  • ​The Academy runs from February through September and consists of 7 in-person workshops.  
  • We recommend that you attend the Academy in its entirety in order to maximize your learning.
Past participants had this to say:

"It was fantastic. As a very new supervisor, being in a room with so many different people was so helpful and informative. Each session was very informative and helpful, and I am very glad I got to attend."

"I thought it was a great academy. Having been a supervisor, for many years in different fields, I was uncertain that I would learn new skills. I was pleasantly surprised that I did take away new, valuable tips, tricks and strategies.​"

Session 1
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am -  3:30 pm

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

The panel will consist of:
Cheryl Grizzell, Director Ritter Public Library
Eric Linderman, Director, Willoughby Eastlake Public Library
Scott Trimmer, Director, Learning Commons, Cuyahoga Community College, Eastern Campus
Andrea Legg, Director, North Canton Public Library

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

Presenter:
Holly Klingler, an MBTI Certified Practitioner and Facilitator, has over 16 years of experience empowering professionals across various fields to enhance their careers and personal growth. Specializing in MBTI-based approaches, she helps individuals maximize their communication, creativity, and critical thinking skills. With 12 years dedicated to training library staff and communities, Holly offers personalized insights that help professionals showcase their strengths and grow their confidence.




Session 2
Tuesday, March 24, 2026 - Cuyahoga Falls Library
 9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Leading with Assurance: Decision-Making and Effective Supervision 
This workshop is designed for library supervisors seeking to enhance their leadership skills, focusing on confident decision-making and effective supervision strategies. Participants will engage in interactive discussions, real-life scenarios, and collaborative activities to strengthen their ability to navigate challenges, set strategic goals, and cultivate accountability within their teams. 

Learning Objectives: 
  • Gain the confidence needed to lead proactively and make informed decisions. 
  • Analyze potential scenarios, responses, and outcomes encountered in a supervisory role. 
  • Participate in group activities and engage with peers to collaboratively explore and share insights, offer mutual support, and exchange best practices. 
Presenter:
Ragan Snead, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System, has over 15 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has experience in management, community outreach, and strategic planning. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
 



Session 3
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 - Brooklyn Branch, Cuyahoga County Public Library
9:30 am - 3:30 pm

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

Presenter:
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library







Afternoon Session-Servant Leadership: A Service First Approach to Supervising & Developing People
Whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned pro, this session will take a deep dive into leading through the lens of service. Learn tips on finding and growing talent, creating a sense of ownership, and building an engaged, effective team full of people who love their jobs. Many of the customer service skills you already know will help you to be a manager you’d love to have. Learn how great service will help you manage conflict resolution, high emotions, and course corrections while still building a culture of empowerment and belonging.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to translate customer service skills to leadership success.
  • Learn the nuts and bolts of navigating high emotions and difficult employees with a positive over punitive approach
  • Develop strategies to identify, develop, and empower employees to contribute to an outstanding culture 
​Presenter:
Ben Heckman, Director, Bexley Public Library
Ben Heckman has loved books, conversation, and people since he can remember. So, it is no surprise that after obtaining his undergraduate degree, his career first took him into teaching and then on to management at Starbucks Coffee Company. Eventually, his passion for learning and his curious nature led him into the library world. In 2014, he earned his Master’s in Library Science. He began his library career at Bexley Public Library at the circulation desk, moving on to managing public services, and then served as Assistant Library Director before becoming the Library’s tenth director in 2017. Having the opportunity to work every day with the incredible staff at Bexley Public Library is one of his greatest joys.


Session 4
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 - Bainbridge Branch, Geauga County Public Library
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
HR Stuff Every New Supervisor Should Know: Having a Solid Legal Foundation

Learning Objectives:
  • Understanding the relevant legal landscape as related to leading and supervising employees;
  • Recognizing inappropriate workplace behavior (e.g., misconduct, job performance deficiencies, harassment, tardiness and attendance);
  • Knowing how to respond lawfully and effectively to inappropriate behaviors in the workplace
  • Development of effective leadership and employee relations skills, particularly for new supervisors and those who have been promoted from within;
  • Considering effective performance management and corrective action techniques.
  • Developing effective documentation
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, 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.
 
Amanda is now an Ohio State Bar Association-certified specialist in labor and employment law. She represents both public and private employers in many types of labor and employment matters, including with labor negotiations and arbitration as well as charges before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission and other state fair employment practice agencies. She also counsels employers on litigation and alternative dispute resolution matters, as well as wage/hour compliance, performance and leave management, discipline, and workplace policies. Amanda firmly believes in the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I). In furtherance of her commitment to advancing DE&I initiatives both at K|W|W and beyond, Amanda completed the National DiversityFirst certification program to become a National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional and regularly counsels employers on DE&I-related matters.
 
Amanda is a native of Falconer, N.Y., near Chautauqua Lake. She and her spouse, Brian, are enjoying a joyfully chaotic time of life raising two young boys. Amanda is also involved in her community. She serves as a board member for the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and the Fairlawn Area Chamber of Commerce and as Chairperson of the Labor and Employment Law Section of the Akron Bar Association.

Session 5
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 - Twinsburg Public Library
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Evaluations and Executive Presence

Morning Session:  Planning, Writing and Conducting Meaningful Evaluations
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Why evaluations are still important, for both the employer and the employee
  • The different types of evaluations
  • How to set the proper tone for an evaluation meeting
  • Dos and don’ts for the evaluation process
  • The importance of follow-up after the evaluation is complete
Presenter:
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 13 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on as the chair of ALA’s Committee on Organization, is a member of PLA’s Continuing Education Advisory Group and is on the OLC Board of Directors. 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.

Afternoon Session:  Executive Presence: Influence Through Relationships & Networking

Executive presence is more than polish—it is the ability to connect, communicate, and influence in a way that earns trust and inspires confidence. In this one-hour program, participants will explore the most practical and impactful elements of executive presence: building meaningful relationships, strengthening networks, and influencing others through credibility, clarity, and connection. While the full model of the Five Categories and Sixteen Behaviors will be introduced as a brief framework, the primary focus will be on interpersonal influence—the behaviors that determine how others experience you and how effectively you move ideas forward.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the Five Categories of Executive Presence as a high-level framework
• Strengthen key relationship-building behaviors that drive influence
• Expand their internal and external networks with purpose and confidence
• Communicate in ways that increase credibility, connection, and followership
• Demonstrate presence through listening, curiosity, and collaborative dialogue
• Apply practical influence skills—even without formal authority

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


Session 6
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 - Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
Performance Improvement Discussions
9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Whether you want a refresher of the basics or are looking for new and different ways to manage and lead others in your organization, this interactive one-day workshop helps supervisors to grow their management and leadership skills fast.

Get the “Knowledge Before the Need” by learning ways to help you better manage yourself and others. You will leave this workshop with techniques and phraseology that you’ll begin using the very next day at work! Whether you have been managing others for 10 years or 10 days, you’ll benefit from attending these sessions!
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Communicating more effectively with employees who see things differently than you do
  • Working with employee attendance, behavior and performance issues
  • Giving constructive feedback to employees positively and confidently
  • Delegation and other tools to more effectively managing yourself and your time
Presenter: 
Andrew Sanderbeck is a respected expert presenter and consultant for libraries and library organizations on critical people skills including managing others, communication more effectively and improving customer service and the customer experience. He has worked with public and academic libraries for more than 20 years. He champions Meliorism (mēl′yə-rĭz″əm), the belief that we can contribute to positive change and improve the world through acts of love, creativity, compassion, and kindness. He now resides in Wadsworth, Ohio with his wife, Michelle, and enjoys visiting his grandchildren in Pennsylvania.
 



Final Session
Thursday, September 17, 2026 - Location TBD
9:30 am -3:30 pm

Morning Session-Boosting Leadership Self-Confidence
As leaders, we often prioritize supporting others over our own well-being, but neglecting self-care can harm both us and our teams. Recognizing and prioritizing self-care is essential for effective leadership. At the same time, many leaders grapple with impostor syndrome and self-doubt, which can lead to stress, perfectionism, and hesitation. This workshop will guide you in recognizing and re framing these thoughts while equipping you with actionable strategies to build confidence and resilience.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Prioritize self-care to enhance your leadership capacity.
  • Overcome impostor syndrome and re frame self-doubt.
  • Speak and act with greater confidence and assertiveness.
  • Build resilience and recover from setbacks effectively.
Presenter:
Ragan Snead, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System, has 12 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has experience in management, community outreach, and strategic planning. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
 

 

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

Location: At Various Libraries and Online





Middle Management Active Learning Community Meeting
3/5/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. 

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 Ragan Snead.


Location: Online
Via Zoom