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Broken Image Critical Conversations Conference: Mental Health Awareness: Libraries Create Safe Zones for Customers and Staff
4/4/2019

“Mental Health Awareness:  Libraries Create Safe Zones for Customers and Staff” is the theme for the 2019 Critical Conversations Conference.  Speakers will focus on providing library staff with an overview of mental health issues and the implications for library service and themselves. 

The morning will be kicked off by NAMI:

Understanding Mental Illness

This program will discuss the basic facts, myths and crisis handling tips for those dealing with customers with mental health issues. 

Learning Objectives:
  • What is Mental Illness and What are the different Diagnoses
  • Two Common Reactions to Mental Illness
  • Communication Skills
  • Help and Resources
Presenters: Terri Miller is a facilitator and Trainer for the following NAMI Signature programs; Family-to-Family Education, Family Support Group, and Ending the Silence Programs.  Terri is also a Facilitator for Mental Health First Aid and is involved with NAMIGC’s Faith-Based Outreach. Terri oversees NAMIGC’s 24 diverse support groups and 15 family and peer education programs, including administrative functions as well as recruitment and training of volunteer leaders and course instructors.
Kari Kepic provides assistance to individuals who contact the Helpline at NAMI Greater Cleveland. Kari served as a NAMI volunteer for six years with training as a facilitator for several NAMI signature support and education programs before joining the staff in 2008. As a NAMI volunteer, she taught numerous sessions of the Family to Family course for family members, as well as numerous sessions of the Hand to Hand and NAMI Basics courses for parents of young children. Kari is presently a State Trainer for the NAMI Family to Family course and also a State Trainer for The Family Support Group Model. Being trained as a Mental Health First Aid facilitator is one of the most current initiatives in spreading mental health awareness.

The next session is titled, Perspective and Insights for Library Staff Dealing with Mental Illness in their Facilities.  Joe Miesner, Librarian IV, Access Services, Central Library @ Joan A. Irwin Jacobs Common, San Diego Public Library will discuss an overview of San Diego Public Library’s efforts related to mental health, best practices for dealing with patrons suffering from mental illness and a conversation about the changing nature of public service.

Presenter:  Joe Miesner is the Access Services Librarian at San Diego Public Library’s Central Library. He has 27 years of experience in library service. Joe has worked in all 36 libraries in the City of San Diego’s diverse system. He is a certified Mental Health First Aid Trainer and has received Mental Health/PERT Training through the Psychiatric Emergency Response Team, who work with San Diego law enforcement agencies. Joe has extensive experience with customer service and conflict resolution. He has a BA in Philosophy from San Diego State University, a MLIS from San Jose State University, and a Black Belt in Kenpo Karate.

There will then be an opportunity to attend one of the following breakout sessions:

No Teen Left Behind: A Teen Mental Health Initiative

The Pasadena Public Library Teen Mental Initiative sprang from the passion of the Pasadena Public Library Teen Advisory Board to better serve teens suffering from mental illness. From inception to implementation, the Pasadena Public Library Teen Advisory Board co-created and co-lead this initiative with library staff to create and sustain a mental health resource center and programs to advocate for this often marginalized groups of teens. This presentation will provide attendees a complete plan and insight on how libraries can engage their youth, build new partnerships, and engage other community partners to help all teens build a better future together.

Presenters: Deborah Niblik is a librarian for the Pasadena Public Library located in Pasadena, California. Deborah received her BA in English Education from Cal Poly Pomona and MLIS from San Jose State University. In 2008, she received the Spectrum Scholarship and also received the Edna Yelland Scholarship from CLA in 2010. As a teen advocate, and mentor, Deborah strives to provide teens with the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. She is dedicated to destigmatizing mental illness through education, compassion, supporting library staff, and helping those who need it the most.

Jane Gov is a Youth Services Librarian at Pasadena Public Library where she designs and implements youth programs, events, and services, purchases YA books for the system, and oversees the teen volunteer program. She is a YALSA Board member and the Convener for the YALSA Los Angeles Area Interest Group. She tweets as @MissJaneGov.

Dementia-Friendly Library

There will be a brief overview of the behaviors one might see when working with a person with dementia and then information addressing the abilities of people with dementia, and how and why they are not the same as they used to be. It is important to understand what we can do when making recommendations for materials and activities.  There will also be a discussion about programs and services that a library might provide to its population with dementia and their care providers.

Presenters:  John Schmid has an undergraduate degree in Psychology, a master’s degree in education, and a master’s in business administration. In addition, he has various certifications in web design and dementia. All of this various training has served him better for this latest endeavor than he would have predicted. So much of his time in the last 10 years has been devoted to researching the field of dementia in order to pass information to readers in a more concise form. The research he did as an undergraduate gave him the tools to do this, and his training and experience as a teacher helped him to understand how to match activity and ability.

Holly Schmid also has a background in education and psychology, and a refined intuitive sense for communicating and caring for people who have dementia. This sense became clear when she stepped into the role of primary carer for her friend and teacher, Bernice, when Bernice began presenting with symptoms of dementia. Bernice was eventually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and Holly and John cared for her until her death several years ago. It was this experience that led them to what they are doing now.

Where to turn; Whom to Call

Dealing with customers whose needs extend beyond those offered by the library can be distressing. You want to help, but you’re not sure what kind of help may be needed or where to find it. This session will discuss a variety of local and national services available in your community and throughout the state.

Presenter:  Terry Carter, I&R Coordinator, First Call 211, Mansfield/Richland County Public Library
Terry earned her MLIS degree from Kent State University in 2006 focusing her studies on Community Information & Referral Services. She administers the Richland County 2-1-1 service, operated as a department within the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library. As a professional member of the national Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS) organization, she holds certifications in both I&R service delivery and in I&R database management.

The day will conclude with two staff-focused sessions.

Removing Fear and Anxiety after a Conflict

Responding to upset individuals in a professional setting can be significantly stressful. Recognizing how conflict can increase fear and anxiety is an important key to decrease anxiety associated with the work that you do.

Goal: Learn new skills to cope with fear and anxiety associated with customers who have challenging behaviors.

Learning Objectives:
  • Increase knowledge of conflict resolution
  • Increase self-awareness of how challenging emotions from others impacts us personally
  • Increase skills to use to respond to challenging behaviors in order to decrease our own fears and anxiety related to the job
Compassion Fatigue – “When Our Empathy Makes Us Vulnerable”

Compassion Fatigue in the library field and any helping field can be one of prevalence and dismay. Those of us who have been lucky enough to have true empathy within us are at risk of exhaustion purely because of our kindness and caring for others. This dynamic may seem unfair and unfortunately it is a dynamic that often drives well-meaning individuals out of the helping field, sometimes never to return.

The good news is that talking about Compassion Fatigue is the best way to decrease or even eliminate it! Talking about that which makes us vulnerable provides us with self-awareness and may even strengthens our abilities to continue to give good care to those in need! Let’s spend some time discussing this important topic as a gift to ourselves!

Goal: Increase understanding of the causes of Compassion Fatigue and Burn Out, ways to identify and decrease it and opportunities to learn and grow through the process.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn the definition of Compassion Fatigue, its causes and ways to prevent it and heal from it
  • Identify the symptoms of Compassion Fatigue and gain self-awareness of how we are impacted
  • Come prepared to discuss the “Spirit” of your work and the importance of taking care of ourselves in order keep the "Spirit" and continue good work
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.

Resource tables from county Mental Health Services will be available during the lunch break.
 
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.



Broken Image Critical Conversations: Building Empathy to Build Community
4/2/2020

This year's Critical Conversations:  Building Empathy to Build Community will impact you and increase your understanding of why empathy is so important in building community.  Empathy is a foundational concept in diversity, equity and inclusion awareness and can lead to more effective community connections.  As such, it is critical to all aspects of service from collection development to programming to marketing to customer service. 

We will start the day with Holly Bognar, introducing us to the main concepts of emotional intelligence – self-awareness, self-management, social awareness (empathy) and relationship awareness.  Tamara King, Community Relations Director, Richland Library, Columbia, SC and a 2019 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, will follow and will highlight Richland’s “My Life Experience” mobile empathy lab, the first of its kind in U.S. public libraries. 

Breakout sessions will feature Carol Jackson, Branch Manager/Adult Programming Coordinator, Ramsey County Library (MN) and a 2019 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, talking about their collaborative community series, “Ask,” a bi-monthly discussion giving voice to the community’s underrepresented residents.  Helena Richardson from Ashtabula County District Library will walk us through their successful Human Library events.  Carrie Girton from Miami University will talk about empathetic marketing to reach students and ease library anxiety and Toby Greenwalt from Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh will speak about digital empathy.  Tamara King will also conduct a breakout around her library’s experiences in developing the series, “Courageous Conversations,” and their use of VR technology in empathy exercises.  An additional breakout session will focus on utilizing the Great Stories Club, “Empathy: The Cost of Switching Sides,” information to talk about empathy with youth.  The day will end with an interactive wrap-up exercise led by Tamara King

Introduction to Emotional Intelligence
Research conducted across private, public, and nonprofit organizations has consistently shown that emotional intelligence (EI) is a strong predictor of success within work teams and when interacting with patrons and stakeholders. Emotional intelligence is defined as the capacity for recognizing our own feelings and those of others, for motivating ourselves, and for managing emotions effectively in ourselves and others. In this interactive workshop, participants will gain an introductory understanding of link between neurophysiology and emotional intelligence along with the EI Model and Competency Framework.

Learning Objectives:
  • You will identify the link between brain chemistry and their emotional responses
  • You will complete an emotional intelligence self-assessment
  • You will learn the emotional intelligence model and competency framework
Presenter:  Holly Bognar, Ph.D. 
Holly has been training, consulting, and coaching leadership, team building, organizational development, and strategic planning with businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and public agencies for over ten years.  She has designed, facilitated, and written training curriculum for professional development seminars, board and staff retreats, and skill-building workshops on topics such as leadership, emotional intelligence, high performance teams, personality and temperament, communication skills, and strategic planning, to name a few.
In addition to her academic background, Dr. Bognar holds certifications in Emotional Intelligence from the Hay Group and Korn Ferry, Crucial Conversations, Crucial Confrontations, and Influencer from VitalSmarts, MBTI, DiSC, Leadership and Team Architect from Lominger, and is a Registered Yoga Teacher.  

More details coming soon.

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

There are currently 51 spots remaining out of 100





Intellectual Freedom . . . The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly
1/1/2016

This short interactive session will provide an overview of intellectual freedom, the many issues it presents for library staff, and how you can prepare for materials challenges.  Bring your questions and IF stories to share.

Learning Objectives:
  • Why is "equal access" a cornerstone of public library service?

  • How can you reconcile conflicts between library policies and procedures and personal beliefs?

  • What training should all library employees have in the area of intellectual freedom?

Presenter:  Amy Switzer

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






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

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

Presenter:

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

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






Mastering Uncomfortable Conversations with Library Visitors
1/1/2016

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

Presenter:

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

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






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

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

  • Ways to exude confidence.

  • What NOT to do in certain situations.

Presenter: Holly Klingler

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






Working as a Team: Where do I Fit
1/1/2016 - 11/30/1999

  • ​Who are you on the team?
  • How do you work as a team player?

  • How do you encourage others to work together?

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.






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

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

Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect






The Library as Cause: Lessons from Winning Campaigns
8/30/2017

Successful political candidates know that the right way to connect with their voters starts by sharing their vision for the community they serve. For library funding - either at the ballot box or through donor support - your library strategic or facilities plan is where your vision and hope reside. In this session, learn how to create a 'fundable plan' using the tools of winning political campaigns to frame the community conversation. Join EveryLibrary's executive director John Chrastka for a practical session that will help you deploy effective communications - both positive and opposition messaging - and provide you with useful take-home exercises for staff and boards.

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. Prior to his work at AssociaDirect, he was Director for Membership Development at the American Library Association.

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 You Know More, You'll Find More: A Cataloger's Tips on Getting the Most from Your Catalog
10/17/2017

“Why can’t I find it?” “Don’t we have anything on this?” If you’ve ever been frustrated by searching your library’s catalog, this is the program you need to learn more about how to search effectively. Let a cataloger with experience in public and academic libraries demystify stopwords, operators, browsing versus keyword searches, subject heading subdivisions and more. Learn how to make the most of the treasure hoard of data in your library’s catalog!

Presenter:  Mike Monaco is Coordinator, Cataloging Services at the University of Akron. He has sixteen years of experience as a librarian, having worked for Akron-Summit County Public Library, John Carrol University, and Cleveland Public Library. He has given presentations on technical services topics for professional organizations including the OLC, NOTSL, and OVGTSL, and is currently chair of the NOTSL Board

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






Everyday Disability: Welcoming Patrons with Disabilities
2/28/2018

People with disabilities, be it physical, mental, or medical, are among the most disadvantaged in our society. According to the US Department of Labor, only 16% of people with disabilities will complete a Bachelor’s and less than 50% will find gainful employment.
This session will offer actionable strategies for welcoming patrons and staff with disabilities into your libraries. A brief presentation will be followed by case studies with a focus on group brainstorming and a time for questions and discussion.

Presenter:  Vera Hayes, Young Adult Librarian who you may recognize as the "Librarian from Kansas" who recently illustrated the cost of multiple chronic health conditions measured in iPhones.  The article was turned into a facebook video, which has been viewed over 170K times. Vera presented on disability at both ALA and the YALSA Symposium.

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






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

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

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

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

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

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






Time Management for All
4/17/2018

This faced paced webinar will lead you through how to plan, prioritize and schedule for a highly effective day.  Come with your issues and concerns as there will be time for specific questions and concerns.  Don’t miss out on this interactive, informative session with handouts and lots of tips and tricks to reduce your stress and get more done.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how planning upfront can save you time in the long run.

  • Understand three different prioritizing methods and which one works best for you.

  • Recognize how blocking your time for important tasks can help you get more accomplished.

Presenter:  Susan Aldrich has spent years motivating and inspiring audiences to step out of their comfort zone in order to reach their full potential individually or as part of a team. With more than 25 years of experience, she is now seen as the go-to motivational speaker and trainer for corporations interested in investing in their high potential employees with a proven program that guides emerging leaders and employees on a journey to success.

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 Welcoming Library: A Multi-sensory Approach
5/1/2018

You want your library to welcoming.  It is more than just customer service.  You want to surprise and delight your patrons to keep them coming back.

By attending this engaging webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Explore all five senses and discover how to best use each in delivering a welcoming library experience for our patrons

  • Identify your strengths in addressing the needs of all types of patrons

  • Ponder the talents of your team at your branch


Presenter: Andrea Eagan, Youth Services Assistant, Geauga County Public Library
Involved in library work for 17 years, Andrea Egan, a graduate of Cleveland State University, wife of Paul, and mom to adult sons, Joe and Josh, has been a life-long lover of people and has found all kinds of ways to make them the focus of her job! From fast food to banking and from retail to teaching, and even marketing pet food, Andrea has been working with and for people for 35 years, and plans to continue serving patrons of all ages for as long as she is able. She looks forward to sharing experience and a fresh perspective on welcoming patrons in your libraries.

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






Levy Webinar for All
8/23/2018

Do you wonder what's involved with a levy campaign?  Want to know what you can and cannot do as a staff member to support your library's levy?  Are you concerned you will say or do something incorrect? 

In this webinar you will:
  • Learn the basics about levy campaigns (PACs, fundraising, what your director does etc)

  • Learn simple things you can do to help your library's levy succeed

  • Bring your questions and concerns! 

This program is for everyone who works in a public library and wants to learn more about levy campaigns.

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.
 






Communication Is a Two-way Street When It Comes to Change
9/6/2018

When you think about change, are you excited about embarking on a new adventure or are you dreading the unknown?  For most people, acceptance of change is often dependent upon what the proposed change is, whether or not they had input to the change and how easily they can visualize the change occurring,

This program approaches the subject of change from the perspective of both the change influencer and the persons being persuaded to change.  Concepts to be covered include:
  • Techniques for influencing the acceptance of change
  • Identifying “change agents” and their role in communicating the change
  • Strategies for overcoming resistance to change
  • How to accept an unwelcome change
  • How to question the change without seeming to be overly negative
  • How to respond if you want to suggest “changing the change”
Presenter:  Deborah A. Easton, Communication Skills Consultant
Deborah Easton provides audiences with practical advice for utilizing effective communication skills. Her techniques for one-to-one interactions and group communications provide positive results. She has conducted training for organizations such as First Energy, Hyland Software and Summa Health System. Easton has been instrumental in numerous special projects, including developing performance evaluation systems and facilitating cultural change. She earned a master’s degree in speech communication and taught communication courses in Kent State University’s Department of Communication Studies and Graduate School of Management.

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

There are currently 9 spots remaining out of 40





Brainstorming and Innovation
10/23/2018

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: Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
3512 Darrow Rd
Stow, OH 44224

There are currently 23 spots remaining out of 30





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

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

Learning objectives:
  • How to effectively welcome the ELL community into the Library using best practices in outreach
  • How to engage ELL patrons with staff encounters, signage, relevant programming, collections and volunteerism
  • Learn about grant funding and potential community partnerships
Presenter:

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

 






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

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

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

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

  • Learn about grant funding and potential community partnerships

Presenter:

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

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






Navigating Ohio's Library Organizations
12/5/2018

Whether you're new to libraries or a more experienced member of library land, you probably noticed that Ohio has a lot of library organizations! It can be confusing to navigate these organizations, determine what services they offer, and decide how to get involved with them. (Deciphering the acronym soup can be tough too!) This webinar, co-hosted by NEO-RLS and the New-to-Libraries Network, will provide an overview of the many Ohio library organizations and help you determine how to make the most of these important groups.

Presenters:  New to Libraries Network

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 Trafficking 101
3/6/2019

In Ohio:
An estimated 1,078 American-born minors are  trafficked annually. Nearly 3,000 American-born minors are at risk for being trafficked.  By coming to this webinar you will have a better understanding of what human trafficking us and if it is going on in your library.


Learning Objectives:
  • List the risk factors for becoming a victim of human trafficking

  • Understand the role of the National Human Trafficking Resource Center in assisting victims

  • Identify the red flags (indicators) when a person is being trafficked

  • Gain an understanding of the research methodology and study results that shows the prevalence of human trafficking in NE Ohio.

Presenter:

Jan Apisa joined the Victim Assistance program as a Human Trafficking Public Education Specialist. Under an Office of Criminal Justice Services grant, she coordinated a 3-month collaborative quantitative Backpage research project of local human trafficking. She has been an active member of the Summit County Collaborative Against Human Trafficking since 2014. From December 2015 through October 2018, she served as Chair of the Collaborative Executive Committee. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree from The University of Akron.


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






Tools to Improve Your Workflow and Increase Productivity
3/14/2019

Have you ever found a tool or service that made you go “AHA!”? Are there little gems that make your life so much easier that you wonder how you lived without them? This  informative webinar is filled with online (and free!) tools that can help you improve your workflow. Come discover a plethora of online tools that you probably haven’t heard of but will be glad that (now) you have

PresenterLaura 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.


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 23 spots remaining out of 75





Tools to Improve Your Workflow and Increase Productivity
3/14/2019

Have you ever found a tool or service that made you go “AHA!”? Are there little gems that make your life so much easier that you wonder how you lived without them? This  informative webinar is filled with online (and free!) tools that can help you improve your workflow. Come discover a plethora of online tools that you probably haven’t heard of but will be glad that (now) you have

PresenterLaura 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






Understanding Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type
3/21/2019

The Myers Briggs Type Indicator assessment is one of the most popular and well-known personality assessments today, taken by 80% of Fortune 500 companies and 89% of Fortune 100 companies according to the CPP. It allows you to understand your personality type and effectively use your unique strengths. It also helps you to appreciate and successfully navigate differences in communication, decision-making and problem-solving. 

Learning Objectives:           

  • Learn about what the Myers Briggs Type Indicator measures (and does not measure) and how it is related to your personality preferences
  • Understand how you can utilize the unique skills in your work dynamics effectively, from problem-solving to communication to leadership development
  • Be provided with practical strategies for working more productively with others of different and diverse personality preferences
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library
3512 Darrow Rd.
Stow, OH 44224

There are currently 30 spots remaining out of 40





Myers Briggs Communication
4/30/2019

An ideal complement to the introductory workshop, “Understanding Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type”, in this workshop we will focus specifically on how you can use your Myers-Briggs personality type to maximize your communication skills and your teamwork abilities.

Learning Objectives: 
  • You will discover what your unique strengths are with respect to communicating with others and how you can enhance your strengths to project your message clearly and effectively to your team or staff
  • You will be able to recognize, understand and appreciate key differences in communication skills, those that often lead to miscommunication if unaware and underutilized
  • You will be able to implement successful strategies to help you navigate your communication skills to effectively reach all communication styles and differences
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Westlake Porter Public Library
27333 Center Ridge Road
Westlake, OH 44145






Bullet Journal Basics
6/26/2019

Have you seen bullet journaling on social media? Are you wondering what it's all about? This webinar will teach you about bullet journaling, which is a flexible organization method that can be your planner, to-do list, notebook, calendar, and more - all in one place! A bullet journal allows you to create a customizable system that works for you to help you get organized, whether you prefer a beautifully decorated scrapbook or a lean list-making planner. You will also learn how to present a program on bullet journaling at your own library.

Learning Objectives:

  • Attendees will learn what bullet journaling is and what components typically make up a bullet journal
  • Attendees will learn how to create a bullet journal and ways to use a bullet journal as an organization system
  • Attendees will learn how to facilitate a class on bullet journaling at their own library
Presenter: 

Mary Jo Kachurik is an Adult Services Librarian at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library, where she is responsible for providing reference service, presenting programs, and assisting with collection development. Her professional interests include programming for younger adults and community engagement. Mary Jo began bullet journaling in 2015 and has taught several classes on bullet journaling since then.


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 17 spots remaining out of 75





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





Rules and Benchmarks of the New Professional
8/6/2019

Perhaps you’ve heard that being; acting, and looking professional is in the eye of the beholder. Perhaps you heard that professional behavior and performance does not matter anymore. The reality is that if you want to be successful, the way you look, talk, write, act and work will determine whether you are seen as a professional or not.  Being professional is more than just about taking responsibility for yourself and your work, it's about seeing beyond your immediate needs and thinking about the long-term perceptions of you, your workplace, and the people you serve. 

Learning Objectives:

  • What being “a professional” really means
  • How being professional increases your value in the workplace
  • Thirty specific ways employees can be more professional at work
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 45 spots remaining out of 75





How to make Outlook and Calendar work for you!
8/14/2019

How can Office 365 Outlook and Calendar make your life easier? Join us for a quick over view of the two App's and then follow us into some organization tips and tricks. These are tools that should be working for you! Let us guide you and build on your knowledge to make your every day work quicker and smoother.

Learning Objectives:
  • Quick over view of Office 365's Outlook and Calendar
  • Organization tips and tricks for both Outlook and Calendar
  • How to create folders and have e-mails automatically sent to them, to ease in-box congestion
Presenters:

Lexy Kmiecik has been at the Cleveland Public Library for seven years. Her well-rounded experience as a Substitute, Computer Aide, Children’s Librarian, and Assistant Manager at various locations on both the East and West sides of Cleveland all prepared her for her current role, Hough Branch Manager.

In 2017, Lexy was asked to join a committee of her peers in the design of a Clerk training. This team would ultimately go on to create a six module training series for CPL employees. Lexy’s past experience allowed her to excel in the design of Module 1: Customer Service. Since then, Lexy has had a hand in designing the curriculum for numerous courses. She regularly facilitates multiple classes month.
 

Crystal Tancak has been with the Cleveland Public Library for 14 years. Originally starting as a Page before making her way through various positions in the organization, Crystal is currently the Manager of the Lorain Branch.

Crystal’s background in Early Childhood Education with a Reading Endorsement led her on the path to becoming a teacher. Working in the classroom benefited Crystal once she became a staff trainer for a variety of library-related courses within the Cleveland Public Library’s “Book Ends” series. Crystal co-facilitates multiple CPL classes every month and assists with curriculum design.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 75





How to make Outlook and Calendar work for you!
8/14/2019 - 8/14/2019

How can Office 365 Outlook and Calendar make your life easier? Join us for a quick over view of the two App's and then follow us into some organization tips and tricks. These are tools that should be working for you! Let us guide you and build on your knowledge to make your every day work quicker and smoother.

Learning Objectives:
  • Quick over view of Office 365's Outlook and Calendar

  • Organization tips and tricks for both Outlook and Calendar

  • How to create folders and have e-mails automatically sent to them, to ease in-box congestion

Presenters:

Lexy Kmiecik has been at the Cleveland Public Library for seven years. Her well-rounded experience as a Substitute, Computer Aide, Children’s Librarian, and Assistant Manager at various locations on both the East and West sides of Cleveland all prepared her for her current role, Hough Branch Manager.

In 2017, Lexy was asked to join a committee of her peers in the design of a Clerk training. This team would ultimately go on to create a six module training series for CPL employees. Lexy’s past experience allowed her to excel in the design of Module 1: Customer Service. Since then, Lexy has had a hand in designing the curriculum for numerous courses. She regularly facilitates multiple classes month.
 

Crystal Tancak has been with the Cleveland Public Library for 14 years. Originally starting as a Page before making her way through various positions in the organization, Crystal is currently the Manager of the Lorain Branch.

Crystal’s background in Early Childhood Education with a Reading Endorsement led her on the path to becoming a teacher. Working in the classroom benefited Crystal once she became a staff trainer for a variety of library-related courses within the Cleveland Public Library’s “Book Ends” series. Crystal co-facilitates multiple CPL classes every month and assists with curriculum design.

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






What Would You Do? Diversity and Harassment in the Workplace
9/5/2019

This highly interactive workshop will cover employer and employee responsibilities in an increasingly diverse workforce.  The group discussion-based training will allow participants to explore diversity and harassment from both personal and legal perspectives, including practicing workplace scenarios and interactions with patrons.
 
Learning Objectives:

 

  • Explore the benefits of a diverse workforce
  • Understand the legal implications of discrimination and harassment
  • Appreciate generational diversity
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: Twinsburg Public Library
10050 Ravenna Rd.
Twinsburg, OH 44113

There are currently 19 spots remaining out of 35





You Can Be the Expert-Tech Troubleshooting with Confidence 201
9/11/2019

This advanced session will build out your tech troubleshooting tool box by exploring deeper or more subtle problems and discussing higher-level tech concepts that have an impact on users. At the end, you’ll learn how to continually increase your tech knowledge and develop a structure to hang new information on.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Learn more advanced techniques for tech troubleshooting, including looking “under the hood” and reverse engineering what happened.
     
  • Understand that it’s not always the device in front of them that’s the issue, and how to explain higher-level tech concepts to less-savvy patrons.
     
  • Gain confidence in their own ability to navigate technology troubleshooting.
     
  • Are able to view tech troubleshooting interactions as another form of customer service, to support an open mindset towards finding solutions.
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 8 spots remaining out of 50





You Can Be the Expert-Tech Troubleshooting with Confidence 201
9/11/2019

This advanced session will build out your tech troubleshooting tool box by exploring deeper or more subtle problems and discussing higher-level tech concepts that have an impact on users. At the end, you’ll learn how to continually increase your tech knowledge and develop a structure to hang new information on.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Learn more advanced techniques for tech troubleshooting, including looking “under the hood” and reverse engineering what happened.
     
  • Understand that it’s not always the device in front of them that’s the issue, and how to explain higher-level tech concepts to less-savvy patrons.
     
  • Gain confidence in their own ability to navigate technology troubleshooting.
     
  • Are able to view tech troubleshooting interactions as another form of customer service, to support an open mindset towards finding solutions.
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 42 spots remaining out of 50





NEO-RLS Annual Membership Meeting
9/17/2019

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 17, 2019 for NEO-RLS Annual Membership Meeting.  This year our featured speaker will be Stephanie YorkVice President and In-House Consel, Hennes Communications.

 

  • 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
  • Breakfast will be served at 8:30 am
Featured Presentation:
Even before the Trump era, news was breaking first on social media, with traditional media sweeping Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for leads. Whether your organization is immersed in crisis or dealing with a hot-button issue, your news can easily “go viral.”

Since it takes a lifetime to build a reputation and only a few seconds to destroy one, “managing the message” is a necessary skill-set.  This fast-paced talk by veteran crisis management and communications specialist Stephanie York, from Hennes Communications in Cleveland, Ohio will focus on a highly strategic approach to communicating during a wide variety of situations.

Learning Objectives:

 

  • Offering methods for establishing and maintaining “control of the message,”
  • Enabling you to serve the needs of your stakeholders
  • Move your message forward or mount a defense against a sudden onslaught from traditional or social media

Presenter:  

Stephanie H. York serves as vice president and in-house counsel at Hennes Communications, one of the few firms in the U.S. focused exclusively on crisis communications and crisis management.

She brings 25 years of legal, governmental, hospital, political, digital media and public relations experience to the agency. York heads up the firm’s satellite office, in the heart of downtown Akron, Ohio.

York specializes in crisis communications, crisis management, litigation communications, issues management, media relations and digital media. She can quickly evaluate developing issues and produce effective strategic messages to aid clients coping with reputation management concerns, escalating events and breaking crises.


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

There are currently 7 spots remaining out of 100





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






ALICE Training: Active Shooter Response
10/8/2019

ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) Training instructor led classes provide preparation and a plan for individuals and organizations on how to more proactively handle the threat of an aggressive intruder or active shooter event. Whether it is an attack by an individual person or by an international group of professionals intent on conveying a political message through violence, ALICE Training option based tactics have become the accepted response, versus the traditional “lockdown only” approach.

ALICE is the leading training solution that increases an organization’s and individual’s odds of survival during a violent intruder event. ALICE, which stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate, is a post-Columbine, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook strategy that goes beyond the conventional lockdown.

Presenters:
Bob Thompson and Chris Moffitt are both career Law Enforcement officers and dedicated trainers.

Chris started in police work as an Auxiliary Police Officer in 1990 with the Hubbard Ohio Police Department and has moved through the ranks and is currently a Patrol Sergeant. Besides his supervisor duties Chris is also the departments OPOTA certified Firearms Instructor (Semi-Auto, Revolver, Shotgun, Carbine Rifle) a certified Field Training Officer (FTO) , NRA “Refuse to be a Victim” Instructor, and a Glock Armorer.




Bob’s career began in 1994 and then in 1996 he swore in with the Hubbard Ohio Police Department. In 2011 He was promoted to Patrol Sergeant.  Prior to his promotion Bob was assigned to a FBI Drug Task Force where he was afforded the opportunity to train at Camp Perry, and the FBI academy in Quantico Virginia. Currently Bob is a contracted instructor at Youngstown State University and Kent State University (Trumbull) Police academies as well as the department Defensive Tactics Instructor and Field Training Officer (FTO). A dedicated trainer, Bob put himself through Firearms Instructor school and is a OPOTA certified instructor (Semi-Auto & Revolver). Both Chris and Bob are Taser, Asp, Pepper spray and A.L.i.C.E. instructors..
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 Ohio Ethics Law: It's Everybody's Business!
10/22/2019

This lively session will help public officials and employees in understanding how to identify and avoid acting on potential conflicts of interest.  It will also provide information regarding ethics prohibitions related to public contracts and potential post-employment requirements.  Attendees will also learn about general assistance available from the Ohio Ethics Commission to assist both the public and public sectors in understanding and complying with the Ethics Laws.

Learning Objectives:
  • Hear about ethics prohibitions related to public contracts and potential post-employment requirements
  • Learn about general assistance available from the Ohio Ethics Commission to assist both the public and public sectors
Presenter:

Susan Willeke is an accomplished government-relations professional with more than 27 years’ experience in public affairs, communication and public speaking.  Susan joined the Ohio Ethics Commission in 2005 as the Education and Communications Manager where she oversees and conducts educational and communication outreach.  In that position, Susan presents approximately 200 speeches annually, develops information strategies regarding agency programs and represents the Ethics Commission to Ohio citizens, the media and the Ohio legislature.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect

There are currently 45 spots remaining out of 75





The Ohio Ethics Law: It's Everybody's Business!
10/22/2019

This lively session will help public officials and employees in understanding how to identify and avoid acting on potential conflicts of interest.  It will also provide information regarding ethics prohibitions related to public contracts and potential post-employment requirements.  Attendees will also learn about general assistance available from the Ohio Ethics Commission to assist both the public and public sectors in understanding and complying with the Ethics Laws.

Learning Objectives:
  • Hear about ethics prohibitions related to public contracts and potential post-employment requirements

  • Learn about general assistance available from the Ohio Ethics Commission to assist both the public and public sectors

Presenter:

Susan Willeke is an accomplished government-relations professional with more than 27 years’ experience in public affairs, communication and public speaking.  Susan joined the Ohio Ethics Commission in 2005 as the Education and Communications Manager where she oversees and conducts educational and communication outreach.  In that position, Susan presents approximately 200 speeches annually, develops information strategies regarding agency programs and represents the Ethics Commission to Ohio citizens, the media and the Ohio legislature.

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






Coping with Change
10/24/2019

Change has become a part of everyday working life, yet how those changes are managed on a personal basis and our own personal attitudes to change are intrinsically linked.  This seminar teaches how to handle transitional periods of change with less disruption and sustained productivity.  This program addresses the human side of change which is more complex and harder to achieve. 

 Learning Objectives:

  • Understand how to survive and thrive during times of limbo and ambiguity
  • Manage during times of resistance to change
  • Gain helpful tips, strategies and ideas in creating and sustaining a “change-able” culture
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 17 spots remaining out of 35





Spanish in a Pinch for Library Staff
12/4/2019

This webinar will give an introduction into the Spanish language as well as the people that speak it. You will be provided with short cuts and an understanding of the basics of the language. Know the essential phrases that can breach some of the communication gap when working with Spanish speaking patrons that do not speak English.

Learning Objectives:

  • Introduction to the Spanish Language 
  • Learn short cuts
  • Learn essential phrases 

Presenter:

Jaime Declet was born and raised in Caguas Puerto Rico. Moving to Ohio to finish his college degree at OSU. He made a stop to visit relatives in Cleveland, and the rest as they say is history. Married to Jeannine, children Andrew & Victoria. He started working in libraries as a volunteer in the sixth grade through High School. Working for the Cleveland State University, Fine Arts Library for six years and has been working in public libraries for the past 19 years. Mr. Declet started his public library career with the Lorain Public Library. He currently works for the Cleveland Public Library managing the South Branch. Mr. Declet is a member of the Advisory Board of Virginia Hamilton Conference on Multicultural Children's Literature, member of the Board of Directors of the Tremont West Development Corporation. His job is to make sure that the community he serves knows that the Library is here to help. Therefore, he makes sure that the Library is front and center in all community events


Location: Online via Adobe Connect

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 75





Unconscious Bias & Micro Messages
12/5/2019

This foundational workshop serves as a starting point for diversity and inclusion programming.  It explores the phenomena of unconscious bias and how professionals can minimize its effects on employee and customer/client relations. Participants will learn how their own unique identities shape their experiences and impact their day-to-day interactions with others. They will learn strategies for minimizing the effects of unconscious bias, which can manifest in the form of verbal, non-verbal, and environmental micro-messages.  

Participants will examine the role they play in communicating micro-messages both interpersonally and organizationally, and build skills that will aid them in addressing micro-inequities when they occur.  Participants will gain greater confidence in their ability to communicate value and have a positive impact through micro-affirmations, as well as other skills that will aid them in creating an inclusive space where everyone is respected, valued, and appreciated.

Learning Objectives:
  • Develop awareness around the impact of our individual identities on our personal and professional experiences
  • Explore the concepts of unconscious bias as it relates to single stories and bias at individual, interpersonal, and group levels
  • Review best practices and strategies for disrupting bias at individual, interpersonal, and group levels
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.

 

Kaila “KJ” Johnson, Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
At The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, KJ researches and designs diversity and inclusion programming for the Higher Education & Young Adults (HEYA) division of The Diversity Center. HEYA offers a variety of services and opportunities that emphasize young adult leadership development based in promoting multiculturalism, anti-racism, and accessibility in learning communities. Additionally, KJ organizes and facilitates diversity education programming for middle and high school conferences, summits, and retreats to equip students to be agents of change. KJ is dedicated to eliminating bias, racism, and bigotry through education, networking and establishing community partnerships between higher education institutions and the communities they reside in.


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

There are currently 11 spots remaining out of 35





Rules and Benchmarks of the New Professional
3/24/2020

Perhaps you’ve heard that being; acting, and looking professional is in the eye of the beholder. Perhaps you heard that professional behavior and performance does not matter anymore. The reality is that if you want to be successful, the way you look, talk, write, act and work will determine whether you are seen as a professional or not.  Being professional is more than just about taking responsibility for yourself and your work, it's about seeing beyond your immediate needs and thinking about the long-term perceptions of you, your workplace, and the people you serve. 

Learning Objectives:

  • What being “a professional” really means

  • How being professional increases your value in the workplace

  • Thirty specific ways employees can be more professional at work

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






Creating a Culture of Yes
4/1/2020

The immortal Kurt Vonnegut said, "The America I love still exists at the front desks of our public libraries." In this webinar, you can discover at least three ways to shift your library from good enough to unexpectedly amazing, and to take your community's image of the public library to new heights. Locate your library's first impressions, displays, customer service, policies and more on the "Yes-O-Meter" and understand how to move from "No" or "Yes, but..." to a powerful culture of "Yes, and!" The insights you gain for shifting your library culture will invigorate the relationships between your staff and with your community.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Discover at least three ways to go from good enough to unexpectedly amazing.

  • Look at the value of “Yes, and…” as it applies to policies and services at your library.

  • Share and learn techniques for shifting your library culture to invigorate the relationship between your staff and your community. 

Presenters:

Sharon Morris is Director of Library Development at the Colorado State Library and offers a myriad of professional development on leadership topics as well as positive organizational development, such as happiness & libraries, using “yes, and” for library services, and conflict resolution. She offers staff days and provides interactive workshops and presentations throughout the U.S. This session offers practical activities and learning that excite Sharon because she has seen first-hand how these techniques have improved people’s feeling of welcome and wonder in libraries.
 
Kieran Hixon is the Technology and Digital Initiatives Consultant for the Colorado State Library and Past-President of the Association for Rural and Small Libraries. He is passionate about rural libraries and communities and has found happiness living on 40 acres in the foothills of the Wet Mountains with lots of chickens, dogs, a horse, and a brave cat. He is known for his high energy and humor, and isn't sure if it is a good thing or a bad thing.

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






Spanish in a Pinch for Library Staff
4/3/2020

This webinar will give an introduction into the Spanish language as well as the people that speak it. You will be provided with short cuts and an understanding of the basics of the language. Know the essential phrases that can breach some of the communication gap when working with Spanish speaking patrons that do not speak English.

Learning Objectives:

  • Introduction to the Spanish Language 

  • Learn short cuts

  • Learn essential phrases 

Presenter:

Jaime Declet was born and raised in Caguas Puerto Rico. Moving to Ohio to finish his college degree at OSU. He made a stop to visit relatives in Cleveland, and the rest as they say is history. Married to Jeannine, children Andrew & Victoria. He started working in libraries as a volunteer in the sixth grade through High School. Working for the Cleveland State University, Fine Arts Library for six years and has been working in public libraries for the past 19 years. Mr. Declet started his public library career with the Lorain Public Library. He currently works for the Cleveland Public Library managing the South Branch. Mr. Declet is a member of the Advisory Board of Virginia Hamilton Conference on Multicultural Children's Literature, member of the Board of Directors of the Tremont West Development Corporation. His job is to make sure that the community he serves knows that the Library is here to help. Therefore, he makes sure that the Library is front and center in all community events.

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






You Can Be the Expert-Tech Troubleshooting with Confidence 201
4/6/2020

This advanced session will build out your tech troubleshooting tool box by exploring deeper or more subtle problems and discussing higher-level tech concepts that have an impact on users. At the end, you’ll learn how to continually increase your tech knowledge and develop a structure to hang new information on.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Learn more advanced techniques for tech troubleshooting, including looking “under the hood” and reverse engineering what happened.

  • Understand that it’s not always the device in front of them that’s the issue, and how to explain higher-level tech concepts to less-savvy patrons.

  • Gain confidence in their own ability to navigate technology troubleshooting.

  • Are able to view tech troubleshooting interactions as another form of customer service, to support an open mindset towards finding solutions.

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






Maintaining a Peaceful Attitude: How to Bring Positivity to the Workplace
4/13/2020

Do you ever find it challenging to maintain a positive attitude at work? If so, this webinar is for you! This session will teach you how to deal with negativity and the value of self-care.

Presenters:
Amber Elfrink and Brooke Vanderlin, Talmadge Branch of Akron Summit County Public 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






Bullet Journal Basics
4/14/2020

Have you seen bullet journaling on social media? Are you wondering what it's all about? This webinar will teach you about bullet journaling, which is a flexible organization method that can be your planner, to-do list, notebook, calendar, and more - all in one place! A bullet journal allows you to create a customizable system that works for you to help you get organized, whether you prefer a beautifully decorated scrapbook or a lean list-making planner. You will also learn how to present a program on bullet journaling at your own library.

Learning Objectives:

  • Attendees will learn what bullet journaling is and what components typically make up a bullet journal

  • Attendees will learn how to create a bullet journal and ways to use a bullet journal as an organization system

  • Attendees will learn how to facilitate a class on bullet journaling at their own library

Presenter: 

Mary Jo Kachurik is an Adult Services Librarian at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library, where she is responsible for providing reference service, presenting programs, and assisting with collection development. Her professional interests include programming for younger adults and community engagement. Mary Jo began bullet journaling in 2015 and has taught several classes on bullet journaling since then.

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 378 spots remaining out of 500





[NEW] Breath by Breath: Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga
4/16/2020

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

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

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



Breath by Breath: Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga-4/16/20-Archive
4/16/2020

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

Learning Objectives
  • How Yoga/Meditation help to reduce anxiety 

  • Breath Control for anxiety

  • The Basics of Mindfulness


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


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






Managing Change and Worry in a Time of Uncertainty
4/21/2020

Finding and sustaining a sense of control during times of ambiguity is complicated and very human.  
 
Learning Objectives
  • You will gain self awareness surrounding their own personal signs and triggers to worry and grief

  • You will learn ways to heal and cope with tools to support the process

  • You will gain awareness of ways to practice emotional agility during times of stress.  

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. 

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






RA Rethink: Merchandising and Upselling Edition
4/22/2020

If someone told you there’s a practical and easy way to increase circulation, patron visits, program attendance and the job satisfaction of your staff, would you do it? Of course you would. Librarian Becky Spratford has developed a method you can use to accomplish all of this and it plays off of the skills, talents, and interests you already possess. She’ll explain how to deepen staff involvement in readers’ advisory in a way that gets everyone from staff to patrons excited. You are spending a lot of effort and money on cultivating good collections, but are you giving those collections a fair chance to shine? Are you linking your work with patrons as you find them items to your programming and other services? Do your patrons even know the full breadth of what you offer them? And how are you measuring results? With just a few simple tweaks to how you already market your collections, services, programs and even staff, Becky will help you leave a trail of happier and more engaged patrons in your wake.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • learn how to get all library staff involved with creating displays and promoting your collections

  • understand value of creating a participatory patron experience

  • be able to promote library services and programs from every service point

Presenter:

Becky Spratford is a Readers' Advisor in Illinois specializing in serving patrons ages 13 and up.  She trains library staff all over the world on how to match books with readers through the local public library.  She runs the critically acclaimed RA training blog RA for All.  She is under contract to provide content for EBSCO’s NoveList database and writes reviews for Booklist and content for Library Journal. Becky is also known for her work with horror readers as the author of The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Horror, Second Edition [ALA Editions, 2012] and is currently hard at work on the 3rd Edition. She is a proud member of the Horror Writers Association and currently serves as the Association’s Secretary and organizer of their annual LIbrarians’ Day. You can follow Becky on Twitter @RAforAll
 

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] Breath by Breath: Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga
4/23/2020

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

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

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

There are currently 41 spots remaining out of 75





Breath by Breath: Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga-4/23/20
4/23/2020

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

Learning Objectives
  • How Yoga/Meditation help to reduce anxiety 

  • Breath Control for anxiety

  • The Basics of Mindfulness


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


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






Customer Service Experience Bootcamp
4/23/2020

“Walt Disney is known as the ‘Father of the Customer Experience’ because he had the vision to create Disneyland as the ‘Happiest Place on Earth’.”
 
Customer Experience is defined by interactions between a customer and an organization throughout their business relationship. It encompasses much more than just a transaction of a service or product, an experience impacts how customers feel and their emotions thru-out their journey with the library.
 
This interactive and fun Customer Service Experience Boot Camp is a hands on day of information and experiences that will help you to engage and connect more effectively with your customers as they use and experience your library.
 
Dress comfortably! As the “Boot Camp” name implies, you will be working on projects and exercises throughout the day!
 
In our Boot Camp, attendees will learn how to:
 
  • Succeed at the Customer Service Experience by learning from the failures of others
  • Use specific questions to identify the needs of their customers to deliver customized experiences for them
  • See their job and their library through the lens of an experience
  • Make an emotional connection with their customers
  • Create customer relationships that make their work environment more fulfilling and less stressful
 
Attendees will complete the Learning and Application Worksheet to help them apply what they’ve learned when they return to their library.

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

There are currently 23 spots remaining out of 45





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

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

Learning Objectives:

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

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

  •  Access resources to help with your own EDI training efforts

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


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

 
Location: Online via Adobe Connect






[NEW] Breath by Breath: Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga
4/30/2020

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

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

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

There are currently 33 spots remaining out of 75





Breath by Breath: Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga-Archived-4-30-20
4/30/2020

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

Learning Objectives
  • How Yoga/Meditation help to reduce anxiety 

  • Breath Control for anxiety

  • The Basics of Mindfulness

Presenter:

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


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






Breath by Breath: Dealing with Anxiety through Yoga-Archived-5/7/20
5/7/2020

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

Learning Objectives
  • How Yoga/Meditation help to reduce anxiety 

  • Breath Control for anxiety

  • The Basics of Mindfulness

Presenter:

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

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






Self Care Is Not Selfish: Preventing Burnout
5/13/2020

Do you find yourself always being busy at work? Working past your regular hours? Thinking about work night and day? Not taking your vacation time? Starting to dread going to work, getting sick a lot, or feeling overworked and exhausted? You are not alone. Library work, in any role and any type of library, can take a heavy toll on people. This panel presentation will address best practices for self-care from three perspectives: what you can do for yourself, what you can do as a coworker for others, and what you (or others) can do in management roles. Hear from a variety of library staff in different roles and types of libraries. Participants will come away with practical tips and action items to implement right away to better take care of yourself, others, and to foster a physically and mentally healthy work environment.

Presenters:

Emily Clasper, Director of Service Strategies, River Campus Libraries University of Rochester
Since 2003, Emily Clasper has worked with a wide range of libraries across the country, offering a unique skill set as a librarian, technologist, speaker, trainer, consultant, and certified Project Management Professional (PMP®). A leader in the profession and Library Journal Mover and Shaker (2012), Emily has served as an ALA Councilor, member of the ALA Intellectual Freedom Committee, and member of numerous other ALA and NYLA committees. Most recently, Emily has entered the world of academic libraries, joining the University of Rochester’s River Campus Libraries as their Director of Service Strategies. This comes on the heels of 13 years working with the 56 public libraries of Suffolk County, NY as the Training and Operations Manager for their shared ILS.

Janie L. Hermann is the Public Programming Librarian at Princeton Public Library in Princeton, NJ where she oversees a cross-departmental team of 15 staff that members that plan and execute more than 1,700 programs per year with an annual attendance in excess of 54,000 at the programs. She is currently a member of the ALA Public and Cultural Programs Advisory Committee and the co-chair of the ALA Programming Librarian Interest Group. 

  

Djaz F. Zulida is a Programs & Community Outreach Librarian at the Boston Public Library. Their service focus is on outreach, library events, contributing to the BPL We are Pride booklist, and sharing non-traditional like seeds and honey from the library's hive with their neighborhood. They have been a librarian with the Boston Public Library since 2014 and a spoonie for longer than that.
 

Carson Block, President, Carson Block Consulting Inc.
Carson Block has lead & loved library technology efforts for more than 20 years. He's been called a "Geek who speaks English" and occasionally compared to Ferris Bueller and Calvin (and Hobbes). Carson is dead serious about the essential and positive community impacts of libraries and focuses his consulting practice on helping libraries increase their capacity to serve patrons. Carson has served in leadership positions in ALA ASCLA, ColoradoPLA and others, and evangelizes libraries to SXSW Interactive and other tech communities. Carson is the author of Managing Library Technology: A LITA Guide (Rowman & Littlefield).


Location: Online via Adobe Connect

There are currently 305 spots remaining out of 400





Self Care Is Survival: Stress, Burnout, Work, & COVID-19
5/13/2020

Do you find yourself always being busy at work? Working past your regular hours? Thinking about work night and day? Not taking your vacation time? Starting to dread going to work, getting sick a lot, or feeling overworked and exhausted? You are not alone. Library work, in any role and any type of library, can take a heavy toll on people. This panel presentation will address best practices for self-care from three perspectives: what you can do for yourself, what you can do as a coworker for others, and what you (or others) can do in management roles. Hear from a variety of library staff in different roles and types of libraries. Participants will come away with practical tips and action items to implement right away to better take care of yourself, others, and to foster a physically and mentally healthy work environment.

Presenters:

Emily Clasper, Director of Service Strategies, River Campus Libraries University of Rochester
Since 2003, Emily Clasper has worked with a wide range of libraries across the country, offering a unique skill set as a librarian, technologist, speaker, trainer, consultant, and certified Project Management Professional (PMP®). A leader in the profession and Library Journal Mover and Shaker (2012), Emily has served as an ALA Councilor, member of the ALA Intellectual Freedom Committee, and member of numerous other ALA and NYLA committees. Most recently, Emily has entered the world of academic libraries, joining the University of Rochester’s River Campus Libraries as their Director of Service Strategies. This comes on the heels of 13 years working with the 56 public libraries of Suffolk County, NY as the Training and Operations Manager for their shared ILS.

Janie L. Hermann is the Public Programming Librarian at Princeton Public Library in Princeton, NJ where she oversees a cross-departmental team of 15 staff that members that plan and execute more than 1,700 programs per year with an annual attendance in excess of 54,000 at the programs. She is currently a member of the ALA Public and Cultural Programs Advisory Committee and the co-chair of the ALA Programming Librarian Interest Group. 

  

Djaz F. Zulida is a Programs & Community Outreach Librarian at the Boston Public Library. Their service focus is on outreach, library events, contributing to the BPL We are Pride booklist, and sharing non-traditional like seeds and honey from the library's hive with their neighborhood. They have been a librarian with the Boston Public Library since 2014 and a spoonie for longer than that.
 

Carson Block, President, Carson Block Consulting Inc.
Carson Block has lead & loved library technology efforts for more than 20 years. He's been called a "Geek who speaks English" and occasionally compared to Ferris Bueller and Calvin (and Hobbes). Carson is dead serious about the essential and positive community impacts of libraries and focuses his consulting practice on helping libraries increase their capacity to serve patrons. Carson has served in leadership positions in ALA ASCLA, ColoradoPLA and others, and evangelizes libraries to SXSW Interactive and other tech communities. Carson is the author of Managing Library Technology: A LITA Guide (Rowman & Littlefield).

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 Day for Public Service
5/14/2020

Join your colleagues in public service for a morning learning about how to Ditch the Drama:  Strategies for Peak Performance: More Peace, Less Drama.
We are living and working in dramatic and demanding times. A lot of focus and energy are dissipated on drama instead of productive, proactive work. This workshop focuses on changing your mindset and behavior in ways that help you find happiness and success regardless of your circumstances.  In addition, you will learn how to deal  with negativity, complaints, and gossip as well as learning tools to coach others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Take personal responsibility for your happiness and success
  • Diffuse drama
  • Learn positive ways to deal with negativity at work
After lunch we will have open discussion to discuss your challenges and successes.  This is an opportunity to network with your fellow public service staff.

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: Wayne County Public Library
220 West Liberty St
Wooster, OH 44691

There are currently 31 spots remaining out of 40





The Customer Service Experience
6/30/2020

Customer service experience is the ability to provide positive experiences for and with our customers. In libraries, customers experience our services and programs and much, much more. An experience can be individual, or for a group or family and can take place in the library, on the phone or in our social media accounts and in our virtual branch. (Our website)
 
This interactive and informative webinar will you give you tips and techniques to engage and connect more effectively with your customers as they use and experience the unlimited opportunities at your library.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Best Practices in the Customer Service Experience
  • How to Communicate in Needs and Benefits Language
  • Build Unique Customer Experiences With Each Customer
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 Zoom

There are currently 209 spots remaining out of 300





The Customer Service Experience
6/30/2020

Customer service experience is the ability to provide positive experiences for and with our customers. In libraries, customers experience our services and programs and much, much more. An experience can be individual, or for a group or family and can take place in the library, on the phone or in our social media accounts and in our virtual branch. (Our website)
 
This interactive and informative webinar will you give you tips and techniques to engage and connect more effectively with your customers as they use and experience the unlimited opportunities at your library.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Best Practices in the Customer Service Experience

  • How to Communicate in Needs and Benefits Language

  • Build Unique Customer Experiences With Each Customer

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 Zoom






Professional Internal Customer Service
7/7/2020

The elements of professionalism are important to internal customer service, which includes providing services to others within your organization, and treating them as you would treat external customers. Showing professionalism in the workplace has many benefits including improved worker relationships, trust, and even efficiency.
 
In this interactive and informative webinar, we will look at three key skill sets that build and maintain a culture of professional internal customer service and how you can apply this information in your organization.
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Job Skills (Technical, Communication and Leadership)

  • Good Judgement

  • Polite Behavior

 
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






Navigating through Times of Transition
7/9/2020

Navigating through Times of Transition is about how to move forward during times of limbo and uncertainty and take up new behaviors or ways of thinking.  This session will teach how to handle transitional periods of change with less disruption and sustained productivity.  The program will focus on understanding and mastering the human side of change, which is more complex and harder to achieve.
 
Learning Objectives
  • Survive and thrive during times of limbo and ambiguity
  • Learn new ways of adapting to change so you can move your life forward
  • Gain helpful tips to reduce the stress caused by change and transition
Presenter:  
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 408 spots remaining out of 450





Navigating through Times of Transition
7/9/2020

Navigating through Times of Transition is about how to move forward during times of limbo and uncertainty and take up new behaviors or ways of thinking.  This session will teach how to handle transitional periods of change with less disruption and sustained productivity.  The program will focus on understanding and mastering the human side of change, which is more complex and harder to achieve.
 
Learning Objectives
  • Survive and thrive during times of limbo and ambiguity
  • Learn new ways of adapting to change so you can move your life forward
  • Gain helpful tips to reduce the stress caused by change and transition
Presenter:  
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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

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


Location: Online
Via Zoom

There are currently 429 spots remaining out of 450





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

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

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






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

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

  • Learn common ASL signs for Libraries

Presenter:

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

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






Budgeting Part 1: The Rules
7/22/2020

Learning Objectives:
  • Accounting terminology defined.

  • Typical accounting processes explained.

  • Laws and rules affecting budgeting explained.

Presenter:

Amie Lynn, CPA, Fiscal Officer, Massillon 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

There are currently 27 spots remaining out of 50





Cancelled: A Day for Public Service
8/4/2020

Join your colleagues in public service for a morning learning about how to Ditch the Drama:  Strategies for Peak Performance: More Peace, Less Drama.
We are living and working in dramatic and demanding times. A lot of focus and energy are dissipated on drama instead of productive, proactive work. This workshop focuses on changing your mindset and behavior in ways that help you find happiness and success regardless of your circumstances.  In addition, you will learn how to deal  with negativity, complaints, and gossip as well as learning tools to coach others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Take personal responsibility for your happiness and success
  • Diffuse drama
  • Learn positive ways to deal with negativity at work
After lunch we will have open discussion to discuss your challenges and successes.  This is an opportunity to network with your fellow public service staff.

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: Westlake Porter Public Library
27333 Center Ridge Road
Westlake, OH 44145

There are currently 36 spots remaining out of 40





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

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

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

Presenter:
Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, The Accidental Library Marketer, and founded her own marketing consultancy, Libraries Are Essential. Her work is dedicated to helping librarians and information professionals promote their value and expertise in order to gain respect and funding.

Kathy has been the Editor of Marketing Library Services newsletter for 25 years, and was formerly Editor-in-Chief of Computers in Libraries magazine. She also blogs at The 'M' Word. She's a member of the New Jersey Library Association, and Founder of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference, which she chaired in 2015, 2016, and 2017.

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






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

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

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

  • Explain how every employee and every interaction matter

  • Discuss user experience (UX) and public perception

  • Share real examples of how laypeople see and discuss libraries

  • Offer guidelines on how to be a positive touchpoint

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

Presenter:
Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, The Accidental Library Marketer, and founded her own marketing consultancy, Libraries Are Essential. Her work is dedicated to helping librarians and information professionals promote their value and expertise in order to gain respect and funding.

Kathy has been the Editor of Marketing Library Services newsletter for 25 years, and was formerly Editor-in-Chief of Computers in Libraries magazine. She also blogs at The 'M' Word. She's a member of the New Jersey Library Association, and Founder of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference, which she chaired in 2015, 2016, and 2017.

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

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






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

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

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

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






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

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

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the difference between privacy and security

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

  • Gain confidence to explain these concerns to patrons

Presenter:

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






The Quiet Approach for Serving Customers
9/9/2020

Customer service is not an easy job for anyone. It’s hard work to just stay on top of the ever-changing products and services the library has to offer, and it takes real skill to talk with people, determine their needs and fulfill their requests.

It can be especially challenging for those who are more introverted or shy to work with customers while handling difficult questions, listening to complaints and sometimes dealing with people that can be angry or confused.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn tools that you need to be more successful and in-control in your customer interactions
  • We will focus on the strengths of the “Quiet Approach” including active listening and thinking before speaking
  • Sharpen the skills needed to handle all customer situations with less anxiety and stress
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 Zoom

There are currently 225 spots remaining out of 300





The Quiet Approach for Serving Customers
9/9/2020

Customer service is not an easy job for anyone. It’s hard work to just stay on top of the ever-changing products and services the library has to offer, and it takes real skill to talk with people, determine their needs and fulfill their requests.

It can be especially challenging for those who are more introverted or shy to work with customers while handling difficult questions, listening to complaints and sometimes dealing with people that can be angry or confused.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn tools that you need to be more successful and in-control in your customer interactions

  • We will focus on the strengths of the “Quiet Approach” including active listening and thinking before speaking

  • Sharpen the skills needed to handle all customer situations with less anxiety and stress

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 Zoom






Resilience in Challenging Times
9/23/2020

Do you know someone who keeps on keeping on, no matter what life throws at them?  How do they continue to thrive, flourish and grow even stronger as they overcome the obstacles they face?  The answer is resilience which is described as “the process of facing adversity and bouncing back from difficult experiences. “ This session will focus on key skills to not only survive and bounce back after a setback, but to come back stronger and wiser.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Take control of your choices and your life
  • Increase your sense of positivity and positive emotions
  • Develop the ability to respond to adversity with optimism and hope
Presenter:  
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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






Resilience in Challenging Times
9/23/2020

Do you know someone who keeps on keeping on, no matter what life throws at them?  How do they continue to thrive, flourish and grow even stronger as they overcome the obstacles they face?  The answer is resilience which is described as “the process of facing adversity and bouncing back from difficult experiences. “ This session will focus on key skills to not only survive and bounce back after a setback, but to come back stronger and wiser.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Take control of your choices and your life
  • Increase your sense of positivity and positive emotions
  • Develop the ability to respond to adversity with optimism and hope
Presenter:  
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio.  For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional.  She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
 
For over 25 years, Marti has worked with numerous libraries as a speaker, facilitator and strategic planning consultant.  She has worked with many of the libraries within the NEO-RLS regional library system as well as facilitating staff days for various public libraries.  She presented at the 2013 ALA convention in Chicago, IL and the 2014 PLA convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






Whose Lives Matter?
10/1/2020

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


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

There are currently 6 spots remaining out of 40





Cancelled: A Day for Public Service
11/5/2020

Join your colleagues in public service for a morning learning about how to Ditch the Drama:  Strategies for Peak Performance: More Peace, Less Drama.
We are living and working in dramatic and demanding times. A lot of focus and energy are dissipated on drama instead of productive, proactive work. This workshop focuses on changing your mindset and behavior in ways that help you find happiness and success regardless of your circumstances.  In addition, you will learn how to deal  with negativity, complaints, and gossip as well as learning tools to coach others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Take personal responsibility for your happiness and success
  • Diffuse drama
  • Learn positive ways to deal with negativity at work
After lunch we will have open discussion to discuss your challenges and successes.  This is an opportunity to network with your fellow public service staff.

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: Mentor Public Library
8215 Mentor Ave
Mentor, OH 44060

There are currently 35 spots remaining out of 40





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





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

Participants will engage in learning around ways to take care of ourselves and provide quality public service during COVID.
 
Objectives:
  • Consider change and how it impacts us
  • Learn ways to keep ourselves safe and well emotionally during times of change
  • Learn new techniques to support decreasing levels of worry and anxiety
Presenter:
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention.   Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing. 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 88 spots remaining out of 200





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

Participants will engage in learning around ways to take care of ourselves and provide quality public service during COVID.
 
Objectives:
  • Consider change and how it impacts us
  • Learn ways to keep ourselves safe and well emotionally during times of change
  • Learn new techniques to support decreasing levels of worry and anxiety
Presenter:
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention.   Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing. 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 163 spots remaining out of 200





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

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

Presenter:

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

Presenter:

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom







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

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

Learning Objectives

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

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


 







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

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

Learning Objectives:

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

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

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

 







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

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

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



 







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

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

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

Presenter:

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

 

 









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

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

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

Presenter:

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


 







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

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

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

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






 






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

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

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

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

Descriptions, Dates and Times:

Monday, January 25, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

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





Tuesday, January 26, 2021

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

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


Presenter:

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



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

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

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

Presenter:

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


Wednesday, January 27, 2021

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

See description above under Tuesday morning.

Presenter:  The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

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

Description coming soon.

Presenter:

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

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

Thursday, January 28, 2021

We Need to Talk:  A Step by Step Guide to Difficult Conversations
10:00 am - 12:15pm
This highly interactive webinar will give participants the tools for having difficult conversations that achieve results. Participants will learn, and practice, a step by step process for managing difficult conversations about a variety of workplace issues. 

Learning Objectives:

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


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

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

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

Presenter:

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

 

Friday, January 29, 2021

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

Learning Objectives:

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

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

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

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

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

Learning Objectives

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

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


 

There are currently 30 spots remaining out of 100






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

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

Learning Objectives:

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


 






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

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

Learning Objectives:

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

Presenter:

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






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







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

Learning Objectives:

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

Presenter:

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






How To Be An Effective Anti-Racist
2/17/2021

We were recently made aware that we are not allowed to record How to be an Effective Anti-Racist.  This is the policy of the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio and also helps to ensure the confidentiality and privacy of those engaged in the discussion.  Please do not register if you are unable to attend at the time of the Zoom session.

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

Topics will include:
 
  • Racial Identity Development
  • History and Impact of Segregation
  • Hierarchy, Power, and Passivism
  • Anti-Racist Resources
  • Anti-Racism In Action
This online workshop will be interactive and will have breakout rooms where people will be participating.  For the optimal experience it is best if you have a microphone and camera. If not, you may participate via chat.
 

Presenter: The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 149 spots remaining out of 200





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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 156 spots remaining out of 200





Tools for Tense Situations with Angry Customers
2/24/2021

In this 90-minute session, Steve will discuss what tools and skills we need to use as libraries continue to re-open their doors to provide skillful and dedicated service to patrons. He’ll provide tools to recognize and resolve conflicts with patrons, including the need for patience, empathy, and understanding other points of view without judgment. His learning points include these important topics:
  • What are the service challenges we face as we return from a Work From Home status to back to working in and around our library buildings?
  • What safety and security protocols do we need to follow, coming and going and while working in publicly-accessed buildings?
  • How can library leaders, managers, and supervisors monitor the work culture for conflict, communication, and morale issues?
  • How do we respectfully request that patrons and other library visitors (vendors, delivery, maintenance, janitorial providers) follow posted Covid-19 safety protocols?
  • How do we agree to disagree and have patience and empathy for our patrons or co-workers who have strong feelings about national issues that differ from ours?
  • How about a little personal and professional stress management?
  • What does the future hold for library employees and what new ways can we provide service to patrons?
Presenter:

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






Tools for Tense Situations with Angry Customers
2/24/2021

In this 90-minute session, Steve will discuss what tools and skills we need to use as libraries continue to re-open their doors to provide skillful and dedicated service to patrons. He’ll provide tools to recognize and resolve conflicts with patrons, including the need for patience, empathy, and understanding other points of view without judgment. His learning points include these important topics:
  • What are the service challenges we face as we return from a Work From Home status to back to working in and around our library buildings?
  • What safety and security protocols do we need to follow, coming and going and while working in publicly-accessed buildings?
  • How can library leaders, managers, and supervisors monitor the work culture for conflict, communication, and morale issues?
  • How do we respectfully request that patrons and other library visitors (vendors, delivery, maintenance, janitorial providers) follow posted Covid-19 safety protocols?
  • How do we agree to disagree and have patience and empathy for our patrons or co-workers who have strong feelings about national issues that differ from ours?
  • How about a little personal and professional stress management?
  • What does the future hold for library employees and what new ways can we provide service to patrons?
Presenter:

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

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

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


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



Bystander Intervention in the Library
3/3/2021

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

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

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






Bystander Intervention in the Library
3/3/2021







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

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

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






Single Story Bias
3/9/2021

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

This is an introductory webinar.

Presenter:

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 51 spots remaining out of 100





Welcoming Transgender Customers
3/10/2021

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

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

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

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


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Welcoming Transgender Customers
3/10/2021







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

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

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

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


 
Location: Online via Zoom






Introduction to Coded Language
3/24/2021

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

Presenter:

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

There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 100





What Can I Do? How Libraries Can Support and Heal Communities in Conflict
4/22/2021

From racial unrest to the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries all over the country are grappling with many societal challenges. With our cities and states in need, how does a library respond and help cultivate healing, social awareness and empathy in our communities?
 
Communications professional and librarian, Tamara King will share how Richland Library in Columbia, S.C. found its voice and used innovative ways to reach their customers in 2020. From holding virtual discussions about race to using telephone town halls to remove access barriers, King will provide valuable tools libraries can use to support communities in conflict.

Presenter:  
Tamara King is the Community Relations Director for Richland Library. In her role, she is tasked with developing, directing and implementing communications strategies to key stakeholders and audiences of Richland Library. Tamara also supervises the Office of Development, which supports the Richland Library Friends and Foundation along with the library volunteer program.  She has nearly two decades of experience in broadcast television, public relations, marketing, strategic communications, media and crisis communication training and program management.

Tamara also chairs the library’s award-winning Social Awareness Taskforce. Through Tamara’s leadership the taskforce has held discussions surrounding empathy, race, women’s rights and social justice for more than 1,300 participants.   Tamara is a nationally and locally recognized award-winning public relations professional and was recently recognized as a 2019 Library Journal Mover and Shaker for her role in Richland Library’s race, equity and social awareness work. Tamara has a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, and a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina.
Location: Online via Zoom






What Can I Do? How Libraries Can Support and Heal Communities in Conflict
4/22/2021

From racial unrest to the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries all over the country are grappling with many societal challenges. With our cities and states in need, how does a library respond and help cultivate healing, social awareness and empathy in our communities?
 
Communications professional and librarian, Tamara King will share how Richland Library in Columbia, S.C. found its voice and used innovative ways to reach their customers in 2020. From holding virtual discussions about race to using telephone town halls to remove access barriers, King will provide valuable tools libraries can use to support communities in conflict.

Presenter:  
Tamara King is the Community Relations Director for Richland Library. In her role, she is tasked with developing, directing and implementing communications strategies to key stakeholders and audiences of Richland Library. Tamara also supervises the Office of Development, which supports the Richland Library Friends and Foundation along with the library volunteer program.  She has nearly two decades of experience in broadcast television, public relations, marketing, strategic communications, media and crisis communication training and program management.

Tamara also chairs the library’s award-winning Social Awareness Taskforce. Through Tamara’s leadership the taskforce has held discussions surrounding empathy, race, women’s rights and social justice for more than 1,300 participants.   Tamara is a nationally and locally recognized award-winning public relations professional and was recently recognized as a 2019 Library Journal Mover and Shaker for her role in Richland Library’s race, equity and social awareness work. Tamara has a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, and a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina.
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

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


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

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 50





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

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

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

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


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

There are currently 25 spots remaining out of 50





Assertiveness for the Unassertive
5/19/2021

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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






Assertiveness for the Unassertive
5/19/2021







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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






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







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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

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


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

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 70





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

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

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

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


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

There are currently 46 spots remaining out of 70





Disability 101
7/13/2021

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



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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Disability 101
7/13/2021



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



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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

Eddie Kristan ran the Safety & Security Team at Warren-Newport Library in Gurnee, IL for 6 years before finishing graduate school and becoming a reference librarian and staff trainer in 2020. During his time as Head of Security, Eddie re-wrote procedure and advised on policy to turn a distrusted and counter-productive security team into a force of support and empathy for staff and the community. With the close help of Ryan Dowd (author of "A Librarian's Guide to Homelessness") and Warren Graham (author of "The Blackbelt Librarian"), Eddie was able to balance a need for confident enforcement of policy with a desperate need for trauma informed services and empathy in all things. He was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in the Community Builder group in 2020 and Herbert Goldhor Award Winner for Public Librarianship by the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences in 2021. 
Location: Online via Zoom






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







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


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

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

Eddie Kristan ran the Safety & Security Team at Warren-Newport Library in Gurnee, IL for 6 years before finishing graduate school and becoming a reference librarian and staff trainer in 2020. During his time as Head of Security, Eddie re-wrote procedure and advised on policy to turn a distrusted and counter-productive security team into a force of support and empathy for staff and the community. With the close help of Ryan Dowd (author of "A Librarian's Guide to Homelessness") and Warren Graham (author of "The Blackbelt Librarian"), Eddie was able to balance a need for confident enforcement of policy with a desperate need for trauma informed services and empathy in all things. He was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in the Community Builder group in 2020 and Herbert Goldhor Award Winner for Public Librarianship by the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences in 2021. 
Location: Online via Zoom






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






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






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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






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







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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






ALICE Training: Active Shooter Response
10/27/2021

ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) Training instructor-led classes provide preparation and a plan for individuals and organizations on how to more proactively handle the threat of an aggressive intruder or active shooter event. Whether it is an attack by an individual person or by an international group of professionals intent on conveying a political message through violence, ALICE Training option-based tactics have become the accepted response, versus the traditional “lockdown only” approach.

ALICE is the leading training solution that increases an organization’s and individual’s odds of survival during a violent intruder event. ALICE, which stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate, is a post-Columbine, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook strategy that goes beyond the conventional lockdown.

Presenters:
Bob Thompson and Chris Moffitt are both career Law Enforcement officers and dedicated trainers.

Chris started in police work as an Auxiliary Police Officer in 1990 with the Hubbard Ohio Police Department and has moved through the ranks and is currently a Patrol Sergeant. Besides his supervisor duties, Chris is also the departments OPOTA certified Firearms Instructor (Semi-Auto, Revolver, Shotgun, Carbine Rifle) a certified Field Training Officer (FTO) , NRA “Refuse to be a Victim” Instructor, and a Glock Armorer.


Bob’s career began in 1994 and then in 1996 he swore in with the Hubbard Ohio Police Department. In 2011 he was promoted to Patrol Sergeant.  Prior to his promotion Bob was assigned to a FBI Drug Task Force where he was afforded the opportunity to train at Camp Perry, and the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Currently Bob is a contracted instructor at Youngstown State University and Kent State University (Trumbull) Police academies as well as the department Defensive Tactics Instructor and Field Training Officer (FTO). A dedicated trainer, Bob put himself through Firearms Instructor school and is an OPOTA certified instructor (Semi-Auto & Revolver). Both Chris and Bob are Taser, Asp, Pepper spray and A.L.I.C.E. instructors..
Location: Online via Zoom






Professional Office Etiquette Basics
11/3/2021

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

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






Professional Office Etiquette Basics
11/3/2021







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

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






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






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

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


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






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

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


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






Creating Calm During Times of Stress
12/7/2021

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

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






Creating Calm During Times of Stress
12/7/2021

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

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






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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

There are currently 63 spots remaining out of 100





Cyber Security for ALL Staff
2/2/2022

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

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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

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


Location: Online via Zoom






Microsoft Account (with OneDrive and Office 365)
3/2/2022

Microsoft has designed online accounts to utilize a wide array of services.  The apps and services are made available using personal, business, or school accounts.  This course will focus on standard features available to all accounts including OneDrive and Office 365.  You will learn to navigate through your account, access apps, and manage files. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Creating and removing online folders
  • Synchronizing OneDrive to Windows Explorer and managing file versions 
  • An explanation will be given describing what Office 365 “actually” is and how it differs from Office
  • Other topics may include collaboration, file sharing, ransomware recovery, and recovering damaged and deleted files 
*Topics may vary depending on the availability of time in the course.

Presenter:

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


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



Mental Health First Aid: A Virtual Training and Certification Course
3/10/2022

Mental Health First Aid is a training course designed to give members of the public key skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Just as CPR training helps a layperson without medical training assist an individual following a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid training helps a layperson assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis.  This course will run 9:00 am - 3:30 pm.  There will be two hours worth of pre-work before the online workshop.  This course is limited to 30.  We will take a waitlist.  Register for this class only if you are able to attend. This class will not be archived.


The evidence behind Mental Health First Aid demonstrates that it makes people feel more comfortable managing a crisis situation and builds mental health literacy — helping the public identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness. Specifically, studies found that those who trained in Mental Health First Aid have greater confidence in providing help to others, greater likelihood of advising people to seek professional help, improved concordance with health professionals about treatments, and decreased stigmatizing attitudes.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize the potential risk factors and warning signs for a range of mental health problems, including: depression, anxiety/trauma, psychosis and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and self-injury
  • Use a 5-step action plan to help an individual in crisis connect with appropriate professional help
  • Interpret the prevalence of various mental health disorders in the U.S. and the need for reduced negative attitudes in their communities
  • Apply knowledge of the appropriate professional, peer, social, and self-help resources available to help someone


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


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



Windows 11 Upgrade
5/12/2022

Microsoft provides Windows with a fresh new look with updates and enhancements to its apps, settings, and basic features.  Participants will be exposed to the new changes to the basic interface as well as functional enhancements to improve the overall efficiency of everyday tasks.  Topics will include modifications to the Start menu, Taskbar, a new Widgets app, and an updated Action Center.  Discussions on applications will include a redesigned Windows store, support of non-Microsoft applications, and updated stock apps.  Other topics of interest will include support for Virtual Desktops, installation changes, and improved themes for accessibility.  *Additional topics may be included depending on the time allowed.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about new changes to the basic interface
  • Learn about functional enhancements to improve the overall efficiency of everyday tasks
  • Learn about virtual Desktop
Presenter:

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

There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 50





Handling Patron Content Concerns in Challenging Times
5/18/2022

Designed primarily for front-line library staff, Handling Patron Content Concerns in Challenging Times will provide tips and advice for dealing with informal challenges to library materials that are occurring across the United States. During this webinar, Dr. Dawkins will equip participants with a step-by-step process to de-escalate potentially hostile encounters. In addition, participants will review talking points to help patrons understand why library workers are advocates for patron access.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand and be able to articulate the legal and ethical foundation for the Freedom to Read
  • Develop a step-by-step process for handling oral complaints/concerns with a variety of types of complainants

Presenter:

Dr. April Dawkins is an assistant professor in the Library and Information Science department at UNC Greensboro. She teaches Materials for Adolescents, Legal & Ethical Issues in School Libraries, and Reading, Literacy, and the Library. Dr. Dawkins is a member of the School Library Research editorial board. She is also the editor of Intellectual Freedom Issues in School Libraries (Libraries Unlimited, 2017). Her research interests include intellectual freedom, self-censorship, and access and equity issues in school libraries and diversity in young adult literature.
Location: Online via Zoom






Handling Patron Content Concerns in Challenging Times
5/18/2022

Recorded 5/18/2022

Designed primarily for front-line library staff, Handling Patron Content Concerns in Challenging Times will provide tips and advice for dealing with informal challenges to library materials that are occurring across the United States. During this webinar, Dr. Dawkins will equip participants with a step-by-step process to de-escalate potentially hostile encounters. In addition, participants will review talking points to help patrons understand why library workers are advocates for patron access.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand and be able to articulate the legal and ethical foundation for the Freedom to Read
  • Develop a step-by-step process for handling oral complaints/concerns with a variety of types of complainants

Presenter:

Dr. April Dawkins is an assistant professor in the Library and Information Science department at UNC Greensboro. She teaches Materials for Adolescents, Legal & Ethical Issues in School Libraries, and Reading, Literacy, and the Library. Dr. Dawkins is a member of the School Library Research editorial board. She is also the editor of Intellectual Freedom Issues in School Libraries (Libraries Unlimited, 2017). Her research interests include intellectual freedom, self-censorship, and access and equity issues in school libraries and diversity in young adult literature.
Location: Online via Zoom







Enhancing Collaboration with Microsoft Teams
6/2/2022

Microsoft Teams gained considerable traction during the pandemic and has been increasingly popular as a “full service” business communications platform. Teams offers video conferencing, file storage, and application integrations. It can be a very useful and effective tool for both remote and in-person collaboration when utilized effectively.  

Learning objectives: 
  • Learn the layout and basic functions of Microsoft Teams 
  • Learn about SharePoint and OneDrive and understand how they interact with Teams 
  • Explore applications that may be useful to you and your library 
Presenter:

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom







Enhancing Collaboration with Microsoft Teams
6/2/2022

Recorded 6/2/2022

Microsoft Teams gained considerable traction during the pandemic and has been increasingly popular as a “full service” business communications platform. Teams offers video conferencing, file storage, and application integrations. It can be a very useful and effective tool for both remote and in-person collaboration when utilized effectively.  

Learning objectives: 
  • Learn the layout and basic functions of Microsoft Teams 
  • Learn about SharePoint and OneDrive and understand how they interact with Teams 
  • Explore applications that may be useful to you and your library 
Presenter:

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom







Google Products: An Overview
6/14/2022

Countless people have Gmail accounts but many of the other applications in the Google suite go unused. Although applications like Google Drive and Google Docs have a reputation for being less intuitive than other popular platforms, they can still be useful and it’s all free!  

Learning Objectives: 
  • Learn what applications are offered free with your Gmail account 
  • Explore the functionality of Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides.  
Presenter:

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom







Google Products: An Overview
6/14/2022

Recorded 6/14/2022

Countless people have Gmail accounts but many of the other applications in the Google suite go unused. Although applications like Google Drive and Google Docs have a reputation for being less intuitive than other popular platforms, they can still be useful and it’s all free!  

Learning Objectives: 
  • Learn what applications are offered free with your Gmail account 
  • Explore the functionality of Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides.  
Presenter:

Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Discovering DEI
8/11/2022

Wondering where to start your diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) learning journey? This introductory session will allow participants to learn basic language, concepts, and explore why DEI work is important.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand basic terminology regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Recognize the benefits of diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments 
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Harassment Prevention
8/23/2022

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

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

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


​ 
Location: Online via Zoom






Harassment Prevention
8/23/2022

Recorded 8/23/2022

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

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

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


​ 
Location: Online via Zoom






Practical Strategies for Time Management
8/31/2022

Being short on resources seems to be "the new normal" for libraries— and having too little money and too few staff members always leads to the same predicament: not enough time. While it is not possible to create more time, making use of time management tools can help you to make improvements in your productivity—while also decreasing stress and frustration and increasing satisfaction and well-being.

Learning Objectives:
  • Assess your personal opportunities and focus areas for time management changes
  • Identify 5-7 specific time management tools and techniques that can be adapted to a variety of tasks and roles
  •  Make plans to immediately improve your time management (and how you feel at work)
Presenter:
Brenda Hough is a librarian, writer, and learning professional with 25 years of professional experience working in and supporting libraries by providing training and consulting services. She is the author of Crash Course in Time Management for Library Staff and the co-editor of WebJunction’s Competency Index for the Library Field. She is an adjunct instructor for Emporia State University (KS). She has worked on projects for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, WebJunction, the Public Library Association, Infopeople, California Libraries Learn (CALL), the State Library of Arizona, the State Library of Oregon, the Northeast Kansas Library System, and more. She is the owner of EluciDare Learning.
Location: Online via Zoom






Practical Strategies for Time Management
8/31/2022

Recorded 8/31/2022

Being short on resources seems to be "the new normal" for libraries— and having too little money and too few staff members always leads to the same predicament: not enough time. While it is not possible to create more time, making use of time management tools can help you to make improvements in your productivity—while also decreasing stress and frustration and increasing satisfaction and well-being.

Learning Objectives:
  • Assess your personal opportunities and focus areas for time management changes
  • Identify 5-7 specific time management tools and techniques that can be adapted to a variety of tasks and roles
  •  Make plans to immediately improve your time management (and how you feel at work)
Presenter:
Brenda Hough is a librarian, writer, and learning professional with 25 years of professional experience working in and supporting libraries by providing training and consulting services. She is the author of Crash Course in Time Management for Library Staff and the co-editor of WebJunction’s Competency Index for the Library Field. She is an adjunct instructor for Emporia State University (KS). She has worked on projects for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, WebJunction, the Public Library Association, Infopeople, California Libraries Learn (CALL), the State Library of Arizona, the State Library of Oregon, the Northeast Kansas Library System, and more. She is the owner of EluciDare Learning.
Location: Online via Zoom






Safe Space - LGBTQ+ Cultural Competence Training
9/13/2022

Safe Space: LGBTQ+ Cultural Competence Training is the first training in the Kent State University Safe Space Training Series. This series is an on-going training effort through Kent State University and the LGBTQ+ Center to make our communities safer places for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Training participants will learn about bias, stereotypes, current vocabulary, and best practices for handling gender and sexuality topics with sensitivity. After the training, individuals are offered a Safe Space Ally sign for their office, indicating their support of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer plus (LGBTQ+) community.
 
Regardless of where you work or live, if you interact with people and the public, you will meet individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Having a basic understanding of correct terminology and an understanding of what it means to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community are essential skills in supporting all people.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Participants will develop a deeper awareness of personal ideas, stereotypes, and assumptions related to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ+) individuals.
  • Participants will develop an increased comfort level in addressing concepts and language regarding LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Participants will develop an increased awareness of services that supports LGBTQ+ and allied individuals.
  • Participants will have the option of developing a network of community support people for all people regardless of sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.
Presenter:

Ken Ditlevson, serves as Kent State University’s first director for the LGBTQ+ Center, where he started in 2014.  Ditlevson is a two-time graduate of Kent State University, having received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Masters of Education degree in Community Counseling.  
Prior to accepting this position, Ken worked for nearly 20 years in mental health and social services, and most recently was the Assistant Vice President for Child Guidance & Family Solutions in Akron, Ohio.  Ken has been awarded numerous awards for his work in LGBTQ+ advocacy, as well as for creating innovative programming and initiatives.Ken and his husband of 22 years, reside in Highland Square/West Akron, along with their two dogs, Luna and Layla.
 

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

There are currently 6 spots remaining out of 50





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

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

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

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






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

Recorded 10/19/2022

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

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

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






Intersectionality 101
11/2/2022

Intersectionality is a concept that allows us to examine multiple areas of our lives and social identities. During this session, participants will examine what it actually is, discuss the history of the theory and begin to apply an intersectional lens.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify intersectionality as a lens 
  • Identify how intersectionality can be utilized in their respective spaces 
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

 

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


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



Recognizing Bias
12/1/2022

Various people, institutions and organizations help shape the way we view the world, sometimes in inaccurate ways. Participants will learn to identify implicit and explicit biases and explore strategies for challenging them in ourselves and others.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand various concepts around bias
  • Develop strategies for counteracting biases you may have
  • Identify resources for continued learning and support
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Addressing Microaggressions
12/14/2022

Discover how everyday comments and actions can unintentionally hurt or harm someone. Participants will build skills and practice strategies to recognize and interrupt microaggressions.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize microaggressions and explain what they are
  • Develop strategies for interrupting microaggressions in both others and ourselves
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Becoming Good Library Ambassadors
1/19/2023

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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Becoming Good Library Ambassadors
1/19/2023

Recorded 1/19/2023

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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Attentional Fitness: Sneaking Mindful Habits into Real Life
2/1/2023

Instead of trying to add one more self-care challenge to your list, why not use mindfulness to help you address what's already on your list: healthier eating, moving your body a little more, and getting more rest?

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn a practical approach to practicing mindfulness — with or without meditation
  • Expand your understanding of mindfulness beyond breath awareness and relaxation.
  • Explore how to apply mindfulness insights to common self-care challenges

Presenter:
Daron Larson is a Mindfulness Coach who discovered from personal experience that consistent mindful habits really can make ordinary moments better — including the uncomfortable ones. As a parent, social worker, and librarian, he has always found purpose in identifying resources to help people respond more effectively to the challenges of ordinary life. Daron says mindfulness is about much more than temporary relaxation. It offers a variety of flexible ways to experience your life with greater vitality despite its inevitable discomforts and uncertainties. His TEDx talk — Don't Try to Be Mindful — has been viewed over half a million times.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Attentional Fitness: Sneaking Mindful Habits into Real Life
2/1/2023

Recorded 2/1/2023

Instead of trying to add one more self-care challenge to your list, why not use mindfulness to help you address what's already on your list: healthier eating, moving your body a little more, and getting more rest?

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn a practical approach to practicing mindfulness — with or without meditation
  • Expand your understanding of mindfulness beyond breath awareness and relaxation.
  • Explore how to apply mindfulness insights to common self-care challenges

Presenter:
Daron Larson is a Mindfulness Coach who discovered from personal experience that consistent mindful habits really can make ordinary moments better — including the uncomfortable ones. As a parent, social worker, and librarian, he has always found purpose in identifying resources to help people respond more effectively to the challenges of ordinary life. Daron says mindfulness is about much more than temporary relaxation. It offers a variety of flexible ways to experience your life with greater vitality despite its inevitable discomforts and uncertainties. His TEDx talk — Don't Try to Be Mindful — has been viewed over half a million times.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Intersectionality 101
2/14/2023

Intersectionality is a concept that allows us to examine multiple areas of our lives and social identities. During this session, participants will examine what it actually is, discuss the history of the theory and begin to apply an intersectional lens.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify intersectionality as a lens 
  • Identify how intersectionality can be utilized in their respective spaces 
  • Identify resources for support and continued learning
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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

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

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

Breakout Session 1

Be Prepared! Using Policy to Navigate Materials Challenges 

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

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






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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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


Breakout Session 2

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

 Learning Objectives:

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

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

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

Presenter:  Christina Dorr

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

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





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

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

Barry Trott, Adult Services Consultant with the Library of Virginia
 

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


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



NEO-RLS Membership Discussion: How to Get Involved
4/18/2023

Have you ever wondered how program ideas are chosen? Are you looking for leadership opportunities that won't put more on your plate at work, but still offer a challenge and a chance to liaise with library peers from the NEO-RLS membership?  NEO-RLS depends on the participation of our membership for governance, input on continuing education and services, and continuous feedback through our Board of Trustees, Board Committees, and Advisory Groups. Did you know that anyone working in a member library of NEO-RLS is eligible to participate? These volunteer positions provide the opportunity to have a voice in your regional library system and boost your resume. Join us virtually to learn more about these groups and how you can get involved. We will also have an open discussion where  participants can ask questions and provide 
 
Location: Online via Zoom






ALICE Training: Active Shooter Response
4/19/2023

ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) Training instructor-led classes provide preparation and a plan for individuals and organizations on how to more proactively handle the threat of an aggressive intruder or active shooter event. Whether it is an attack by an individual person or by an international group of professionals intent on conveying a political message through violence, ALICE Training option-based tactics have become the accepted response, versus the traditional “lockdown only” approach.

ALICE is the leading training solution that increases an organization’s and individual’s odds of survival during a violent intruder event. ALICE, which stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate, is a post-Columbine, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook strategy that goes beyond the conventional lockdown.

Presenters:
Bob Thompson and Chris Moffitt are both career Law Enforcement officers and dedicated trainers.

Chris started in police work as an Auxiliary Police Officer in 1990 with the Hubbard Ohio Police Department and has moved through the ranks and is currently a Patrol Sergeant. Besides his supervisor duties, Chris is also the departments OPOTA certified Firearms Instructor (Semi-Auto, Revolver, Shotgun, Carbine Rifle) a certified Field Training Officer (FTO) , NRA “Refuse to be a Victim” Instructor, and a Glock Armorer.


Bob’s career began in 1994 and then in 1996 he swore in with the Hubbard Ohio Police Department. In 2011 he was promoted to Patrol Sergeant.  Prior to his promotion Bob was assigned to a FBI Drug Task Force where he was afforded the opportunity to train at Camp Perry, and the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Currently Bob is a contracted instructor at Youngstown State University and Kent State University (Trumbull) Police academies as well as the department Defensive Tactics Instructor and Field Training Officer (FTO). A dedicated trainer, Bob put himself through Firearms Instructor school and is an OPOTA certified instructor (Semi-Auto & Revolver). Both Chris and Bob are Taser, Asp, Pepper spray and A.L.I.C.E. instructors..
Location: Akron-Summit County Public Library
Main Library Auditorium
Akron, Oh 44326






A Day for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
6/7/2023

Here is your opportunity to be introduced to diversity, equity, and inclusion training all in one day.

Recognizing Bias
Various people, institutions and organizations help shape the way we view the world, sometimes in inaccurate ways. Participants will learn to identify implicit and explicit biases and explore strategies for challenging them in ourselves and others. 
 
Addressing Microaggressions
Discover how everyday comments and actions can unintentionally hurt or harm someone. Participants will build skills and practice strategies to recognize and interrupt microaggressions. 
 
Intersectionality 101
Intersectionality is a concept that allows us to examine multiple areas of our lives and social identities. During this session, participants will examine what it actually is, discuss the history of the theory and begin to apply an intersectional lens. 
Presenters:
 

Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.

Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.


Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students. 


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






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

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

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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

Recorded 6/13/23

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

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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






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

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






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

Recorded 8/9/23

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






2023 Staff Development Day
10/9/2023

Keynote:  You are the Guardians at the Gate 

You may not know this, but you are the leaders in the fight against ignorance, censorship, and misinformation.  When your customers think of the library, they think of you!  You are the guardians at the gates, truly unsung heroes who deal with all types of chaos and disorder throughout the days and nights at your library. This keynote will celebrate your awesome work, get some tools to fight the good fight and learn some techniques to make deeper connections with your customers. 

Presenter: 
Maurice Coleman is a trainer, coach, and keynote speaker.  Maurice helps organizations improve their human processes and use of technology, expand their internal/external communications, and broaden their focus and implementation of EDI activities. 

Maurice is also the host and producer of the long-running (and oldest) training/education and empowerment podcast T is for Training and the Technical Trainer at a county library system located in the North-Eastern corner of Maryland. 

 He was named a Library Journal Mover and Shaker in 2010 and was a member of the first class of WebJunction’s National Library CE Training Institute in 2014. 

 

Breakout Session 1 

Ambassadorship = Customer Service + Marketing + Community Engagement 
Are you promoting your library the best you can, both inside and outside the library walls?  Learn ways that you can better represent your library in your community.  Become a good ambassador! 

 Learning Objectives: 

  • Empowering you and your staff members to become good ambassadors. 

  • Preparing for successful contacts within your community. 

  • Enhancing your community's perception of your library. 

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

 

Together We Need to Understand Diversity in the Library Collection  
Why is having a collection that is diverse such an important goal for libraries?  In our time together we will explore what “diversity” means in regard to collections, what our history is with serving diverse communities, and why every staff member, no matter what their job, needs a good understanding of the importance of diverse collections.    

 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. 

 
Unleash the Power of Nonverbal Communication!  
Explore the importance and impact of body language and how you can use it to elevate your customer service to new heights. Learn where body language comes from and how to decipher what the body is saying. Utilize nonverbal tells to establish rapport, convey confidence, and manage conflict. Explore ways body language has evolved since the pandemic and how you can leverage nonverbal cues to create positive and effective interactions in today’s environment. Finally, discover not only how to positively influence others, but truly change how you think and feel, all through body language. Don't miss this transformative session and enhance your customer service approach today! 

Presenter: Holly Klingler 
For over thirteen years, Holly Klingler has been training people in a variety of career fields on how to maximize their communication, creativity, and critical thinking skills.  She has presented at the Akron Women’s Bar Association, the Ohio Certified Public Accountants Annual Conference, OhioMeansJobs and the Hudson Job Corp., and has trained library staff for over twelve years, eight of which were as the Continuing Education trainer at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System. She teaches valuable techniques to help professionals showcase their strengths, sharpen their skills, and build their confidence. Holly has a Master of Arts degree in Philosophy, a Masters of Library and Information Science, and a certification in nonverbal analysis. She is also a certified Career Development facilitator and an MBTI Certified Practitioner and Facilitator. She is currently an Instructional Systems Designer for the Technical Excellence Office at the NASA Safety Center. 

Re-energizing Your Space: How Cleaning and Mental Health are Connected 
Feeling anxious, stressed or unable to focus? Take a look around you. Clutter, mess or an untidy work area can make some people feel overwhelmed. In fact, research shows that cleaning (or a lack of cleaning) can have an impact on your mental health. Clinical psychologist, Dawn Potter, PsyD, discusses tips for decluttering, and how a neat workspace can positively impact your wellbeing. 

Presenter: Dawn Potter PsyD is a psychologist and clinical assistant professor with the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety and stress-related disorders. She is an experienced health psychologist trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. Dr. Potter completed her bachelor of arts and master of arts in psychology at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. She then completed her doctorate of psychology from Pacific University in Hillsboro, Oregon. She completed a pre-doctoral internship with IU Health Ball Memorial Family Medicine Residency Center in Muncie, Indiana and a postdoctoral fellowship with MetroHealth in Cleveland, Ohio.  


Breakout Session 2:  Networking sessions 


Breakout Session 3 

Bridging the Gap: Social Work in Libraries 
Meeting people where they are is a significant yet unwritten social work rule.  An increase in community needs coupled with the evolution of libraries and their varying clientele, there is no better place for Social Workers to be.  This workshop is designed to provide insight into community-based needs, identify ways in which staff and patrons benefit from social service expertise, and dispel the myth that libraries have a future without the incorporation of Social Work Principles & Practices. 

Presenter: 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.   

Roundtable Conversation about Book Challenges 
Come share your concerns about book challenges and leave not only with a feeling of solidarity, but with techniques to aid your work.

 
Facilitator:  Wendy Bartlett, Collection Development and Acquisitions Manager 

 
Art of Storytelling
Want to learn how to tell a captivating story? This session will show you how to unlock the power of storytelling and turn your experience into compelling narrative. We'll discuss the building blocks of narrative, how to shape your story, presentation tips, as well as how to overcome writer's block. You'll leave this workshop with a strong start to your own story, as well as ideas for how to incorporate storytelling into your programming.   

Presenter: Dana Norris is the founder of the Story Club, a storytelling show which has held shows in Chicago, Boston, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Minneapolis, Belgrade, Columbus, and Tulsa. She currently produces and hosts Story Club Cleveland and teaches at Literary Cleveland. She is the author of The Storytelling Code: 10 Simple Rules to Shape and Tell a Brilliant Story. She has also been published in McSweeney's Internet Tendency, The Rumpus, CLE Scene, Tampa Review, and her stories have been featured on NPR stations WBEZ and WKSU, among others.   



Re-energize Your Spirit 
As library staff, your jobs are more important than ever to support the emotional and intellectual needs of your patrons.  Your time and talents make you very important people!  To keep your work active and purposeful you must focus on ways to recall and maintain your purpose and energy so that you may continue to be healthy stewards of this work.  Come be a part of a conversation that will aid in re-energizing your spirit and remind you of WHY you do this work!  

Learning Objectives:  

  • Learn how our energy contributes to our emotional wellness and the energy of others.  

  • Identify ways to protect, heal and revitalize your Spirit for the work that you do.  

 
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. 

In addition, there will be stations throughout the day for relaxing and re-charging your energy. These will consist of adult coloring, puzzles, health tech, meditation and more. 


Location: Lakeland Community College
7700 Clocktower Drive
Kirtland, OH 44094-5198


Online Registration has closed for this event



Run-Hide-Fight: Active Shooter Attack Prevention and Preparedness
11/1/2023

An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area, and recent active shooter incidents have underscored the need for a coordinated response by law enforcement and others to save lives. The FBI is committed to working with its partners to protect schools, workplaces, houses of worship, transportation centers, other public gathering sites, and communities.  

The FBI provides operational, behaviorally-based threat assessment and threat management services to help detect and prevent acts of targeted violence, helping academic, mental health, business, community, law enforcement, and government entities recognize and disrupt potential active shooters who may be on a trajectory toward violence. The Bureau also continues its research to identify indicators that could signal potential violent intent.  

This training will demonstrate the three tactics you can use to keep yourself and others safe during an active shooter attack—run, hide, and fight. Learning these principles now will prepare and empower you to put them into practice—and survive—should the unthinkable occur. 

Presenter:  

John Breen has been a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for the past 17 years and is currently assigned to the Cleveland Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF).  SA Breen's assignments include International Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime investigations.  As a JTTF coordinator, he provides counterterrorism and active shooter response training to a variety of audiences including Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit organizations, the military, and members of federal, state, and local law enforcement.  In addition to domestic audiences, he has also delivered global training programs to executives and leaders of foreign countries and their government agencies. 

SA Breen is also an assault team leader on the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team and is an instructor for the Firearms, Tactics, Active Shooter, and Defensive Tactics programs.  Prior to becoming an FBI Agent, SA Breen served in the United States Army from 2000-2006.


Location: Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library
2345 Lee Road
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

There are currently 7 spots remaining out of 40





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



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






Library Bootcamp: The Story Of A Book: A Life Cycle
4/30/2024

Recorded 4/30/24

Have you ever wanted the big picture, the whole story of where library materials come from, how they live, and where they go? Staff from Avon Lake Public Library will take you from budgeting through selection, acquisition, cataloging, processing, circulation and weeding in an informative and informal fashion.  Those that do the work themselves will show and tell, and await your questions! This webinar will be of general interest to library staff who may be new or want an overview of the flow of materials in a small to medium-sized library. It could be your library!

Presenters:
Avon Lake Public Library Staff
Location: Online via Zoom






The Story Of A Book: A Life Cycle
4/30/2024

Have you ever wanted the big picture, the whole story of where library materials come from, how they live, and where they go? Staff from Avon Lake Public Library will take you from budgeting through selection, acquisition, cataloging, processing, circulation and weeding in an informative and informal fashion.  Those that do the work themselves will show and tell, and await your questions! This webinar will be of general interest to library staff who may be new or want an overview of the flow of materials in a small to medium-sized library. It could be your library!

Presenters:
Avon Lake Public Library Staff
Location: Online via Zoom






Membership Focus Group - NEO-RLS Srtategic Plan 2025-2028
9/25/2024

Join us for a Virtual Focus Group Session as we begin developing our 2025-2028 strategic plan. We value your insights and invite staff from all roles and library types to participate. This is your chance to share feedback on how NEO-RLS can better support you and your libraries. Your input will play a key role in determining the resources, services, and programs we offer over the next three years. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard!

Facilitator:  Janelle Thomas, Director, NORWELD.


Location: Online via Zoom






Membership Focus Group - NEO-RLS Strategic Plan 2025-2028
10/1/2024

Join us for a Virtual Focus Group Session as we begin developing our 2025-2028 strategic plan. We value your insights and invite staff from all roles and library types to participate. This is your chance to share feedback on how NEO-RLS can better support you and your libraries. Your input will play a key role in determining the resources, services, and programs we offer over the next three years. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard!

Facilitator:  Janelle Thomas, Director, NORWELD.


Location: Online via Zoom






How to Weather the Turbulence of a Video Auditor
11/6/2024

First amendment audits continue to occur in libraries and they can be unsettling and stressful for staff and patrons. What can you do to prepare for the next auditor’s visit and what strategies can be used when they have the camera in your face? Join us for a panel discussion that includes a public library assistant director and a representative from the ALA Office of Intellectual Freedom. The panelists will provide an overview of the legal environment, highlight case studies and share best practices for dealing with auditors.

Presenters:
Julianne Rist is a library leader with a commitment to transforming communities and a vision to keep libraries relevant in the 21st century. As Director of Public Serivces for Jefferson County Public Library she has piloted new services and overseen the redesign of several library buildings. She led the response for filming in JCPL libraries. She has an MLIS from University of South Florida and is the chair of the PLA Digital Literacy Committee.




Deborah Caldwell-Stone is Director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom and Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation. For over twenty years she has worked closely with library professionals and library trustees on a wide range of intellectual freedom issues. She has served on the faculty of the ALA-sponsored Lawyers for Libraries and Law for Librarians workshops and is a contributor to the 10th edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual. She has contributed articles on law, policy, and intellectual freedom to American Libraries and other publications.

Location: Online via Zoom






How to Weather the Turbulence of a Video Auditor
11/6/2024

Recorded:  11/6/24

First amendment audits continue to occur in libraries and they can be unsettling and stressful for staff and patrons. What can you do to prepare for the next auditor’s visit and what strategies can be used when they have the camera in your face? Join us for a panel discussion that includes a public library assistant director and a representative from the ALA Office of Intellectual Freedom. The panelists will provide an overview of the legal environment, highlight case studies and share best practices for dealing with auditors.

Presenters:
Julianne Rist is a library leader with a commitment to transforming communities and a vision to keep libraries relevant in the 21st century. As Director of Public Serivces for Jefferson County Public Library she has piloted new services and overseen the redesign of several library buildings. She led the response for filming in JCPL libraries. She has an MLIS from University of South Florida and is the chair of the PLA Digital Literacy Committee.




Deborah Caldwell-Stone is Director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom and Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation. For over twenty years she has worked closely with library professionals and library trustees on a wide range of intellectual freedom issues. She has served on the faculty of the ALA-sponsored Lawyers for Libraries and Law for Librarians workshops and is a contributor to the 10th edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual. She has contributed articles on law, policy, and intellectual freedom to American Libraries and other publications.

Location: Online via Zoom






Checking Out Despair: Librarians as Gatekeepers of Hope in a Digital Age
11/19/2024

Recorded 11/19/24

Checking Out Despair: Librarians as Gatekeepers of Hope in a Digital Age
In an era marked by rising deaths of despair, librarians are positioned at a unique intersection between information and community well-being. This presentation explores how librarians across all sectors must take control of the narratives around their services—no longer seen as passive custodians of books, but as proactive warriors in the fight against isolation, addiction, and economic hopelessness. By re framing their role and engaging with communities on a deeper, more empathetic level, librarians can offer vital resources that combat despair and foster resilience.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the role of narratives in library advocacy
  • Be aware of the deaths of despair issue in the US
  • Devise next steps based on examples
Presenter:

R. David Lankes is the Virginia & Charles Bowden Professor of Librarianship at the University of Texas at Austin’s School of Information. He is the recipient of ALA’s Reference and User Services Association 2021 Isadore Gilbert Mudge Award for distinguished contribution to reference librarianship. His book, The Atlas of New Librarianship won the 2012 ABC-CLIO/Greenwood Award for the Best Book in Library Literature. Lankes is a passionate advocate for librarians and their essential role in today’s society.  Recently he has also been a contributor to 
Library 2035: Imagining the Next Generation of Libraries.
 
 
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 66 spots remaining out of 97





NEO-RLS Open House
11/19/2024

Join Us for the Newly Rebranded NEO-RLS Open House

We invite library administrators, trustees, and staff to the NEO-RLS Open House on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.  Attendees will gain insights into NEO-RLS's financial progress, explore our range of services, and receive a special State Library update from Evan Struble, Associate State Librarian. The event will celebrate the contributions of those who supported NEO-RLS over the past year and honor the recipients of the 2023 Rising Star, Shooting Star, and Super Star Awards. Attendees will also have the chance to engage with members of the Board of Trustees, Board Committees, Advisory Groups, and Network Groups to learn more about participating in these exciting opportunities.  We look forward to celebrating with you and sharing what's next for NEO-RLS!

What to Expect at the Open House:
  • Breakfast
  • Time to mingle and network with other library staff
  • Interactive stations to explore ways to get involved with the Board, Advisory Committees, Network Groups, and more
  • A recap of NEO-RLS achievements from the past year
  • An update from Associate State Librarian, Evan Struble
  • Congratulate the Star Award winners

Featured Presentation - Checking Out Despair: Librarians as Gatekeepers of Hope in a Digital Age
In an era marked by rising deaths of despair, librarians are positioned at a unique intersection between information and community well-being. This presentation explores how librarians across all sectors must take control of the narratives around their services—no longer seen as passive custodians of books, but as proactive warriors in the fight against isolation, addiction, and economic hopelessness. By reframing their role and engaging with communities on a deeper, more empathetic level, librarians can offer vital resources that combat despair and foster resilience.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the role of narratives in library advocacy
  • Be aware of the deaths of despair issue in the US
  • Devise next steps based on examples
Presenter:

R. David Lankes is the Virginia & Charles Bowden Professor of Librarianship at the University of Texas at Austin’s School of Information. He is the recipient of ALA’s Reference and User Services Association 2021 Isadore Gilbert Mudge Award for distinguished contribution to reference librarianship. His book, The Atlas of New Librarianship won the 2012 ABC-CLIO/Greenwood Award for the Best Book in Library Literature. Lankes is a passionate advocate for librarians and their essential role in today’s society.  Recently he has also been a contributor to 
Library 2035: Imagining the Next Generation of Libraries.
 
 
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.



Foundations of Conflict Management
2/5/2025

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

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

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

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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Foundations of Conflict Management
2/5/2025

Recorded 2/5/25

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

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

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

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

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

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Cultivating Your Resilience to Avoid Burnt Out: Managing Stress, Appreciation Inequalities, and Workload Demands
3/12/2025

Libraries are at the heart of their communities as educators and a primary resource in programming and services and a refuge to the people they serve. However, the attitudes that come with it puts pressure on a library to do everything and be everything, putting a strain on expectations of the humans that run it. Unspoken expectations reinforce the idea that libraries are expected to handle everything, therefore end up being glorified security guards, babysitters, social workers, and frontline staff. Burnout is inevitable if you don’t learn how to cope with undue stress. This webinar will enforce learning how to set boundaries so that you can focus on the qualities that made you come into the profession. Discover ways to avoid burn out, refocus your role, and give yourself permission to step back.  

Learning Objectives:
  • How to set healthy boundaries with your community and coworkers
  • To identify and communicate needed support from higher levels
  • Develop approaches in reducing stress
  • To shift your perspective, reducing guilt for allowing yourself to re-prioritize your well-being
Presenter:

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






Cultivating Your Resilience to Avoid Burnt Out: Managing Stress, Appreciation Inequalities, and Workload Demands
3/12/2025

Recorded 3/12/25

Libraries are at the heart of their communities as educators and a primary resource in programming and services and a refuge to the people they serve. However, the attitudes that come with it puts pressure on a library to do everything and be everything, putting a strain on expectations of the humans that run it. Unspoken expectations reinforce the idea that libraries are expected to handle everything, therefore end up being glorified security guards, babysitters, social workers, and frontline staff. Burnout is inevitable if you don’t learn how to cope with undue stress. This webinar will enforce learning how to set boundaries so that you can focus on the qualities that made you come into the profession. Discover ways to avoid burn out, refocus your role, and give yourself permission to step back.  

Learning Objectives:
  • How to set healthy boundaries with your community and coworkers
  • To identify and communicate needed support from higher levels
  • Develop approaches in reducing stress
  • To shift your perspective, reducing guilt for allowing yourself to re-prioritize your well-being
Presenter:

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






Confident and Clear: Building Effective Communication in the Library
7/22/2025

Effective communication is vital for collaboration, patron service, and a positive workplace environment. In this webinar you will learn communication skills to build confidence , respond intentionally in workplace interactions, and enhance your listening skills. We will explore common causes of communication apprehension, understand the importance of giving and receiving feedback, and learn strategies for becoming more attentive and empathetic listeners. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand communication apprehension and apply techniques to manage it in professional settings.
  • Demonstrate intentional communication practices when giving and receiving feedback with peers and patrons.
  • Apply active listening strategies to enhance team collaboration and patron engagement.
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






Confident and Clear: Building Effective Communication in the Library
7/22/2025

Recorded 7/22/25

Effective communication is vital for collaboration, patron service, and a positive workplace environment. In this webinar you will learn communication skills to build confidence , respond intentionally in workplace interactions, and enhance your listening skills. We will explore common causes of communication apprehension, understand the importance of giving and receiving feedback, and learn strategies for becoming more attentive and empathetic listeners. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand communication apprehension and apply techniques to manage it in professional settings.
  • Demonstrate intentional communication practices when giving and receiving feedback with peers and patrons.
  • Apply active listening strategies to enhance team collaboration and patron engagement.
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






Chair Yoga for Library Workers Series: Mindful Awareness
7/23/2025

Support your well-being with this chair yoga series designed specifically for library staff. Each session combines gentle physical postures, breathing techniques, and basic meditation practices to help ease tension, manage stress, and build flexibility. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this series welcomes all levels and abilities—no special clothing or equipment required. Just bring yourself and a chair!

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn basic techniques for mindful awareness, including guided breathwork and intentional noticing, to manage workplace stress more effectively. 
  • Develop body awareness by exploring gentle yoga postures tailored to reduce tension commonly associated with desk work and shelving. 
  • Enhance mental clarity and focus through mindfulness techniques that support sustained attention in a library setting. 
  • Foster emotional resilience by practicing mindfulness techniques that promote calmness and balance during high-demand times or difficult patron interactions.
Presenter:

Hillary Brown, Program and Services Associate, NEO-RLS, is also a certified yoga teacher and former children’s librarian with over a decade of experience in public libraries. She specializes in making yoga accessible to all and is passionate about supporting the well-being of library workers through mindful movement, meditation and breath work. Hillary believes that, like libraries, yoga should be welcoming to everyone.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Chair Yoga for Library Workers Series: Mindful Awareness
7/23/2025

Recorded: 7/23/25

Support your well-being with this chair yoga series designed specifically for library staff. Each session combines gentle physical postures, breathing techniques, and basic meditation practices to help ease tension, manage stress, and build flexibility. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this series welcomes all levels and abilities—no special clothing or equipment required. Just bring yourself and a chair!

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn basic techniques for mindful awareness, including guided breathwork and intentional noticing, to manage workplace stress more effectively. 
  • Develop body awareness by exploring gentle yoga postures tailored to reduce tension commonly associated with desk work and shelving. 
  • Enhance mental clarity and focus through mindfulness techniques that support sustained attention in a library setting. 
  • Foster emotional resilience by practicing mindfulness techniques that promote calmness and balance during high-demand times or difficult patron interactions.
Presenter:

Hillary Brown, Program and Services Associate, NEO-RLS, is also a certified yoga teacher and former children’s librarian with over a decade of experience in public libraries. She specializes in making yoga accessible to all and is passionate about supporting the well-being of library workers through mindful movement, meditation and breath work. Hillary believes that, like libraries, yoga should be welcoming to everyone.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Stress Management for Real Life: Evidence-Based Ways to Heal, Recharge, and Find Balance
7/29/2025

It's a stressful time to be a library worker, with increasing demands, public pressure, and rapidly changing environments. This session offers an evidence-based approach to understanding stress, preventing its escalation, and fostering sustainable well-being. Participants will learn practical strategies to build resilience, develop healthier work habits, and achieve a better balance between their professional and personal lives.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the signs and symptoms of chronic stress and explain their impact on personal and organizational well-being.
  • Apply evidence-based strategies to prevent the accumulation of chronic stress and support sustainable well-being.
  • Develop a personalized plan to manage stress and maintain balance through proactive, daily practices.
Presenter: 

Bobbi L. Newman is a librarian, Certified Wellness Practitioner, workplace well-being consultant, and advocate for healthier, more inclusive, and productive workplaces. She is passionate about fostering environments where individuals and teams not only work but thrive. With nearly a decade of experience, two published books on workplace wellness, and a Certificate in the Science of Well-Being from Yale University, Bobbi’s approach is evidence-based and grounded in real-world experience. She writes for libraries at librarianbyday.net
Location: Online via Zoom






Stress Management for Real Life: Evidence-Based Ways to Heal, Recharge, and Find Balance
7/29/2025

Recorded:  7/29/25

It's a stressful time to be a library worker, with increasing demands, public pressure, and rapidly changing environments. This session offers an evidence-based approach to understanding stress, preventing its escalation, and fostering sustainable well-being. Participants will learn practical strategies to build resilience, develop healthier work habits, and achieve a better balance between their professional and personal lives.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the signs and symptoms of chronic stress and explain their impact on personal and organizational well-being.
  • Apply evidence-based strategies to prevent the accumulation of chronic stress and support sustainable well-being.
  • Develop a personalized plan to manage stress and maintain balance through proactive, daily practices.
Presenter: 

Bobbi L. Newman is a librarian, Certified Wellness Practitioner, workplace well-being consultant, and advocate for healthier, more inclusive, and productive workplaces. She is passionate about fostering environments where individuals and teams not only work but thrive. With nearly a decade of experience, two published books on workplace wellness, and a Certificate in the Science of Well-Being from Yale University, Bobbi’s approach is evidence-based and grounded in real-world experience. She writes for libraries at librarianbyday.net
Location: Online via Zoom






From Conflict to Collaboration: A Practical Guide for Communicating Through Disagreement
8/12/2025

This webinar equips you with essential communication skills to navigate disagreements productively and collaboratively. Learn practical techniques for active listening, clear articulation, and identifying common ground. You'll leave with concrete strategies for effective communication, negotiation, and problem-solving when working with individuals holding diverse perspectives, ultimately fostering understanding and shared success.

Learning Objectives:
  • Know how to identify common ground and utilize collaborative problem-solving strategies to work towards shared goals with individuals holding diverse perspectives.
  • Discover practical negotiation and communication strategies to navigate conflict productively and foster understanding in situations involving differing viewpoints.
  • Learn the communication skills that will allow you to effectively communicate your own perspective and understand differing viewpoints during disagreements.
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 MRCPL staff.
Location: Online via Zoom






From Conflict to Collaboration: A Practical Guide for Communicating Through Disagreement
8/12/2025

Recorded 8/12/25

This webinar equips you with essential communication skills to navigate disagreements productively and collaboratively. Learn practical techniques for active listening, clear articulation, and identifying common ground. You'll leave with concrete strategies for effective communication, negotiation, and problem-solving when working with individuals holding diverse perspectives, ultimately fostering understanding and shared success.

Learning Objectives:
  • Know how to identify common ground and utilize collaborative problem-solving strategies to work towards shared goals with individuals holding diverse perspectives.
  • Discover practical negotiation and communication strategies to navigate conflict productively and foster understanding in situations involving differing viewpoints.
  • Learn the communication skills that will allow you to effectively communicate your own perspective and understand differing viewpoints during disagreements.
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 MRCPL staff.
Location: Online via Zoom






Time Management: Scheduling and Prioritization
8/20/2025

Do you ever feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day? This session helps participants take back control of their time by learning how to schedule effectively and prioritize what truly matters. With practical tools and strategies, attendees will learn to break overwhelming workloads into manageable tasks.  By understanding the difference between urgent and important, and applying proven prioritization techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix or ABC method, participants will be better equipped to align their daily actions with long-term goals. Expect a high-impact hour full of actionable insights.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn to assess daily responsibilities based on urgency and importance
  • Identify common scheduling mistakes and how to avoid them
  • Practice prioritization techniques for smarter task management
  • Build a framework for consistent daily planning
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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Time Management: Scheduling and Prioritization
8/20/2025

Recorded 8/20/25

Do you ever feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day? This session helps participants take back control of their time by learning how to schedule effectively and prioritize what truly matters. With practical tools and strategies, attendees will learn to break overwhelming workloads into manageable tasks.  By understanding the difference between urgent and important, and applying proven prioritization techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix or ABC method, participants will be better equipped to align their daily actions with long-term goals. Expect a high-impact hour full of actionable insights.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn to assess daily responsibilities based on urgency and importance
  • Identify common scheduling mistakes and how to avoid them
  • Practice prioritization techniques for smarter task management
  • Build a framework for consistent daily planning
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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Chair Yoga for Library Workers Series: Change the Narrative by Cultivating Opposite Thought
8/27/2025

Support your well-being with this chair yoga series designed specifically for library staff. Each session combines gentle physical postures, breathing techniques, and basic meditation practices to help ease physical tension, manage stress, and build flexibility. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this series welcomes all levels and abilities—no special clothing or equipment required. Just bring yourself and a chair!

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore the yogic principle of pratipaksha bhavana (cultivating opposite thought) to reframe internal narratives and foster a more compassionate inner dialogue. 
  • Apply mindfulness and reflection exercises to real workplace scenarios.
  • Identify thought patterns that contribute to stress, self-doubt, or burnout, particularly in service-oriented work environments.
  • Practice physical postures that embody balance and help cultivate a balanced mindset.
Presenter:

Hillary Brown, Program and Services Associate, NEO-RLS, is also a certified yoga teacher and former children’s librarian with over a decade of experience in public libraries. She specializes in making yoga accessible to all and is passionate about supporting the well-being of library workers through mindful movement, meditation and breath work. Hillary believes that, like libraries, yoga should be welcoming to everyone.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Chair Yoga for Library Workers Series: Change the Narrative by Cultivating Opposite Thought
8/27/2025

Recorded 8/27/25

Support your well-being with this chair yoga series designed specifically for library staff. Each session combines gentle physical postures, breathing techniques, and basic meditation practices to help ease physical tension, manage stress, and build flexibility. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this series welcomes all levels and abilities—no special clothing or equipment required. Just bring yourself and a chair!

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore the yogic principle of pratipaksha bhavana (cultivating opposite thought) to reframe internal narratives and foster a more compassionate inner dialogue. 
  • Apply mindfulness and reflection exercises to real workplace scenarios.
  • Identify thought patterns that contribute to stress, self-doubt, or burnout, particularly in service-oriented work environments.
  • Practice physical postures that embody balance and help cultivate a balanced mindset.
Presenter:

Hillary Brown, Program and Services Associate, NEO-RLS, is also a certified yoga teacher and former children’s librarian with over a decade of experience in public libraries. She specializes in making yoga accessible to all and is passionate about supporting the well-being of library workers through mindful movement, meditation and breath work. Hillary believes that, like libraries, yoga should be welcoming to everyone.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Cybersecurity for Library Staff
9/3/2025

Be Aware and Be Prepared - Learn the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the current cyber security risks, attacks, concerns and what you can do to protect not only yourself, your company but also your family, friends and other relations from becoming a statistic. For all library staff. 

Presenter:

Ed Slusarski, President of Regarding Your Systems, LLC (Cyber Consulting Company) - He graduated college with a triple major in Accounting, Finance, and Management and a minor in Computer Science. He started his business career in public accounting, serving very diverse set of clienteles. In his career, he continued to focus on becoming an integrated consulting expert as he progressed through various industries - manufacturing, financial, retail, and mining - which were US and internationally based companies. He continued to refine his skills by:  1) obtaining his MBA/MSMIS degree from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management; and 2) conducting research, analysis, and studies in the business, operational, and IT fields with the culmination of certifications in key IT security and governance, risk management, and business management fields. He continues to learn and adapt to the ever-changing business/IT environment by obtaining training and seeking certifications in his areas of study and interest (Dark Web, Artificial Intelligence, IoT devices, quantum computing).  While his consulting practice does address large companies (Eaton, Timken Steel, Hyster Yale), he strives to help the medium to small businesses the most.


Location: Online via Zoom






Cybersecurity for Library Staff
9/3/2025

Recorded 9/3/25    

Be Aware and Be Prepared - Learn the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the current cyber security risks, attacks, concerns and what you can do to protect not only yourself, your company but also your family, friends and other relations from becoming a statistic. For all library staff. 

Presenter:

Ed Slusarski, President of Regarding Your Systems, LLC (Cyber Consulting Company) - He graduated college with a triple major in Accounting, Finance, and Management and a minor in Computer Science. He started his business career in public accounting, serving very diverse set of clienteles. In his career, he continued to focus on becoming an integrated consulting expert as he progressed through various industries - manufacturing, financial, retail, and mining - which were US and internationally based companies. He continued to refine his skills by:  1) obtaining his MBA/MSMIS degree from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management; and 2) conducting research, analysis, and studies in the business, operational, and IT fields with the culmination of certifications in key IT security and governance, risk management, and business management fields. He continues to learn and adapt to the ever-changing business/IT environment by obtaining training and seeking certifications in his areas of study and interest (Dark Web, Artificial Intelligence, IoT devices, quantum computing).  While his consulting practice does address large companies (Eaton, Timken Steel, Hyster Yale), he strives to help the medium to small businesses the most.


Location: Online via Zoom






The Power of Civility: Elevating Standards and Transforming Service
9/11/2025

Tired of workplace friction impacting productivity and morale? The solution lies in embracing a revitalized understanding of civility. This isn't about superficial niceties; it's about deeply respecting the diverse perspectives, needs, and identities of your colleagues while honoring your own. As discourtesy increasingly disrupts our workplaces, leading to turnover and poor performance, embedding internal customer service standards that are rooted in civility can make a powerful difference. This workshop offers the next critical step towards strong internal customer service skills: learning what this new civility means, why it's indispensable for a positive and productive environment, and how you can actively cultivate these vital skills.

Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will have a deeper knowledge of the modern definition, and role, of civility within the scope of internal customer service.
  • Attendees will understand the skills necessary for a workplace that prioritizes civility.
  • Attendees will be able to develop their own civility skills and know how to put them into practice in the workplace. 
Presenters:

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 MRCPL staff.
Location: Online via Zoom






The Power of Civility: Elevating Standards and Transforming Service
9/11/2025

Recorded 9/11/25

Tired of workplace friction impacting productivity and morale? The solution lies in embracing a revitalized understanding of civility. This isn't about superficial niceties; it's about deeply respecting the diverse perspectives, needs, and identities of your colleagues while honoring your own. As discourtesy increasingly disrupts our workplaces, leading to turnover and poor performance, embedding internal customer service standards that are rooted in civility can make a powerful difference. This workshop offers the next critical step towards strong internal customer service skills: learning what this new civility means, why it's indispensable for a positive and productive environment, and how you can actively cultivate these vital skills.

Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will have a deeper knowledge of the modern definition, and role, of civility within the scope of internal customer service.
  • Attendees will understand the skills necessary for a workplace that prioritizes civility.
  • Attendees will be able to develop their own civility skills and know how to put them into practice in the workplace. 
Presenters:

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 MRCPL staff.
Location: Online via Zoom






Chair Yoga for Library Workers Series: Roles and Right Actions
9/24/2025

Support your well-being with this chair yoga series designed specifically for library staff. Each session combines gentle physical postures, breathing techniques, and basic meditation practices to help ease physical tension, manage stress, and build flexibility. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this series welcomes all levels and abilities—no special clothing or equipment required. Just bring yourself and a chair!

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore the yogic principle of dharma (right action) to reflect on healthy, sustainable ways to serve your community without experiencing burnout.
  • Examine the concept of “vocational awe” in libraries and its impact on personal well-being.
  • Use mindful movement and meditation to reconnect with intrinsic motivation, purpose, and inner alignment in one’s professional role.
  • Develop tools for self-compassion and boundary-setting that support quality service while honoring personal needs and limitations.
Presenter:

Hillary Brown, Program and Services Associate, NEO-RLS, is also a certified yoga teacher and former children’s librarian with over a decade of experience in public libraries. She specializes in making yoga accessible to all and is passionate about supporting the well-being of library workers through mindful movement, meditation and breath work. Hillary believes that, like libraries, yoga should be welcoming to everyone.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Chair Yoga for Library Workers Series: Roles and Right Actions
9/24/2025

Recorded:  9/24/25

Support your well-being with this chair yoga series designed specifically for library staff. Each session combines gentle physical postures, breathing techniques, and basic meditation practices to help ease physical tension, manage stress, and build flexibility. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this series welcomes all levels and abilities—no special clothing or equipment required. Just bring yourself and a chair!

Learning Objectives:
  • Explore the yogic principle of dharma (right action) to reflect on healthy, sustainable ways to serve your community without experiencing burnout.
  • Examine the concept of “vocational awe” in libraries and its impact on personal well-being.
  • Use mindful movement and meditation to reconnect with intrinsic motivation, purpose, and inner alignment in one’s professional role.
  • Develop tools for self-compassion and boundary-setting that support quality service while honoring personal needs and limitations.
Presenter:

Hillary Brown, Program and Services Associate, NEO-RLS, is also a certified yoga teacher and former children’s librarian with over a decade of experience in public libraries. She specializes in making yoga accessible to all and is passionate about supporting the well-being of library workers through mindful movement, meditation and breath work. Hillary believes that, like libraries, yoga should be welcoming to everyone.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Time Management: Overcoming Procrastination
9/30/2025

Why do we delay even the simplest tasks? This session explores the psychology behind procrastination and how to break the cycle. Through interactive discussion and self-reflection, participants will identify their personal procrastination triggers and the hidden costs of delay. Using practical techniques like time-blocking, the 5-minute rule, and accountability tools, this session equips attendees with the skills to turn intention into action. It's not just about getting things done—it's about building momentum and confidence in your workflow.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the root causes of procrastination
  • Identify your procrastination patterns and triggers
  • Apply quick-start strategies to overcome task avoidance
  • Create a personal action plan to maintain motivation
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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Time Management: Overcoming Procrastination
9/30/2025

Why do we delay even the simplest tasks? This session explores the psychology behind procrastination and how to break the cycle. Through interactive discussion and self-reflection, participants will identify their personal procrastination triggers and the hidden costs of delay. Using practical techniques like time-blocking, the 5-minute rule, and accountability tools, this session equips attendees with the skills to turn intention into action. It's not just about getting things done—it's about building momentum and confidence in your workflow.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the root causes of procrastination
  • Identify your procrastination patterns and triggers
  • Apply quick-start strategies to overcome task avoidance
  • Create a personal action plan to maintain motivation
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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Doing What Matters: Values in the Library
10/8/2025

Our values are the lens through which we interpret the world. They are the principles that guide our thoughts, actions, and behaviors. When we consciously and intentionally leverage our core values in our work, it gives us a sense of confidence, meaning, and purpose. It also helps us navigate conflict and consensus with grace and courage. In this workshop, individuals will reflect on the core values they bring to their work and how to use their values with more intention. Walk away ready to plan for how to use values with more intention in communication, work activities, and interactions with others.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify personal core values
• Plan for how to use core values in daily work for more meaning, satisfaction, and excellence
• Understanding and techniques for dealing with values conflicts

Presenter:

Sharon Morris has worked in library development for over 20 years and conducts workshops, courses, and leadership institutes throughout the country. Her interests are leadership, research, management, supervision, communications, wellness & libraries, play, values, improv comedy, and insight. Sharon takes an asset-based approach to learning and invites all to engage. She has earned an MLIS and PhD in Managerial Leadership in Libraries. Her workshops and webinars are designed based on adult learning theory and include experiential learning, content informed by research, "fun" aspects, and time for reflection and planning to apply concepts in the workplace.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Doing What Matters: Values in the Library
10/8/2025

Recorded 10/8/25

Our values are the lens through which we interpret the world. They are the principles that guide our thoughts, actions, and behaviors. When we consciously and intentionally leverage our core values in our work, it gives us a sense of confidence, meaning, and purpose. It also helps us navigate conflict and consensus with grace and courage. In this workshop, individuals will reflect on the core values they bring to their work and how to use their values with more intention. Walk away ready to plan for how to use values with more intention in communication, work activities, and interactions with others.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify personal core values
• Plan for how to use core values in daily work for more meaning, satisfaction, and excellence
• Understanding and techniques for dealing with values conflicts

Presenter:

Sharon Morris has worked in library development for over 20 years and conducts workshops, courses, and leadership institutes throughout the country. Her interests are leadership, research, management, supervision, communications, wellness & libraries, play, values, improv comedy, and insight. Sharon takes an asset-based approach to learning and invites all to engage. She has earned an MLIS and PhD in Managerial Leadership in Libraries. Her workshops and webinars are designed based on adult learning theory and include experiential learning, content informed by research, "fun" aspects, and time for reflection and planning to apply concepts in the workplace.



 
Location: Online via Zoom






Safe Space - LGBTQ+ Cultural Competence Training
10/23/2025

LGBTQ+ Cultural Competence Training is designed to foster safer, more inclusive communities for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. This training equips participants with the knowledge and tools to recognize and address bias, understand current terminology, and engage in respectful and informed conversations around gender and sexuality. Upon completion, participants are invited to display a Safe Space Ally sign in their workspace—demonstrating visible support for the LGBTQ+ community and a commitment to inclusion.
 
No matter where you work or live, if you interact with others, you’re likely to engage with individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Having a foundational understanding of inclusive language and what it means to be a supportive ally isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for fostering respect, equity, and belonging for everyone.

Learning Objectives:
  • Develop greater self-awareness of personal beliefs, stereotypes, and assumptions related to LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Increase comfort and confidence in discussing concepts and using inclusive language related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • Gain knowledge of resources and services that support LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies.
  • Explore opportunities to build a network of community support that embraces all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.



Presenter:

 Ken Ditlevson is a dedicated trainer and facilitator specializing in LGBTQ+ education and advocacy. He served as the inaugural Director of Kent State University’s LGBTQ+ Center, a position he held for nearly 11 years. In this role, Ken led numerous initiatives to support LGBTQ+ students, staff, and faculty, building a more inclusive campus environment.

Ken is a two-time graduate of Kent State University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Education in Community Counseling. Before joining Kent State, he spent nearly two decades working in mental health and social services, most recently serving as Assistant Vice President at Child Guidance & Family Solutions in Akron, Ohio.

A passionate advocate, Ken has received numerous awards for his leadership in LGBTQ+ advocacy and for developing innovative programs that foster inclusion and community support. He lives in the Highland Square/West Akron area with his husband of 25 years and their two dogs, Luna and Piper.

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






NEO-RLS Open House -Featuring Mychal Threets
10/28/2025

Join Us for NEO-RLS Open House

We invite library staff, administrators, and trustees to the NEO-RLS Open House on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. This special event is your opportunity to gain insight into NEO-RLS's financial progress and achievements over the last year, learn about our services and strategic priorities, and receive a special update from the State Library. We'll celebrate the contributions of our members and recognize the 2025 Rising Star, Shooting Star, and Super Star Award recipients. Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with members of the Board of Trustees, Board Committees, Advisory Groups, and Active Learning Communities to explore ways to get involved. We look forward to celebrating with you and sharing what's next for NEO-RLS!

What to Expect at the Open House:
  • Breakfast
  • Time to mingle and network with library staff from across the region
  • Interactive stations to explore ways to get involved with the Board, Advisory Committees, Active Learning Communities, and more
  • A recap of NEO-RLS achievements from the past year
  • An update from the State Library of Ohio
  • Congratulate the Star Award nominees and winners in-person

Featured Presentation in-person - A Journey of Library Joy
Mychal’s thank you and honoring of library staff as a library kid-turned-librarian dealing with life and humanity, while seeking the ever-present joy.

Presenter:  

Mychal Threets is a librarian, literary ambassador, and the library’s number one fan (according to himself, admittedly). He grew up in Fairfield, CA, right between Sacramento and San Francisco. He was raised in his local library as a home-school kid.

He got his first library card at the age of five and was hooked on libraries from there. He got his first library job as a library shelver at the library he grew up in and worked his way up to become Supervising Librarian of that very same library.

He is very open about his mental health. He talks about it in hopes that it’ll help others in their mental health journey. He is adamant about encouraging people to believe him when he says he’s happy they are here.

He considers it an honor to the library people who raised him that he is a recipient of the 2024 “I Love My Librarian” award from the American Library Association, one of School Library Journal’s 2024 Movers and Shakers, one of TIME Magazine’s 2024 Next Generation Leaders, and a 2025 The Webby Awards winner for social impact.”
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.



Thriving at Work: Practical Strategies for Better Days in the Library
10/30/2025

Do your work days feel like a blur? Between patron demands, programming pressures, and shifting priorities, it’s easy to fall into survival mode. This one-hour introductory webinar will offer practical strategies to help you reconnect with what you love about library work. We’ll explore how to manage time and tasks, navigate workplace conflict, and rediscover purpose in your daily routine—so you can thrive, not just get through the day.

Learning Objectives:

  • How to identify and reframe the parts of your job you enjoy.
  • Practical tips for managing time and tasks to reduce overwhelm.
  • A glimpse into resolving common workplace conflicts.
  • A foundation for thriving in your role and setting the stage for future growth
Presenter:

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

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

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






Thriving at Work: Practical Strategies for Better Days in the Library
10/30/2025

Recorded 10/30/25

Do your work days feel like a blur? Between patron demands, programming pressures, and shifting priorities, it’s easy to fall into survival mode. This one-hour introductory webinar will offer practical strategies to help you reconnect with what you love about library work. We’ll explore how to manage time and tasks, navigate workplace conflict, and rediscover purpose in your daily routine—so you can thrive, not just get through the day.

Learning Objectives:

  • How to identify and reframe the parts of your job you enjoy.
  • Practical tips for managing time and tasks to reduce overwhelm.
  • A glimpse into resolving common workplace conflicts.
  • A foundation for thriving in your role and setting the stage for future growth
Presenter:

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

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

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






Time Management: Eliminating Time Wasters and Staying Organized
11/4/2025

Time leaks can sabotage even the most productive days. In this session, participants will uncover the sneaky time wasters—both digital and interpersonal—that interrupt their focus and flow. They’ll also learn how to manage interruptions with tact and clarity. Beyond identifying distractions, we’ll explore systems to organize tasks, emails, and workspace for smoother, more efficient days. This training is perfect for anyone ready to reclaim their time and build sustainable habits for staying organized and in control.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize the top time-wasting habits in your workday
  • Learn strategies to manage and minimize interruptions
  • Discover tools to improve organization and workflow
  • Build a personalized strategy to reduce distractions and boost efficiency
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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Time Management: Eliminating Time Wasters and Staying Organized
11/4/2025

Recorded 11/4/25

Time leaks can sabotage even the most productive days. In this session, participants will uncover the sneaky time wasters—both digital and interpersonal—that interrupt their focus and flow. They’ll also learn how to manage interruptions with tact and clarity. Beyond identifying distractions, we’ll explore systems to organize tasks, emails, and workspace for smoother, more efficient days. This training is perfect for anyone ready to reclaim their time and build sustainable habits for staying organized and in control.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize the top time-wasting habits in your workday
  • Learn strategies to manage and minimize interruptions
  • Discover tools to improve organization and workflow
  • Build a personalized strategy to reduce distractions and boost efficiency
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.
Location: Online via Zoom






Meeting Grief Together: Creating a Compassionate Response Plan
12/3/2025

This webinar is a practical and compassionate training designed to help organizations and individuals respond effectively when a tragic event, such as gun violence or loss of life, impacts their community. With a focus on supporting young patrons, families and staff, this session explores immediate and long-term strategies for communication, emotional support, and trauma-informed responses. Participants will learn how to prepare in advance, respond with empathy, and care for themselves and others in the wake of tragedy.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify key components of an organizational response plan for supporting youth, families, and community members during and after a tragic event.
  • Describe strategies for individual self-awareness and self-care in the face of trauma and grief, especially for frontline staff.
  • Explain the importance of advance planning and communication protocols to ensure a compassionate and coordinated response to community trauma.

Presenter:

Lizzy Sullivan, Educator and Youth Advocate

Lizzy Sullivan is an experienced educator and student advocate who has spent over a decade teaching in K-12 schools. Recognized as Teacher of the Year and Teacher of the District, Lizzy helps school districts and students thrive by supporting well-being through literacy-centered curriculum, nutrition programs and mental health support. She works to promote equity and lasting change in her classrooms and community.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Meeting Grief Together: Creating a Compassionate Response Plan
12/3/2025

Recorded:  12/3/25

This webinar is a practical and compassionate training designed to help organizations and individuals respond effectively when a tragic event, such as gun violence or loss of life, impacts their community. With a focus on supporting young patrons, families and staff, this session explores immediate and long-term strategies for communication, emotional support, and trauma-informed responses. Participants will learn how to prepare in advance, respond with empathy, and care for themselves and others in the wake of tragedy.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify key components of an organizational response plan for supporting youth, families, and community members during and after a tragic event.
  • Describe strategies for individual self-awareness and self-care in the face of trauma and grief, especially for frontline staff.
  • Explain the importance of advance planning and communication protocols to ensure a compassionate and coordinated response to community trauma.

Presenter:

Lizzy Sullivan, Educator and Youth Advocate

Lizzy Sullivan is an experienced educator and student advocate who has spent over a decade teaching in K-12 schools. Recognized as Teacher of the Year and Teacher of the District, Lizzy helps school districts and students thrive by supporting well-being through literacy-centered curriculum, nutrition programs and mental health support. She works to promote equity and lasting change in her classrooms and community.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Life Art: A New Horizon, Library Edition
12/11/2025

This presentation will plumb the depths of human potential by asking folks, what if we consider our contemporary society through the lens of living life as art?  And what if libraries are the perfect synergistically aligned conduits for this enriching energy? What if art has been with us since the dawn of civilization as a gift just waiting to be opened completely and utilized to its fullest extent?  What if the concept and practice of living life as art offers us a mind and heart opening portal to better understand the nature of reality and the full capacities that human beings hold within themselves?  
 
 Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about the very beginning of art history to our current day and age showing how art has gone through a transformation from object to concept to now possibly people as art
  • Explore how this eureka understanding unlocks an infinite well of powerful energy that can be harnessed to good ends to live one's life in the most inspired and fulfilling way
  • Begin to see how this gift energy can potentially strengthen, support, catalyze, revitalize, renew and supercharge library workers and libraries all around the world
  • Tap into the awesome power of the gift energy that the understanding and practice of life art truly offers and see how it aligns perfectly with the mission, vision and values of libraries
Presenter:

Jon Keppel holds a Bachelor of Fine Art in Sound Art from The Ohio State University where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with Distinction and a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University with a focus on adult services in the context of public libraries through the lens of living life as art.  He is currently a librarian which is how he expresses his life art professionally in addition to independently inspiring through his writings, talks, guided meditations, music, and art.
Location: Online via Zoom






Life Art: A New Horizon, Library Edition
12/11/2025

Recorded: 12/11/25

This presentation will plumb the depths of human potential by asking folks, what if we consider our contemporary society through the lens of living life as art?  And what if libraries are the perfect synergistically aligned conduits for this enriching energy? What if art has been with us since the dawn of civilization as a gift just waiting to be opened completely and utilized to its fullest extent?  What if the concept and practice of living life as art offers us a mind and heart opening portal to better understand the nature of reality and the full capacities that human beings hold within themselves?  
 
 Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about the very beginning of art history to our current day and age showing how art has gone through a transformation from object to concept to now possibly people as art
  • Explore how this eureka understanding unlocks an infinite well of powerful energy that can be harnessed to good ends to live one's life in the most inspired and fulfilling way
  • Begin to see how this gift energy can potentially strengthen, support, catalyze, revitalize, renew and supercharge library workers and libraries all around the world
  • Tap into the awesome power of the gift energy that the understanding and practice of life art truly offers and see how it aligns perfectly with the mission, vision and values of libraries
Presenter:

Jon Keppel holds a Bachelor of Fine Art in Sound Art from The Ohio State University where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with Distinction and a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University with a focus on adult services in the context of public libraries through the lens of living life as art.  He is currently a librarian which is how he expresses his life art professionally in addition to independently inspiring through his writings, talks, guided meditations, music, and art.
Location: Online via Zoom






Excel Drop-in Q & A (Excel Nerds and Novices welcome)
12/16/2025

Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered.  Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel.  Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel?  Excel formula basics?  Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability?  Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS?  Power Query basics?  You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi  or just join us on Zoom for the conversation.  Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.

Facilitators:

Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014.  Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives.  His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet.  While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks.  In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
 
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations. 

Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 


Location: Online via Zoom






Excel Drop-in Q & A (Excel Nerds and Novices welcome)
12/16/2025

Recorded 12/16/25

Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered.  Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel.  Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel?  Excel formula basics?  Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability?  Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS?  Power Query basics?  You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi  or just join us on Zoom for the conversation.  Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.

Facilitators:

Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014.  Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives.  His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet.  While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks.  In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
 
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations. 

Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 


Location: Online via Zoom






Cultivating Well-Being: Creating a Supportive and Thriving Library Workplace
1/13/2026

Library work can be meaningful and rewarding but comes with unique challenges that can impact well-being, including burnout, compassion fatigue, and emotional labor. This presentation will explore the systemic causes of workplace stress, the role of psychological safety, and practical strategies to foster a healthier and more supportive work environment.
Presenter: 

Bobbi L. Newman is a librarian, Certified Wellness Practitioner, workplace well-being consultant, and advocate for healthier, more inclusive, and productive workplaces. She is passionate about fostering environments where individuals and teams not only work but thrive. With nearly a decade of experience, two published books on workplace wellness, and a Certificate in the Science of Well-Being from Yale University, Bobbi’s approach is evidence-based and grounded in real-world experience.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Cultivating Well-Being: Creating a Supportive and Thriving Library Workplace
1/13/2026

Recorded:  1/13/26

Library work can be meaningful and rewarding but comes with unique challenges that can impact well-being, including burnout, compassion fatigue, and emotional labor. This presentation will explore the systemic causes of workplace stress, the role of psychological safety, and practical strategies to foster a healthier and more supportive work environment.
Presenter: 

Bobbi L. Newman is a librarian, Certified Wellness Practitioner, workplace well-being consultant, and advocate for healthier, more inclusive, and productive workplaces. She is passionate about fostering environments where individuals and teams not only work but thrive. With nearly a decade of experience, two published books on workplace wellness, and a Certificate in the Science of Well-Being from Yale University, Bobbi’s approach is evidence-based and grounded in real-world experience.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






The AI Advantage: Next-Gen Project Management
1/29/2026

Unlock new levels of efficiency and impact for your projects. This hands-on session introduces "The AI Advantage," a modern approach to project management designed specifically for community leaders. We will demystify artificial intelligence and demonstrate how to leverage powerful, free tools like Google's Gemini and NotebookLM to streamline every phase of your project lifecycle.

Learning Objectives:
  • Brainstorm & Plan with Gemini: Use Gemini as a creative partner to generate innovative project ideas, develop detailed action plans, create timelines, and delegate tasks.
  • Draft Communications in Seconds: Instantly create compelling emails for coworkers, social media posts for promotion, and thank-you letters for partners and stakeholders.
  • Centralize Your Project Knowledge with NotebookLM: Transform meeting minutes, past project reports, and documents into an intelligent, searchable database. Get instant answers to questions like, "What was our budget for last year's fundraiser?" or "Summarize the key takeaways from our planning meeting."
Presenter:

George Garrett is the principal at Mathews High School in Vienna, Ohio, where he has dedicated over two decades to serving the school community. His extensive experience at Mathews includes roles as a teacher, coach, and administrator. George began his career in education as a language arts teacher before transitioning to a technology educator, sharing his expertise with junior high and high school students, as well as adults through evening programs at the Trumbull Independent Public Libraries.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






The AI Advantage: Next-Gen Project Management
1/29/2026

Recorded 1/29/26

Unlock new levels of efficiency and impact for your projects. This hands-on session introduces "The AI Advantage," a modern approach to project management designed specifically for community leaders. We will demystify artificial intelligence and demonstrate how to leverage powerful, free tools like Google's Gemini and NotebookLM to streamline every phase of your project lifecycle.

Learning Objectives:
  • Brainstorm & Plan with Gemini: Use Gemini as a creative partner to generate innovative project ideas, develop detailed action plans, create timelines, and delegate tasks.
  • Draft Communications in Seconds: Instantly create compelling emails for coworkers, social media posts for promotion, and thank-you letters for partners and stakeholders.
  • Centralize Your Project Knowledge with NotebookLM: Transform meeting minutes, past project reports, and documents into an intelligent, searchable database. Get instant answers to questions like, "What was our budget for last year's fundraiser?" or "Summarize the key takeaways from our planning meeting."
Presenter:

George Garrett is the principal at Mathews High School in Vienna, Ohio, where he has dedicated over two decades to serving the school community. His extensive experience at Mathews includes roles as a teacher, coach, and administrator. George began his career in education as a language arts teacher before transitioning to a technology educator, sharing his expertise with junior high and high school students, as well as adults through evening programs at the Trumbull Independent Public Libraries.
 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Funding 101
2/10/2026

A look at how Ohio Libraries have been funded in the past and what the current situation is.  If time permits, we can discuss what the future holds for library funding in Ohio.

Learning Objectives:
  • A better understanding of past library funding
  • A better understanding of current library funding
Presenter:

Jim Wilkins, Retired Executive Director/Fiscal Officer for Warren-Trumbull County Public Library 17 years, former Director of Bucyrus Public Library 8 years and Fiscal Officer of the Barberton Public Library 12 years. 

Member of NEO-RLS Board of Directors 2009-2020, President 2017-2019.  Member of Ohio Library Council Government Relations Committee and Legislative Network 2014-2025.  Also, Coordinator for Library Accounting Division and Small Libraries Division. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Library Funding 101
2/10/2026

Recorded 2/10/26

A look at how Ohio Libraries have been funded in the past and what the current situation is.  If time permits, we can discuss what the future holds for library funding in Ohio.

Learning Objectives:
  • A better understanding of past library funding
  • A better understanding of current library funding
Presenter:

Jim Wilkins, Retired Executive Director/Fiscal Officer for Warren-Trumbull County Public Library 17 years, former Director of Bucyrus Public Library 8 years and Fiscal Officer of the Barberton Public Library 12 years. 

Member of NEO-RLS Board of Directors 2009-2020, President 2017-2019.  Member of Ohio Library Council Government Relations Committee and Legislative Network 2014-2025.  Also, Coordinator for Library Accounting Division and Small Libraries Division. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom






It’s About Time: Supporting Neurodivergent Employees with Time Management in the Workplace
2/24/2026

The term “neurodiversity” refers to the infinite variation in brain functioning that leads to differences in thinking, attention, memory, and communication. Some neurodivergent individuals have differences in executive functioning skills like time management, and as a result, need different support and accommodations in the workplace. In this presentation, learn about time management from a neurodivergent lens.  Whether you are neurodivergent or you are a supervisor to someone who is, this webinar will provide concrete strategies to support time management in the workplace. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn why neurodivergent individuals, such as people with Autism and ADHD, have differences in time management skills
  • Understand key concepts, such as tachyosychia, time blindness, and executive functioning 
  • Gain 6-8 concrete strategies to support and make accommodations for neurodivergent individuals with time management in the workplace 
  • Learn about 3-5 tools that neurodivergent individuals can use in the workplace to support effective time management 
Presenter:

Renee Grassi, Librarian and Accessibility Consultant Speaker
Librarian, author, trainer, administrator, teacher, and consultant Renee Grassi is an advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in libraries, schools, and communities. As a neurodivergent librarian herself, Renee has worked in public libraries for nearly twenty years, developing award-winning library initiatives that welcome, support, and welcome disabled residents and their families and caregivers. Learn more at reneegrassi.com.
Location: Online via Zoom






Workplace Wellbeing Active Learning Community Meeting
2/24/2026

The Workplace Wellbeing Active Learning Community is open to anyone open to any staff interested in workplace wellbeing, wellness, and related topics. 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 Hillary Brown.


Location: Online via Zoom






AI’s Environmental Impact
2/26/2026

As teachers and librarians, you’re on the front lines of introducing AI to students. But with headlines warning about AI’s massive energy demands, how do you balance the need for AI literacy with decisions about acting sustainably?

This webinar cuts through the confusion to help you make informed choices about sustainability in your classrooms, libraries, and communities.

We’ll examine independent estimates of AI’s energy and water use and put them in context in ways that are easy to understand.

We’ll include an introduction to how data centers work and what they are used for. We’ll clarify what we know and what’s still uncertain about AI’s carbon footprint (both in the present and in future projections).

We’ll compare individual AI use to other digital activities, and we’ll also look at global use of data centers with statistics from the International Energy Agency.

Did you know that AI technologies are also being used to mitigate climate change? We’ll look at some of the many innovations underway related to greener data centers, hardware, and chips. And we’ll look at how AI is being used in projects that map deforestation, improve recycling, clean up the ocean, innovate new materials for greener buildings, and more.

You’ll come away with some practical tips for answering questions from students, and some simple advocacy steps to use in your communities.

 

Learning agenda

  • Review statistics about energy use of AI in a clearer context than the usual “factoids” you see in many headlines.
  • Understand some basic facts about data centers and their use for AI and other technologies.
  • Look at the history of news reporting about the energy use of other new technologies (like online book ordering in 1999 and streaming media in 2020).
  • Compare the carbon footprint of individual uses of AI with uses of other technologies and then zoom out to global use and what it could mean for climate change.
  • Examine the history of “Jevons paradox” and why it’s often quoted in relation to the growth of AI.
  • See examples of how AI itself is currently being used to mitigate climate change.
  • Get some practical tips for answering questions about AI and sustainability, and what we can advocate for collectively related to sustainable AI.
Presenter:
 

Nicole Hennig is an expert in instructional design, user experience, and emerging technologies. She is currently an e-learning developer and AI education specialist at the University of Arizona Libraries.

Previously, she worked for the MIT Libraries as head of the user experience department. In her 14 years of experience at MIT, she won awards for innovation and worked to keep academics up to date with the best new technologies.

She is the author of several books, including Keeping Up with Emerging Technologies,  Apps for Librarians, and Privacy & Security Online.

Librarians who take her courses are applying what they’ve learned in their communities. See their testimonials.

To stay current with the latest developments in AI, sign up for her email newsletter, Generative AI News, and follow her on  Bluesky or Mastodon, where she posts daily about libraries, artificial intelligence, and other technologies. 


Location: Online via Zoom






Creating More Joy & Resilience in the Library
3/4/2026

Considerable research shows that those with more joy, laughter, and well-being in their life are more resilient, productive, and effective at work, and they live more fulfilling lives. This session is designed to increase fun, creativity, and joy. It also distinguishes between long-term well-being and toxic positivity. Through stories, activities, and experimentation, participants will learn the research and strategies to increase happiness and well-being within themselves, within the library culture, and with others. You'll walk away with practical ideas to well-being in the workplace and in your own life.
 
Learning Objectives:
• an increased knowledge of the research on positive psychology
• experiences with techniques proven to increase joy
• a plan to use the techniques increase joy & well-being in themselves
• Ideas for spreading these techniques in the library and the community

Presenter:

Sharon Morris has worked in library development for over 20 years and conducts workshops, courses, and leadership institutes throughout the country. Her interests are leadership, research, management, supervision, communications, wellness & libraries, play, values, improv comedy, and insight. Sharon takes an asset-based approach to learning and invites all to engage. She has earned an MLIS and PhD in Managerial Leadership in Libraries. Her workshops and webinars are designed based on adult learning theory and include experiential learning, content informed by research, "fun" aspects, and time for reflection and planning to apply concepts in the workplace.

 
Location: Online via Zoom






Intellectual Freedom in Crisis: Moral Panics, Censorship, and the Cost to Library Workers
3/19/2026

This webinar examines the current landscape of attacks on intellectual freedom and the impacts of coordinated censorship campaigns. We'll analyze the role of moral entrepreneurs, including organized advocacy groups and bad faith social media influencers.

We'll explore the historical context of how moral panics operate to limit access to reading materials and confine intellectual freedom. Understanding this history helps us respond more effectively in today’s environment.

The webinar covers legal threats facing libraries, including new state laws in Idaho, Missouri, Louisiana, and other states. Finally, we'll address the human cost of this crisis: the occupational trauma and burnout facing library workers, including anticipatory anxiety and the disproportionate impact on marginalized staff.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the current landscape of challenges to intellectual freedom.
  • Analyze the mechanisms of coordinated censorship campaigns.
  • Compare how moral panics have operated to censor materials across four historical periods.
  • Recognize the symptoms of occupational burnout and trauma faced by library staff.
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